Topic: 2024-Private Military Contractors
Country: Belarus
Delegate Name: Wilson McEvoy
The Republic of Belarus
Wilson McEvoy
DISEC
Private Military Contractors
The Republic of Belarus believes that Private Military Contractors (PMCs) are essential for many nations, and as such do not require any regulations or restrictions from the Model United Nations. Belarus has contracted PMCs in the past and currently works with some to bolster its national security. The Wagner group was a Russian-backed PMC for many years, and was important for protecting Russian interests, both domestically and abroad. The Belarussian government currently works with Gardservis, a PMC made up of former members of the Wagner group and is currently providing logistical support and training Belarussian soldiers. Like many countries across the globe, Belarus benefits from PMCs.
While it is true that PMCs may pose a threat to international security, the benefits outweigh the risks. The Wagner groups mutiny against the Russian government in 2023 was a worrying development, but because of the Belarussians government deal, the coup was stopped, and the Wagner group was able to aid Belarus with its military experience. Despite the threats posed by PMCs, they provide invaluable support to many countries and should not be outlawed.
References
“What Is Russia’s Wagner Group, and What Has Happened to Its Leader?” BBC News, BBC, 6 Sept. 2023, www.bbc.com/news/world-60947877.
Harhalyk, Tatsiana. “What Are Wagner Group Mercenaries Still Doing in Belarus? – DW – 01/25/2024.” Dw.Com, Deutsche Welle, 26 Jan. 2024, www.dw.com/en/what-are-wagner-group-mercenaries-still-doing-in-belarus/a-68077456.
desk, The Kyiv Independent news. “Opposition: Belarus May Have Created Wagner-like Private Military Company.” The Kyiv Independent, The Kyiv Independent, 11 Jan. 2023, kyivindependent.com/opposition-belarus-may-have-created-wagner-like-private-military-company/.
