Position paper for Belgium
| Committee: | GA First |
| Topic: | Reducing space threats through norms, rules and principles of responsible behaviours |
| Paper text: | |
| We have historically invested in cooperative research and development strategies involving our own industry and within the interests of the ESA. As a founding member of the ESA and its predecessors, we have played a role in defining United Nations space policy, notably through the Outer Space Treaty (1967), the Liability Convention (1971), the Registration Convention (1975), and the Moon Agreement (1979). Our efforts in these treaties, and in the body as a whole, has maintained a consensus for debris conscience and non-militarized efforts in space. In 2005 we established the Law of 17 September 2005 (Activities of Launching, Flight Operation or Guidance of Space Objects), which was then revised in both 2013 and 2022 under the king's decree. The 2022 revisions specifically focused on regulating and encouraging the NewSpace phenomenon, placing BELPSO in charge of applications, registrations, and guidelines for Belgium's space industry. In performing this discussion, we hope to uphold both the rights of private industry and the standards of security that have historically defined the UN’s space policy. We believe it is through programs like BELSPO’s NewSpace initiatives that nations can retain sovereignty and correctly mitigate their own industry. BELSPO has helped Belgium accurately address communication standardizations and debris issues within our own nation and we further recommend its policy and protections in this panel. However, we have not been able to address the further militarization of space within our own decrees and therefore look towards resolution in this council on how to correctly mitigate the militarization of private industry. We hope that these standards for security can be defined through further interaction between the states comprising the ESA, along with other space capable nations who want to ensure a continued peace. The space race has entered a new era, one which requires a focus on both mediation and constructive policy for the universal betterment of humanity. | |
| Committee: | GA First |
| Topic: | The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects |
| Paper text: | |
| Concerning nuclear weapons, Belgium has stood in opposition to the TPNW (Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons). However, Belgium is not opposed to disarmament, but views the TPNW as the wrong approach. Instead, it has advocated for the NPT (Treaty of Non- Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons), which calls for verifiable and irreversible reductions by nuclear-weapon states. Belgium also sees the value of Nuclear weapons as a deterrent and is a member of NATO, currently housing 10-15 US B61 nuclear bombs, and has no independent weapons of mass destruction. Regarding conventional weapons, Belgium has historically been a large supporter of humanitarian disarmament treaties. Belgium is a part of the Ottawa Treaty against anti- personnel mines and the Oslo Convention against cluster bombs, and believes they should be universally adopted. Belgium is also a supporter of strengthening the UN program action on small arms and light weapons. Belgium sees such action as a meaningful way to address new manufacturing technology and combat weapons trafficking. Moving forward, Belgium will continue to advocate for a disarmament procedure that upholds the sovereignty and security of itself and its fellow member states. It is key that all disarmament procedures account for the deterring role that nuclear arms play in maintaining the safety of nations from other actors. That is why Belgium is a proud advocate for NPT and sees this as a viable solution to the nuclear problem without compromising national security. As we currently stand on a globe built on mutually assured destruction, we must move past this in a clear path of slow but effective multilateral disarmament. We must also continue to pursue humanitarian efforts to combat conventional weaponry and strengthen UN action on small arms and light weapons. | |
| Committee: | GA Second |
| Topic: | Role of the United Nations in promoting development in the context of globalization and interdependence |
| Paper text: | |
| Globalization is the process of increasing interconnectedness among businesses and other international development agencies that shape the economy and society, leading countries to become interdependent. Goods, services, and ideas are moving faster than ever, especially in this global digital age, but so are crises, pandemics, climate change, and economic instability. While globalization has driven global economic growth and land development, it has simultaneously deepened inequality and consumed many of our planet's natural resources, which need to be preserved. Belgium believes that globalization in this era must be executed consciously and sustainably. It must also ensure that development is inclusive and that human rights are being met. Every nation's sovereignty and prosperity are linked to maintaining global stability and a stable environment. If globalization is used correctly, it can strengthen rather than break down, develop rather than destroy, unify rather than divide. Belgium understands the current speed of globalization in this digital age. Belgium also recognizes the lack of equalization in international taxation of MNEs. Based on the OECD/G20 inclusive framework, Belgium supports the immediate need for a minimum global tax. It is taking domestic measures to ensure a fair tax approach while simultaneously working to eliminate harmful tax practices and protect public financial interests in the long term. Nevertheless, pursuing pro-investment policies that support job creation and innovative practices is equally important. Belgium encourages cooperation to improve the regulatory systems for capital flows. This promotes stability within the global finance system but does not aim to scare off potential investors. We strongly support the evolution of developing countries’ relationships with foreign investors and encourage wise management of investment dollars. We believe there should be limitations placed on these global emerging assets, such as crypto and various forms of digital finance, to prevent abuse of weakened tax policies. Finally, Belgium aligns these implementation strategies with the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals to facilitate compliance. Belgium is M.A.D.A.G.A.I.N., an initiative for multilateral action on access to technology, development, accessibility, and inclusive networks. M stands for multilateral cooperation. Countries need to work together. Belgium supports the United Nations in leading efforts to coordinate national businesses and NGOs to address global issues. A stands for access to technology. Every country should have the tools to grow. Belgium wants the United Nations to continue helping developing countries gain access to investment to grow clean energy technology and education. D stands for development funding; more money should go to projects that reduce poverty and build strong economies. Belgium again supports the United Nations program that funds schools, healthcare, and job opportunities. A stands for accountability. Global trade must be fair. Belgium wants to ensure that companies comply with labor laws and protect human rights. G or green growth wants economic growth that protects the planet. Belgium supports renewable and sustainable energy sources that do not harm the environment but rather ensure its longevity. A, alliance building. The nation should stand with Belgium to support partnerships between rich and poor countries so that every individual can benefit from globalization. I, stand for inclusion and innovation, which aims to create education to build the future. Belgium wants to support youth training, job creation, and access to new and developing technology for all. Lastly, N stands for working for peace. The United Nations should help connect countries to build trusting relationships that will eventually bring peace to the international system. Belgium believes globalization should help everyone, not just the powerful and wealthy nations. | |
| Committee: | GA Second |
| Topic: | Protection of global climate for present and future generations of humankind |
| Paper text: | |
| Belgium recognizes the global climate crisis that has occurred in recent years and acknowledges it as one of the most urgent global threats of the 21st century. The international climate crisis poses a threat to the worldwide economy, stability, human health, and the sustainability of Earth's ecosystems. The rigging temperatures, extreme weather patterns and events, and the loss of biodiversity have exacerbated economic inequalities, threats to agriculture, and challenges to energy systems across the globe. Belgium also recognizes that the economic cost of not stopping climate change will exceed the cost of being proactive in addressing the urgent global threat before us. As an EU member, Belgium is committed to the European Green Deal, which aims to transform the EU into a modern, resource-efficient, and competitive economy. Under the Paris climate agreement, Belgium supports international cooperation and the agenda for 2030's sustainable development first refers to the goal of the 2015 Paris agreement to limit global warming to well below 2°C, ideally 1.5°C, relative to pre-industrial levels. With 2030 as the deadline to hit the target, Belgium is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55%, in line with the EU Fit for 50 plan, a legislative package aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. NECPs, or the national emergency climate plans, have been implemented domestically in Belgium. Focus on expanding renewable energy and on more sustainable, efficient energy methods. The government has invested in wind energy, aiming to attract regional capital for clean energy in Northwestern Europe. Belgium emphasizes the use of climate finance —funding to achieve climate goals —to promote global solidarity in the climate change initiative. Belgium Bunna S.U.M.M.A., which stands for sustainable unity for mitigation, modernization, and adaptation, represents a cooperative, economically viable strategy for climate change as nations are still developing. S, which stands for sustainable investment, which puts more money into clean energy and green jobs. Belgium wants to support countries and their projects to protect the planet and promote economic growth. U stands for unity between nations. No country can help developing solve climate change alone. Belgium supports teamwork between rich and poor nations. M stands for mitigation, which aims to cut down pollution and carbon emissions. Belgium is pushing to lower greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy sources. M stands for modernization; let’s upgrade the whole system, build greener cities, better public transportation, and sustainable factories. Belgium believes that modern solutions could help both the planet and the quality of life of people, as well as the global economic system. Lastly, A, which stands for adaptation. Assisting countries to adjust to climate change, like protecting coastlines, managing natural disasters, and supporting farmers facing the new weather patterns. Belgium supports funding for domestic solutions against climate change. Belgium Bunna S.U.M.M.A. will stop global climate change. | |
| Committee: | GA Third |
| Topic: | Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination |
| Paper text: | |
| The Delegation of the Kingdom of Belgium firmly believes in the rights of peoples to self- determination in compliance with international law. Belgium acknowledges the issues of preserving sovereignty for all countries and also cautions against violent secession or revolution in order to prioritize peace and prosperity in the world. The delegation of Belgium holds in tandem the respect for stateless nations, indigenous, and colonized groups' right to dignity and forms of autonomy. Both the Flemish and Walloon regions in Belgium have autonomy and representation in the government structure of Belgium. This is the model of autonomy that this delegation plans on advocating for in the General Assembly Third Committee, for the 17 non-self governing territories in the world. This delegation would like to propose solutions that synchronize values of sovereignty with autonomy. Therefore, Belgium proposes to work alongside members of the General Assembly’s Third Committee to create a neutral forum for groups and countries to come together and negotiate treaties in compliance with international law. Additionally, Belgium looks forward to outlining a specific model for groups who want greater autonomy, this model has milestones over the course of 15 years, in which groups eventually negotiate greater political power within the country they are in. | |
| Committee: | GA Third |
| Topic: | Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas |
| Paper text: | |
| The Delegation of the Kingdom of Belgium stands in strong support of all women in their fight for equality. It emphasizes the specific struggles of women living in rural, underdeveloped areas. Belgium supports global and EU programs that improve conditions for rural women and girls, and has made significant progress in improving employment rates and shrinking gender pay gaps. Two organizations in Belgium, the European Coordination via Campesina and Oxfam Solidarité, are supporting an EU program to promote women-led innovations in farming and rural territories. Additionally, statistics on the pay gap between men and women in rural areas, as well as differences in unemployment rates, show remarkable improvements in economic equality between men and women in Belgium. Women’s salaries have historically been lower than men’s, and they have had a higher unemployment rate, but this difference is shrinking rapidly. Belgium proposes solutions to this issue that support rural women and girls directly, while also improving the social infrastructure that affects their daily life. Belgium has historically provided funding for women-led innovations in agriculture, and for programs that promote diversity and equity in farming and rural territories. This delegation plans to advocate for solutions that empower rural women to use their voice and advocate for their needs. | |
| Committee: | GA Plenary |
| Topic: | Our ocean, our future, our responsibility |
| Paper text: | |
| The Delegation of Belgium would like to emphasize the importance of addressing the issues regarding the preservations of our oceans. Belgium recognizes the problem as severe and would like to bring attention to the uprising marine pollution, habitat degradation, and the effects that rising sea temperatures have on marine ecosystems. With the North Sea being one of the most intensively used seas in the world, Belgium has and wants to continue the promotion of sustainable sea trade while also continuing the preservation of the oceans and marine life within it. Beginning with the “law on the protection of the marine environment” in 19991, Belgium has made continuous efforts to patrol the North Sea and keep sustainability at the same time. With the goal of balance in mind, Belgian authorities adopted the first marine spatial plan for the Belgium part of the North Sea in 20142. The plan contained measures such as the designation of marine protected areas (MPA), for birds and habitats protection; the European marine strategy framework directive goals as a reference for the MSP (leading to fisheries management zones); the realization of some active nature protection measures, in combination with other activities at sea. The Delegation of Belgium would offer a few solutions regarding solving the problem of ocean acidification and habitat loss. First, continuing Belgium’s mission of instilling MPAs throughout the North Sea would prove to be a strong solution. As of now, Belgium has 37% of the North Sea’s waters occupied- possible additions to funding would allow Belgium to increase in its efforts and continue to monitor the waters with flexibility. Furthermore, Belgium’s support of the EU Common Fisheries Policy has implemented restrictions on overfishing and aim to solve the problem. Greater support for this policy would sustain marine life and promote sustainability for seafood products throughout the EU3. Lastly, creating coastal dunes and efforts towards habitat conservation allow for restoration of marine ecosystems. Belgium uses conservations such as “Zwin Nature Park” and “Yser Estuary” to restore tidal marshes and dune systems. An addition to these efforts would allow for restoration of tidal marshes and dune systems to enhance biodiversity and climate impact. The importance of finding a resolution for the continuation of marine pollution, habitat degradation, and the impacts of rising sea temperature levels is one that Belgium finds to be grand. The Delegation of Belgium hopes that the Honorable Chair and fellow delegates will take these solutions and Belgium’s history into account when finalizing a decision. | |
| Committee: | GA Plenary |
| Topic: | Strengthening of the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance of the United Nations |
| Paper text: | |
| The Delegation of Belgium would like to identify the issue of inconsistent humanitarian assistance solutions. This issue arises due to lack of funding across the board, as well as differing beliefs and borders surrounding those who need humanitarian aid. Being a repetitive participant in the distribution of humanitarian assistance, it is of utmost importance for the United Nations to continue providing aid, in which all delegations must be aligned in view for this to be an accessible resource. Belgium has had a significant history regarding this matter and will continue efforts to increase humanitarian aid globally. Belgium submitted a draft resolution under the heading “Strengthening of the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance of the United Nations” in 2005 and later followed up with another draft resolution in 20114. Furthermore, Belgium’s humanitarian aid policy commits (Law as of March 2013; Royal Decree as of April 2014) Belgium to core contributions to key United Nations agencies (Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, etc.)5. These support quality and flexible funding, ultimately contributing to the main goal of better coordinated UN humanitarian response. Belgium’s efforts to continue to distribution of humanitarian aid has been profound and will not diminish in the current times. The Delegation of Belgium would like to promote flexible, multi-year core funding to UN humanitarian agencies6. Such a practice would emphasize freedom and predictability regarding effective mobilization and coordination in humanitarian emergencies. Moreover, directing the distribution of humanitarian aid to mechanisms that allow rapid deployment and coordination, opposed to simple and rigid modalities, would prove to be more effective and lifesaving. Emphasizing the importance of collaborating to find a solution that is deemed beneficial to global constituencies is extremely necessary for the United Nations to continue the administration of resources throughout various countries in times of crisis. | |
| Committee: | IAEA |
| Topic: | Nuclear security |
| Paper text: | |
| In the words of IRRS mission leader Ramzi Jammal, “Belgium’s safety and security interface is a model for all countries.” Belgium takes pride in this commendation, and, after recent policy changes shifting focus in its energy and research sectors back to nuclear power, looks eagerly toward its future in this regard. The use and research of nuclear energy are imperative in the modern age, yet left without oversight and proper safeguards, the effects of a nuclear accident can be devastating. This considered, it is imperative that as member states of the IAEA develop and expand their nuclear programs, they actively engage in responsible and moral research and respect for safety standards and requirements in order to prevent and minimize the damage in the case of a nuclear emergency. Seeing, and acknowledging the benefit of, the global increase in the deployment of large power plants and, particularly, small module reactors (SMRs), Belgium realizes the need for internationally recognized, modern regulatory bodies and benchmarks, which go beyond - but remain based upon - that of the IAEA Safety Standard Series. Regarding regulation, Belgium has been a key investor in the Nuclear Harmonization and Standardization Initiative (NHSI), which facilitates multilateral dialogue and decision-making among national and regulatory bodies and reactor designers. Other member states are encouraged to follow suit in cooperation and support. Additionally, Belgium highlights its participation in the internationally collaborative EAGLES and SCK SEN research projects, and hopes that they will become models for regional nuclear research projects to come. A particular area of vulnerability in nuclear operations is that of transport. GC(66)/RES/6 holds that the safety record of radioactive material transport has historically been excellent, yet data from the IAEA’s Incident and Trafficking Database shows that, since 1993, 53% of all radioactive material thefts have occurred during transport, 65% in the last decade. Belgium implores all member states to recall GC(67)/RES/7, promoting joint-security efforts, especially through modernized communication systems. | |
| Committee: | IAEA |
| Topic: | Strengthening the Agency's activities related to nuclear science, technology and applications |
| Paper text: | |
| The rapid expansion of nuclear power really took root in the 1960s, and nuclear science continues to be a revolutionary innovation. Its implications for cleaner energy and global impact in terms of weapons of mass destruction calls for a new global order of communication and collaboration. The sharing of scientific knowledge and discoveries is paramount to inspiring further developments and promoting further research. The strengthening of the IAEA’s activities regarding nuclear science, technology, and its applications not only endorses more accessible research but also has the opportunity to make significant scientific advancements across disciplines. The Delegation of Belgium stands firm in its position of expanding the activities of the Agency’s activities. Belgium has even determined there to be fiscal relevance in promoting this research as in 2024 alone, the nation has contributed 1.7 million euros to the IAEA. The interests that Belgium would particularly like to see further development on is how nuclear energy can affect or support medicine, agriculture, gender and security. In this Special Committee, Belgium would look favorably on resolutions that keep scientific advancement at the forefront of its purpose. The significance of nuclear energy as an interdisciplinary topic is vast and requires a unique purpose to truly be successful. The establishment of a fund with the purpose of studying small modular reactors (SMRs) would be especially favorable since they will certainly be the nuclear technology of the future. | |
| Committee: | CND |
| Topic: | Promoting alternative development as a development-oriented drug control strategy that is sustainable and inclusive |
| Paper text: | |
| The delegation of Belgium recognizes that the global drug problem is deeply connected to poverty, lack of economic opportunity, and social inequality. Many farmers cultivating illicit crops such as coca, poppy, or cannabis do so out of economic necessity. Belgium believes that punitive measures alone cannot resolve these issues. Instead, a development-oriented approach focused on improving livelihoods is essential. Belgium strongly supports alternative development (AD) as a sustainable and humane strategy for drug control. Guided by the European Union Drugs Strategy (2021–2025) and the UN Guiding Principles on Alternative Development (2013), Belgium promotes evidence-based, people-centered, and human rights–focused policies. Through the Belgian Development Cooperation (Enabel) and the European Union, Belgium funds programs that encourage sustainable agriculture, social inclusion, and economic diversification in regions affected by illicit cultivation. Belgium emphasizes gender equality and youth empowerment within AD initiatives to build community resilience. Furthermore, environmental sustainability remains a central priority in these programs. The delegation from Belgium suggests stronger international cooperation and financial support for alternative development projects, integration of AD into broader rural and economic development strategies, improved market access for legal agricultural products from developing countries, and robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks to ensure transparency and effectiveness. Belgium urges all Member States to recognize alternative development as a cornerstone of global drug policy, aligning it with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 8 (Decent Work). By supporting inclusive and sustainable development, the international community can reduce reliance on illicit economies and foster lasting stability and prosperity. | |
| Committee: | CND |
| Topic: | Promoting comprehensive and scientific evidence-based early prevention |
| Paper text: | |
| Belgium recognizes the need to invest in preventive measures that are not only grounded in scientific evidence but also seek to tackle the many complex interacting factors associated with drug use. As the number of drug-related crimes and active drug users continues to increase each year, the need for cost-effective and early preventive measures increases. To achieve these goals, a focus on mitigating drug use in youth is crucial. Belgium strongly aligns with the United Nations view on using comprehensive and science- based early prevention methods in fighting the drug problem, listing (i) a global and integrated approach and (ii) evaluation, epidemiology, and scientific research as some of its five main principles in its Federal Drug Policy Note of 2001. In line with Belgium's statement at the 64th session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs, Belgium has continued to work on an evidence-based approach to the development and evaluation of effective drug policies. Belgium uses projects like the Belgian early warning system on drugs (BEWSD) to rapidly detect, assess, and respond to potential public health risks. BEWSD also remains an integral part of the EU Early Warning System. The delegation of Belgium suggests developing international partnerships in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse, a stronger focus on detecting potential public health risks in the environments of adolescents, utilizing RePS to enhance domestic drug prevention programs further, and emphasizing a balanced, inclusive and human-centric approach to drug policy. Belgium consistently urges member states to see mitigating drug use as a public health issue aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), which advocates for developing drug policies by strengthening data collection, investing in scientific research, and collaborating closely with civil society. | |
Back to the list of countries