Topic: Long-Term Rebuilding Strategy Following Natural Disaster
Country: Latvia
Delegate Name: Caroline Wittland
School: Forest Hills Northern High School
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All Latvia position papers GLIMUN 2011 committees
Latvia understands the need for aid after a major natural disaster. While we have been incredibly fortunate to have rarely experienced natural disasters, we understand that aid is vitally important after tsunamis, earthquakes, hurricanes, and other natural disasters.
In January of 2005, Latvia experienced gale force winds that did extensive damage, cutting off power for over 70% of the country. While this is nowhere near as severe as the the natural disasters that have plagued Japan, Haiti, and the United States in recent years, Latvia learned the importance of aid in the face of a disaster. For years, Latvia has been involved in providing aid for other countries in the face of a natural disaster. For example, in the year 2000, Latvia provided aid and assistance to flood victims in the Republic of Romania. Latvia also sent humanitarian aid to the Republic of Turkey in 1999 after a devastating earthquake.
Latvia strongly believes that the UN should provide substantial aid to counties suffering from the effects of major natural disasters. Without aid, these countries will flounder and will not be able to dig themselves out from under the rubble of the disaster. Through this aid, the United Nations should provide food, water, and other necessities for victims of natural disasters. Also, the United Nations should help countries hurt by these disasters rebuild in a way that will help said countries prepare for any future natural disasters that they might face in the future. The goal should be to prevent natural disasters from causing major damage to come as well as to help countries get back on their feet after they are hit with a natural disaster.
Natural disasters are part of life on Earth. Tsunamis, earthquakes, hurricanes, and tornados will never completely disappear from our lives. That is why providing aid for countries suffering from the effects of a natural disaster and preparing ourselves for future natural disasters is so important. Without support, countries hit by natural disasters will have a difficult time recovering and returning to life before the disaster. Whether it’s a third world country or a modernized industrial nation, everyone needs help once in a while.
