Position paper for Zimbabwe
| Committee: | GA First |
| Topic: | Reducing space threats through norms, rules and principles of responsible behaviours |
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| The final frontier, outer space, is an exciting venture, with a vast expanse of knowledge and technology that can be gained. Zimbabwe recognizes the potential benefits that outer space technology can provide, such as satellite monitoring technology to advance agricultural production, and weather monitoring systems to help mitigate the effects of natural disasters. With recognition comes a word of caution. The benefits that space technology provides are abundant and deserve to be accessible to all. Zimbabwe is greatly concerned about the potential misuse of outer space. Zimbabwe strongly believes outer space should remain a realm of peace and should be an equitable plane for technology and resource sharing. As of 24 January 2023, the African Space Agency was established by the African Union (AU). Through this establishment, the continent of Africa has made significant advances in the realm of outer space technology and research. However, there is still a large resource gap compared to those of other Member States. According to In of Africa (IOA), as of 2025, there were 67 satellites orbiting Earth launched by African states. 21 of which were launched by 6 southern African states. Comparatively, there were 8,877 satellites collectively launched by other states in the Starlink System alone. With such significant disparity, further space exploration poses many risks, in particular the potential for misuse of technology. There is great risk for outer space being sold to the highest bidder with the emergence of private companies attempting to monopolize space for their own purposes and interests. Zimbabwe is strongly in favor of technology and resource sharing. Zimbabwe reaffirms that outer space should be a realm of peace and not conflict or militarization. As noted in Resolution 76/231, the importance of maintaining space as a peaceful realm that is both sustainable and safe. Zimbabwe reaffirms this resolution, while calling for stronger regional frameworks and enforcement mechanisms for Member states’ national space agencies, as well as private companies that venture into space. | |
| Committee: | GA First |
| Topic: | The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects |
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| The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons (SALW) continues to pose a significant threat to international peace and security, fueling conflict, crime, and human suffering worldwide. According to the Small Arms Survey, approximately 40 million illicit firearms are in circulation in sub-Saharan Africa. Moreover, according to the African Development Bank, the illicit trade of small arms collectively costs States $18 billion USD annually, pulling essential funds from key areas of development, such as education, healthcare, and agricultural production. Due to the significant advancement in technologies such as 3D printing and other emerging manufacturing techniques, efforts to monitor, control and trace illicit weapons have been far more complicated. These innovations lower barriers to unauthorized firearm production, which significantly increases the risk of misuse and harm. Zimbabwe recognizes the urgency of adapting to international control mechanism to keep up with rapidly developing technologies. As a committed member of the UN Progamme of Action on SALW and a signatory to the International Tracing Instrument, Zimbabwe has taken concrete steps such as implementing a centralized firearms registry and enhancing border monitoring systems to improve the tracking and control of small arms and light weapons. Zimbabwe supports the frameworks that strengthen the security among SALW but acknowledges that existing protocols require modifications to address the challenges posed by advancing technologies. Zimbabwe advocates for the support and establishment of an UN-led Technological Innovation Task Force dedicated to monitoring and analyzing advancing manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing and other digital manufacturing methods. Additionally, Zimbabwe emphasizes the need for collaboration in technology sharing and law enforcement training in order to strengthen regional security. Regional security would be significantly strengthened by providing frontline Member States with technical support and resources to detect and control advanced illicit arms. Zimbabwe stands ready to collaborate actively with UN Member States and regional partners in advancing these goals within the framework of the United Nations. | |
| Committee: | GA Second |
| Topic: | Role of the United Nations in promoting development in the context of globalization and interdependence |
| Paper text: | |
| Globalization has emerged as a defining force of this century, fostering peace and interdependence among nations. However, for many developing states, globalization has often produced inequality rather than opportunity. According to UNCTAD, developing countries collectively spend over $487 billion USD annually servicing external debt, in other words, 3.4 billion people spend more on interest than on health or education. Recent UNDP reports highlight that without better access to more effective debt relief; many developing countries risk long-term solvency crisis. Zimbabwe is one of many states who have not experienced meaningful progress on the global stage. The United Nations has addressed these concerns through the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, and institutions such as ECOSOC and UNCTAD, which promote financing for development, fairer trade, and technology transfer. Yet, persistent barriers such as economic sanctions, corruption, and a vulnerable agricultural economy continue to limit Zimbabwe’s ability to fully benefit from globalization. Despite these challenges, Zimbabwe has pursued integration through SADC and ATCFTA, while also advancing partnerships with China and Russia to attract investment into their industrial sector. Guided by its National Development Strategies I and II, Zimbabwe is committed to transforming its economy by diversifying beyond coal and strengthening food security. To achieve this goal, Zimbabwe calls for the United Nations to spearhead a Technology Transfer Platform that would allow African countries greater access to solar power, climate- resilient crops, and industrial opportunities such as electric vehicle battery development. Zimbabwe further calls for UN support for ATCFTA as a pathway to stronger regional integration. Through these targeted and collaborative initiatives, Zimbabwe reaffirms its readiness to work with all Member States, developed and developing alike, in shaping a global economy that serves all. | |
| Committee: | GA Second |
| Topic: | Protection of global climate for present and future generations of humankind |
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| Climate change is a critical global issue threatening ecosystems, economies, and most importantly people, developing countries like Zimbabwe are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The UN has long recognized climate change as a persistent global issue stating that around 3.6 billion people are currently highly vulnerable to climate change impacts. Adaptation costs to climate change in developing countries will be within the range of $215 billion to $387 billion per year by 2030. These adaptation costs refer to the financial resources required for developing countries to implement measures that reduce vulnerability to the impacts of climate change. This includes building resilient infrastructure, improving water and food security, and strengthening early warning systems. Without adequate funding and support, many countries like Zimbabwe may struggle to protect their populations and economies from the worsening effects of climate change. Inaction risks worsening poverty, displacement, and irreversible environmental damage. Although agencies like the UNFCCC have helped establish a global consensus, their effectiveness is hindered by a lack of commitment and binding enforcement mechanisms. Zimbabwe has shown enhanced commitment to climate action through actively participating in climate summits alongside ratifying the Paris agreement. Zimbabwe has welcomed support from agencies such as the African Development Bank, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to establish the Renewable Energy Fund (REF). Zimbabwe reaffirms its commitment to global climate goals and calls on the United Nations to strengthen support for climate resilience and sustainable energy development across vulnerable nations or the well-being of present and future generations. Zimbabwe proposes that the United Nations establish a UN-Supported Climate Agriculture Support Fund for agriculture in developing countries. While existing institutions like the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) play a vital role in supporting rural development, Zimbabwe proposes a more targeted UN-Supported Climate Agriculture Support Fund focused specifically on accelerating the deployment of climate-resilient agricultural technologies and practices in response to the urgent impacts of climate change. This fund would complement, not duplicate, existing efforts by focusing on climate adaptation and resilience in agriculture across the most vulnerable regions. The fund would be focused on accelerating the deployment of climate-resilient agriculture tools. The fund would further improve food security and reduce poverty in developing countries, directly supporting SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). It could be implemented via existing UN bodies to ensure coordinated and effective delivery. Zimbabwe also proposes a UN supported renewable energy investment platform for African countries. The platform would enable African countries to expand renewable energy projects by leveraging a combination of public funding, international aid, and private sector investment. This approach would help countries like Zimbabwe partner with energy companies that offer proven technologies, facilitating successful technology transfer and long-term sustainability. It would help developing countries partner with energy companies with proven technologies allowing for successful technology transfer. By advancing these targeted initiatives, Zimbabwe urges the international community to act with urgency and unity in safeguarding the planet for present and future generations. | |
| Committee: | GA Third |
| Topic: | Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination |
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| The Republic of Zimbabwe reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the principles included in the Charter of the United Nations, particularly the sovereign equality of Member States, non- intervention in domestic affairs, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, each of which falls under A/C.3/65/L.51. Forged through a liberation struggle lasting over a century, ending in 1980, Zimbabwe views sovereignty not merely as a legal construct but as a foundational pillar of national dignity and self-determination. Zimbabwe opposes foreign military involvement that circumvents multilateral consensus or undermines the autonomy of under the pretext of humanitarian intervention or governance change. This position is present through Zimbabwe’s support of the African Union’s adoption of the Lomé Declaration of July 2000, which outlines a continental framework for responding to unconstitutional changes in government. Zimbabwean doctrine emphasizes “Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo”, which translates to “A nation is built by its own people”, reinforcing our belief that development and security must be citizen-led and sovereignty- driven. Zimbabwe prioritizes territorial integrity and internal stability over external projection. Furthermore, Mabvunga reports that Zimbabwe estimates it has lost over $150 billion in potential revenue and investment due to sanctions imposed by the European Union and other Western countries since 2001. These sanctions, lacking endorsement from the United Nations Security Council, violate the spirit of multilateralism and disproportionately target the civilian population. The consistent application of politically motivated sanctions not only contravenes international law but also perpetuates structural inequality among Member States. Continued silence or passive endorsement of these coercive measures threatens to normalize economic warfare as a tool of diplomacy, undermining the credibility of the United Nations and weakening the global commitment to equitable development. True self-determination cannot exist under conditions of economic coercion and external interference. As such, Zimbabwe believes that the committee should continue to reaffirm and uphold the principles included in the A/C.3/65/L.51 draft | |
| Committee: | GA Third |
| Topic: | Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas |
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| In pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals and Vision 2030, the Republic of Zimbabwe recognizes that empowering rural women and girls and protecting their fundamental freedoms is essential to achieving national growth.They continue to face limited access to education, economic marginalization, cultural stigmatization, child marriage, and reduced opportunities. To illustrate, child marriage affects over 12 million girls under the age of 18 globally every year. Additionally, 55% of children who are unable to complete upper secondary school are female. Out of uneducated or unskilled women aged 20 to 24 years, who were married by the age of 24, 70% of women who did not attend school were married between the ages of 15 to 18. In response to these challenges, Zimbabwe has responded with many constitutional reforms, national efforts, and partnerships with UN agencies to address them. The National Gender Policy and National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) aligns with our country’s and many others' collective determination, as outlined in Vision 2030, to pave the way for a better Zimbabwe. NDS1 will ensure equal access to education, financial inclusion, and encourage women to take on leadership roles through the implementation of national projects and strengthening existing laws. Furthermore, we support the General Assembly Resolution 78/181, which calls on all Member States to strengthen national efforts and international cooperation to improve the situation of rural women and girls by increasing investments in education and economic empowerment. By supporting the advancements of women and girls in rural areas, we affirm our commitment to building a newer, more resilient, and inclusive future, with opportunities for everyone. | |
| Committee: | GA Plenary |
| Topic: | Our ocean, our future, our responsibility |
| Paper text: | |
| The vitality of the world’s oceans is imperative for global sustainability, biodiversity, climate
regulation, and livelihoods, especially for populations of coastal regions and Small Island
Developing States (SIDS). These Member States face existential hazards from rising sea
levels, marine pollution, and overfishing. NASA has found that since 1992, global mean sea
level has risen approximately 4 inches, and sea levels are predicted to rise at an
exponentially higher rate over the next two decades. The Republic of Zimbabwe, while
landlocked, faces indirect but severe consequences from climate degradation in the form
of upstream pollution, climate instability, and trade disruptions. The United Nations has
prioritized ocean sustainability through agreements like the UNCLOS, the Paris Climate
Accords, SDG 14, among others. Specialized agencies, such as UNESCO, UNEP, and the
FAO are all working to advance environmental technologies and sustainability strategies to
curb the effects of climate degradation but face significant challenges. Enforcement gaps,
inefficient coordination, and inequitable investment have significantly reduced the impact
these agreements and agencies could have. Zimbabwe has long stressed the
interconnectedness of all Member States in the climate crisis, aligning itself with
agreements like the Paris Climate Accords while pushing for strong domestic sustainability
policies, such as the Climate Change Management Bill passed this year in our country. We
support the African Union’s Integrated Maritime Strategy, which highlights the importance
of all African states to take part in maritime governance. Zimbabwe believes two key steps
should be taken to promote sustainability: first, international cooperation frameworks
must integrate upstream accountability into ocean governance by allocating resources to
initiatives in landlocked and developing Member States, such as watershed management
initiatives. Secondly, Zimbabwe will promote sustainable maritime practices by advocating
for shared environmental responsibility through inclusive policy forums, targeted
investment in upstream conservation, and regional partnerships such as the African
Union’s Integrated Maritime Strategy. By encouraging Member States to co-develop
equitable sustainability frameworks, Zimbabwe aims to help secure an environmentally
friendly present and future for all.
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| Committee: | GA Plenary |
| Topic: | Strengthening of the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance of the United Nations |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Zimbabwe acknowledges the urgent need to strengthen the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance as crises continue to increase in magnitude and complexity. According to the Humanitarian Action Analysing Needs and Responses, more than 300 million people worldwide need aid, with Africa disproportionately affected by epidemics, climate shocks and displacement. Zimbabwe has endured recurring storms, droughts, and floods, which has left 7.1 million vulnerable households in Zimbabwe at risk of food insecurity in 2024. Without stronger coordination, the lack of intervention will increase malnutrition, gender-based violence, disease outbreaks, and regional instability. The United Nations has established important frameworks, including General Assembly Resolution 46/182, which developed the Emergency Relief Coordinator and the Cluster System under OCHA, with UN organizations such as WFP, UNICEF and WHO delivering crucial support in food, health and child protection. These efforts have saved lives, however challenges remain, as Southern Africa continues to be hampered by coordination gaps and delayed distribution of assistance which leave vulnerable communities subject to prolonged crises. Zimbabwe has collaborated with the UN and regional actors to strengthen resilience, including the US$27 million dedicated to the Zimbabwe Idai Recovery Project after Cyclone Idai in 2019, involvement in the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and partnership through the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The Republic of Zimbabwe advocates for stronger UN-led coordination that respects sovereignty and incorporates regional organizations like SADC to guarantee responses are prompt, localized, and effective. Zimbabwe believes two key steps should be taken: first, the formal integration of regional bodies like SADC into global humanitarian coordination frameworks to ensure culturally aware and instantaneous responses; and second, expanded investment in anticipatory action and technology transfer, especially in climate-resilient agriculture and early warning systems, to reduce vulnerabilities before they escalate into crises. Through these actions, Zimbabwe asserts its commitment to international cooperation while promoting nationally led, sustainable humanitarian responses. These steps express Zimbabwe’s priorities for sovereignty, equity, and sustainable rehabilitation, while emphasizing international solidarity. | |
| Committee: | IAEA |
| Topic: | Nuclear security |
| Paper text: | |
| Nuclear security is significant globally to prevent nuclear proliferation and the potential of materials falling into the wrong hands causing a catastrophic incident, whether intentional or unintentional. Global cooperation is essential for the prevention of illicit trafficking and unauthorized use of nuclear and other radioactive materials. According to the IAEA there have been over 3,000 recorded cases of lost, stolen, or illicitly trafficked materials since 1995. As a developing State, Zimbabwe and its neighbors in the Southern African Development Community (SADV) are affected by nuclear security and are concerned about the serious risks posed by global inaction. The UN and IAEA have addressed the issue of nuclear security through various programs, including the Integrated Nuclear Security Sustainability Plan (INSSP), the 1979 Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material, and the 2004 adoption of Resolution 1540. The UN and IAEA have been successful in educating Member States and creating sustainable security frameworks; however, challenges remain. The UN and international community have responded to these threats with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) in 1968 and more recently, the 1996 African Nuclear - Weapon-Free Zone Treaty—of which Zimbabwe is a signatory. Zimbabwe supports global efforts to address the issue of nuclear security and protection of nuclear materials including spent fuel and radioactive waste management. Zimbabwe’s domestic efforts to address nuclear security have resulted in alliances regionally and internationally that are targeted towards protecting the radioactive materials used for agriculture and healthcare. Zimbabwe believes two key steps should be taken to address nuclear security. First, there should be regional alliances to promote collaboration amongst African nations for the use of peaceful applications of nuclear technology. Second, Zimbabwe advocates for strengthening multilateral collaboration with the IAEA to increase domestic technical capacity in Zimbabwe and other developing States. | |
| Committee: | IAEA |
| Topic: | Strengthening the Agency's activities related to nuclear science, technology and applications |
| Paper text: | |
| The use of peaceful nuclear science and technology is essential to Zimbabwe for the development of a sufficient medical infrastructure. Zimbabwe’s coordination with the UN, WHO, and the IAEA is necessary to educate the Member’s science experts to gain equitable access to nuclear technology for healthcare. In action could lead to public safety threats and funding shortages for patient care and treatment. Zimbabwe has approximately 5000 new cases of cancer reported each year and a lack of critical resources to treat them. In addition, in 2020 the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) reported inadequate nuclear materials infrastructure in developing nations. These threats arise because there are more than 20 million sources of radioactive material globally The UN has initiated programs through the IAEA and WHO to address these issues including the Technical Cooperation Program which works to implement peaceful nuclear technology. The IAEA also collaborates with the WHO through the Programme of Action for Cancer Therapy (PACT) which expands radiotherapy resources in developing Member States. Further, the WHO’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC) program focuses on radiotherapy resources for children. The Republic of Zimbabwe has been supported by these initiatives; however, financial constraints leave many patients untreated. To respond to this challenge, Zimbabwe is a signatory of the NPT and the Pelindaba Treaty. Zimbabwe also participates in the IAEA’s Global Radium-226 Management Initiative. This initiative transfers radioactive material to Member States that can transform it into medicine which safeguards them from misuse. Radium transfer allows developing Member States to gain benefits from donor States and organizations that support IAEA initiatives. Zimbabwe believes the agencies can strengthen their activities surrounding nuclear science, technology, and applications with a multilateral approach where Member States partner with the IAEA to gain equitable access to healthcare infrastructure and share nuclear technology. | |
| Committee: | CND |
| Topic: | Promoting alternative development as a development-oriented drug control strategy that is sustainable and inclusive |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Zimbabwe strongly supports the implementation of alternative development as a sustainable and effective strategy for drug control. The nation has faced a growing drug epidemic in recent years, which has become a pressing public health and social issue. Recognizing the complexity of this challenge, Zimbabwe advocates for a people-centered approach that addresses the root causes of drug dependency rather than criminalizing individuals. In response to this crisis, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has launched a comprehensive campaign allocating USD $77 million in 2025 to combat drug and substance abuse. This initiative includes the establishment of a national committee to lead the fight against drugs, the expansion of rehabilitation centers, and increased funding for law enforcement to disrupt drug trafficking networks that exploit vulnerable communities. Furthermore, the government recognizes the link between economic hardship and drug dependency. By creating employment opportunities and addressing poverty, Zimbabwe aims to tackle the socioeconomic factors that contribute to substance abuse. This integrated approach reflects the principles of alternative development—prioritizing health, economic stability, and community resilience. Zimbabwe looks to successful international models, such as Portugal, where a health- focused strategy led to an 80% reduction in overdose deaths, as reported by the Transform Drug Policy Foundation. These outcomes demonstrate the transformative potential of development-oriented drug policies. The Republic of Zimbabwe reaffirms its commitment to alternative development as a humane and necessary strategy for national and global progress. Zimbabwe encourages other nations facing similar challenges to adopt this approach, fostering a healthier, more equitable future for all. | |
| Committee: | CND |
| Topic: | Promoting comprehensive and scientific evidence-based early prevention |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Zimbabwe recognizes the urgent need for comprehensive and scientifically grounded early prevention strategies to address the growing threat of drug abuse and its associated social and health consequences. As a nation deeply affected by the rise in substance use, Zimbabwe strongly supports international cooperation and the implementation of evidence-based approaches to prevent drug use before it begins. Zimbabwe acknowledges that early prevention must be rooted in science, public health, and community engagement. Furthermore, Zimbabwe emphasizes the importance of addressing the social determinants of drug use, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education. By investing in job creation and youth empowerment programs, the government aims to reduce vulnerability to drug use among young people. Zimbabwe supports the integration of scientific research into national drug policies, including the use of data to identify at-risk populations, evaluate prevention programs, and guide resource allocation. The country looks to successful models such as Portugal, where a health-centered approach led to significant reductions in overdose deaths and drug-related harm. In line with the UNODC’s International Standards on Drug Use Prevention, Zimbabwe calls for increased investment in school-based education, family support systems, and community resilience programs. The Republic of Zimbabwe also encourages member states to share best practices, collaborate on research, and support capacity-building initiatives in low- and middle-income countries. The Republic of Zimbabwe reaffirms its commitment to promoting comprehensive and scientific evidence-based early prevention as a cornerstone of national and global drug policy. Zimbabwe stands ready to work with fellow Member States to build a future where communities are protected, informed, and empowered to prevent drug use before it begins. | |
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