Position paper for Fiji
| Committee: | GA Second |
| Topic: | Role of the United Nations in promoting development in the context of globalization and interdependence |
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| Topic 1:
I. Role of the United Nations in promoting development in the context of globalization and
interdependence
Globalization and interdependence have fundamentally reshaped the pathways through which countries develop. For Fiji, globalization is not just an idea, but a means for survival. In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected as a small island nation Fiji faces great promise and profound risk. Fiji’s access to trade, shared knowledge, and technology brings a sense of promise, but economic change, rising sea levels, and dependence on outside systems threaten Fiji’s future. The United Nations is directly involved with this issue as it acts as a forum for cooperation, advocating for equality, and creating programs that address the challenges of interdependence. The United Nations must act to make sure that globalization becomes a source of shared strength to protect small nations and ensure that no country is left behind. Fiji believes that multilateral cooperation is essential for survival and progress. 1 As Fiji states in Fiji’s 2024 Foreign Policy White Paper, cooperation is necessary to give Fiji its resistance it simply does not have as a small state if working alone. Fiji acknowledges the fact that the United Nations provides a stable platform for developing states to have their voices be heard, strengthen alliances, and influence global policy. In Fiji’s 79th UN General Assembly statement it was highlighted that building economic resilience for small island developing states requires collective action and genuine international cooperation. 2 Fiji urges member states that shared responsibility is the only way to ethical and fair globalization. The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), has emphasized that globalization itself has created new opportunities and its benefits and costs are unequal. As UN DESA said in its 2013 report globalization must be dealt with through, “enhanced multilateral coordination, coherence, and accountability in the post 2015 era.” 3 Fiji agrees and aligns with this statement. The High Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) that was established in 2012 by the UN plays an important role in reviewing global progress and ensuring that development remains central to globalization. Fiji fully supports HLPF’s mission and urges the UN to use this platform to make countries that are smaller heard, promote climate resilience, and strengthen cooperation. 4 Fiji wants real action and not just promises. The time for action is now. An overall stronger global system that has fair access to climate funding, technology, and trade opportunities means that disasters and economic shocks will be handled better. For Fiji this means more than just improvement, this means survival. The world must act together as one so that every nation, no matter how small, can grow and flourish in a productive future. | |
| Committee: | GA Second |
| Topic: | Protection of global climate for present and future generations of humankind |
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| Topic 2:
II. Protection of global climate for present and future generations of humankind
A world of complete and utter dismay- a wasteland. That is the inherent problem the globe is going to project if there are no rules and regulations for climate change. As the world heats up, crops diminish, and water levels rise, Fiji is dedicated to create sustainable solutions that will flourish a new and safe environment for many generations to come. As a small island developing state (SIDS), Fiji contributes less than 0.03% of global greenhouse gas emissions but bears the consequences of environmental destruction, threatening livelihoods, infrastructure, and cultural heritage 5. Fiji partners with countries in ECOFIN to promote sustainable development. There are five years before the climate clock ticks.. ticks... ticks... to the very last strike where climate change is irreversible. As a country at the forefront of effects from coastal water rise, Fiji is committed to combat this time ticking issue. Though Fiji is a tropical paradise with 333 islands, as nation Fiji is ranked in the top 15 countries at highest disaster risk 6. Unfortunately, in 2012 one of the island's population, Vunidogola, was forced to relocate due to heavy rain and high tides. Lives are being lost and homes are being destroyed along with their history. However, one way Fiji is combating climate change is reducing methane emissions. With the CCAC (Climate and Clean Air Coalition) Fiji is reducing methane produced by livestock by using Monitoring, Reporting and Verification. (MRV) 7. Using built systems for monitoring can decrease not only methane emissions but also Co2 emissions which directly impact climate change. The global community remains off track to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement, with current policies projected to cause a rise in global temperatures of up to 2.7°C by 2100. Member States must drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions by phasing out fossil fuels and accelerating the transition to renewable energy. Developed nations, in particular, bear a historical and ethical responsibility to lead through deeper emissions cuts, financial support, and technology transfer. Fiji strongly urges the full operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund established at COP28 to provide immediate relief for nations most affected by climate-related disasters 8. Fiji declares that the hour for action is now. Every tick of the climate clock brings the planet closer to irreversible devastation. Member States must commit to ambitious emissions reductions, transparent climate finance, and equitable support for nations most affected by rising seas and extreme weather. By investing in renewable energy, strengthening climate-resilient infrastructure, and supporting innovative solutions such as green bonds and methane reduction programs, the world can slow the clock on climate change. Together, Member States can safeguard the children, wildlife, and crops that nourish life on Earth, while preserving the rich tapestry of human history for generations yet to come. | |
| Committee: | GA Third |
| Topic: | Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination |
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Santiago: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination Fiji stands by the universal principle of the right of peoples to self-determination is one of the main Charter obligations that require steadfast implementation. The delegation of Fiji is in support of advancing this universal right while at the same time staying true to territorial integrity, the non-use of force, and a peaceful settlement. The UN General Assembly has to uphold the rights which are inalienable in nature and how it is linked to development, participation, and, lastly is cultural survival. In other words, we prefer a solution that is achieved through lawful and negotiated outcomes rather than force or coercion. Decolonization has to be passed quickly by requesting the Special Committee on Decolonization. This would then allow Administering Powers that govern NSFTS while reporting against clear milestones so as to keep measurable progress updates; meanwhile, the people of the territory are duly informed on their options. Fiji favors the commitment to expand participation in public life and to protect collective land, languages, and the respective rights to resources; all while adhering to the international human rights which include the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. | |
| Committee: | GA Third |
| Topic: | Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas |
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| Topic 2: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas Isabella Castro The delegation of Fiji recognizes situations women and girls face in rural areas, being exposed with several disadvantages by gender related issues and economic insecurity. Moreover, it is recognized that half of the population of Fiji resides in rural areas, particularly women and youth in agricultural frameworks. Women’s roles in agriculture and coastal communities remains vital yet inevitably at risk from infrastructural disparities and gender related concerns. The work and recognition of rural women remains vital to Fiji economy, and in cultural and national recognition, bear opportunity of Fiji’s future. The women of Fiji’s cultivation of the land and food is not just economic investment of providing food and maintaining land in the nation, and therefore does not need a weak attempt of improvement, but sustainable mobilizations of creating environments where Fiji’s women have communication, security, and networks. Policymaking to involve programs of implementing community projects that expand sustainable practices, monitoring areas of gender based issues, and allocating a proper budget from the Ministry of Agriculture. Fiji has been in the stance of involvement in national and global programs to empower women of the Pacific. To identify the urgency women and girls face with degradation, poverty, and hunger, it has been in the best interest to work with national and international agencies to further investigate gender based concerns. Female farmers fall behind in all educational categories and female-headed households are more prone to food insecurity than males, according to the Gender Report by the Ministry of Agriculture. FemLINKPACIFIC was a media initiative that voices women’s concerns, peace, and security which enhances Fiji’s network of women across the region. We, as the delegation of Fiji, look to constitutional frameworks to further support representatives of rural centers and rural female leaders. The delegation of Fiji believes that the UN Women’s Fiji Multi-Country Office Strategic Note 2023–2027 coincides with the UN Pacific Framework as well as the 2050 Blue Pacific Strategy. The delegation of Fiji is aligned with civil society organizations, gender responsive initiatives, regional actions of democracy across the Pacific, and commitment to gender equality resilience for sustainable developments. We reaffirm the state’s obligation of accountability of addressing the situations and concerns of women and girls in rural areas. | |
| Committee: | COI-2005 |
| Topic: | Commission of Inquiry on Darfur |
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| Prepratory Statement for the Historical Commission of Inquiry: Fiji Commission of Inquiry on Darfur First, some background on the conflict in Darfur. Tensions between the north and south Sudan, including religious tensions, had been present for years. Multiple military coups occured in Sudan over multiple decades, leading to instability. Eventually, civil war between the north and south broke out in 1983. Recently, peace talks bewteen the north and south began in 2002, leading to the agreement for a cease-fire. Darfur comprises three states in the western area of Sudan. Though influenced by modern politics, a more tribal culture is still present in Darfur, with sedentary, nomadic, and semi nomadic tribes, who mostly practice islam and speak Arabic. Increased immigration and worsening climates increased tensions in the region, as did the government’s attempted abolition of the traditional tribal legal system. Villages and tribes formed militias to defend themselves, and the distinction of Afrian and Arab tribes emerged. Eventually, two rebel movements broke out in 2003, the SLM and JEM, and the conflict we will be discussing began. Parties involved seem to be these rebel groups, government- backed militias called “Janjaweeds,” and police and military forces of the Sudenese Government. Lines of inquiry should focus on the mandate of the commission: to “investigate reports of violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law in Darfur by all parties, to determine also whether or not acts of genocide have occurred, and to identify the perpetrators of such violations with a view to ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.” To investigate violations of international law, a few statistical questions need to be asked. First, what was the degree of displacement, death, and destruction of civilian areas? This question is essential for determining how widespread human rights violations occured. The scope of attacks is important in determining if an international crime occurred. How systematic were the crimes? Was there a degree of organization to carry out these crimes? The systematic nature of crimes is important to determine if they constitute international crimes. Were attacks mostly against civilians or military / rebel forces? If attacks disproportionately affected civilians, then this is unacceptable under international law. Next, to determine if genocide occured: did crimes occur mostly against civilians of a certain group (racial, ethnic, gender, etc.), and was there a call to commit violence against this certain group? This question is essential to determine whether the crimes were genocidal in nature. Crimes may occur in a widespread manner without constituting genocide if the intent of the attacks was not eradication of a certain group. The delegation of Fiji believes that although attacks were focused in Darfur, they did not constitute a genocide, as no particular tribe was targeted. However, the delegation of Fiji believes that widespread violence occured, and international crimes in the region need to be prosecuted. Now to determine perpetrators: Which groups committed most of the attacks? Which side suffered the most casualties or injury? This will help determine where to begin looking for specific perpetrators. Who held power in the Sudanese government at that time? Did they direct attacks, or have knowledge of them? Having knowledge of attacks is an important first step in determining if people in power were complacent or, worse, if they directed attacks. What was the structure of the Janjaweed? Were they linked with the Government? Who among the Janjaweed had power? Did they direct attacks? Who among the rebel forces held power? Did they direct attacks? All of these questions will help guide the commission to those who were responsible for the reprehensible acts carried out in Darfur. Major obstacles will include accuracy, peace, and cooperation. The fog of war can often obscure access to correct data, which is essential in determining the scale and scope of attacks. The security council should direct relevant data sources to give access to all relevant information. The Security Council should also call on all parties to cooperate with investigative parties, including with interviews, providing data, etc. This includes especially the Sudenese Government, who may not be welcoming of an investigation into potential crimes by them. It also includes access to witnesses. In other words, occupation cannot stop investigators from interviewing survivors. On a similar note, are witnesses being threatened or pressured in any way? This could be a major obstacle for a fair investigation. Finally, conflict must cease in the region, for the sake of the people, but also for safe investigation. Investigators must be able to safely traverse the region, and safely transmit information to the commission. No threats against the commission or any of its members should be made. Finally, the delegation will discuss potential witnesses. First will be survivors of village destructions, or survivors of rape and other crimes; ordinary civilians. For example, Niemat Ahmadi is a known survivor and activist who witnessed potential crimes. Next, representatives from the groups involved can testify as to the organization and structure of groups. This will point the commission in the direction of who could have given orders or condoned such attacks. This would include Janjaweed leaders, such as Ali Muhammad Ali Abd–Al-Rahman, who could be a witness and perpetrator if he cooperates willingly. Representation from members of rebel groups will be necessary to hear about crimes committed by the state and state-backed militias, as well as potential crimes committed by the rebels. Officers in the Sudenese government would also be ideal sources of information. Next data sources, such as the Sudenese Health Ministry, will be necessary in order to determine death statistics and other measures. Outside humanitarian sources should also be cross-referenced in an attempt to provide an unbiased understanding of the scope of destruction. Finally, human rights experts and activists can provide further outside analysis of the situation in Darfur, as well as the potential local legal system. Alex de Waal and Omer Ismail would be two examples of such experts. | |
| Committee: | COI-2005 |
| Topic: | Commission of Experts to Review the Prosecution of Serious Violations of Human Rights in Timor-Leste (then East Timor) in 1999 |
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| Commission of Experts to Review the Prosecution of Serious Violations of Human Rights
in Timor-Leste (then East Timor) in 1999
First, some background on the crisis. East Timor is a former Portuguese colony. After
independence was fought for and attained by the Timorese, discussions of integration with
Indonesia occurred. Then, shortly after becoming an independent state, East Timor was
invaded by Indonesia. They continued to occupy East Timor, even though the UN affirmed
multiple times that the Timorese had the right to self determination. A massacre in 1991 by
Indonesian forces on Timorese civilians re-vitalized the resistance movement and re-
invigorated the struggle for independence. When they voted overwhelmingly for
independence from Indonesia, the government responded by sending militias to occupy
Timorese villages in 1999. Violence had historically been present in East Timor, but the
increased level of violence after this election was such that Indonesia eventually called upon
the UN to intervene and stop the conflict. The delegation of Fiji is concerned that the acts
committed in East Timor by Indonesia may constitute a genocide. Potentially hundreds of
thousands of Timorese have been killed, and there are also reports of rape, arson, and other
potential crimes against humanity. In light of this, Fiji believes that this case should be
escalated to the ICC. As an Island Nation, Fiji has a particular interest in defending smaller
nations from colonial and occupational control, especially from regimes as violent as this
one. However, it will proceed in this prepretory statement with the mandate given. Lines of
inquiry should focus on the Commission’s mandate, namely: “To review the judicial
processes of the work of the Indonesian Ad Hoc Human Rights Court on East Timor in Jakarta
and the Serious Crimes Unit and the Special Panels for Serious Crimes in Dili... To identify
obstacles and difficulties encountered by the two institutions... To consider and recommend
legally sound and practically feasible measures so that those responsible are held
accountable, justice is secured for the victims and people of Timor-Leste and reconciliation is
promoted... andTo consider ways in which its analysis could be of assistance to the
Commission of Truth and Friendship.” Questions focused on the evaluation of local courts,
the Ad Hoc court in Jakarta, and the Serious Crimes Unit in Dili should be as follows. What
are the proceedures and methods laid out by each court? Do all parties have legal
representation? How is the court determining who to prosecute? What is the basis in
jurisprudence? These preliminary questions establish whether or not the courts function
ethically, and can be summarized with the question: Is due process being followed? Next, the
effectiveness and efficiency of each court should be questioned. What proportion of cases
are tried in a timely manner? How many cases have been heard? Does this seem like a
reasonable pace at which to serve justice? If it seems like the courts cannot efficiently and
effectively serve justice, then the commission may have to recommend that a new court be
established, or the case be referred to a higher international court. The delegation of Fiji
believes that these courts have not functioned at an effective or efficient rate, with only a
few cases being tried, and repeated concerns over the denial of due process being raised.
For identification of obstacles and difficulties facing these institutions, lines of inquiry should
be as follows: What resources are available to the court in Jakarta and Dili? If it seems clear
that these courts are under-resourced, this could identify an obstacle in providing justice.
Are local communities and governments, including the government of Indonesia,
cooperative? If the courts are struggling to attain compliance, then this may be a case where
higher international justice must step in. Are there reliable reporting mechanisms for death
statistics? This is another instance where the fog or war could obscure vital statistics needed
to determine the seriousness of crimes. Finally, are witnesses facing coercion and continuing
violence? If groups that commit violence still exert control over victims, then reliable and
meaningful witnesses will be hard to find. In terms of offering legal advice and sythesising
how this commission could aid the Commission of Truth and Friendship, the commission
should ask the following: Are local (in Timor-Leste, Jakarta, and Dili) courts sufficient to carry
out justice? This question will first determine whether or not the infrastructure exists to
carry out justice in the first place. What legal systems are used in each member country, and
can Commissioners provide advice based on their local systems? Who are impartial legal
experts who specialize in humanitarian law? These questions will determine what resources
are available to carry out justice in the region, before resorting to international intervention.
What resources can be given to this commission by the Commission of Inquiry to help fulfill
their mandate, and keep peace in the region? These questions will provide a route to
providing assitance to the commission of Truth and Friendship by
determining their mission and available resources. The delegation of Fiji believes that
processes should be escalated beyond these courts, as they are insufficient to carry out
justice for the people of East Timor. Obstacles to the Commission’s mandate will include
continued violence in the region, and insufficient investigative resources. The security
council should call upon the region to cooperate fully with investigative practices, as it
should in Darfur. Obsurce and innacurate reporting could also be an issue.
Finally, witnesses should include civilian survivors of the atrocities committed. Eyewitness reporting will be essential. Also, people in positions of power within Indonesian militias, the Indonesian government, and Timorese communities would be able to provide invaluable information about power structures, and who has the authority to give and carry out orders of violence. Legal and humanitarian experts must be questioned about the legal proceedings of the courts in Jakarta and Dili. It is the delegation of Fiji’s opinion that these courts are insufficient to carry out justice, and would therefore call on experts such as the War Crimes Study Center at the University of California, Berkeley, and international justices to comment. | |
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