Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Afghanistan
Delegate Name: Harry Stern
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

With Afghanistan going through a government transition from a dictatorship to a democracy during the last few years, promoting peaceful post election transitions is an important issue for the country. Afghanistan believes that all election transitions should be peaceful. The country has been governed by practically every system of government in its history, but today the type of government Afghanistan has is an Islamic Republic, consisting of three branches, executive, legislative, and judiciary.

Promoting a peaceful post election transition has been difficult in Afghanistan because of the Taliban insurgency. For a quarter of a century the country was ruled by the Taliban, who diminished every human right to their citizens. The freedom of press and assembly were denied, children couldn’t attend school, and women were essentially on house arrest at all times. It wasn’t until 2003 that the government was restructured into an Islamic Republic, and it wasn’t until October 2004 that the citizens of Afghanistan used their new right to vote, to elect President Hamid Karzai.

Afghanistan would greatly appreciate help from the UN to come up with a solution for the Taliban insurgency. The Taliban is the primary obstacle the country is facing, and while it remains, Afghanistan will never become peaceful. United States troops have entered the country to help remove the Taliban but little progress has been made. The UN's current role in Afghanistan is registering voters for 2009-2010 elections and training police officials. The UN cannot have a large role in the country because of the major violence and illegal drug trade.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Algeria
Delegate Name: Emily Stavale
School: Royal Oak High School

Algeria recognizes the great amount of turmoil brewing in many nations around election time. There is has been an outstanding amount of violence occurring recently in the African states of Kenya and Zimbabwe. In Kenya, the violence is, of course, due to the country’s elections. There has also been a rise in the number of rapes occurring Kenya. Algeria feels that this is a huge problem which should definitely be placed atop our list of priorities. This violence is causing many deaths of innocent villagers who have nothing to do with all of the violence. Also the rape is greatly spreading diseases and viruses, especially Hepatitis.

In Zimbabwe, the violence is even worse, and yet a bigger problem. The violence there is not only between the citizens of the country, but also the government. Mugabe is sending troops to hurt and kill innocent people for the simple reason that he wants to be reelected. Algeria feels that this is terrible and needs to be stopped very soon. this is a huge problem which should definately be focused on. Mugabe is causing the deaths of many innocent people just because of greed.

If an end is not put to all of this violence soon, as well as the rape, then disease will spread and even greater turmoil will break out.

Algeria is not a contributor to any of this election time violence. Algeria will cooperate with the efforts of other countries to put a clean and safe end to this disastrous activity.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Angola
Delegate Name: Joseph LoCascio
School: Roeper School

Delegates, it would certainly seem to Angola that the two topics given us were of definite similarity. Angola’s policy, as one might expect, is similar in regard to both topics.

Successful endeavors, as you all well know, are characterized by an in-depth knowledge of the specific situation at hand, and others like it historically, careful planning and cooperation. So, if any delegate dares to take this topic to extremes and dictate to a nation experienced as Angola is in conflict what need be done in her sovereign lands to deal with seemingly “inevitable” post-election disputes, then I will cite history as a contention against you. Our solutions in this area must be considered with great care before we jump off and inadvertently prolong what indeed may be a crisis.

The ugly years of colonization has taught both Angola and the rest of the world that outside intrusions are not the best option, and that indeed the indigenous population is generally wiser in deciding what is truly beneficial for its own nation. Need I place before your eyes the less-than-intelligent quagmire certain “coalition” nations have directly created in Iraq? In other words, elections needn’t be overseen by the United Nations, and mustn’t be overseen by the United Nations unless the country conducting it asks the international community for assistance. Our efforts on this topic should reflect an understanding of this basic principle. Resolutions cannot have phrases giving this body powers to decide for itself whether or not nations having had elections require assistance. It is not for the United Nations to decide. The United Nations is most helpful in facilitating the end to armed conflict, and promoting confidence building measures between former foes, which are the preconditions to any successful election. It is then up to the nation to actually implement their election.

Do not go to the other extreme either, my friends. What we do here today may affect many societies in ways we cannot fathom as far as true good help and progress goes. Angola, having recently had its first successful democratic election, appreciates what a safe and sound election can mean for a country. Our economy is booming, and we are stable and morally justified in all our actions. Through our own sovereignty we have accomplished this. This situation did not require any sort of intervention from outside sources. Any such intrusion would have been a blatant violation of our organization’s charter. However, it is our duty to come to the side of any wounded nation asking for our support. Operations, should they be seen as necessary, ought to be quickly effective, non-intrusive and most importantly, must end when the nation they are taking place in wishes them to end.

So again nations from all around the world, our topic of promoting peaceful post-election transitions cannot be allowed to become much more, except in some well investigated instances, than simply promoting the conditions in which peaceful post-election transitions can occur. Thank you.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Australia
Delegate Name: Tracy Norcross
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Throughout today and the recent past, nations like Kenya, Zimbabwe, Bosnia and Georgia are plagued by post-election violence. They have had leaders for countless years and with the onset of an election, opposing parties have not been happy. Sometimes the vote count has taken such a long time to the point where people believe there has been hampering with the outcome. Or the leaders refuse to give up their power. Even in Afghanistan, the election was peaceful, but was fallowed by a summer of extreme violence. In Kenya, where violence is typically rare, the people have been protesting the announcement that the president had been re-elected (1). The result has been also questioned by the European Union with their doubts of the legitimacy of the results.

Australia as a part of the United Nations has had the opportunity to see the ills of countries affected with post-election violence. As a parliamentary democracy, we have been able to serve our people with fair elections. With the assurance to our people that they are fair and quick Australia has been a prime example to developing countries. Australia also believes in aiding countries who have expressed need in this area.

In the 62nd session of the General Assembly, Australia voted for the resolution (2) which was created to strengthen the role of the UN in enhancing the success of the principle of pristine elections and the promotion of democratization. It recognizes the need for strengthening democratic processes and welcomes contributions made by other organizations to enhancing the effectiveness of this resolution. Australia also has supported and not supported specific annexes presented on the 76th and 77th meetings of the General Assembly (3). Australia has supported annexes VII and VIII, and has been against annexes XI, XII and XV. Such annexes contain Australia’s beliefs pertaining to what should be done during and after elections.

Australia believes that what is being done by the UN and other organizations currently is not enough. The UN should look to press certain political leaders to step down in a speedy fashion, but not so fast as to make the transition rocky, and should expand assistance to the democratic forces in conflicted nations to promote peaceful and speedy transitions. In a nation like Kenya, Australia believes that by reforming the constitution and police system and by adopting new laws like witness protection, many issues that have caused the post-election violence could subside. Other actions would also involve reorganizing and constructing countries’ governments.

1. President Mwai Kibaki re-elected with 51.3% of the vote. His opposition, Raila Odinga received 48.7%.

2. Resolution 62/150.

3. GA/10678

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Austria
Delegate Name: Matt Bacon
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

When elections around the world take place, the voters should be rest-assured that their vote counts and is heard. Elections are the strong foundation in a democracy. Post-elections must be peaceful; otherwise the government will be skewed also and may even be plagued by dictatorship. Governments of nations must strive to ensure a strong foundation of peace in post-elections to provide the best outcome for a nation.

Austria believes that the UN must make sure that countries hold peaceful elections and peaceful post-elections transitions must be put in place in order to ensure the elected leader of the nation is respected and is well represented by the people. Austria also believes that the elected leader does not have unlimited power. This is the small difference between dictatorship and democracy. The Nation must have a set of checks and balances to balance the power and therefore nobody could be a power hungry leader. Austria also strongly believes in peaceful post-election communications between the leaders and the leader-elect. No matter the leader-elects feelings about the leader or visa versa, they must appreciate the job their predecessor has done trust that their subordinate will do his or her best. It is mandatory that this tradition of passing the torch from leader to leader-elect keeps on because it keeps the peace within the people of that nation and thereby allows the nation to move forward.

Post-election times are not always the happiest and easiest times in a nation, but Austria knows how important it is to keep the peace during this time. We might not always like the leader or the leader-elect, but it is our responsibility of a nation to rally for them no matter how we feel, we must stand by our nation’s decision.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Belarus
Delegate Name: Hannah Cottrell
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Post-election periods oftentimes are violent and instable periods for countries, especially when the country has little cohesiveness to begin with. Though democracy is a noble enterprise and the ability of a nation to have elections is commendable, the violence that can ensue after an election can often outweigh the positive effects that generally follow an election. One problem that can especially affect the transitions after elections is over partisanship. Too many separate factions within a country can create hostility with the transition from one political party to another. If one party is reluctant to accept the leadership of another party, the members of the losing party are capable of creating widespread havoc throughout a country. However, these situations are relatively atypical and do not exemplify the transitions that take place in most countries around the world. Thus, it is the responsibility of the United Nations to intervene only when necessary, and only with the expressed permission of said county’s government.

In the case of Belarus, our government has had little problem with peaceful post-election transitions as our head of state has remained in power for the entirety of the Republic of Belarus’ existence. By diffusing the opposition groups, Belarus has successfully mastered the art of keeping a country in peace. With our leader, Alexandr Lukashenko, at the helm of our nation, we have felt no need to look towards others for leadership. If other countries could follow in Belarus’s footsteps and find leaders that inspire the country to join together in commonality.

The United Nations must work to diffuse any potentially violent post-election transition; yet, an intervention of such nature must only be undergone if the explicit permission of the nation is given.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Cambodia
Delegate Name: Ashley Tuma
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Every action and decision that defines a country is based on the choices the government makes. The image a country has to others is primarily because the past people who have led the nation. Democratic elections give the citizens of a nation the power to choose whom they want to led their country. The chance to have their own voice heard in deciding the government. The leaders of countries not only affect what happens to the country, but also every single citizen that makes up the nation. An election within a country means it being led by a new person. Someone who has different believes then the last leader. Sometimes the process of changing leaders is done peacefully; while in other cases, it causes conflicts.

Cambodia has a multiparty democracy under a constitutional monarchy form of government. It has a limited amount of elections that actually allows the citizens to get involved with deciding the people that make up the government. Even though Cambodia does not have as many elections, the government believes that having a peaceful transition between leaders is vital to any countries stability.

Many countries will agree that peaceful post-election transitions are very important. Having violence that involves people from your own country fight against one another is something that can be very devastating. Coming to an agreement with people from both sides of the conflicts would be a way to attempt making peace. The opposing view on this situation would be people that disagree with the decisions and actions their own government is making within their country.

A resolution that Cambodia would support is something that helps all nations. Points about the UN having the ability to step in and insure that peaceful transitions are made within countries is something that Cambodia strongly supports.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Cameroon
Delegate Name: Calli Flotmann
School: Traverse City West High School

According to the fact that the Republic of Cameroon has a very young government it does not compare to big, world-leading countries like the USA, Japan or Germany. The first step to a country with a running government as a presidential democracy, was made by the Independence from France in 1960 respectively 1961 from the United Kingdom. This was the beginning of its own politics and the affiliation of North and South Cameroon to a joint country. So this new formed country already made its way from a former German colony from the time of German Empire over split up parts from France and the United Kingdom to an independent country with a base of a political fair ruled future.

The Republic of Cameroon experienced various difficulties before, while, and especially after the elections. To sum up every single election was marred by severe irregularities such as the one that the National Election Observatory (NEO) in 2000 did not pass the legislation to become an acknowledged party to candidate for office. The President, which is elected in 7-year terms – not limited, Paul Biya was blamed several times for manipulating the election results for improving his own votes.

For a fair and peaceful election the Republic of Cameroon adopts the help and offers for assistance of the United Stated and the UN very willingly. Not only the professional assistance for the elections but also the financial support for improving the economy in Cameroon is one of the things the United States and the United Nations do for helping this country central African country fixing its problems.

Coming to a conclusion you can say that the Republic of Cameroon is still developing its political system, even when they started about 40 years ago. Receiving the assistance of the United States and the UN for instance makes it easier to form a continually strong political system, elected fair with no manipulations for a better future in this country.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Canada
Delegate Name: Mary Bryan
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Canada promotes peaceful post-election transitions. There are many negative aspects to a violent post-election transition. One negative aspect could be that the economy would fail and all citizens of a country would be affected. With violence infiltrating the government, many companies become financially unstable. When violence comes into play, citizens die, and the country mourns there lose. The social climate grows morbid with citizens mourning over their loved one’s life. Canada’s government is parliamentary monarchy therefore does not have the issue of violent post-election transitions but Canada feels that the UN has to play a role in order to have peace in the UN and around the world.

One instance where there were not peaceful post-election transitions was in Kenya. The ballots were not counted fairly and therefore that separated two different ethic groups. This caused a lot of violence and therefore the UN’s involvement is necessarily to stop the violence. A similar situation happened in Zimbabwe. Robert Mugabe and his ZANU-PF party were in control over the country since 1980. When the election was held the polls took many weeks for the results to be displayed, this led to many people feeling that the votes were being counted unfairly. There were also speculations that officials were being beaten and abused.

With all this said, this clearly is evidence of why the UN plays an important role in post election transitions. If each country vows to increased support of post election transitions this will strive to create a more peaceful world.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: China
Delegate Name: Ben Fallert
School: Roeper School

Voting is an important right, which all nations should freely be allowed to enjoy. After a new president or premier and legislature is elected, there are steps to provide a smooth transition from one governing body to another. In some instances these protocols have not been implemented and the results were disastrous. In situations such as this, the United Nations needs to be very cautious in their actions.

It is very crucial that votes are properly counted, because this is the cause of many election conflicts. When there is a dispute over the votes, or a recount is requested, governments need to have policies that will allow an accurate and fair count of the votes. What is not needed is outside interference. If a recount is to be conducted, or an election is to be investigated, it should be done by the home nations. Outside nations, or the United Nations, should not be allowed to take over the running of a country’s election. If there was ever an instance where the United Nations felt that a government was not in a proper condition to run its own election, the government should be able to pick the outside sources that will be taking their place in supervising the election or recount process. This will prevent grievous infringements of national sovereignty and maximize national accountability.

As we cannot stress strongly enough: if the international community requests that there be outside intervention, the nation or region in question should be able to choose the external bodies that are counting their votes, as to minimize sovereignty infringements. As a victim of outside interference in its internal affairs for over a century and a half, China stands by this principle before all others.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Colombia
Delegate Name: Frank Robenalt
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

Colombia recognizes the importance of a peaceful post-election transition. Colombia accepts the responsibility of past non-peaceful post-election transitions, and looks to have a peaceful future of post-election periods. Colombia recognizes the influence that the ruling party has on the counting of votes and the entire election process. It hopes to correct the corruption of the election process in order to to have a peaceful transition. Colombia is aware of the capability of violence to occur. Take the election in the United States in 2000, which had a cloudy post-election transition. It is aware of the fact that even in the United States, some post-election transitions can turn violent. Colombia hopes to have peace in its nation, even with a new stage in their government.

Columbia recognizes the violent post-election transitions of other nations such as Kenya. It wishes to form an election process that will promote the vote of the people. Colombia calls upon other nations to provide help in forming this process. Also, it calls for other nations to help control violence if it occurs. Elections must accurately reflect the people's vote, so that people are peaceful.

Columbia expresses it's hope of a peaceful election and post-election period. It hopes for less corruption to reflect the vote of the people. It trusts that allies will come forth with support, and urges that the support of other nations will lead to a peaceful transition. Colombia's government needs to gain authority in it's nation ,which will lead to peace in the nation.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Congo
Delegate Name: Kira Herman
School: Flint Central Academy

In the world today there are many different countries that hold elections, and many that don’t. A major problem, in the world today, with the countries that do hold elections is a refusal of the past rulers to give up power. Many dictatorships started as presidential or executive elections that ended in that person or party refusing to give up power. A few examples in history would be Hitler of Germany, who was appointed chancellor by the then majority party. Another example would be Suddam Hussein of Iraq, who was originally appointed by the then President, but is now elected. In Iraq such rigged elections exist as to only put the current leader on the ballot, or to threaten voters with a gun if they did not vote for the current president. These types of rigged elections are strategies of the current president to remain in power. To prevent a further violation of human rights around the world the Democratic Republic of the Congo feels that the UN’s role in peaceful transitions is essential.

In our country we have recently elected Joseph Kabila, from 32 different candidates, as our first president under our recently approved constitution. This election ended in a crisis with the rebel leader, Jean Pierre Bemba, who was down by 16%, refusing to admit defeat. Kabila was inaugurated in January and there was only sporadic fighting between the election and inauguration. With the recent lapses in violence we feel that this election transition was very peaceful.

Exemplified by our recent election, we view that peaceful post-election transition is essential for a new government to thrive. Instances of war and genocide occur when the people are at odds with the elected or appointed government.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Costa Rica
Delegate Name: Erica Cantor
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Elections are a significant even in a country’s history that can cause either happiness or discontent in its people. This discontent can encourage conflict and violence that can disrupt post-election peace. Some countries have experienced these problems, such as Kenya, Congo, and Bosnia. These countries have or are receiving aid from outside countries to help resolve the violence in their countries. Other countries with post-election issues however may not receive aid. Some of these countries are the Philippines and Ethiopia, who are left to resolve those issues for themselves.

In recent years, the people of Costa Rica elected Oscar Arias as president of their nation. This election was relatively peaceful. However, some scandal with previous presidents still gives the country a bad reputation. Costa Rica is no longer referred to as the “Switzerland of Latin America”. Previous presidents have accepted bribes from European cell phone providers, which has created controversy throughout the nation for some time. During the 2006 race, there were thirteen candidates in all. Arias won with 40.92% of the votes over Solís’ 39.80%, making it an extremely close race. Despite this narrow victory, conflict between conflicting parties was scarce.

The United Nations have come up with several resolutions to help solve the issue of post-election violence. 168 states of the United Nations voted in favor to strengthen its role in dealing with election periods. Another resolution with the same basic idea was passed with a 182 votes in favor. A related resolution that deals with preserving human rights, including during, but not limited to, post-election times, was voted for by 132 nations. The United Nations desires to help resolve the issues of post-election violence.

Costa Rica does not have many strong alliances and is a relatively small nation with no army. Therefore, it cannot provide substantial aid to countries suffering from post-election violence. However, Costa Rica believes that such aid is necessary to help stop these conflicts. Aid should be provided from a powerful nation who does not have much stake in the country’s status. The United Nations should be able to determine who should provide help to the afflicted country.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Czech Republic
Delegate Name: Isaac Shao
School: Cranbrook Kingswood

Human society has a long history of endeavors to bring about better governance. Those struggles come in various forms and took different means to be conducted. After repeated trial-and-error approaches to a stable but meanwhile progressive governing structure, comes the conclusion that only a government able to win and maintain the support of its people would accomplish such goal. Major events that took place in the past decade have instigated a series of nations’ attempt to introduce a republic form of government; some had done so in order to avoid violent eruptions against their oppressive leaders, while others, having had reached such a point, are facing serious domestic instability problems. UN plays a very important role in helping those nations from descending into chaos, for addressing such global issue is exactly why this organization was created.

Czech Republic itself, being a young nation, was the first to achieve the status of a developed country as one of the former Comecon members. Czechoslovakia, Czech Republic’s predecessor, underwent intense reforms and reconstructed almost all aspect of the government after a lengthy, however remarkably peaceful Velvet Revolution that removed the communist party’s control in 1989. A parliamentary republic was adopted as the country’s political system later, and the country has been showing strong growth since, demonstrating that a good government is not just for show.

Czech Republic is not optimistic about the circumstances in which countries like Afghanistan, Iraq and Zimbabwe are struggling. Incompetent new administrations are incapable of providing citizens security and promise their rights. Denials of elections, manipulation of the voting process, and election fraud are being practiced in the face of many callow democrats who lack the experience required to successfully run such a complex method of governing. Equitable public elections lay the cornerstone for democracy that would ensure the government to be supported by its people. The UN should take more direct actions to stabilize those regions by assisting some yet full-fledged republic states or nations with whatever measures it can possibly provide.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Ecuador
Delegate Name: Abbey Masotta
School: Forest Hills Central High School

With the current growth of democracies throughout the world, it is important that political transitions go as smoothly as possible. However for some countries, this is easier said than done. Many times, with the election of a new leader, there are challenges that must be overcome. These challenges usually involve two kinds of issues. The first one is that the outcome of the vote is disputed. The second is the existing leader refuses to step down. When these challenges come up, most countries don’t know how to resolve them. It is then that a country’s stature may fall because they become unstable due to internal power struggles.

Ecuador had to travel a bumpy road to democracy in 1979. They now think it is important to support promoting peaceful post election transitions. It is also important to prevent any violence that may be caused due to post election transitions. Ecuador believes that the United Nations should step and provide aid in order to help nations struggling with these transitions. Unbiased observers should be sent in to oversee elections to make elections fair. Hopefully nations such as Kenya and Zimbabwe will be able to achieve peace within their politics and in the future have smooth paths in post election transitions.

Any country that believes in that fact that peaceful post-election transitions are vital to any nation stature should support Ecuador’s position and the need to have United Nation aid to achieve the peace. It is important in a democracy that the people get what they believe is right.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Egypt
Delegate Name: Seium Teshome
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Post election peace is something that everyone strives for, but it is hard to attain. In even the soundest democratic systems of government, such as the United States government, there can be not so desirable aftermath of elections. In Kenya there has been extreme violence regarding the recent elections. About a year ago, President Mwai Kibaki was reelected and many Kenyans were outraged. They claimed that there was electoral manipulation and it was widely confirmed by international observers. The violence started with just a dispute in the vote count. Soon there was rally after rally and violence followed not far behind. Buildings were set to fire and hundreds were killed. The total death toll came out to be about 800 people and there were up to 600,000 people displaced. These are the sort of problems we need to stop and fix.

Egypt would like to find a way to peacefully control post election transitions. We believe that the United Nations should become more involved in the situations. The UN should identify all the countries with the biggest problems and send in some sort of system to promote or enforce peaceful transitions after elections. Egypt has no specific plan of how this should be done but would like to see it happen.

Most countries do not oppose the promotion of peaceful post-election transitions but some might not want to have United Nation help in their country. These countries want to have peaceful post election times, just not with outside help. All other countries would like to help because all countries want to avoid violence and keep peace during and after elections.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: El Salvador
Delegate Name: Veronica Dulin
School: Royal Oak High School

The peacefulness of a transition of government power after elections in a nation is dictated by the freeness and fairness of the election. Corrupt individuals and tampered elections have led to discrepancies as to the victor of an election, such as in the disputed election of Robert Mugabe in Zimbabwe, and have thus led to violence and war within a nation because of the struggle for power not fairly allotted. El Salvador believes that the international spread of democracy and the genuine practice of it by a nation can obviate dishonest election practices, and conflict over the results of an election. Thus, the U.N. should continue it’s effort to evolve world nations into democracies, through sponsorship and support of fledgling democracies.

As it is the building block of democracy, El Salvador believes that the government of a State should be founded upon it’s people and the reigns of it’s power should be held firmly in the peoples’ hands. It is a governments duty to provide for it’s people, and the sovereignty of the nation should fall the people’s chosen leaders. The introduction of the secret ballot in many nations and of the institution of laws preventing proponents of political parties and ideals from using unethical, dangerous tactics to sway the voters at an election site, could greatly reduce the ability of an election’s results to be vitiated. Should a nation’s sovereign government be under dispute the world community should give them adequate time to deal with the crisis as they see fit, and run a fair contest as to the winner, such as another election, and if they are unable to take the necessary action then the U.N. should only intercede in the instance of bloodshed or a plea from the parties in the struggle, or a general outcry from the people.

El Salvador believes that a nation’s sovereignty is an unalienable right of a nation and that the United Nations hasn’t the right to take away or alter a nation’s right to sovereignty through any means. This, however, precludes nations whose sovereignty is under question, and who cannot by their own peaceful and candid means; accomplish a peaceful transition of power from one government and leader to another. Should a nation enter within itself a dispute or conflict that stems from the transition of governmental power within that nation, El Salvador is of the opinion that the U.N. should intervene only to insure the ascension of the true victor in the election and to prevent the retaliation of a the loser, or even the victor towards the opposing side. The U.N. should achieve this by sponsoring second elections for the nation. If the government asks the U.N. to do this then it is the United Nations duty to honor that call and organize another election. Peaceful U.N. sponsored elections should be held also with the request of the rival faction in the election, or if both factions have not been able to come to an agreement on the victor and have descended into violence that endangers the people of the State. Another way for the U.N. to intervene is to mediate the two groups in a power-sharing agreement, much like what’s being done in Zimbabwe. The U.N. should only send in peacekeeper troops to ensure order, proper voting procedure at the election sites and that the re-campaigning of the candidates is run peacefully.

El Salvador believes in the promotion of democracy as prevention for the peaceful transition of post-election power, and in the U.N.’s role as a conflict mediator and sponsor of democratic elections.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Ethiopia
Delegate Name: Daniel Jakubowski
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Post election violence has been a problem all over the world. It has mainly been affecting countries new to democracy, such as those in Africa, South America, and Asia. In these countries people do not know the right way to react when a candidate does not win an election, so they turn to violence and anger. They should look at countries such as the United States to see how the elections are handled peacefully.

Ethiopia is one of those countries dealing with post-election violence. Right now I am viewing an article that says there were 36 people and an opposition leader killed as a result of violence in Ethiopia last June. The article later says that there were about four hundred people injured, too. In a country that does not have great medical technology such as Ethiopia, that is too much violence. Other countries set the good examples for new democracies to follow, but they are not actively doing enough to properly deal with these problems.

The United Nations can help promote peaceful post-election transitions by creating proposals for each of the countries to agree on that will solve the problem. I understand that countries may have difficulty in enforcing their laws, but the UN could give those countries an incentive to making sure that they follow through. The UN is holding conferences to discuss the issue, but there is not enough being done to address the issue thoroughly.

In my opinion, the United Nations needs to stress to each candidate the importance of promoting peaceful post-election violence, so each candidate encourages his/her voters to be peaceful whether or not they win. The people in those countries will listen to their politicians. There needs to be a cut-off of weapons in those countries also. Countries that have very peaceful elections typically such as the United States and Britain should send people in those countries to help out with the election to make sure they run smoothly. Ultimately, it would help if the candidates in those countries were specifically told how to be respectful of everyone’s rights when an election takes place.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: France
Delegate Name: Amber Walters
School: Flint Central Academy

As we lean toward a more democratic world, the issue lies with the the legitimacy of the outcome and the transition of power. Nations including Kenya, Zimbabwe and the United States have all dealt with either of these issues. Often, the disputes ignite violence throughout the nation, as seen in the recent transition of power in Kenya. Furthermore, voter discrimination and intimidation are further hindrances to peaceful transitions. Voters are less likely to have faith in the outcome of the election if they feel intimidation has occurred.

France feels that promoting peaceful transitions of power is necessary for a functional government. In nations that have had previous instances of voter intimidation, France wold like to see increased protection ensuring the citizen is able to exercise their constitutional right. If the nation should want help with this issue, the United Nations could offer aid to these nations in the form of security at polling locations to ensure fair voting. This would be one of the first steps in ensuring the citizens are able to believe in the outcome of the election. Discrepancies in ballot counting processes have also been present in many nations. France feels measures should be taken to ensure ballots are fairly counted. France is interested in discussing situations such as the recent election in Zimbabwe, where a clear winner could not be determined, and looking to find some an adequate resolution to prevent future displays of violence. France feels in order to have a productive conference and fully help combat this issue, all of the aforementioned issues need to be fully discussed and dealt with accordingly.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Georgia
Delegate Name: Evie Atwater
School: Forest Hills Central High School

When any government, be it tumultuous and unstable or a world power, undergoes an election, people are bound to be unhappy with the results. This unhappiness can range from muttered whining in some cases to full out war in an unfortunately large number of others. Many countries in our rapidly developing world are holding elections, but they are not all prepared and properly equipped to do so. Even strong and developed countries, such as the USA in 2000, face issues with election results and transitions. Therefore, action must be taken in the UN to reform the election process.

In order to promote a peaceful post-election stage, Georgia wishes to ensure that voters of the world are properly and truthfully informed about their candidates. Creating media standards and helping developing countries create reliable information systems are the two main points to this course of action. Ensuring that people are informed will mean that less people blindly follow their side and resort to violent action if their side does not win. The adding of election results is also very important, and the UN should provide assistance to ensure that votes are properly tallied. Existing governments and candidates alike should be allowed to ask for such assistance. If a defeated government refuses to step down, the UN should reserve the right to intervene.

We hope to be supported by the United States of America, several countries of the European Union, and many others wishing to reform and better election processes worldwide. Our position is a very agreeable one, and we hope that the majority of member states will join us in our hope to fix the election process. Georgia supports intervention, information, and reform of election processes.

After the shaky results in the 2008 Zimbabwe election, 2000 United States election, and countless other invalidated or disputed elections, we feel that international assistance is necessary to ensure that result are fairly tallied, defeated governments step down when it is their time, and that non-violent transitions are made. For the safety of the people and the integrity of elections, the UN should be very involved in voting processes, results, and post-election transitions.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Emily Ruff-Wilkinson
School: Roeper School

For countries in transition to democratically elected governments, elections often lead to turmoil. This turmoil can turn violent if something is not done. With the global community leading an admirable push for greater representative government and democracy in developing nations, we have seen these sorts of conflicts occur all over the world in recent months, from struggling young countries such as Armenia and Zimbabwe to nations not far from Germany, such as Ukraine.

The UN must aid countries undergoing elections to ensure that these are fair. The vast majority of post-election conflicts can be prevented if there is no dispute over the results. Those that occur even if there was proven to be a fair election are generally the result of deeper-seeded problems and the UN should choose to address these on a case-by-case basis.

Germany therefore supports the creation of an official UN Committee on Election Fairness. This body would support the efforts currently taken by the OECD election monitors and teams sent by regional organizations like the OAS and AU, but could operate in world regions where there is not currently sufficient resources to fully support election monitoring. The function of this committee would be to aid countries who are trying to promote truly democratic elections. The committee would be responsible only for helping to advise nations on elections standards and procedures, and to ensure that polling is fair and that votes are accurately counted.

It is necessary that this committee function with absolute transparency. It should not appear as if developed nations are placing puppet governments in their less-developed counterparts. As democratic nations, our only obligation is to ensure that these elections are a true representation of the will of the voters. If elections are fairly executed, hopefully this will replace post-election violence of the developed and developing world.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Greece
Delegate Name: Mike Weykamp
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Elections are as old as democracy itself, and the conflicts that sometimes follow them are just as old. There have been elections in recent history that have been overseen by representatives of the United Nations including: Kenya, Congo, and Bosnia. The purpose of the UN representatives being present at the elections is to instill confidence among the population of the country that there is no foul play involved in the election process. Elections in the past that have not had elections observed by an unbiased, stable outside agency have frequently resulted in violence following the election, for example Zimbabwe1. The UN has advocated peaceful transitions of power following elections in the past and must continue to do so in the future even to a greater extent than they have in the past.

Europe as a region has several democratic, election holding nations. Most of these nations have very stable political atmospheres and power is transferred from one political party to another with no hostilities aside from the bitter feelings that a loser feels watching his/her opponents claim the prize they competed for. This, however, is not a rule without exception. The Bosnian elections of 1998 had extreme potential for post-election violence due to the ethnic conflicts 2 that had occurred there in the time preceding the elections, and if the UN had not been involved in promoting the peaceful transition of power it is likely there would have been violent ramifications to the election. Another slightly less recent example of democracies stepping in and monitoring the transfer of power after WWII when Germany was in shambles and West Germany was governed by the democratic allied powers that helped restore order in the previously very divided country.

The United Nations are obviously in favor of promoting the peaceful transition of power following elections because they have recently been in nations such as the Congo observing the elections in order to ensure their fairness and accuracy of the elections as to decrease the chance of post-election violence. The United Nations had been involved in over fifty elections world wide in some capacity as of June 2002, and have participated in several others since that time. The United Nations participates in a substantial amount of elections they receive requests to participate in elections that they are unable to assist in because of a variety of reasons. The United Nations are almost unanimously in favor of granting electoral assistance to countries that ask for it.

Greece believes that the United Nations is obligated to grant assistance to unstable countries that face an election and the potential transition of power. Greece stresses that when a stable government is formed in the place of a previously unstable government it allows the country to grow and develop as opposed to focusing its attention and resources on internal conflicts. The more developed a nation becomes the more they are able to participate in world trade on a global scale. The ability of a country to import and export goods is beneficial not only to the country that is stabilized but also to the countries that are then able to trade with the newly developed country.

1 In the Zimbabwe elections no single candidate received a majority. Robert Mugabe and Morgan Tsvangirai received 43.2% and 47.9% of the vote respectively. Tsvangirai withdrew from the election shortly before the second round of the election could take place which led to widespread violence.

2 The killing of an estimated 200,000 Muslims were killed by Serbs in attempt to ethnically cleanse Bosnia & Herzegovina

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Guyana
Delegate Name: Kiley Matulaitis
School: Forest Hills Central High School

To have the rights and privlages to elect a countries leader is all part of being part of a democratic society. Elections are the core of every democratic society. When the thought of elections comes up, the first thing that comes to mind is that "the best man wins" and then the country moves on and focuses on it's current issues because everything in the election was fair and there is nothing more to it. However, in reality this is not how post-elections generally turn out. There are many things that can trigger a conflict in post-elections and the conflict may even become violent a nd chaotic.

Guyana has experienced some post-elcetion conflict in the past years and has been trying to promote peace to try and bring the violence to an end. The government has taken great percautions during elcetion time to monitor the people and to make sure nothing starts after the elcetion day. Some things that have been put into order are having the army patrol the streets throughout the country and having the police provide security at polling stations. Gyana's president Bharrat Jagdeo clarified that "We don't intend to be soft on anyone who has intentions of violating the peace.

Many countries also agree with having peaceful post-elections due to the fact that no matter what country it is, most countries don't like violence between their own people occuring. Its bad enough that there is the violence from people oitside of the country and then having to deal with your own people on top of that can be a very stressful task.

As for steps to promoting peaceful post-elections, Guyana has made great improvements on creating peaceful post-elections. Some things Guyana has done to achieve peace after elections include having the Organization of American States (OAS) election monitor past elections. Also All parties that run in the elcetions have recently decided to avoid the objectionable issues of race, religion, and violoence. Another thing is that security forces have made sure that there is a safe environment for people to campaign in. Also President Jagdeo signed into law term-limits of two terms.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Holy See
Delegate Name: Caitlin Donnelly
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The government of a nation ultimately decides it’s destiny. A democracy allows the people of a nation to choose their future by choosing their leaders. This seems like a flawless idea, until all the uncertainties are revealed. Elections are seen by the public as being black and white: the winner wins and they are allowed to govern. This unfortunately, is not always the case. Any time a new leader is elected, someone is not going to be happy. When elections are close and the results are questioned, one of two things happens. The already existing power in charge refuses to step down or the outcome of the vote is argued over for long periods of time. These things upset the public and outbreaks of violence are a result. The two nations where this problem is most pertinent are Zimbabwe and Kenya. The past year in Kenya, opponents of the leader elected didn’t believe that votes were counted fairly. The violence began and was fueled by a combination of the election results and ethnic diversity. The aftermath of the election in Zimbabwe even caused one of the opponents to be beaten and detained. This problem is becoming more and more prevalent all over the world. Being as a nation relies completely on it’s government to survive, a solution to this problem is needed as soon as possible. The UN’s efforts thus far have not been completely focused on this topic. For example, the resolution put in place in 2002 for Kenya is still not being completely obeyed.

The Holy See’s main vision for promoting peaceful post-election transitions is that nations experiencing election troubles are taken under the wing of an international body, such as the United Nations. The Untied Nations should be used to it’s full potential and be present as a mediator for the elections of newly sovereign nations, those who have had post-election trauma in the past, or those who just need the assistance. The governments of these countries will feel flushed with a sense of legitimacy because they are being recognized by an international body. The Holy See, first and forth most, believes that communication is key for this topic. Since it is the nation’s government itself that is the problem, an outsider looking in on the problem is necessary for a successful post- election transition. Those responsible for national and international life must be reminded that the path of dialogue is always possible and that such a way can always lead to honorable solutions among the various parties.

The majority of the countries in this committee should support the policy of the Holy See. It’s main points just ask that the focus of this topic be more on aid and communication. This is in contrast to having direct and aggressive interventions with the nations involved in violent post-election transitions. This does not promote peace and adds more tension to the situation. The peace keeping mediators of the UN, such as Canada will see the light in our simple but effective policy. Those who agree with the Holy See can help us achieve our goals by voting for resolutions that we would support if we were able to vote.

Countries that may oppose our policy would be those directly involved in this topic, such as Kenya or Zimbabwe, who may see it as too nonchalant and idealistic for the violence occurring in their nations at the moment. They would want a quicker, harder-hitting approach, but these electoral problems can not be addressed too quickly or aggressively. Governments are very complicated and crucial for they are the foundation from which a nation is built. Strong governments make for a strong nation, while weak governments make for a weak nation. Without a government, there would be no nation. The references I will use to make my case will be UN resolutions from the past dealing with post-election trauma. Those similar to Resolution 1450, which has not been totally successful, are a good example of resolutions that are too domineering. Resolutions that are best for promoting peace will need to emphasize communication between all parties involved.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: India
Delegate Name: Karly Lawniczak
School: Royal Oak High School

Democracies are built on the foundation of freedom. In The Republic of India our pluralistic democracy allows for the acceptance of all people and their views. In our government, no voice goes unheard, supporting the representative government. Gender, language, religion, class, and caste are all present in the lives of the Indian people, but no single identity is used to define our people. They are not subjected to being classified and discriminated against, and with that, a new political experience was born.

India extends great hope that with new government institutions or elections, governments will still be able to work towards the unhindered deliverance of humanitarian aid. While post-election transitions are occurring, the needs of the citizens must not be pushed off as dilatory.

During transitions, India believes that constitutional and legal reforms must be upheld. If human rights have been violated because of violent transitions, equal access and distribution of humanitarian and reconstruction resources should be supplied to all victims.

If an election’s legitimacy is questioned, India adheres to the idea of an independent investigation to be initiated for the electoral depute. If a rerun and recount are needed, a time frame should be created. If a power-sharing agreement was created in an election transition, India implores that transparency and peace be upheld.

In addition, if violence occurs after election transitions, humanitarian assistance should be distributed to the affected persons. This includes, but is not limited to, medical aid, food, or water. We would like to reiterate the importance of transparent distribution in these instances to promote government legitimacy. India believes that during post-election transitions, government leaders must remain cognizant of the need to continue their existing commitments.

India holds to the belief that by accepting transparency and democracy in nations facing post-election transition problems, a strong resolution can be created to aid every person and group in that nation.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Indonesia
Delegate Name: Ryhan Nadji
School: Traverse City West High School

Experiencing its first election in June 1999, Indonesia fully understands the power a wholly democratic election can instill into the peoples of a nation, and the distress felt by citizens who are denied the right to determine the direction of their country, due to politically fueled tensions, or violence. Indonesia believes that in order for a country to provide a successful and peaceful election process and transition of power, the nation in question must be on stable ground before the election process even begins. When Indonesia was working towards its first election, we were aided tremendously by the Carter Center's mission to the promotion of peace and democracy. The Carter Center sent a team of unbiased observers to oversee the elections, and in 2004, when public opinion was unwary in regards to the government's approach to the then declining Indonesian economy, the Carter Center met with a team of election officials, political parties, and civil society and observer groups to discuss the unrest of the citizens. Together, this group of experts requested the use of international observers in order to quell the tensions, therefore allowing for a peaceful and fair election process.

Indonesia believes that this direction of attack is applicable to any nation suffering from turmoil ridden elections, not necessarily in the exact procedure, but in the deployment of unbiased third-party aid together with regards to the reactions of the civilians. When the people of a nation are unnerved, and controversial issues or people are on the ballot, the authenticity of the vote is likely to be questioned, and without the unbiased assurance of the votes' validity, conflict and violence are inevitable. Another issue that the Carter Center has worked to eliminate is the inability of the different political parties to campaign in equal manners. Whether it is because of insufficient funding, a lack of able assistants, or other factors, the playing field must be level in order for elections to be fair and peaceful. Indonesia therefore hopes that a nation's political parties could come to an agreement on the process of running for office if equality is deemed and issue.

Indonesia also recognizes that in many cases, ethnic divisions in the country are catalysts to or resultant from improperly held elections, as in the recent case in Kenya where Kikuyu and Luo tribes engaged in brutal conflict following the election of Mr. Kibaki, a Kikuyu, over his Luo opponent Raila Odinga. By following a process similar to that which occurred in Indonesia in 2004, an unbiased third-party together with Kenyan officials would consider the plight of the Kenyan people when determining the best plan of action; then, when the election occurs, the use of observers will ensure citizens that their ethnicity will not prevent their vote from being counted, allowing for a more peaceful post-election state. By following an agenda consisting of the evaluation of the current social state by officials of the nation and a third party, who will assess and enact upon any necessary changes in the electoral process, followed by an election which is observed by a non-partisan body, each nation will be able to experience the true meaning of democracy while remaining peaceful just as Indonesia did four years ago.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Iran
Delegate Name: Chris Ransom
School: Traverse City West High School

Iran can speak from experience past, on the matter of post election violence. Throughout our long and glorious history as a people, we have seen empires rise and fall; governments come and go, always the harbinger of change and death. We have seen those empires, we have seen the violence that follows, and we cannot stand for it. Iran holds fast to the belief that within the transitions of leadership, the people of such a nation should not fear for their lives. They should instead know that their government is there with the purpose of protecting and serving its country.

As diplomats, as leaders of many regions around the world, it is our sacred duty to bring about the most peaceful solution to a violent situation. To this, Iran calls upon fellow nations in these volatile times, to make a universal effort, on an individualized level, to create programs with the function of insuring the peaceful transition of power within countries governments. Furthermore, its primary objective should be the prevention of such conflict and dispute. This should be obtained through extensive review and implantation of security measures that would insure a fair and peaceful election of irrefutable fact.

In light of recent events around the world, many are questioning the very ones sworn to protect them and their interests. We need to instill back within those people the comfort and security that they deserve; the knowledge that their lives and rights are being protected. It should be an outlandish fear among the people, to be afraid to cast their ballot.

It is to this that we the people of the United Nations, we the people of the world, must take all pains to insure the safety of our citizens

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Iraq
Delegate Name: Chris Goldsberry
School: Flint Central Academy

In a few nations there are governments that require elections to appoint leaders. Those leaders will govern the country for a limited amount of time. Some of those leaders have gone mad with power and believe that they have no obligation to step down. When this happens violence and corruption run rampant. The old leaders become a regime, They usually disband the constitution so they can make up their own rules. Later the newly elected leaders not allowed in office will rebel and ask for help. We believe that If a government has rules in place that obligates the former leader to step down after a period of time, must follow those rules. We believe that it is absolutely essential to the progression of mankind that laws be honored.

Our nation has had recent issues with election processes. When the new democracy was set in place the United Nations helped provide for our recovering citizens while we focused mainly on security and reforming the government. Some rebel groups saw the disarray of the government as an opportunity to attack other ethnic groups. Now in 2008, the United States is still helping contain rebel forces. During the past 5 years, the violence has been diminishing more and more. Our government is now running smoothly and is currently trying to rebuild relations with nations lost under Saddam Hussein's rule.

One thing we would like to accomplish in committee is establishing a law that requires nations to follow the laws they set in place. This will help create peace and stability in nations where both are scarce. As the UN we have to come together to address this topic thoroughly and progressively.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Israel
Delegate Name: Jenna Pope
School: Forest Hills Central High School

In order to maintain a democratic government, obviously, elections must be held. Democracies are becoming much more popular in this day and age, worldwide. Countries are beginning to realize the necessity of their citizens’ vote rather than a dictatorship or nomination from a small sample of citizens involved. Although these governments do reduce violence in some ways because the candidate elected should be of the popular vote, that is not always the case and post-election violence is becoming common. The democratic government is definitely a necessity in the free world today, but the United Nations must assist those countries that are having difficult transition periods following their elections. There are countless examples of election malfunctions along with unsuccessful transfer of power in our member nations, even within the largest and strongest democracy, the United States of America. Because of this, we, as the United Nations must involve ourselves by creating options that are open to any democratic government to accept and use correctly.

Israel truly supports peaceful post-election transitions and feels that complete support from all members of the United Nations is imperative. Although options should be varied and open, they are only available to those governments that are democratic and free, but support is needed from all member nations to follow through with a peaceful and successful resolution. Only legitimate governments will be able to resist the violence and corruption that has often occurred following democratic elections, with the assistance of the United Nations, if it is asked for. It is necessary to inform citizens about democratic elections and keep them educated with the new principles of our world today. Elections are necessary and, although, some nations still do not support the democratic government, citizens need to learn the importance of it. Another issue that is vital to peaceful post-election transitions is the safe and accurate counting of ballots. There have been many obstacles involving supposed deceit and corruption within the government. Finally, the transfer of power from a past government power to the future elected one, must be dealt with carefully and precisely because incredible violence has occurred when a power that has long been in place is not elected and refuses to give up the position. Israel is completely willing to lend support to any other democratic society in need of it and is hoping for success in creating a resolution.

There are obviously many opinions at hand, especially involving democratic governments, but it is necessary to work together and deal with peaceful post-election transitions with those countries that have already established that form of government. Israel, along with countries that also believe in the democratic government, such as the United States of America, trusts that all member nations will be supportive of this topic and leave the personal decision of government up to the specific nation and only deal with the actual transition period.

Israel has long been supportive of the democratic government and has attended numerous conventions involving human rights, genocide prevention, civil and political rights, etc. We feel there are many issues worth discussing with this particular topic and Israel is entirely cooperative for a true solution for peaceful post-election transitions.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Italy
Delegate Name: Joe Watt
School: Royal Oak High School

The Republic of Italy recognizes how important elections are to the foundation of all Democratic societies they empower Individuals to chart their own courses and persue their own dreams they empower Individuals to take charge of their own destinies by electing the leaders of the peoples choosing.

The Italian Republic also recognizes the threats that face democratic societies today and the Italian Republic is appualed by these attrotious attacks upon democracy for Instance two well noted instances in the past two years have occured first the insesint bickering over the kenyan presidency the witch has resulted in mass ethnic cleansing purges as the international community we most not allow these escollactoins to occur but as the international community we most know our bounds we must set asied this method of interventionism and focus on perventionism witch is the change on the international stage that Italy believes is required for a peaceful and prosperace world Italy believes insted of handeling our problems millitaraly we should shift our focus to more sufficient means and proficient means of dealling with contentious arrisings most often political disputes turn into ethnic attrosities this is why Italy believes that a global founding enniciative should be emplamented to quell these uphevils.

The Italian Republic further recommends that a United Nations monetary found be set up to prevent the potential out breaks of violence in a nation that is percieved to be unstable these nations should recieve monetary aid to supplement the lack of eduaction in these nations that attributes to the fishious out breaks in violence like the Republic of Italy has sied before we will provide as much aid as plausable to stop the counteintious uphevils from occuring but the world as a whole can not changed unless Italy has willing partners to stop the old coloniolist sentiment that has been perpetrated by many nations Italy believes strongly that providing aid and oversight will quell the problems we face today interms of legitamite elections thier is much contention today concerning the lagitamecy of Govermental aspects in todays world Italy firmly believes this global iniciative found will quell many problems

The Republic of Italy also recognizes the monetary coasts of this undertacking and we believe the founding should eriginate from private Individual doners or any Independent Govermental aspect that wishes to contribute to this proventionistic geard program the Republic of Italy hopes that the International community can work on the basis of bipartisn ship to progress world geo political philosiphy.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Japan
Delegate Name: Philip Bernstein
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

Japan believes that the United Nations must be prepared to offer aid and to ensure the peaceful transfer of power after free and fair elections. Too often, have irresponsible and corrupt politicians manipulated elections by refusing to recognize valid votes and restricting voting rights. Too often, have elections decided against the ruling party only for the rightful leaders to be denied power transitions. The purpose of elections is to ensure that the people of a country determine how the government operates. Every nation must understand then, that whether they call themselves a democracy or not, the world will not view them as democracies unless they show that the people’s will is indeed the primary determinant of the government. The people and the leaders of a nation must understand that regardless of the election’s outcome, the majority’s will has been upheld and that rebellion only serves to inhibit the progress of the nation.

Japan believes that the United Nations should address any anticipated difficulties with the post-election processes in several ways: the UN must keep watch over the entire electoral process, and the UN must, if necessary, install peacekeeping troops in the area of the disputed election. In addition, the UN must devote special attention to governments in transition from one governing party to another. The UN should provide special measures to keep these politicians safe, as they are a likely target for politically-motivated assassinations.

The UN must also hold direct dialogues with the people of a nation whose election has been disputed. It is not sufficient to convince the leaders of a nation to relinquish their power when the majority’s will dictates it. The common people have an uncommon ability to organize, and if there are any dissenters who would resist the new government, then they must be convinced of the advantages offered to them by a government that the people hold accountable.

A government that rules with a mandate after free and fair elections is more likely to be trusted by the global community. Conversely, governments that rise to power under tumultuous circumstances are likely to be viewed as invalid and untrustworthy, especially if the ruling party remains in power. Cuba is an example of the effects of contestable elections. The Castros remain in power after many elections; yet, the circumstances under which the Castros rose to power are speculative, and the government is now viewed with apprehensive speculation by the worlds.

The UN must have an active role in power transitions after free and fair elections. The consequences of chaotic election transitions can be catastrophic; a lack of a stable government in which the people can trust, politically motivated violence within a country, mistrust from the world community, and civil war are all realistic consequences of contested power transitions. These, in turn, create much larger difficulties for the country and the world than simply allowing power to be transferred in due course, in accordance with the will of the people.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Kazakhstan
Delegate Name: Ellen Vial
School: Royal Oak High School

Elections are arguably the most important part of the democratic process. Without them, the opinion of the populace is disregarded and the government falls to autocrat status. In order to maintain stable democracies throughout the international community, the United Nations plays an enormous role in overseeing and providing technical assistance for the elections of many states. In spite of this generous observation and aid, there are still factors which, when left unaddressed, can lead to conflict and strife in post-election times.

After seeing conflict arise in states such as Kenya or Zimbabwe following elections, the Republic of Kazakhstan was not only distressed but eager to construct a comprehensive solution with the help of the international body which would address all or as many possible factors regarding elections in order to minimize the conflict that could follow as much as possible.

The Republic of Kazakhstan believes that the first step towards ensuring peaceful post election transitions must be to expand the role of the United Nations from simply overseeing elections and providing logistical aide to providing election moderators with the ability to maintain stability and control crowds before, during and after an election.

Another controllable factor of elections is the regularity in which elections occur. Countries with definite, rotational elections, such as the Republic of Kazakhstan, tend to have fewer eruptions of conflict following elections. While the United Nations obviously cannot force any state to hold regular elections, and there are of course situations in which countries are not able to hold regular elections, it is a rational, beneficial recommendation for any country that does not already hold to such a practice.

The Republic of Kazakhstan also realizes that at the core of many election disputes lies regional ethnic conflict. In many instances one or more of the parties running for office is hoping to win in order for his ethnic group to take control of the government and wipe out any opposing groups. Recognizing this, the Republic of Kazakhstan believes that the Legal Committee of the United Nations should consider drafting a definition of the term “political party” to acknowledge legitimate factions running for office. This definition would set parameters for who is allowed to run for office. Any group endorsing violence or group with violent, positively undemocratic intentions should be barred from participating in the public election. This would ensure stability and safety for any state and decrease the chances of post election conflict, ultimately enhancing democratic principles and national progression.

The Republic of Kazakhstan also feels that education in the field of conduction peaceful and fair elections is vital so governments and citizens alike can hold elections in their countries to a set of internationally accepted standards. Such a program could be taught in Universities and discussed within regional democratic bodies.

One more action the UN could take in order to reduce post election conflict would be to work with nations individually to develop a system where the losing party does not necessarily lose all prospects of participating in the government, but rather a situation in which losing parties are guaranteed a role in the government for the sake of multilateral appeasement. If more democracies were cognizant of the need for balance in their governments, they would find a much more peaceful, united nation.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Kenya
Delegate Name: Meaghan O’Connor
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Although a century old tradition, a democratic election has the potential of causing severe conflict within a nation. An election is meant to begin a peaceful transfer of power, although in some cases the results of an election have been disputed by the citizens of a country . This dispute may cause violence, ethnic conflict, or corruption within a government. Countries may be torn apart due to ethnic disagreement over the election of a new party to power. Either way, the transition period after an election is crucial in promoting a peaceful transition of power.

As of right now, Kenya is in a fragile state when it comes to ethnic disagreement. In the past year, a close election brought rising ethnic tension to a boiling point. Mwai Kibaki (now the leader of the country) won a close election against the opposing party member, Raila Amolo Odinga. Both politicians were of separate tribes who had opposing viewpoints. After the election committee faced extreme pressure by both the citizens and the government, they declared Kibaki the winner. This created severe post-election violence over results that many thought were unfairly counted. Although the violence started as a result of the election, it continued (and still exists today) because of the deeply-rooted ethnic problems that lay unsolved. The violence that exists today continues to ruin Kenya’s reputation as a promising democracy.

Many studies have been done to determine the cause of post-election violence and possible solutions to this problem. A study done by the International Studies Association shows that the factors that affect a post-election transition are national income, distribution of wealth, education, cultural preferences, as well as country-specific factors as well. These factors will keep a country somewhat stable, which is the first step in ensuring a peaceful transition. A resolution was passed by the UN Security council, named “Security Council Extends Increase In Force Strength of UN Mission”, to call on all countries to ensure a fair and peaceful election, as well as the strengthening of UN forces. Kenya believes that more should be done regarding this issue.

Kenya believes that stable democratic countries, without stakes in the nation, should be required to come into a country and watch the electoral process. This would create a sense of security for citizens, as well as preventing violent post-election transitions. Kenya also believes that all countries should have voting regulations that have to be met in order for an election to take place. These restrictions would include a time limit for results, as well as a standard set of rules for the voting process. Kenya is in full support of promoting peaceful post-election transitions, as the election process is invaluable to a country’s success.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Lebanon
Delegate Name: Cimone Greene
School: Flint Central Academy

In recent times, post election decisions are rarely pursued internationally. There are usually riots and torment throughout some nations after an election. Especially those nations that are in transition to form a democracy. Currently, post election peace is usually very hard to come by in the international community. The UN plays a critical role in helping these countries throughout the international community establish post election peace.

Our recent election in Lebanon has been very vital to us regaining our freedom and democracy. In Lebanon, there it is a matter of change. We must force the militia out, but it won’t happen without a fight. This change will take several years. We are also currently receiving help from the IFES ( International Foundation for Electoral Systems). They are working with the citizens in the Lebanese society and government representatives to establish an agreement and bring peace. The United Nations also insure that the elections are meaningful to the citizens of Lebanon. Our nation is trying to find a way to establish this peace permanently. Lebanon requests the individual help of the United Nations to eliminate conflict within our nation. We feel that they have a responsibility to recognize these situations and develop substantial aid to our nation.

Lebanon is aware of the United Nations concern with the well-being of our nation. We feel that the international community should bind together and contribute to promoting peace internationally. We recognize that we aren’t the only nation with these requests. With the help of the UN, in due time we will have peaceful post-election transitions throughout all nations.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Libya
Delegate Name: John Lee
School: Cranbrook Kingswood

The Libyan Arab Jamahiriya recognizes the need for peace around the world. As an extension of our beliefs, Libya believes that violent conflicts are best avoided. The Libyan Arab Jamahiriya recognizes that for many nations, democracy is an effective form of government. But evidenced by post-election conflicts in many countries democracy often brings nothing but unnecessary violence and instability.

Recent events testify to this view. The African countries of Zimbabwe and Kenya have recently attempted to adopt more democratic systems of governance. These attempts however, not only failed in their goal, but simply brought unnecessary disruption to an already unstable region. In the case of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe, Zimbabwe’s dictator, refused to cede power to the popularly elected Movement for Democratic Change. Zimbabwe’s situation has since deterioted, as Mugabe maintains a tighter grip on government control, and the country’s people become more limited. In another example, Kenya’s 2007 popular elections proved to be a debacle. Voting regulations, examined by international investigators, were questionable, with many irregularities. As a result, citizens of Kenya refused to acknowledge the results of the election. Unprecedented violence and property destruction resulted.

The Libyan Arab Jamahiriya indeed views post-election conflicts as determintal. Yet these conflicts can be avoided. Democracy is not necessarily the golden standard from which all countries should govern. Too many instances of democracy’s failure have demonstrated this fact.

Libya urges all countries to be open minded during the committee, and to consider our view.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Mexico
Delegate Name: Zeky Nadji
School: Traverse City West High School

These past few years the Carter Center has aided us. They sent a team to see what was going on during the last few elections. What they told us was that the delegates have been paying off and intimidating the voters in order to get their vote.

Problems such as this can cause problems such as violent riots, which may cause civilian deaths or property damage. Another problem that might come into affect is the arguing of the parties over things such as recounts over close calls after the elections that get out of hand. What this does is give the possibility of an assassination of the winners of the elections. Like the assassination of John F. Kennedy of the U.S

Mexico asks that all other developed nations assist nations that are struggling to run peaceful and fully democratic elections. In order to ensure the prospect of peace within nations, regions and throughout the world community Mexico insists that all nations follow the United Nations Charter which insists on the peaceful right to self-determination for all peoples.

The powerful democracies of the world community must use their advanced voting systems and balloting technologies to help nations that are experiencing post-election disputes and violence. The people will only have faith and trust their governments in these countries if they believe their leaders were elected in a fair and just election process.

This problem is all over the world like the problems in Haiti. Mexico’s thought of resolving these problems is by using the help of the International Community for support. The country of Mexico would like to help the International community by providing technical assistance in the run-up to the elections in the Central and South America.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Mozambique
Delegate Name: Drew VanHouten
School: Forest Hills Central High School

All around the world more and more democratic governments are being set up. With these new governments comes a new set of problems. Many of these problems stem from old ruling parties not wanting to let go of their power and give it to the people, where it belongs. Also when the government is established elections come around the voting process is sometimes corrupted or inaccurate cause unrest and distrust in the new government. Even in countries where democracy has been well established there can be problems surrounding the post-election period. Mainly the goal of election is to elect leaders that the people like and trust to run their country not to stir unrest throughout the country; unfortunately though that is not the case in some countries.

Mozambique has had several peaceful democratic elections. Mozambique believes that it is possible for all countries to achieve this. As long as both political parties are willing to except the outcome of an election then it is possible for everyone to have peaceful post elections. Although Mozambique wishes that the UN would crackdown on governments that hold corrupt elections. We advocate that corrupt elections destroy the very basis of democracy and destroy the chance of that country ever becoming a real democracy. Mozambique believes that the UN should identify countries who government is corrupt or not willing for a transitions of power from one party to another. First the government should warn them then said government will be put on probation until further notice.

Mozambique wishes that the committee will be open to our view and we will solve this problem effectively as possible.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Myanmar
Delegate Name: Maxwell Boughton
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Democracy; what most present day nations are founded upon. Elections are held in varied sets of years depending on location and government. Most include a straightforward vote of Delegate A and Delegate B, with little room in between. While some elections tend to be peaceful and are carried out with as much respect and care as possible, some aren’t always pleased with election results. As a result, many groups of extremists and civilians as well feel it necessary to express their dissatisfaction with elections through violence.

Myanmar, being controlled by a military dictator, sees no need to get over involved with this issue and topic. It acknowledges the disagreement of opposing nations’ views about a peaceful transition; however it does not see it as a major issue. Myanmar does however believe that the elections of countries leaders should be taken care of with the utmost sense of pride and respect and results should be accepted by the nation’s population.

Although Myanmar’s views tend to follow the peaceful path, some countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom may disagree with its methods of action to take against countries with issues with election transitions. These countries need to understand that in order for resolutions to come into full effect, a compromise must be made between how involved third parties are over the nations own government. For example, rather than the United States sending in an army to protect it’s neighbor’s politicians, it could asses the problems the populace has with elected politicians and discuss possible alternatives if the nation in question deem it necessary.

Not many documents have been enacted that symbolize Myanmar’s current views and opinions on how the problem should be dealt with. Documents such as Resolution 1450 reflect too much of a strong, fast acting approach, while others take the matter too slowly or ignore it altogether. For Myanmar’s views to be realized it will need the cooperation and support of nations with similar opinions in the following conference.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Niger
Delegate Name: Seung Hoon Lee
School: Cranbrook Kingswood

The nation of Niger experienced a post-election controversy in 1996. An opposing party accused the elected candidate General Ibrahim Mainassara for fabricating the election result, which the president firmly denied. The accuser Mahamane Ousmane was exiled. However, it is now known that Mainassara manipulated the election elaborately.

The delegation of Niger recognizes the issue associated with post-election controversies in nations concerned. Election is a momentous and stirring event, and it can be a turning point for any group of people since the new elected leader can drive the group into prosperity or predicament. Because of the significant importance that is put on the event, an election should be examined carefully. This January 2008 in Kenya the result for the presidential election is disputed to be manipulated. It has caused violence between the tribe of the elected candidate and another major tribe that opposed it, and this killed several hundreds of people and put the nation into chaos. In Zimbabwe the situation is similar. The electoral vote is suspected to be manipulated and the government denies its corruption. These kind of deceptive political measures threaten democracy and world peace. To prevent further conflicts over the elections the world should set firm positions regarding dishonest political acts and carry out resolute policies.

For any regime with controversial election process, the members of UN should prohibit any financial aid or trade with the country and persuade the regime to reinstate democratic government. Niger petitions world cooperation to root out political corruptions to promote post-election peace.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Nigeria
Delegate Name: Nick Van erp
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The difference between democracy and dictatorship is a thin line. While most countries have managed to toe this line, others have fallen over, tripped by the greedy and power hungry. In today’s world governments, democracy is widely believed to be the best choice; thus elections have become the driving force behind today’s political machine. However, today, the election has been sabotaged. Not in the literal sense of the word, oh no, but by the post election violence that often follows. Post election violence is now a common occurrence in many countries. Nigeria was a few years ago a hot bed for such violence, as military leaders who were unsatisfied with the results often decided to take matters into their own hands. Countries like Kenya, Somalia, and other African countries have been rocked by these issues. Such coups are also common in South and Central America1 . Worse than the open military revolutions is the widespread violence meant to sway voters. This violence is hard to pinpoint, as it is mostly done by small bands of supporters for one side. However, these groups have been known to attack groups of opposing supporters and polling areas. Something needs to be done in order to end this violence, for the safety of democracies everywhere.

Nigeria gained our independence in 1960. Literally, six years later, there were several military coups led due to the corrupt electoral process. The violence that followed erupted into the Nigerian civil war, a costly battle that killed an estimated million people. Since then, there have been approximately nine coups and attempts to change the government following an election. Some have been bloodless, but all were unacceptable forms of violence. We have only recently managed to bring the electoral process back under control. This is largely thanks to the efforts of the U.N groups that assisted in monitoring the elections, though the electoral process is still questionable.

The U.N has taken several important steps to ensuring safe electoral processes. For instance, Resolution 54, Annex VII" "Annex VIII" "Annex XI" and "Annex XII" all deal with the electoral process and the U.N’s support for peaceful elections. Other actions the U.N has taken over the years include sending advisors and peacekeepers to assist with protecting the elections and the safety of the voters. This has worked very well in several African countries, including Nigeria. In addition, it has also helped Bosnia to recover its democratic elections.

Nigeria believes that Democratic elections are the best option, not only for countries, but for the people within those countries. Naturally, these elections must be peaceful and fair in order for Democracies to thrive. Therefore, Nigeria is of the opinion that the U.N should take a more active role in securing elections for countries. It’s actions should include the deployment of peacekeepers to protect citizens and voting area, the deployment of advisors to assist in the logistics of voting, and the deployment of supplies and equipment2 to help citizen’s of these countries be informed about candidates and elections.

1.Two attempts in 1992 in Venezuela and another in 1998. Also, Hati, Cuba, and Bolivia have had violent coups.

2.Radios, communication supplies, and other long range communication devices.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: North Korea
Delegate Name: Erika Boll
School: Forest Hills Central High School

As democracies continually grow in population within nations worldwide, they are quickly setting the foundations for the world community as a whole. Measures of diplomacy have demonstrated new meanings within these new systems, giving conflict the ability to be handled in a precautious manner. The necessity of peaceful democracies is vivid throughout the state in which the world stands today. Implementing these systems, though, may result in an increase of copious issues; one vital conflict arising from peaceful post-election transitions. Examples of failure to compensate with the jurisdiction concluding from an election are present and numerous. The consistent battle between Robert Mugabe, current president of Zimbabwe, and leaders of opposition have been causing vast issues throughout the nation since the time Mr. Mugabe took power. Violence and rejection of new leaders voted in as a result of democratic elections have been shunned and have had little to no effect in the nation of Zimbabwe. As the world takes turns for the future, strict measures of diplomacy overseeing are critical to the flourish of the world community.

Although stipulations in implementing procedures and courses of action for member nations are present, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea believes firmly in the necessity of peaceful post-election transitions. Ways in which the United Nations can aid in the change are imperative to nations struggling in violence and dispute. Options within the realm of educational measures to help teach civilians of new ideals and moral in an easy factor for understanding are viable matters for the UN. Other key factors may be monitoring the safe counting of ballots, to assure the truth in the democratic elections. While some nations find vast issues within elections, North Korea would like to fully support any resolution allowing legitimate governing bodies to obtain aid and advice from the United Nations, while not impeding or place obstacles in the way of which. This, though, does include legitimate governing leaders. Although North Korea fully agrees to the necessity of peaceful post-election transitions, nations must have the free will in order to obtain and utilize such strong efforts in combating a truly difficult issue.

Although many opinions conquer in the fact of assistance to countries in need are essential, many disputes between national sovereignty and respecting free will of countries are noted within this discussion. Countries believing parallel with those of the Democratic People’s Republic of China, such as Venezuela, also agree in the fact and importance of maintaining a peace of independence for nations. Because of the freedom granted within the global community, regardless of the system in which governs the nation, each is left up to the decision of each individual sovereign state. This implies, in the area of democratic elections, that all have the right to ways each nation, respectfully, wishes to carry the transition period themselves. As countries also believe in these ideas, the Democratic People’s Republic of China believes in the prospect resolution to result form this committee.

For steps to combat issues against violence and conflict as a result of post election transitions, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea has attended copious conferences discussing prevention and punishments of crime and genocide, civil and political rights and other forums discussing discrimination. Because of the measures taken by the governing body of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, issues present within borders are not prevalent. As a result, education and other systems implemented have aided in the success, which are clear points needed to discuss.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Pakistan
Delegate Name: Sam Calloway
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Pakistan is a federal republic in which the powers of the central government are restricted and in which the component parts retain a degree of self-government. This simply means that the ultimate sovereign power rests with the voters who choose their governmental representatives. The history of democracy in Pakistan is a troubled one marked by constant three-party power struggles among presidents, prime ministers, and army chiefs. At this time Pakistan faces some turmoil but strives to conduct peaceful elections after the election of their new President, Asif Ali Zardari.

Pakistan unfortunately suffers from significant political uncertainty as a result of the weak governance structure that was put in place by President Pervez Musharraf. Musharraf was reelected to a second five-year term by Pakistan’s Electoral College in a controversial election in October of 2007. On August 18, 2008, Pervez Musharraf resigned from the position of President of Pakistan due to the pressure and threat of impeachment that the coalition government was forcing on him. On September 6, 2008, Asif Ali Zardari was elected Pakistan's 13th President since 1956 and represents Pakistan’s support of peaceful post-elections.

In an effort to prove his support, Asif Ali Zardari spoke at the “Friend of Pakistan” meeting held at the 63rd annual meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on September 26, 2008, in New York City. He represented Pakistan in their endeavor to promote fair democratic elections. The Election Commission of Pakistan was created on March 23rd, 1956. This Commission is an independent body that has the function of making sure that elections are free fair and impartial. Asif Ali Zardari supports the efforts of the Election Committee and of the United Nations to promote peaceful post-election transitions.

Unfortunately, the Election Commission of Pakistan has historically lacked neutrality and independence. The United Nations needs to be involved in Pakistan’s effort to make sure that these committees and elections are conducted fairly. Pakistan is now working with the Free and Fair Election Network that is monitored partly by the United States to the offer a neutral monitoring of elections. The United Nations involvement is necessary to alleviate the turmoil and uncertainty that has interfered with Pakistan’s promotion of peaceful post-election transitions.

1.) "Post Elections, Will Democracy Be Effectively Restored in Pakistan?" Merinews 3 Jan. 2008. 22 Nov. 2008 http://merinews.com

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Palestine
Delegate Name: Brenna Cleary
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Every society has a ruling class. The most beneficial way to determine the rulers is through a democratic election. The main problem surrounding elections in countries such as Zimbabwe and Kenya is the votes are not correctly counted and the peoples’ decisions are not honored. Even established countries, such as the United States, have had recent election troubles.

The United States had a rocky period in 2000. Theoretically the person who wins the most votes is the winner of the election, however, President George W. Bush received fewer votes than Al Gore, and still won the election. Luckily, this did not result violently, but many elections that are handled in this way do. The United Nations should step in and give aid to countries struggling with fair and peaceful elections. The 2000 election had disastrous results for the United States, and we should move to prevent a similar situation in other nations.

We recently had a transition in the Gaza Strip. An election was held in the Gaza Strip and Hamas won over the Palestinian Authority. The current government stayed in place as a transition government until Hamas was able to take over control. If other transitions are handled with the same amount of peace and maturity post-election transitions would run smoothly.

If a country has proven to be corrupt the United Nations should step in to bring about peace. The prevention of election fraud is essential in the peaceful post-election transitions.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Panama
Delegate Name: Kelly Neckels
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

One of the key components of a democratic society is the people’s right and privilege to elect their own leaders. This right is one of the many things that separates a democratic society from all other forms and types of societies. This right forms the base of the word democracy, which simply stated can be defined as a government by the people. By allowing the people to have a say in who rules their country and who makes the laws is crucial in allowing the people to have some sort of power in their own country. It is therefore essential that the elected politician assumes his role in whatever position he or she is elected to, without any conflicts or uprisings.

It would be expected that any new leader would be allowed to peacefully move into his or her new position, but as seen in past elections all around the world, this is not always the case. There are two main reasons why post-election transitions do not run as smoothly as they should: either the previously existing power refuses to give up its authority and control over the country, or a group of citizens unsatisfied with the outcome of the election argue that the vote was unfair. In the later case there is risk of an uprising, depending on how strongly the group of citizens feels against the supposed new ruler.

In the past year alone, there were two major conflicts regarding the election of a president in the countries of Kenya and Zimbabwe. These are two examples of civilian unrest that lead to violence within the countries.

Panama supports peaceful post-election transitions as this would prove to be the most successful and productive way of moving from one ruling party to the next. In the past, Panama has been fortunate with such peaceful transitions and is still presented with such great luck as the country is ruled contentedly under its president Martín Torrijos.

The UN holds the responsibility to assist countries that are faced with conflict or difficulties following an election. It is ultimately the country’s job to address problems and to decide on its ruling powers, but when the safety of the people is at risk and there are possible threats to surrounding countries and peoples, the UN should step in and make an effort to help resolve such problems.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Paraguay
Delegate Name: Adam Berman
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Elections: arguably the most important and easily the most exciting part of the electoral process. Tragically, elections which are supposed to be democratic and fair, in some cases are bitterly disputed and controversial. A sound process toward counting, tallying and declaring a winner is of the uttermost vitality in an election. Even in some of the most economically powerful nations in the world have faced controversy in declaring a winner, for example the United States presidential election in 2000. Paraguay believes that a sound electoral process is vital toward producing a clear and definitive winner, thus preventing violence, as what was evident in the controversy in Kenya. Through an unstable government system, the possibility of an unfair election may easily result. In some cases that occurrence leads to violence and political upheaval within that country, costing many lives and much dispute.

Some of the key issues discussed in committee should include the process of collecting, counting, and tallying votes; and, if necessary, preventing possible violent attacks and turmoil following an election. Paraguay, living under military dictatorship until 1989, understands the harsh consequences of an invalid leader, and believes in spreading democracy throughout all the countries of the world. Recently electing a new head of government in April of 2008, Paraguay has seen the rise and fall of political parties and understands the difficult precautions necessary to promote a peaceful shift in leadership. Paraguay believes that in a disputed election, the UN should intervene as a non-biased organization in hope to count all of votes and safely determine the true leader of that country, thus reducing all of the controversy and violence following an election.

Countries that would agree with Paraguay’s beliefs should include all countries ruled by a democratic government, whose leader is elected by the people, and those countries who believe in a safe and nonviolent resolution to the controversy following most elections. Those countries should be concerned with the process of collecting votes, and the election of a leader interested in promoting peace and well being to all people in the concerning nation. It is vital that safe and accurate elections take place throughout the world in order to ensure a political leader that most accurately represents the people of that country.

Paraguay, like many other countries throughout the world, has made significant progress towards a peaceful and safe post-election process. With help from the OAS (Organization of American States), Paraguay has had help in monitoring the recent election in April of 2008. We believe that all countries should have a specific term limit set for their political leader as well as a safe process towards tallying votes. With that, any country can have non-violent and productive election.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Philippines
Delegate Name: Alden Solon
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Most all nations today have turned to the public election to elect their head official or officials. In most cases, this process works much better than other methods as the people have a voice in their own destiny rather a single person or a group of people. In countries that this form of election process has been more recently introduced frequently there is violence and rioting following the election. The violence and rioting are often caused by one or two main factors; either the current party refuses to give up power as in Kenya, or the votes take too long to be counted leading people to believe there is corruption taking place as in Zimbabwe. The United Nations often has a large role in keeping post election transitions nonviolent, they will if invited count the ballots to make sure the results are fair, and often station peacekeepers in order to maintain the peace if necessary.

The Philippines supports the republic as the most favorable form of government. Dictators from time to time have also ruled the Philippines; when the dictator has fallen from power the Philippines have always returned to the republic form of government. For the past twenty two years the Philippines has been lead as a republic and as a result have been more stable than ever before with respect to post election transition. The Philippines ardently supports upcoming democracies and peaceful transitions thereafter. They know from experience the difficulties that occur in countries that are not able to choose their own leaders. They are strong supporter of nations trying to promote peaceful election transitions to help keep them from falling to a dictator.

In 2004 the United Nations Security Council voted on resolution 1559 for free presidential elections in Lebanon and called for all foreign forces occupying the area to withdraw. The Philippines didn’t vote against this resolution because they were aware of the Syrian and other outside forces pressuring Lebanese officials to unfairly amend the constitution and allow for the current presidents term to be extended for three more years.

The Philippines believe it is the United Nations responsibility to promote and assist all elections and to promote the abstinence of violence during and after the election process; as long as the United Nations actions do not over step the boundaries given by its charter. The Philippines strongly supports all efforts of peaceful transitions and realize that a government elected by he people of a country will be much less likely to have aggression by the government against the people; aggression between groups of people also is much less likely to occur.

1.)Resolution 1559 (2004) “Security Council Declares Support for Free, Fair Presidential Election in Lebanon; Calls for Withdrawal of Foreign Forces There.”

2.)"Violence and Coercion Mark Zimbabwe's Election." Amnesty International. 27 June 2008. 22 Nov. 2008 <http://amnesty.org>.

3.) "Kenya: Amnesty International Condemns Killings in Post-election Violence." Amnesty International. 3 Jan. 2008. 22 Nov. 2008 <http://amnesty.org>.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Poland
Delegate Name: Elena Misailedes
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The issue of electing a representative to have authority over his or her people has created issues for as long as the concept of government has existed. Because of the past imperialist tendencies of most major countries, many younger nations have only recently had the opportunity to gain independence and create their own system of government. Because certain political or paramilitary groups have risen to power uncontested in these nations, sudden upheavals of the political system can leave the nation reeling, and any attempts to overhaul current powers may become violent. Similar cases have characterized political transitions all over the world, most notably in countries such as Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Iraq. The Republic of Poland itself has only recently gained a certain degree of independence that we had been denied by several different powers over the last century. It is the responsibility of the United Nations to recognize these situations as they develop and work to make the transition process as peaceful as possible.

In order to smooth over the post-election transition process, it is the opinion of the Republic of Poland that United Nations and the international community should be on hand to step in if the nation in question fails to keep control of the situation in order to prevent violent movements or quell them as soon as they arise. However, as much care should be taken to prevent violence as should be taken to respect the sovereignty and independence of these nations, especially those that are still establishing their footing in the international arena. For this reason, and because internal elections are not usually an immediate threat to the international community, the role of the United Nations in promoting peaceful post-election transitions should be exactly that – to promote a peaceful process, without overstepping the boundaries to which a nation is intrinsically entitled.

Therefore, the United Nations has a responsibility to facilitate peaceful elections as well as post election transitions as well as to intervene when a nation can no longer keep the situation under control. However, the right of an individual nation to govern over its people should be preserved.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Portugal
Delegate Name: Mike Jones
School: Traverse City West High School

Portugal considers the topic of keeping peace in post election transition periods dire and important to maintaining democracy. The modern Portuguese government has had a near perfect record of peaceful elections, and hopes to assist other nations in increasing there chances of peaceful election transitions. Portugal is also concerned about the local topics of Kenya and Zimbabwe and hopes that the committee spends time reviewing their case in specifics.

Portugal is a protector and financer of various nations concerning elections such as east Timor. Portugal calls for UN intervention In elections and post election security. Portugal wants more security, legitimate elections and peace in post-election transitions. It is unacceptable for any one nation to feel that they have control over the elections and how they are executed.

Portugal insists that all peoples of the world have the right to choose their elected leaders in a safe and orderly manner. Neighboring countries must not interfere in any way. Nations like Syria and the Russian Federation provide examples of violent meddling in recent elections processes in Lebanon and the Ukraine. The international community must allow this sort of interference and it must impose economic sanctions on nations proven to be interfering with other nations election processes. Pre-election campaigns, all election related activities, and the order count of all votes and post-election activities must be peaceful and transparent in order to ensure that the citizen will trust and support their newly elected leaders.

Our countries should promote and implement peace to these countries with help of the UN. Peace in post elections is most often evident when there is affiliation with ethnic and religious diversity. The democracies of the nations must use an equal and efficient system of ballot collection and accuracy. This process would prevent violent retaliation to the President-elect. If the citizens are satisfied with 100% accurate results there would be no reason for rebellious actions against the decision that was made according to the votes of the people. At this processes in the election, a U.N Overseer would step in and ensure accuracy in the Elected.

There have been many examples all over the world and in many different countries, including our country; Portugal. This process has been proven and works. With other countries seeing great leadership, problematic countries can work to resolve and fix issues from the ground up and keep peace amongst the citizens and candidates.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Romania
Delegate Name: Enxhi Merpeza
School: Royal Oak High School

The system of Government can result in corruptions. The world has witnessed this ensue many times over, with Hitler in Nazi Germany, Mugabe in Zimbabwe, and Saddam Hussein in Iraq. All of these outbreaks of upheaval just go to show how differentiated one nation’s government stays from another, not one Governmental system works unerringly the same. It is a superior power which nations encompass, the power to choose what kind of government to adopt, as well as to implement these powers designed for the governing party and leaders. This power that nations have also comes with loose ends and loopholes for power hungry tyrants. To acclimatize nations away from these proceedings was precisely why the United Nations was fashioned.

When the United Nations was founded in 1945, as a result of World War II, it was initially set up to help prevent the happenings of another World War by resolving wars between countries and to provide a platform for dialogue. The UN is entitled to the credibility of achievements it has conquered in promoting world peace, but even with such an international organization at hand there are still a various number of nations that encounter the faculties of corruption in their regime and haven’t been able to use the UN’s assistance to their advantage.

Romania recognizes necessitate for the assistance of the UN to help Romania in becoming a more stable republic, considering that it is a fairly new republic at hand. Romania shifted powers from a Communist structure to a Republic in 1989. It has been working out the aggressions of a new administration ever since then. A more recent dispute of disagreements in the Romanian government occurred on May 19, 2007 in a referendum called by the government on the issue concerning the President, Traian Basescu, on whether or not he should have been impeached for the abuse of powers. Prime Minister Calin Popescu Tariceanu and President Traian Basecu clashed repeatedly over allegations that the other has turned a blind eye to corruption. Romania wants to proceed in a more unified nation, with stronger ties in the government system, towards democracy, that exemplify the people’s needs and attain to the challenges faced by the Romanian people.

Romania is continuously suffering from the poverty level; the economic stand stills encountered, a corrupted government is not something to be taken into account lightly. Romania feels that a government system should run according to the rules the nation has established, and that anyone who breaks those regulations would have to be observed closely and firmly as to what kinds of actions they are taking. Romania feels that if a President refuses to step down from position, going against the people’s preference, the UN should have the right to intervene and strengthen the cooperation of the President to step down from position.

The UN would not be expected to proceed on a nation’s concern, unless the nation has given the sanction for the UN to become involved with the situation. Romania perceives that the UN should be given a less limited structure to become involved in the post-election transitions of other countries, for if the UN see’s the election as a threat to neighboring countries or as an unmerited act against the people then the United Nations should intervene and should have a bold authority to act on resolving such variances.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Russia
Delegate Name: Nicholas Triantafillou
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

As the United Nations Commission on Human Rights has affirmed time and time again, democracy and human rights are “interdependent and mutually reinforcing,” and “all peoples have the right of self-determination.” The Russian Federation strongly believes that for any government to maintain peace and lead its people to prosperity, it must have the support of its citizens. When leaders circumvent the will of their people by refusing to step down, increasing tensions and violent outbreaks are likely, if not inevitable. Even when the will of the majority is heard, minority groups worldwide have used close elections as an excuse to riot as a protest of their opposition. When dealing with violence in post-election transitions, the United Nations must be careful to allow the people to retain their national sovereignty and to ensure that human rights are maintained.

Many of the nations with violent post-election transitions have made a habit of electing individuals who turn around and murder the top officials of the old government. In these cases, it is hardly a surprise that leaders are hesitant to relinquish power. Additionally, when nations are divided along lines of long-standing ethnic conflict, changes of power only serve to change which group is oppressed. Reflecting this unfortunate reality, Russia believes that in order to successfully address post-election violence, the United Nations must address underlying causes. These issues, including rampant poverty, the ever-present threat of starvation, deep-rooted hatred, and widespread fear, must be addressed for the post-election periods to be successful. Still, it is our responsibility as the United Nations to do all we can to protect the rights of peoples throughout the world.

When striving to protect civilians in nations plagued by violent post-election transitions, the United Nations must act carefully. We must not allow self-styled “Western democracies” that can not even prevent post-election riots in their own countries to impose their will on other nations at the expense of national sovereignty. Rather, nations in the conflict area must cooperate to bring about a peace that is beneficial to the citizens of the affected country. Additionally, we must not impose trade restrictions that will only harm an already impoverished populace. Instead, the Russian Federation believes that the United Nations must help to resolve ethnic conflicts and to develop functioning global economies in conflict regions. Only by these means can the problem of post-election violence truly be resolved.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Rwanda
Delegate Name: Whitney Morris
School: Royal Oak High School

Currently in the world, post-election conflict is causing citizens of some countries to suffer. Currently in Zimbabwe, cholera is killing hundreds of people, while the power struggle in the nation's government continues, causing the nation's economy to crumble. Food shortages are causing many people already suffering from poverty and disease, to starve. The government Has supposedly designed an arrangement for Robert Mugabe to share power with his opponent, and the supposed winner of the election, Morgan Tsvangiai, but the actual implication of this sharing of power, has yet to be seen. This situation is getting more and more out of hand every day. Something needs to be done to solve this power issue once and for all. If that means having other countries oversee that the deal to share power between the two leaders is carried out, than that needs to be done. Another possible solution is to hold new elections, to be overseen by the UN to determine who the leader is.

The post-election conflict in Kenya, showed the power of this body to intervene. After The incumbent President Mwai Kibaki one the election, beating out his opponent Raila Odinga, conflict broke throughout the entire country. Hundreds of people were being killed and ethnic violence was on the rise, with supporters of the candidates being attacked by their opposition. The former Secretary General of the United Nations stepped in and designed a power-sharing agreement between the two candidates, which has since been implemented and is helping reform the country.

In light of these two cases, this body needs to design a plan for intervening in post-election conflicts, to help the country's and save as many lives as possible. We need to take the most effective parts of these two situations and work them into this plan, as well as learn from the most devastating parts.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Saudi Arabia
Delegate Name: Eric Brichetto
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The world has always had problems with exchanges of power in government. A long-standing ruler finds his or herself unwilling or at least reluctant to relinquish political power to his or her elected successor. One or more of the candidates rigs elections in his favor. The citizens find themselves deeply divided between candidates, and the naming of the winner sparks a sort of small-scale civil war. These things can occur separately, or they can occur as part of a single event; I point out the recent elections in Kenya and the bloodshed that resulted as one example of the aforementioned situations being part of a single event. Even when it does not result in bloodshed, elections can cause great tension and uncertainty for a country’s populace; this was evident in the United States’ 2000 presidential elections. As an organization dedicated to international peace and security, the problem of keeping transitions between incoming and outgoing governmental leaders peaceful falls upon the United Nations to solve.

Saudi Arabia does not have such a problem. There is no such thing as a political party in Saudi Arabia; the last two political parties, the Arab Socialist Action Party and the Communist Party of Saudi Arabia, were disbanded in the 1990’s. Furthermore, there is no need for elections in the Kingdom; She is happily ruled by the descendents of Her first king, Abd Al Aziz Al Saud, according to the rules of Shari’a. As a result, the Kingdom is perhaps more objective than others, as feelings from past episodes of violent exchanges of power may influence the policies of other nations. The Kingdom fully supports the United Nations in its efforts to maintain peace – to a certain degree. The Kingdom warns that the United Nations does not have a place in interfering in the affairs of other countries. Saudi Arabia feels that the United Nations should not have the power to intrude into a conflict, any conflict, within a nation. Instead, the Kingdom feels that the United Nations should serve to aid countries experiencing turbulent post-election transitions and facilitate negotiation between conflicting parties over the issue of the election, and consider providing incentives for a ruler to step down and relinquish his position if he is proving to be unwilling to do so otherwise.

Saudi Arabia feels that Her position will be supported by countries who also feel that the United Nations should not do anything that would violate the sovereignty of a nation. These may include Iran, Zimbabwe, Angola, and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Somalia
Delegate Name: Cassie Hutchinson
School: Traverse City West High School

Although ruled by President Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed since 2004, Somalia has never held a general election. Somalia was an anarchy since 1991, with only brief governmental figures. The organization has been based on different ethnic groups and clans.

Currently the 275-members of the Transitional Federal Parliament, made up of mainly warlords and businessmen, represent Somalia. The last Mogadishu election was held in a sports center in Nairobi, Kenya due to the horrifying situations breaking out all over the country. The government was permanently located in Baidoa. There they suffered internal conflicts, such as ministers quitting and a no confidence vote. Somalia is technically a representative democracy and a republic, but still have yet to hold any general elections. When the Parliament elected Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed, loyal followers attacked Puntland when that region elected Jama Ali Jama to lead for Puntland.

In the result of a lacking government for so long, forced some ethnic groups to form their own way of living. We have fought small civil wars all over the country. The Northwest region declared it's independence in 1991, and is now known as Somaliland. It has been the most stable and peaceful that the rest of the entire country. In the Northeast region, the independent region known as Puntland, remains autonomous, but still respects the Transitional Government. Puntland still considers itself part of Somalia.

Although Somalia does not have a democracy with general elections, we have a small level of them in our Parliament. The result of that, however, is there is not fighting over the result. More-so, just the lack of. We are one of the most divided countries, with some of the worst civil wars, and harsh conditions in the world. We need help, and we need to solve the crisis going on throughout our country. We need to be one country, without different regions leaving to become their own. There have been fourteen different attempts of National Reconciliation, none of them being successful.

We need to have people other than the warlords and businessmen control our country, and decisions. We need a representative from all aspects of our country, especially focusing the common folk. The people that are living in the streets, starving, and dieing. We need to fix this, and we need help immediately.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: South Africa
Delegate Name: Benno Pueppke
School: Williamston High School

Because we are so close to Zimbabwe, any decisions they make, either economic, political, or anything else, they will effect us. The election this past year in Zimbabwe is a classic example of how a country can slow down due to an election. Problems arose with who the winner should be and our prior president, Thabo Mbeki, mediated the situation until his resignation in September of this year. Because we ourselves recently elected a new president, we understand how tender these types of situations can become. We will support the United Nations in any way possible in nexus with peaceful post-election transitions.

We are a lucky country, because a new president, Kgalema Motlanthe, was elected without any complications a day after Mbeki resigned. It is still too early to tell if he will lead our country well, but we hope his election will not be victim to any problems. Just as Zimbabwe has problems with their elections, it is in our best interest to help them out, as they can become a valuable trading partner. Most of our trade goes to countries further away and often not in Africa, but domestic trade within Africa could help restore our great continent.

We support the United Nations completely in promoting peaceful post – election transitions. Violence is very common in Africa considering the Congo and Sudan and we would not like any other countries to have to deal with that. If Zimbabwe were to split in half with either side favoring their leader, whether Mugabe or Tsvangirai, we would have another civil war in Africa. This in turn will prove another challenge in making Africa a great continent.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Sri Lanka
Delegate Name: Leighanna Whiting
School: Traverse City West High School

Keeping a country stable relies on its government. You will find, countries that are not stable in today's world have oppressive leaders and are struggling internally. The UN plays an important role in helping these countries, and any struggling country, to become stable. Many countries are having a hard time easing into a new political figure. Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Sri Lanka are struggling to keep the peace after elections.

In Sri Lanka, we have been at a civil war for nearly two decades. After this much time, not much has been done to bring peace to Sri Lanka. At the last election, there were many cases of voter intimidation and ballot-stuffing. It is still bitterly torn apart. In Kenya, people are dying in fights and people have fled from their home. People accuse the votes as not being counted fairly. In Zimbabwe, the elections are said to be unfair as well and they have manipulated the electoral process so that they know who has won before the votes reached the polls.

The UN should promote and implement peace to these countries. In countries like Ghana and Sierra Leone, they have been promoting peaceful elections and Sri Lanka thinks the UN should try to help do the same in these countries that struggle. In Ghana, they have asked the media to not be one sided in their reporting. The Director of the Amnesty International Ghana has said that messages from the media can convey peace messages or sound the drums of war. In Sierra Leone, they have started the peace rally “Go Vote! No Violence”. It was joined by popular artists and they have been singing and preaching messages of non-violent elections.

In conclusion, many countries are unstable because of the leader and that comes from the unfair voting. The UN should put a stop to voter intimidation and manipulation and follow those countries who are trying to promote peaceful elections.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Sudan
Delegate Name: Jane Van Velden
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

In elections, where there is a competition for control, they can precipitate conflict rather than prevent it. Fair elections are competitive events, and confrontation is intrinsic to the process. Elections support the democratic procedure, and are vital to government legality. Elections can set off violent conflicts including: civil war, coups, murder, or terrorization of candidates and their supporters.

The Republic of Sudan believes that in order to encourage peaceful post-election transitions the nation must first support a peaceful electoral procedure. This includes supporting participation of all groups of people in the process, developing the electoral laws and procedures, enhancing safety, and improving access to polling booths, among other activities.

The Republic of Sudan’s parliament recently passed the National Elections Act of 2008. The act makes advancement towards the country’s transition to peace and egalitarianism. The Act provides guidelines for upcoming elections as well as functions of the National Election Commission, an organization to be assembled of 7 to 9 representative figures of Sudan. The new law denotes that legislative seats will be made up of 60% geographical constituencies while 40% for proportional representation. The National Elections Act of 2008 indicates an opportunity for peace, stability and democracy in the Republic of Sudan.

While the Sudanese government believes in promoting these activities the course of action that the UN takes must be up to the nation’s government. Additional enforcement by the UN in Sudan will be seen as colonial forces, unless associated with the African Union.

In order to promote peaceful post-election transitions the nation must support a peaceful electoral process. The UN should be a place of discussion to provide advice and options for the nation. The UN however should not deploy forces unless approved by the country. All nations must work together to work towards a world of peace.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Sweden
Delegate Name: Noel Tamboer
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

With democracy comes disagreement. Many post-election periods are full of riot and anger. This calls for help, economic recovery, and lasting peace. With all the disturbance after elections, it brings an air of instability among citizens of a democratic government. Many people crave change and help in order to make the transition from leader to leader more smooth.

A country currently dealing with poor transitions is Sri Lanka. It has been one of the four countries to have a government collapse recently. Political instability paired with the tensions of ethnic conflict has given Sri Lanka a turbulent environment when it comes to politics. Over the past 2 decades, elections have been toyed with by electoral violations and abuses. There has been illegal use of governmental resources during pre and post-election periods.

In 2004 the National Democratic Institute (NDI) held a program to help enhance the capacity of civil society organizations to monitor and control the election processes. They also helped to advocate appropriate electoral reform. They established two domestic election-monitoring organizations to go through with the advocating.

A woman from Sweden, with a background in peace and conflict, attended a seminar to help come up with ideas to get woman in the government programs to help tackle to current electoral issues. Sweden needs to help come up with a way to establish peace throughout countries during the periods right after the elections, whether it’s using police to stop riots or churches promoting peace among people. Post-election troubles need to be worked through and put to a halt.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Syria
Delegate Name: Chase Wagner
School: Traverse City West High School

Syria believes that all elections held on any level should be fair and peaceful throughout. However, other people have plans of pressuring the election committee which can lead to inaccurate results and violence within a country. An example of this was the election in Kenya when the election committee was being pressured by the ruling party led by Mwai Kibaki. The result came in and it was declared that Mwai Kibaki had won over his opponent Raila Odinga. However, many people thought that since the election committee had been pressured and the election was such a tight finish, maybe the election committee miscounted some of the votes. This controversy led to violence in Kenya between groups that supported Mwai Kibaki and groups that supported Raila Odinga. Eventually it was determined that Mr. Kibaki had won with 4.584 million votes while Mr. Odinga had 4.352 million votes. This unnecessary violence could have been prevented if the ruling party had left the election committee alone and if the votes had been recounted numerous times.

Many conflicts similar to the one in Kenya have been going on in other countries as well. These countries include Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. Many of these deaths could have been avoided if the election committee was left in peace to do their job and if voter intimidators would stay out of the way.

It is the UN’s job to keep peace and to do so; Syria believes that the UN should implement a force of security around voting centers and centers where the votes are counted. This idea could keep voters and election committee members safe from voter intimidators. The UN would also be making it safer and easier for the election committee to re-count votes if need be without the distraction of others.

In conclusion, with a task force implemented for the security of these buildings and the people inside these buildings, many people will be able to vote for whom ever they want without the distraction of others and votes would be thoroughly counted so that a clear winner may be determined. This would prevent any controversy from arising which would in turn prevent any fighting from breaking out.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Turkey
Delegate Name: Parker Bush
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Elections are the foundation and the backbone to a well operated society. Elections give people power of their country to choose leaders and promote what they believe in. Uncertainty in an election or prolongation of a chosen leader can cause displacement in the people’s rights. For example, Kenya had many disputes over an election that was prolonged due to counting error. As the election was prolonged more and more people became worrisome of what was really happening. The error that occurred during counting frightened the voters and confused them of the counting of the ballets.

In Turkey, the presidency is not determined through the votes of Turkish citizens, but rather, through the votes of parliament members. Turkey and the United Nations would like to work together with peacekeepers to promote peaceful post-election transitions. Gul was recently elected as Turkey’s president. Turkey’s veteran government figure with roots in political Islam won a parliamentary vote to become Turkey’s president, in defiance of the country’s strongly secular military. The generals of Turkey were left with a complicated situation to overthrow Gul or keep him as the elected president.

Many countries need to learn how to cope with the unclear elections where the leader refuses to step down from his/her position. When the votes are delayed or the final decision is not made. The voters may have concerns that the votes are not being properly counted. To avoid this situation, Turkey along with the UN believe that fast transactions, will solve the problem of voters having concerns about the final outcome. Also country must control the violence towards certain party’s.

Turkey believes that avoiding aggressive elections and promoting peaceful post-election transitions would solve the problem of violence towards a certain party and concerns of voters. To do this, elections must have a set time period of when you can vote. The votes must be counted within a certain time period and counted fairly. Also the party in charge must agree upon when there time period is completed. The opposing losing party must follow procedure and leave office, welcoming the new party.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Uganda
Delegate Name: Ian Sheets
School: Williamston High School

The handing over of government when the people have expressed their desire for change is always difficult in a fledgling democracy. In a democracy a vibrant opposition party helps to ensure good government continues in the hands of the ruling party. There are a number of examples on the African continent such as Zimbabwe where the leader clings to power despite an election defeat. Monitoring elections has become a key component of a smooth transition.

In Uganda there have not always been peaceful transitions as Idi Amin was a dictator. However democratic rule has been established here for a number of years. Despite this some of the country has experienced unrest which is ongoing. Not only must we abide by our constitution in peaceful transitions after elections but we must call and hold those elections fairly. There can be no intimidation or violence against voters and certain ethnic groups. Counting of votes must be done in a timely fashion and the ballot boxes must be protected from illegal interference. The UN can help to insure free and fair elections by providing trained observers and scrutiny.

Ugandans feel that when the people have spoken the elected leaders should be permitted to take office. In the event that this is not the case there is a feeling of betrayal which often leads to violent clashes between supporters. The Government of Uganda will not condone such clashes. We must do all that we can to achieve fair elections and peaceful government transitions after these elections have taken place.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Dan Vredenburg
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

As the chief mechanism of majority rule, elections are a crucial part of the democratic process. Historically, troubles are most likely to arise during the transition of power from one administration to the next. When an incumbent loses the election, but wishes to stay in power, they can utilize military force to ensure that their party remains at the top. Even if it doesn't come to direct military confrontation, abject tactics like shady recounting, indefinite suspension of tallying, and the discarding of provinces votes due to supposed corruption are used to ensure the power balance remains the same. This encourages life-long regimes, encourages bureaucratic corruption, and maintains the status quo of autocratic rule in these countries.

The United Kingdom is chiefly involved with peaceful election transitions through our numerous ties to previous colonies. Also, as a permanent member of the United Nation's Security Council, in accordance with Section VII, Article 39 of the Charter of the United Nations, the UK is obligated to maintain international security. In the event of non-peaceful transitions, the threat to international security could be magnified by intra-national insecurity.

In order to facilitate transitions, the UK, in conjunction with the United States and several other allies, has established a list of ideal procedures to be followed. These policies include the release of political prisoners, establishment of a truly independent election committee, to provide for free registration of political parties, and to guarantee of protection of free speech (Smock).

The United Kingdom maintains that if these tendencies are encouraged by both the United Nations and its individual member states, the goal of peaceful election transitions will be realized.

1. Charter of the United Nations, Section VII, Article 39.

2. Smock, David, "Can Nigeria Make a Peaceful Transition to Democratic Governance?," December 1997,

http://www.usip.org/pubs/specialreports/early/NigeriaReport.html

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: United States
Delegate Name: Christina Li
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Democracy is an ever-expanding part of the global community. As the foundation of democracy, elections have become more and more important. Elections empower people to choose their own leaders and their own destinies. However, sometimes elections do not always go smoothly. There are numerous challenges that arise concerning the transition of power. It is very easy to become discouraged when elections lead to conflicts. However, the global community should not turn away from great ideas because of difficulties. The United States believes that persistence, hard work, confidence, and optimism will bring great reward.

The United States believes that in order for a successful election, the environment of the country must be more or less stable. If a country is experiencing instability, elections can quickly lead to conflicts. The United States believes that in the long run, the United Nations should help prop a country up on its feet before it can start walking. The process of peaceful post-election transitions comes with a prerequisite, and we cannot skip any steps. Conflicts must be ironed out through mediation. Their economies must be primed, their people prepared for the changes to come. The United Nations can be instrumental to this process, especially with its global reach and consolidation of power.

The people aspect of promoting peaceful post-election transitions is extremely important. More than anything, the people hold the key to the success of post-election transitions. We must try to establish unity and agreement. Negotiations must occur and understanding must take place before success can happen.

The United States fully respects the sovereignty of other nations and encourages independence and self-governance. However, we would also like to remind others that the international community is always there for support and back-up and that fellow countries should feel open to the help of the United Nations. The United States is open-minded and interested in the suggestions and unique interests of your country.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Venezuela
Delegate Name: Nell Cunningham
School: Traverse City West High School

Post election peace is the standard that Venezuela has held its self to firmly over the past four years. Though six elections have taken place Venezuela has never slowed its industry nor compromised the welfare of its citizens. Proving peace is not impossible even in an unfriendly international climate. There are many steps that can be taken by an international body, such as the United Nations that would be inappropriate for a single nation to take. Oversight of elections to ensure that they are fair and their outcome legitimate is vital to ensuring peace in a nation.

In a nation where elections are taking place for the first time it is the duty of the United Nations to insure that the elections are meaningful to the inhabitants of that nation. It is unacceptable for any one nation to feel that it has the right to control the elections of a sovereign state. The International community has not enforced the right of each state to be independent from the influence of another state, and as such has failed those nations most in need of assistance. In order to ensure that each state and the citizens of each state has an equal chance to improve their system of governing, the United Nations must act as the referee in the time honored tradition of elections.

To avoid violent retaliation to the winners of an election it is vital that those election results are fair and consistent with the wishes of the people. If the people and the political leaders have faith that the election was fair then they have no reason to act out violently against the ruling party. The United Nations should do more than simply over seeing a volatile election, it should be present to from beginning to end, never abandoning a country to violence. If a nation does not wish for the presence of the UN in its election then the UN must respect this wish but encouragement should be given to that country to allow a Non-governmental Organization to act as an over seer, at least, to the election. For those nations who seek legitimacy through the United Nations Venezuela would suggest a program be made available to rate the election process of that nation in order to demonstrate not only to the citizens but also to the world the state of the elections in that country. This system would also aid in the predictions of violence in a nation fallowing the election. Another step that could be taken to ensure a peaceful post election environment would be to offer protection to the losing person in an election. Respect to human dignity must be paid, even to those not victorious.

The world has seen elections recently that continue to prove that nations around the world are fallowing South America's lead by inhibiting great change and prosperity. Free and Fair elections are the only way to truly ensure that the people will be satisfied with the outcome and therefore not feel the need to protest in a violent manner.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Vietnam
Delegate Name: Young Joon Kim
School: Cranbrook Kingswood

Nowadays, most people of the global society elect their officers of their country by themselves. However, occasionally, there are riots by citizens or violent oppressions by governments either to remove corrupted politics out of their country or to save their power over their people. Often times, these brutal clashes of forces lay great concerns on our global community as Kenya and Zimbabwe’s crisis have demonstrated us. Therefore, UN’s role of interfering in these issues is crucial.

In our country, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, there have scarcely been rebels against the dominant government or inhumane suppression to innocent people of our nation. The main reason how we can keep the peace in our election and political system is because those who are elected have accomplished a tremendous development economically, thus are accredited by people. We, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam achieved around 8% annual GDP growth from 1990 to 1997 and continued at around 7% from 2000 to 2005, making it the world's second-fastest growing economy. Since the elected have proved people their potential, all obeisance under our government was possible.

Exemplified by our government, we view that most of the post-election violence depends on the ability of the current authority to elevate its nation’s status and wealth in the global community. If a country is struggling with the conflicts between the elected and the voters, the elected should prove themselves as competent officers. Therefore, UN should give a chance for a dominant government of a nation to work for their people, and specific methods of carrying it out will be decided further in the conference.

Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: Zimbabwe
Delegate Name: Bilal Javaid
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Some developing and unstable nations have problems with elections because they can cause tensions between the parties. Sometimes the country is accused of rigging the election but this is not the case in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe has free, peaceful, multi-party elections with peaceful transfers. Our president, Robert Mugabe, has won several elections in the past and they all resulted in mostly peaceful transfers. Many countries accuse Zimbabwe of unfair elections. It may appear as if this was true because we have had the same president for a while but that is only because the people like him so they vote for him. Peaceful post-election transfers are not a big problem in our country.

Zimbabwe believes that the UN should not intervene in any form unless it is permissible by the country being intervened into. For example, our elections are peaceful but if there happened to be violence, we would oppose any UN intervention that could influence the election results. UN intervention would probably cause more tensions and outbreaks of violence because another group of people have just joined the conflict. This does not mean we are opposed to food or financial aid because those are helpful and do no try to intervene with our government. The UN and all nations should respect the sovereignty of Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe also believes that no other country should place sanctions or condemn us because of what they think happens in our country. These sanctions put in place by European and Western nations strangle our economy.

Sudan also does not want major UN intervention in their country. They like humanitarian aid but not government influencing intervention. South Africa and China are allies and may offer support too. China and Russia will probably veto any resolution that incorporates military intervention in a state’s internal affairs. Zimbabwe was recently elected, by other nations, to chair the UN Commission on Sustainable Development. This shows that Zimbabwe's policies on human rights, stability within a nation, and peaceful elections are respected by other nations.

Our most recent election was a good example of a peaceful transfer. The ZANU-PF party won the elections but there was controversy. So to promote peace, president Mugabe accepted a power sharing deal that would give some power to the opposition party.