Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Afghanistan
Delegate Name: Christian O’Sullivan
School: Fishers High School

It is the position of the sovereign nation of Afghanistan that xenophobic violence is a rising problem in the international community. Afghanistan is no stranger to such violence; we have struggled with conflicts between our many different ethic groups throughout our long history. Xenophobia has taken a heavy toll on Afghanistan and its people. It is tragic to see other nations plagued by Xenophobia in all of its forms.

Afghanistan would like to state that it recognizes Xenophobia is the stem in which racism, homophobia, and general discrimination grows from. When one culture is in close proximity to another culture it can only be expected that there will be some sort of conflict. The problem can easily be seen between the Hazara and Pastun groups within Afghanistan. It is not that one culture is inherently violent or discriminatory; the problem comes from the unfamiliarity of the two cultures. Many feel that the influence of another culture or belief will change their traditions. We cannot blame the aggressor entirely; we can only blame their misinformation and their prejudices. Yet it is not Afghanistan alone that experiences such violence. During the 2010 soccer world cup in South Africa, there were a spate xenophobic murders in several of the capitals. Throughout the last several years, Muslims in Australia claim that they are discriminated and alienated by the government. In Uganda, a law that states that being homosexual in Uganda is an offense punishable by imprisonment or death. As transportation and communication become more easily accessible, the probability of multiple cultures being at odds with each other increases. If Xenophobia is allowed to grow and fester, then the violence will increase in both scale and intensity.

Taking into account all of the presented factors, the nation of Afghanistan proposes the following ideas. The first being that the international community must recognize that the definition of Xenophobia as the discrimination of extra-societal cultures, beliefs, and traditions. Afghanistan proposes that this committee reflect upon the Durban Declaration and Program Development meetings 2001 and 2009. Using the latter, known as Durban II, as a base in which more detailed proposals can be made. This committee must also come to the realization that ignorance begets intolerance, and intolerance begets violence. And that merely focusing on the violence stage does not solve the problem. Through familiarizing cultures with one another can a healthy coexistence is possible. Afghanistan would also like to address violence that is being actively committed. We call for the action of regional governments to provide military assets, with the permission of the home country and the consent of the Security Council, to protect civilians and refugees. The deployment of a sizeable peacekeeping force will also be required to insure the enforcement of Security Council mandates and to supplement government military forces. Afghanistan also calls upon all nations to takes steps in which all cultures in society are respected and treated equally. Above all, Afghanistan would like to lead the world in peaceful coexistence in a multicultural society.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Argentina
Delegate Name: Jacob Davison
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

Violence and specifically violence based on racial or ethnical standings has been a subject in the crosshairs of the U.N. since its foundation. Being one of the subjects in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights formed by the U.N., this issue is undoubtedly one having a large impact on global societies. it is also an issue that is so profoundly widespread that the concept of combatting It as a whole is almost impossible. This problem is found not just randomly dispersed throughout the globe, this problem lies individually within each of our nations, some more directly than others, some maybe little to not at all, but with individual cooperation comes unified result.

Argentina specifically has had no outstanding problems with violence on arbitrary terms such as nationality ethnicity etc. Of course no nation is immune to this. as these thoughts or desires must be something that manifests itself instinctually and into certain humans. It is in atmospheres in which these thoughts go unpunished that these thoughts can escalate to the point of immense physical demonstration: in most cases this ends up accumulating in low security, impoverished countries, Yet is found throughout histories in more developed and stable areas as well.

With aid from less effected countries to the areas in which it is most necessary we as a multinational organization can distribute the resources and implement the techniques necessary to see movement toward the elimination of violence on grounds in which those who are effected, are unable to influence.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Brazil
Delegate Name: Erik Burbulla
School: Roeper School

Xenophobic violence is an issue that has sprung up across the globe in the last decade. The problems have become even more severe in the past five years because of the harsh global downturn in the economy. The spotlight has been put on South Africa with the anti-immigrant riots of 2008, but we must not forget that this is a global problem. Whether it is political measures put forth in France and Switzerland or the new political extremes found in The United Kingdom, xenophobia is not just South Africa’s problem.

Brazil is the most diverse nation on the planet. Peoples of African, Portuguese, Middle Eastern and Japanese descent all live in harmony. Racism and discrimination based on ethnicity are outright outlawed in our constitution. We do not accept bigotry of any kind, whether it is against another Brazilian or a new immigrant group. In 1995 the United Nations Commission on Human Rights sent a Special Rapporteur to Brazil to investigate racial tensions. It chose Brazil because Brazil is “perceived by the international community as a positive example of ethnic and racial integration”. It is the Brazilian model that we hope this committee can follow. Brazil expects to be an example of tolerance as we discuss the rise of xenophobia across the globe.

The Disarmament and International Security Committee has chosen an important time to meet. Some nations are still rebounding from the recent economic crisis and it has caused xenophobic tensions to climb. The issue is especially sensitive because we need to protect the rights of immigrants while still allowing nationalism to thrive. Refugees are pouring out of war-torn countries and causing anti-immigrant tendencies amongst host nation populations. This is the problem the UN has to address foremost. The UN is overseeing refugee migrations but we do not address the issues of how those refugees gain employment and how the host country’s inhabitants treat them. We need to educate the surrounding population about tolerance and ease their discomfort about employment and financial stability. It is only with a global and understanding approach that the UN can stop the rise of xenophobic violence.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Cameroon
Delegate Name: Michael Sienko
School: Williamston High School

Acts of violence occur everyday around the world. This is something that we just had to admit is going to happen. The larger ones though, including ones caused due religion, race, and culture can be limited. These acts of cruel are spreading throughout the world. Every human being should have a right to live and live peacefully and not be subject to violence from their own beliefs.

Cameroon has not had many outlandish problems that involve xenophobic violence. We do however, believe that we should help our neighboring countries that are not so lucky. We believe that coming together as a group of prosperous nations should greatly help the action of limited the violence. There are countries in Africa that desperately need help from the countries close by it.We would like to get resolutions to pass quickly and so we can help the innocent people. These resolutions might have to go to as far as military support from countries.

We are a stable country right now but looking back at history we know that the condition of our country could change in a matter of minutes. We think that the U.N. should supply whatever is necessary in order to help the countries that are in need of support. We would all agree that if put in a position where cruel acts of violence are going in our country that we would take all of the support we could get. The support could be as small as money being raised to help the government with armed support but the more that comes in the better in order to keep the world safe.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Chile
Delegate Name: Dakota Anderson
School: Mattawan High School

In these recent years, an substantial increase in xenophobic violence has caused multiple countries to take notice of the changes that need to be made. With great powers like the United Kingdom's David Cameron and Germany's Angela Merkel stating that muticulturalism has failed, it has become clear that steps to ensure xenophobic safety and confidence are crucial. Fully aware of the problems at hand, Chile is prepared to take the steps that are required to fix this issue by taking a closer look into the roots of the issue.

Xenophobic violence creates a harsh atmosphere that is frowned upon in many countries. Chile relates with this statement, and sides with the need to fix this world wide issue. With violent outbreaks and unnecessary limits and sanctions on people solely based on their race or religion, some are afraid for their general safety. While Chile may not have a substantial issue with this topic, Chile feels that the uprising in recent event has caused a need for action. Since the United States is an ally of Chile, Chile relates to their views, and is influenced by their policies.

Chile believes that the solution to this problem can be solved by looking at the early education of children, and the teachings of police officials and officers. Chile believes that these topics are the very root of the subject, and if these are fixed, all of the other issues dissolve. Chile believes that if one can teach children at a young age to accept others; to explain how similar we as humans beings are, and if police officers and officials have to be taught to not be discriminant whatsoever in their daily jobs, then the issue could be solved. By doing this, kids will learn at a young age the wrongs of xenophobic violence, and thus grow up to be accepting. If the police force if well trained, then the public has a solid foundation to lean on. By combining funds from many different countries, this solution may be possible. Chile believes that this is the first step in solving humanitarian violence.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Colombia
Delegate Name: Ashley Guynn
School: Fishers High School

The Republic of Colombia believes that it is our duty to maintain peace between different cultural and religious groups throughout the nation. Unfortunately, even with this strong belief rooted in our constitution Colombia has still had a long history of xenophobic violence that is still occurring today. In particular, the indigenous people of Colombia are bearing the brunt of this xenophobic violence. Although they are significantly protected in the constitution and legal frameworks they are still subject to intense xenophobia, discrimination, and violence. In order to protect themselves some indigenous groups have formed their own militias, resulting in more violence and death. A large number of refugees are fleeing to neighboring countries, where although they are safe from armed forces within Colombia they are still experiencing extreme xenophobia because of misconceptions and discrimination of Columbian people.

Colombia feels that because of this rise xenophobic violence within the country, that the United Nations is not addressing the problem properly. Colombia believes not only that the children of Colombia should be educated as young as possible about equality and tolerance of different ethnic groups and cultures; but also have refugees and different ethnic groups that have experienced discrimination come in and talk to the students about their experiences and their culture. This way the children have a better understanding of different cultures eliminating hate that originates from fear of the unknown. More active groups outside of the educational system need to be developed in order to spread awareness and combat xenophobic violence as well. Colombia would like to ask the United Nations to support and aid us in forming more awareness groups or helping already established groups take root in Columbia. Colombia would like these groups to take a more active role in promoting awareness not only nationally but internationally as well, by informing the public of the violence that is occurring because of discrimination. It is Columbia’s goal that by forming these committees xenophobic violence will significantly decrease not only at home but in other countries as well.

The Republic of Colombia recognizes that implementing this plan will be difficult, that is why Colombia is asking for the support and help of the United Nations both financially and morally. The Republic of Colombia strongly believes that by carrying out these plans, xenophobic violence with decrease and more nations will be at peace.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Côte d’Ivoire
Delegate Name: Courtney weyhing
School: Williamston High School

Cote d'Ivoire feels very strongly about this issue as shown through their law in parliament. We passed a law against Xenophobia, Racism, and Tribalism. With South Africa and its many problems with Xenophobia, it has started to scare some of our officials that our new law would become a barrier for self expression. Xenophobia emerged in Cote d'Ivoire in the mid-1990's with the birth of the concept "Ivorian-ness." It has targeted several immigrant communities especially the largest two, Burkinabe and Malian. The law's preamble states "for a number of reasons, individuals make claims or commit acts that weaken national unity and cohesion due to their racist, tribal, ethnic or xenophobic character.

Cote d'Ivoire has taken the first step in trying to nurture the issue of xenophobia and feels that other nations should too. Cote d'Ivoire suggests that before other countries do this, they need to make sure that their people don't feel like their self expression. In Cote d'Ivoire we are having problems distinguishing what is against the law and what isn't when it comes to xenophobia. Newspapers are supposed to be controversial and show every side to a story but it is hard to tell if some of the things our writers say have xenophobic intentions. Our law will carry 5-10 years of sentencing and fines from $1,200 to $12,000. Most of our human rights organizations are afraid of possible excesses and unintended consequences.

All in all, Cote d'Ivoire has a law against xenophobia but is having troubled maintaining it. We would like to see how other countries are coping with xenophobia and its violence and maybe that could give us some insight to help better our law.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Czech Republic
Delegate Name: Lindsey Kinderdine
School: Mattawan High School

Xenophobic violence is a result of built tensions between groups of culturally distinguished people. This can be concluded from the definition of xenophobic violence, an unreasonable fear or hatred for foreigners or strangers, as stated by dictionary.com. The cultural differences between masses can frighten native citizens of a nation, and this fear creates an atmosphere in which people form groups based on irrational or unreasonable ideas that oppose the foreign and strange ideals. The Czech Republic promotes the involvement of the UN within nations that have high and/or increasing numbers of organized groups or the numbers in memberships thereof, which promote the racial, religious, and otherwise discriminatory behaviors that inevitably lead to xenophobic violence.

The Czech Republic does not ask for the UN to resolve the problems presented by individual countries or to unnecessarily interfere within the tactics used by governments to reduce violence fueled by xenophobia, but to guide and monitor at-risk nations. The Czech Republic, for instance, is currently combating discrimination that leads to violence against its Romani citizens by implementing various programs to benefit the victims of such discrimination and by reinforcement by government officials of the ideals based on the equality between all people. The Czech Republic has seen a decrease in numbers of violent attacks on the Romani people because of these efforts, and, thus, does not need such assistance. However, because groups that are fueled by the fear of foreigners still exist within the nation, the outside influence of other such groups will only motivate and, therefore, worsen the problems in the Czech Republic.

The discriminatory attitudes from the citizens of a nation towards incomers such as refugees, immigrants, and other culturally differing citizens is so widespread that each individual nation must make it a priority to combat these feelings of hate in order to maintain peace not only between nations, but within nations. As it is the UN’s goal to create a way to peacefully resolve conflicts, the Czech Republic thinks that all nations should prevent an excess of discrimination within their country to prevent disputes, and eventually the violence stemming from this xenophobia, between such nations.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Delegate Name: Austin Delsi
School: Mattawan High School

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is strongly against xenophobic violence, but it also realizes that it is a rising issue in the world. However, this type of violence in nations can easily be solved without any intervention from the United Nations. Nations are able to handle issues on their own. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is fully situated to be independent from intervention itself.

Recently, there has been a large increase of immigration into South Africa. Of these immigrants, nearly 16% of them are Congolese. The Democratic Republic of the Congo would like to see the United Nations place more effective and protective immigration policies into effect. In recent years, there have been wars in our nations that have been countered with United Nations assistance. The fire of this war was lit when Rwandan allies refused to leave the country after a recent invasion. This war did not start due to xenophobic violence, but rather, it began due to a lack of respect for a country’s ability to act alone. Since the DRC is in full control of its decisions and people, no further intervention is needed from the United Nations. The Democratic Republic of the Congo believes all countries should have the choice to solve their conflicts individually before asking the United Nations for assistance.

Xenophobia is defined as “an unreasonable fear of foreigners or strangers or of that which is foreign or strange.” When the United Nations intervenes into able countries, it is an unneeded action. The United Nations’ soldiers or protection plans can classify as foreign or strange, itself. The Democratic Republic of the Congo believes that if the United Nations halts intervention into countries and allows self-resolution, the conflicts will be solved quickly and counters to xenophobic violence can more quickly begin.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Denmark
Delegate Name: Ellen Everett
School: Fishers High School

Denmark believes that keeping the peace with other nations is a key aspect for their country and concurs with the U.N. on this point. Xenophobia is one issue; violence stemming from xenophobia is another. Denmark has always harbored positive relations with foreign countries and sees peaceful relationships as key to the common good of all peoples. We respect the right of individual countries to set their foreign policy as they see fit, but when their policy involves violence, the world must respond. Article 1 establishes the U.N.’s purpose, and xenophobic violence is contrary to this fundamental aspect of the Charter, which Denmark clearly agrees with this. Also, Denmark would like to second the Special Rapporteur’s, Jorge Bustamante, recommendations to South America, which state:

_1. Make any act of violence against individuals or property on the basis of a persons’ race, nationality, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender identity and aggravating circumstance._

_2. Provide effective resources and training for police, justice and other relevant officials to insure the successful implementation of the provisions of the law, including training on detecting, recording and prosecuting hate crimes, as well as monitoring any trends in them._

_3. Establish a permanent body in the office of the Presidency to insure effective coordination of different government department programs on social cohesion, addressing xenophobia, police profiling and tackling hate crimes._

Many have suggested that Denmark hosts many Neo-Nazi groups that stress xenophobic violence. Although these groups do exist, as they do in most countries, they represent a very small minority of people within Denmark. Denmark recognizes that it is not immune to extremist members and therefore is trying to solve this conflict peacefully. This is why Denmark feels that the U.N. should look into this matter, xenophobic violence, on a global scale.

With all this said, Denmark proposes that the U.N. adopts a policy with other countries based upon these recommendations.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Egypt
Delegate Name: Betsy Hensel
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Xenophobia can be described as the hatred experienced when one comes in contact with someone foreign or strange. It arises from simple anxiety of the unknown as well as a belief that the unknown person or ideology is threatening and dangerous; as this anxiety intensifies, a hatred arises to justify this fear. Xenophobia is present throughout the world. The World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance in Durban, South Africa, in 2001, a gathering of 2300 representatives from 163 countries (including Egypt), adopted the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action which was to be the international guide to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia. A conference was held ten years later to assess the progress made toward the goals adopted at the World Conference in 2001. At this Durban Review Conference in April 2009, Egypt expressed favor for an international document intended to combat discrimination and racism against minorities. The document backed by Egypt also included the Islamic states’ demand for protection of Muslims, a berated and harassed group, showing Egypt’s support for actions to be taken to eliminate xenophobia. In 1985, The Egyptian Organization for Human Rights was founded. Its purpose is to combat human rights violations. It works closely with the United Nations human rights bodies and Arab human rights bodies. Europe has made numerous efforts to combat xenophobia, in 2008, the European Union passed legislation that racism, xenophobia, and discrimination are criminal offenses. Europe has created councils such as the ECRI (European Commission against Racism and Intolerance) FRA (European Union Fundamental Rights Agency), ODIHR (Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights) alongside OSCE (Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe) ODIHR is an institution of OSCE to raise awareness of and control xenophobia. In South Africa, after the end of apartheid and the institution of democracy, xenophobia has risen. In 2008, xenophobic attacks in South Africa following the 2010 FIFA World Cup left 62 dead. Interim Prime Minister Essam Sharaf stated that the killings in Egypt were the product of “hidden hands” or civilian operations.

Egypt appreciated efforts made by the United Nations to combat xenophobia including the formation of and all actions taken by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) and OHCHR (Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights), with whom it works closely. Egypt also believes that the 2001 and 2009 Durban Conferences dealing with the prevention and fighting of xenophobia are important peacekeeping measures in that countries from many regions of the world were in attendance. Egypt and its people want the United Nations to continue with the actions taken to fight discrimination and would like to continue to be a part of the measures taken.

The European Union and its members are in agreement with Egypt on the idea that xenophobia is a problem around the world and its need to be combated. Also, with their approval of the resolution of the Durban Conference of 2009, countries such as: China, Russia, South Africa, and India have demonstrated their commitment to the fight against xenophobia. If a plan to combat xenophobia arises, these countries, along with Egypt, can approve said plan, providing an effective support system that will promote the anti-discrimination message that can be heard throughout the world. Also, if actions to combat discrimination against Muslims are proposed, countries such as Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, and Algeria, along with Egypt, will approve such plans.

There are no states that are blatantly against the combating of xenophobia. There are, however, countries that have not expressed their support the combating of xenophobia including Ukraine, who was the only country to abstain at the 2009 Durban Conference.

Egypt is undergoing a change in government that dominates political and intellectual discussion and action. For the past thirty years, Egypt has had an authoritarian government led by Hosni Mubarak. Mubarak was forced to resign in February 2011 as a result of a civil uprising. Egypt is presently focused on its governmental transition and we have not yet had the opportunity to consider and form a plan to combat xenophobia in Egypt. The people first must elect a new government. When established, the Egyptian government will form a plan to combat xenophobia and cooperate with other groups and organizations including the United Nations in Egypt and around the world. Egypt is sensitive to the issues of discrimination and xenophobia because it is predominantly a Muslim country and Muslims have long been the target of discrimination throughout the world. Coptic Christians also comprise a significant segment of Egypt’s population and they are likewise the objects of discrimination. As these segments of Egypt’s population work together to form a new government, they will also work together to formulate a way to monitor and restrict xenophobia within the country and throughout the world.

Sources

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Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Finland
Delegate Name: Jessica Tillman
School: Fishers High School

Finland believes that in more recent years, xenophobic violence has risen throughout the world. Even though relations with other countries have improved, many people are still violent and hateful towards each other. This includes Finland itself. Ever since the 1930s, during the Great Depression, Finland enacted the Restricting Act of 1939 which kept foreigners and outside business to a minimum. Plus, immigrant affair responsibilities were turned over to the secret police, which saw foreigners as a threat to national security. Through all of this, Finnish people saw outsiders as people who were willing to take advantage of them at all possible costs, especially toward the Russians. But what most Finnish people believe is all just a misunderstanding of what has been told to them over the past century.

Finland would like the committee to know that everything possible is being done to try and help the people of Finland and people across the world conquer their fears. The country passed a law recently saying that the country would stay bilingual to keep the heritage strong and try to help others conquer their fears, because fear is what causes the most violence. Finland would also like to state that many people who fuel the xenophobic violence are people with power, and who want to keep it. In Finland, it is the secret police, because it has given them a profit of short-term benefits, self-censorship of media, and creates an antagonistic situation between immigrants and the rest of the population. In other countries, political leaders are fueling the violence to spread country wide panic, so that when everything settles down, the leader looks like a hero. In Finland’s opinion, the fact that such people would do such a thing is very saddening. This needs to be stopped right away. Power hungry people should not be the ones to rule a country. That should be left to the people that care.

Finland proposes that the committee find credible sources about those who are corrupted and want to keep their power. By taking them out of their position, then the crime and violence should calm down because there is nothing to fuel the fire. When the violence settles down, then money could go to the United Nations High Commissioner of Refugees (UNHCR) to spread about to those who have been affected by the past violence in the area and/or country. In doing this, many more people will get the aid that they need, food and water, shelter, and the feeling of safety that they know no one will be after them in the morning. By creating a better world for those people to live in, it could calm down violence and help people get over irrational fears, causing less violence and more aid.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: France
Delegate Name: Adam Mageed
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The French Republic takes an emboldened and long withstanding opposition towards racial discrmination. A country enriched with diversity yet unfortunately on the forefront in some of history's most ghastly conflicts, France believes most of the world's xenophobic problems derive from a mixture of public display of faith and matters of government and public policy. France maintains a strict adherence to a protocol prohibiting issues of faith from entering the public sector to ensure the efficiency and stability of government and social structure. The French Republic would like to suggest such an approach by all nations to ensure a separation of state and faith, to allow for a more unilateral view amongst citizens of a country as individuals of the same nationality rather than opposing members of different faiths. Other beneficial measures that may be instituted are a funding of educational programs to populations at the center of historically xenophobic acts of violence to teach them about the merits of including minorities into the societal matrix. With an increase in knowledge and decrease in igorance, the definitive fear and misunderstanding of minorities that epitomizes xenophobia can be dissipated. Finally, governmental aid in the form of grants and scholarships towards minorities to help promote economic growth and integration may also help produce a more inclusive and cohesive atmosphere amongst the world's communities and decrease the chances of future violent actions and events caused by the horrendous effects of xenophobia.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Gabon
Delegate Name: Cody Hoeffel
School: Royal Oak High School

Xenophobia has been an issue in the world for well over a century. The causes range from colonialism to a gap between economic classes. It is Gabon's belief that refugees, especially in Africa, are most effected by xenophobia. According to the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action into the United Nations system it is the responsibility of the national governments to develop the legal framework to address the intolerance against foreigners. This is a problem however, as many refugees do not have the documentation to show that they are from a specific nation, leading them to be classified as illegal immigrants searching for work. Some refugees will integrate into society as some Congolese refugees have done in Gabon. However, these people are unfortunately exceptions to the rule. Gabon believes that the greatest barrier to the eradication of xenophobia is in the original governments of the refugees, where following the conflict some refugees are not allowed to return. It is here that the committee most remember operative clause 98 of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action into the United Nations System, which calls for governments to educate their citizens on the history, causes, and consequences of xenophobia and related intolerance. The proper implementation of such an education allows host governments and the home governments to attempt to reduce xenophobic violence. The governments, properly teaching their people on the issue of xenophobia will in turn be able to stress its own policy towards foreigners which according to operative clause 47 of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action into the United Nations System should be aligned with the international norm. In addressing this issue the nations will also reduce violence towards foreign aid workers inside their borders. Finally, under the operative clause of the Human Rights Council Resolution 1997/74 all nations should take measures to “provide assistance to and rehabilitation of victims of acts of… xenophobia and related intolerance;” this clause which is further specified under the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action into the United Nations System to include legal council where applicable, must be pushed by this committee to defend te rights of these refugees.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Haiti
Delegate Name: Alex Mervenne
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Hello, I am representing Haiti on the basis of combating the rise of xenophobic relations. Haiti oppresses xenophobic violence to the greatest extent. We Haitians have had a few instances with xenophobic violence due to our numerous tribes within our beautiful, but poverty stricken homeland. The discrimination between tribes has been a problem for a while, but we are slowly making progress to elimination the problem. Even with the numerous problems that we have had lingering around our homeland, we are willing to reach out and give whatever help we can in eliminating xenophobic violence. We only ask in return is that the United Nations helps us with our numerous problems now and in the future. We believe that the United Nations should pay more attention to xenophobic violence because if it is happening to us it must be happening to others.

Haiti believes that the United Nations should monitor the amount of xenophobic violence in each and every nation. If this is done correctly we can help the nation with the most xenophobic violence and eliminate it. Once we go through this process many times hopefully we can eliminate the monster know as xenophobic violence and hopefully establish world peace. This process can only be done if each and every nation participates.

Haiti is truly thankful for being given the opportunity to give their input on the topic of xenophobic violence. We hope you take our idea into consideration because we feel it will truly help.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: India
Delegate Name: Noah Attal
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Though the era of colonialism and imperialism is now well behind us, it is unfortunate that even today people‟s attitudes and their very deeply imbibed beliefs fuel racial discrimination and xenophobia. Even though great leaders like Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and Walter Sislu have set examples fighting violence, it regrettably persists. In Scandinavia immigration is next to non due to complicated and strict laws; in the United States the same issue is encountered but with a fear of Mexicans; in Germany several Turkish lives have been lost to xenophobic violence. In the Indian Constitution Articles 14 and 15 it states that “equality of status and of opportunity” is given to all people. It is comparable to the the Universal Declaration of Human Rights Preamble that "reaffirm[s] faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small." Pledging its member nations to "practice tolerance and live together in peace," the charter promotes the development of "friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples" and "respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all." In 2001 a The World Conference Against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and related violence (The Durban Conference) was hosted by the United Nations in Durban, South Africa, almost every nation was present; the conference recognized “that failure to combat and denounce racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance by all, especially by public authorities and politicians at all levels, is a factor encouraging their perpetuation”,and encouraged states to take proper action, setting down a principle plan of action based off of state initiated programs. India voted for its approval. Again in 2006 the United Nations held The World Conference against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia, and related Violence, this time though several countries abstained including the USA, Israel and several EU States. The same consensus was reached. Now in 2011, the topic was resurrected and although the issue is not solved, India sits at the head of the fight against xenophobia.

India agrees with the Durban Conference in 2001, condemning racial discrimination and xenophobic violence. India stands by the principle that the issue can and will be solved through education and persuasion, because changing laws internationally or by state will not change a people attitude. A government needs to strengthen legislative programs and ensure affirmative action programs work to change social attitudes. Mahandas Gandhi fought racial discrimination and xenophobic violence correctly, peacefully and through the heart of the people. This is the way it should be done.And here I quote Gandhi “It was India who always stood at the head of the international community's moral, political and material support.”

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Indonesia
Delegate Name: Allen Huynh
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The Republic of Indonesia will not tolerate xenophobic violence. We the Indonesians have been subjected to the consequences. As a result of a 86.1% Muslim nation, there have been extremist groups, such as the Jemaah Islamiyah terror group. Terrorism has damaged our reputation. The bombings and killing have been targeted at foreigners (mainly western targets) and even Indonesian civilians. This resulted in travel warnings issued by other countries, damaging our tourist industry and foreign investment. The Republic of Indonesia has taken measures to counter this extremism.

It is our priority to ensure that xenophobic actions are not carried out; therefore, we request that the UN assist countries that are struggling against xenophobia, and take action against those that are pro-xenophobic. Xenophobia is a danger to be reckoned with. Xenophobia causes extremism and terrorism, which results in the forfeiting of human life. It is the duty of the UN to ensure the destruction of this atrocity of fear called xenophobia.

Although this course of action seems simple enough, it will have difficulties being carried out. Some countries might deny being xenophobic. There might also be many countries that are struggling against xenophobia. It would require resources and cooperation. But together and united, the UN shall and will be able to overcome this obstacle. The UN has many members. And since each of its members are a part of the whole, it is in the best to be united and hold those that are resisting accountable. Only together can we combat this issue we face today.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Iran
Delegate Name: Joseph Consolla
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Hello! I am Sir Joseph Mark Consolla I representing the Islamic Republic of Iran, but you may call me Joe! I would like to assure you that Iran is strongly against the idea of xenophobic discrimination, despite our long history of aggression to foreigners. However, we do not feel as if this issue is necessary for reforms in the United Nations. In most areas of the world, this issue does not seem to raise much violence. We believe that if there is really an issue of xenophobic violence in a nation, it should be up to that nation to solve its own problem. Any resolutions made by the United Nations on this issue are not going to actually cut to the heart of the problem. Rather, it is going to just involve countries in other countries private affairs. To fix this problem, we believe that the United Nations should adopt an "every man for himself" attitude, and provide aid to nations struggling with xenophobic violence only if necessary.

The Islamic Republic of Iran feels that the biggest problem in helping xenophobic violence decline is that many members of the international community assume other countries are hot spots for xenophobic discrimination based on past events. We feel that we ourselves are victims of this problem. The Islamic Republic of Iran seems to have established a reputation for xenophobia, despite not having any major problems with xenophobia since 1979, which, of course, was right before the Iranian Revolution. Thank you for reading my paper!

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Iraq
Delegate Name: Eric Bayless-Hall
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

Iraq feels that the issues involving combating the rise of xenophobic violence is an important topic that should be dealt with quickly and efficiently. Throughout the world we see many people being discriminated against because of skin color, religion and ethnicity. As the United Nations it is our job to maintain peace between countries.

In Iraq many people are finding it hard to find work. Job opportunities have been cut vastly due to the United States invasion in 2003. We have yet to recover completely from the rise and fall of Saddam Hussein as well as the invasion of United States armed forces. Out newly formed government cannot control a lot of what goes on inside out borders let alone what happens elsewhere.

Many Iraqi citizens have left Iraq in search of better employment. Upon arriving in new countries a lot of our citizens have found it even harder to find work. The xenophobia in our people is spawning from other countries denying them work, and holding them accountable for problems with the United States in the Middle East.

Upon returning to Iraq our citizens have become more and more frustrated by the mistreatment they witnessed outside of our borders. They begin to reflect the bad nature of the people in other countries. Many of our people now only employ and work with other Iraqi people. The blame for our xenophobia should be placed on other countries.

Iraq would like to see new laws come into play in more Middle Eastern countries that prevent being fired, or denied employment due to religion or ethnicity.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Israel
Delegate Name: Kody Ware
School: Williamston High School

In June 1977 The Israeli ship Yuvali rescues Vietnamese war refugees lost at sea. Prime Minister Menachem Begin, a terrifying rightist at the time, makes his first decision as leader to bring the refugees to Israel and naturalize them. In their wake, two more groups of refugees are brought here. Begin remembered then what has been forgotten today that we are Holocaust refugees and the rest is history one of racism and growing xenophobia across Israel.

For years Israel has had a history of racism and violence against Palestinians, Africans and even Russians Israel was a state created for Jewish refugees but has turned into a xenophobic state where no person who is a different race or religion may be safe. Xenophobia is defined as deep-rooted antipathy towards foreigners, unreasonable fear or hatred of the unfamiliar, especially people of other races. The hatred has to stop The Universal Declaration of human rights states that: “Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in this Declaration, without distinction of any kind, such as race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. Furthermore, no distinction shall be made on the basis of the political, jurisdictional or international status of the country or territory to which a person belongs, whether it be independent, trust, non-self-governing or under any other limitation of sovereignty.” It also says that “Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.” The United Nations must stand together to prevent these xenophobic actions from happening.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Italy
Delegate Name: Brooke Michelson
School: Roeper School

Through the closing of the twentieth century and the beginning of the twenty-first, xenophobic attitudes have been on the rise worldwide. Distinct from racism, xenophobia specifically relates to the hatred and fear of any foreigner, and is deeply intertwined with pre-conceived notions of foreigner characteristics, as well as ethnocentrism or even jingoism. These sentiments are more national and cultural than they are racial or religious. The cause of this increase in xenophobia and xenophobic violence can be partially explained by the ever-changing aspect of modern immigration. As the labor sector became gradually more international, competition for jobs among immigrants and natives around the world became increasingly heated. This new social and political dynamic quickly spawned xenophobic sentiments.

The Italian Republic firmly believes that this recent rise of xenophobic violence must be combated by a cooperative effort from the global community. As a member of NATO and a leader in peacekeeping and the fight against terrorism, we, the Italian Republic, wish to see this issue dealt with thoughtfully and substantially. As a nation that has seen a dramatic increase in immigration in recent years, with our population rising .04% each year almost entirely due to immigration, we have seen the cause and effects of xenophobia and its corresponding violence. In 2010, violence broke out between local people and immigrant workers in the town of Rosarno in the south. We responded then as we would today, with continued efforts to create a peaceful environment for all, yet the events that occurred that day in Rosarno were undoubtedly the product of years of uncontrolled immigration. If we, as a global community, want to truly ameliorate Xenophobia, we must strike at the roots of the issue.

The Italian Republic firmly upholds the belief that to deal with this issue we must deal with tensions surrounding the economics and politics of immigration. We encourage each nation to carefully examine their own immigration situation and to identify what policies would best support peace and tolerance. In addition, another possible remedy for the increasing rise of xenophobic violence is to focus on bettering the economic status of migrant workers and the communities of local laborers that they are integrated in. A more stable economic society among those who are most effected by the issue would lead to decreased tensions and thus increased peace and tolerance. The Italian Republic looks forward to working with this committee to quickly discuss and agree upon a set of suggestions that will move towards ameliorating this rising global issue.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Japan
Delegate Name: Eamon Whalen
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The state of Japan is no stranger to xenophobia. Countless years of territorial aggression, colonialism, and ethnic discrimination stain our nation’s past. Japan feels inexpressible remorse for the past words and actions of its government. It is, for this reason, that Japan holds an imperative seat on the Committee for xenophobic prevention. United under a post-war constitution which explicitly states that all are equal under the law, the Japanese government and people are firmly committed to abolishing racial intolerance. Said commitment will not only be observed inside Japan, but also in the international community. We look forward to sharing with the rest of the world what we consider to be a very successful ethnic relations policy.

Japan acknowledges that successful xenophobic prevention requires far more than verbal commitment. We firmly believe that the key to ethnic unity lies in education. Xenophobia is not something you are born with; it is something you acquire. For this reason, Japan has instituted new school curriculums that teach children about the importance of diversity and its implications. Japan also believes that legal recognition of ethnic minorities is an important step to abolishing racism. The Ainu people, having endured racial discrimination since the rule of the Tokugawa Shogunate, have seen dramatic improvement in their lifestyle since their official recognition as ethnic Japanese by the government in 2008. Through a combination of policy and education, Japan has effectively reduced xenophobia amongst its people.

However, domestic xenophobia is only half the problem. Japan feels strongly that the key to combating xenophobia in a globalized world is international cooperation. Hatred towards other people is certainly not confined to political borders, so why should its corresponding policy be as well? The notion that countries can deal with xenophobia and racism without the help of the UN is a major impediment to progress. Japan would like see a push towards international anti-xenophobia and counter-terrorism policy in the near future. Hatred is not a political problem but a human problem. The state of Japan stands by its fellow nations in their struggle to create a co-existent world.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Jordan
Delegate Name: Sara Murphy
School: Fishers High School

Kingdom of Jordan recognizes the issue of xenophobic violence as a problem that is prevalent throughout the entire world. Xenophobia is the unreasonable fear of foreigners or of things that are foreign, a lot of times this fear, if spread through a large group of people, can lead to extreme violence. Xenophobic violence can come about in many ways involving groups of people from different ethnic, religious, or racial backgrounds.

The country of Jordan does not tolerate any form of xenophobic violence and has put forth much effort to eliminate it in any way possible. Jordan believes that all forms of racism, xenophobia, and discrimination should be condemned. It is written in Jordan’s Constitution that all citizens are guaranteed freedom of opinion, belief and expression, and the right to equality before the law without the discrimination of the individual’s race, religion, or ethnic background. The Kingdom of Jordan also put forth the Criminal Code which states the forms of punishment for a variety of crimes. The Criminal Code states that perpetrators of racial crimes may serve up to three years in a federal prison. The code also covers the severity of torture inflicted upon a criminal for reason stemmed from discrimination of any kind.

Jordan would like to suggest that there be a set of preventative measures to combat the emergence of extremist groups. If the extremist groups can be eliminated than the violence would die down because there would be no one there to orchestrate terrorist attacks or ideas. Jordan would like to see a group of specially trained individuals whose main job is to collect information about extremist groups and report any activity or information gathered to respective authorities. This would help control the extremist groups and limit the power that they have on civilians.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Latvia
Delegate Name: Daniel Lance
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The republic of Latvia has, unfortunately, its share of xenophobia, though it is warranted. Our people have a justified fear of their Russian neighbors and the fellow citizens who are of Russian descent. Latvians, like most, fear a people whom, for the most part, believe that the Latvian state should be once again subjugated and subordinated to the Russian government. However, the issue comes from the violence that results from such intolerance. And, unfortunately, there is some of this violence in Latvia. Russians living in Latvia have been persecuted, attacked, threatened, and driven out of communities. However, this is only because of the Russians' past hostilities toward the independence and freedom of the Latvian people.

But the people cannot be held accountable for what they consider to be a rightful retaliation to a hostile paradigm, from a country that is far more powerful than they, and poised perfectly to invade at any time. The Russians living in Latvia make up approximately 11% of the population, making them a perfectly legitimate demographic. And they deserve to be safe. But it is not feasible to simply persuade the Latvian population to no longer fear their Russian neighbors. Russia must take actions to prove their intentions toward Latvia, as well as the rest of the Baltic region, and ease the minds of the Latvian, Lithuanian, and Estonian people. And if Russia will not comply, there is little that the Latvian government can do to prevent further violence against their people.

It is a hope of the Latvian government that a diplomatic and peaceful end to these problems, and we look forward to making progressive negotiations in the future. thank you.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Lebanon
Delegate Name: Ashley Jordan
School: Mattawan High School

Xenophobia, or “unreasonable fear or hatred of the unfamiliar, especially people of other races,” is a worldwide issue that is becoming increasingly prevalent in our world today. In the Western world especially, post 9-11 and the media illumination of Al-Qaeda and other extremist groups, xenophobia and xenophobic violence have increased in awareness and occurrence. Two of the current hotspots for xenophobia currently are South Africa and the Middle East.

Although Lebanon believes that it is important to protect human rights, it fears that assimilation of some peoples into the Lebanese nation may cause an upset with the current citizens. Despite these setbacks, the Lebanese government is working hard toward finding a balance between opposing parties regarding rights of the refugees residing in Lebanon. A law passed in 2010 grants Palestinians the right to work in Lebanon and challenge discrimination in court. Also, despite a long history of violence against domestic workers from Southeast Asian and African countries, many international and non-governmental organizations are working to provide safer environments for migrant workers to live, spend recreational time, and address work and legal issues. Although there it is difficult for the Lebanese government to take extreme action against violence because of the size of the market which employees migrant workers, Lebanon is supportive in reforming the conditions for these at-risk workers.

The Republic of Lebanon believes that is necessary for non-governmental organizations and groups to protect the rights of those who are affected by xenophobia. It is the duty of an individual group of people to combat violent problems against a population, as it is difficult for a government to address the problems with a refugee, migrant, or foreign population at the expense of the wishes of its current citizens and constituency.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Libya
Delegate Name: Eli Simons
School: Roeper School

As the world grows in population and technology, now more then ever citizens of the world have more of a sense of nationalism then ever before. With the use of social networking cultural leaders are able to emerge through blogs, facebook groups, and Twitter accounts. The ability for people to get movements started so easily, coupled with this strong sense of nationalism can make for a strong, positive movement, yet it can sometimes lead to gatherings of hate, and displeasure. This could be a contributing factor to the rise of xenophobic violence in places like China, Central Asia, and most prominently South Africa.

As a nation that, after a fierce and bloody revolution is just now beginning to become stabilized, Libya is concerned to see that countries with older and more experienced governments are having difficulty controlling this issue.

We suggest that there be a tighter control of immigration in Asia, this is because most Xenophobic violence is coming from workers in Central Asia and China who are unhappy with immigrant workers taking their jobs so they can send money home from their families.

In South Africa, the situation is not one of immigration hatred, but one of tourism hatred. This is more difficult to stop because of who the violence is directed at. Libya suggests that South Africa raises police protection of tourist areas. If police are more strict towards people who preform acts of violence against tourists, we feel as though these offenders will be less likely to become repeat offenders and it will send a message to the general public.

Xenophobic violence is a terrible thing, especially because it keeps people apart when they should be living in harmony. We believe that with hard work and time, we can make this problem cease to exist.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Netherlands
Delegate Name: Griffin Kragt
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The Kingdom of the Netherlands does not tolerate atrocities such as xenophobic violence. We Dutch know very well, the outcome of these acts. It is our top priority to maintain civil unions with our neighboring countries; but these acts of xenophobic violence cause tension between those unions. That is why The Kingdom of the Netherlands pruposes a change in how xenophobia should be tolerated. The U.N. should hold sanctions on countries that violate our agreements, as well as monitor the more hostile quadrants of the U.N. boundaries.

Although the xenophobic acts of South Africa in 2010 caused world wide shock and awe, it is possible to have progress. The only thing that could cause trouble, would be the retaliations to those who caused the xenophobic crimes in the beginning. The Dutch would not like to see these crimes amidst its own kind. Luckily, the Nehterlands has not had many xenophobic problems; but with tensions building in the middle east and thousands of immigrants poring into europe each day, a xenophobic act will soon be at our door step.

With support from the countries of France and Germany, The Nehterlands would be able to effectively monitor the actions of xenophobic citizens. Together we would be able to create a safe environment from the tyranny and oppression that is caused by xenophobia. For if these actions of violence were to go un-scathed, it would only cause MORE violence between ethnicities and refugees.

With this statement, The Kingdom of the Netherlands fully supports the U.N. and their quest for a safe planet.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Nigeria
Delegate Name: Alex Mullen
School: Williamston High School

Nigeria believes strongly in keeping the peace in all countries. However Nigeria recognizes that there is a large problem with countries allowing violence because of xenophobic reactions. These outbursts of xenophobic violence should not be tolerated under the law of the country and by international laws sanctioned by the United Nations.

Nigeria thinks that xenophobic reactions are a combination of irrational fear and overall hatred of outside influence by foreigners. This irrational fear can lead to violence even death in some cases just because where someone is from. This is discrimination at a outrageous level and no country should allow this. Not only is it immoral for a country to allow this but also it makes that country look bad to the world and the United Nations

Nigeria believes strongly in keeping the peace in all countries. However Nigeria recognizes that there is a large problem with countries allowing violence because of xenophobic reactions. These outbursts of xenophobic violence should not be tolerated under the law of the country and by international laws sanctioned by the United Nations.

Nigeria thinks that xenophobic reactions are a combination of irrational fear and overall hatred of outside influence by foreigners. This irrational fear can lead to violence even death in some cases just because where someone is from. This is discrimination at a outrageous level and no country should allow this. Not only is it immoral for a country to allow this but also it makes that country look bad to the world and the United Nations

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: North Korea
Delegate Name: Samantha Heiman
School: Roeper School

Xenophobia is the fear of strangers, foreigners or foreign things, and when taken to extreme measures, can result in violence. This can be a case between individuals, or can escalate to groups attacking other ethnic groups. Xenophobia has been on the rise in many nations. In South Africa, bouts of xenophobic violence have been appearing since 2006. These have gotten severe, there have been many riots killing Somali refugees and destroying Somali shops, as well as those of other ethnic minorities. The UN has condemned this an all xenophobic violence through the UNHCR, and UN agencies have begun to step in. There seems to be growing evidence that xenophobia might be becoming more prevalent in China as well, which could present a problem to DPRK.

DPRK has been accused of being one of the most xenophobic nations. There is limited contact to other nations and their media. The republic has strict restrictions on foreigners entering or immigrating. However, the DPRK does not support violence against minority groups simply for the reason of xenophobia. The delegation of DPRK suggests that measures be taken to prevent xenophobic violence from occurring.

A possible solution to xenophobic violence could be to limit the amount of immigrants allowed to enter a country as citizens, or those who visit as tourists. The amount of foreign business contact could also be cut. The amount of violence against foreigners would decrease if there were not as many foreign people in a nation. Interference by the UN or other organizations may challenge a nation’s national sovereignty.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Portugal
Delegate Name: Jack H. Somers
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

Xenophobic violence is a problem that humankind has had to deal with throughout history. Many of the greatest wars have been fought over racism. Violence that springs from xenophobia – the fear of foreigners – can have many triggers. Some can be traced to economic competition from immigrants.

We from the Portuguese Republic have had cases of xenophobic violence in our history. However, we do not condone violence in any form, especially violence borne from hatred or fear of other races. With a recent influx of immigrants beginning in the early 1990’s we have seen an increase in crime directed towards these new citizens, both legal and illegal. Most discrimination is focused at those of black and Romani decent. The Romani population is frequently referred to as Ciganos, a racial slur. Common discrimination includes limiting jobs and residence only to those of Portugal ancestry. To combat this prejudice, we have enacted public housing policies to encourage social integration between native Portuguese and other ethnic groups.

We believe that the United Nations can do a number of things to influence countries to promote a climate of hospitably to foreigners and other races. For one, requesting countries in the UN to propose laws that help immigrants find employment and housing. Another would be to investigate matters of possible discrimination in hiring, especially in government jobs. We consider the input of all ethnic groups to be very vital to a healthy government. We should also increase awareness about the appalling effects of brutal racism and promote ways to address and combat violent situations.

There are multiple challenges to overcoming the very crucial issue of xenophobic violence. Many people have been raised in nationalistic environments, and they may think that it is acceptable to harm others based on this belief. Another difficulty in trying to wane outbreaks of xenophobia is religious differences. Many religions oppose each other, making it hard for people of different religious views to cooperate in close quarter conditions.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Qatar
Delegate Name: Ann Blessman
School: Royal Oak High School

Xenophobia is most commonly known as “an unreasonable fear of foreigners or strangers or of that which is foreign or strange.” Xenophobia has become an increasingly alarming problem all across the world and the State of Qatar realizes that something must be done to combat Xenophobia immediately. Needless to say, Xenophobia has been a large problem across the world for a very long time. Perhaps the first major instance of Xenophobia was in the early 1900’s in Europe during the Holocaust. After that, the Red Scare and the development of the Klu Klux Klan in the United States are a few more examples of Xenophobia across the globe. More specifically, in Qatar, the cause for xenophobic violence has been directed towards the Islamic religion in particular. Qatar believes that educating the younger generations in countries where Xenophobic violence is being practiced will help to end Xenophobia.

Qatar recently participated in the World Conference against Racism, as did all UN nations and various nations worldwide who suffer from the impact of Xenophobia. While Qatar has not made very many actions to combat Xenophobia, this does not mean that actions will not be made in the near future. As Qatar, we believe that education is key in combating Xenophobia. Qatar feels that they are primarily on the receiving end of Xenophobia, meaning that most violent actions are made against the people of Qatar due to the fact that the primary religion in Qatar is Islam. Islam is commonly discriminated against in countries because the citizens are not knowledgeable about the religion of Islam and also because they fear Islamic people. Qatar feels that mainly their people are discriminated against in many larger countries, such as the United States, and all over the world.

Throughout the world, many other countries have developed a fear of Islam due to certain events involving terrorist groups that practice the religion of Islam simply due to a lack of knowledge of the Islamic religion. Qatar would like to educate people all across the world and make sure they understand the Islamic culture and are aware that not all Islam’s are terrorists. If the population becomes more educated, they will not feel the need to act out violently towards Islamic people. Secondly, Qatar would like to point out that there is a charitable foundation call the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation. The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation is dedicated to peacefully combating Xenophobia. This foundation asks for donations so they can work together to create communities where all races and religions are welcome. Qatar believes that more of these foundations should be established throughout the world to create environments that are Xenophobia-free. All in all, Qatar believes that world is undereducated and that more action needs to be taken to end Xenophobia.

Works Cited:

UN Website: www.un.org

Wikipedia: www.wikepedia.org

The Globe and Mail: www.theblobeandmail.com

New York Times: www.nytimes.com

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Russia
Delegate Name: Gurdit Suri
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The United Nations was established on the mutual accord that our organization would merit its purpose in hopes to bring about a solutions to global problems, more educated populations, and international peace. Although the United Nations works closer and closer to these goals consistently, displays of xenophobic violence do still occur. The Russian Federation strongly believes that the persecution of any person based on identity or any form of personal background is inherently immoral and a crime. We have a moral obligation as stated with the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, in the construct of representing populations under the dignity of our countries as well as the common agreement humanity must unto to one another as they would themselves, to help do all in the strength of the Disarmament and International Security Committee to bring about the minimization and eventual halt of Xenophobia.

Now, Russia has unfortunately had tremendous struggles in its past in terms of clashes based on personal and ethnic differences. While this is undeniable, what are also undeniable are the efforts that Russia has put into place for helping to solve Xenophobia, and in turn, the results of such actions. Russia has raised penal codes where hate crimes as well as the infliction of violence or other forms of xenophobic deeds are prosecuted to the highest extent of the law. Russia has also allocated greater funding towards the creation of tolerance awareness classes within its school systems. Russia has also created tolerance awareness days, emphasizing specific cultures and celebrating the unique aspects they provide to Russian culture as a whole. Russia also placed certain trade restrictions on South Africa after government inaction in response to xenophobic riots in 2008 and 2010.

Russia feels as if certain countries must recognize the dangers of allowing xenophobia to exist within their country as a poison that will spread if proper precautions and measures are not taken to stop it. We must realize the 2008 and 2010 riots of South Africa as cause for alarm. We must realize that the United States of America’s war on terrorism which lateralized into Islamophobia, and in turn, marginalization on Sikh and Hindu immigrant populations within their countries as cause for alarm. We must realize the attacks on immigrants caused by Neo-Nazi groups in Denmark as cause for alarm. We must also realize Nicaraguan persecution within Costa Rica as cause for alarm. These acts of cruelty on person who are foreign is inexcusable. These repeating examples should not be permissible in any circumstances and the inaction of countries on their peoples for committing acts of xenophobia should be dealt with to the fullest extent of international laws.

For the prevention of further xenophobic violence, member nations must in accord towards a plan of prevention, declaration, consequence, and proactivity. Russia believes that education curriculums should be geared to tolerance and cultural awareness programs in order to educate youths against xenophobic violence. Russia believes that declarations of xenophobic activity should be proclaimed as official acts by the United Nations so attention will be brought to such activity and further international pressure can arise on the situation so countries will be more inclined to act. Countries should also consider the consequence needed to stimulate a country’s action to suppressing xenophobic violence such as created trade restrictions and assisting countries through the allocation of peacekeeping forces. Russia also believes that through a country’s celebration of its diversity and what makes its own distinct culture so rich and unique by declaring awareness days and holidays, that the native populations of all countries might one day truly see the benefits of diversity and people of foreign origins rather than inflict negative actions upon them.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Saudi Arabia
Delegate Name: Ashton Bosstick
School: Fishers High School

Saudi Arabia instead of united clashing culture, believes in the individual identity of there own. First we must define what is xenophobic violence . Xenophobic violence is the violence that arises for an irrational fear of foreigners or strangers. As the United Nations we can all relate to the result of voilence occuring in our homelands due to fear of change or the unknown. The nation of Saudi Arabia looks towards the Middle East with issue. See the conflict of Israel; we can all recognize the clash of foreign cultures within a certain area. South Africa had faced xenophobic violence to the extent Mozambican and Congolese immigrants fled South Africa. Since then foreign migrants and refugees in South Africa have been warned to prepare for a wave of xenophobic attacks as soon as the final whistle of the World Cup blows. These threats are coming from many different people: neighbours, colleagues, taxi drivers, passersby, but also from nurses, social workers and police officers," said Cormsa, whose members include Amnesty International, the South African Red Cross Society, and the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation . "

Solutions to the overall world’s xenophobic violence has not been foreigny discussed however as of December 13 ,2007, the European Parliament adopted resolution on combating the rise of extremism in Europe. The European Parliament’s resolution was a proposal for a created Council Framework Decision on combating certain forms and expressions of racism and xenophobia by means of criminal law. Saudi Arabia supports the idea of individual nations handling this own extremism violence. In the past the United Nations has called upon nations that faced this problem more frequently and ask them to create some sort of legal authority. Xenophobic Violence is spread across the globe and can create civil wars within nations. Saudi Arabia would like to approach this issue with the idea of separating clashing cultures instead of uniting them. Creating a level of tolerance without embrace is the key to all cultures.

The nation of Saudi Arabia sees the challenge of the United Nations to create a flexible document that will allow individual nations to handle there own domestic violence while allowing security for all world citizens the safety from extremism. The Disarmament and International Security Committee should recognize that this issue affects every nation individually and it is the solo government of that nation to stop extremist groups to form and create xenophobic violence. We must support developing nations that face radical groups gaining to much control and create a civil document to disengage discrimination with in a nation. Xenophobic violence begins with uncertainty and a lack of tolerance for other cultures. As the United Nations we must push for peace within nations and well as between nations.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Serbia
Delegate Name: Preston Purdue
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

With Xenophobic Violence prevalent in many of today’s countries, it is obvious that from the 19th century on, conflict has existed between the different races and ethnicities. Over this period of time, many people have perished because of the hatred and other general malfeasance because of our different origins and skin types. Particularly in the region of the post-communist bloc of Europe, racial violence has escalated to high points in many times throughout history. In fact, many countries in this bloc have had run-ins with the UN in dealings with this issue, Serbia included.

In reality, the remnants of the communist model have left lasting impressions of intolerance towards ethnic minorities. Many efforts and policies have been directed at the issue in question, and for Serbia, some have indeed failed. But for those failures, what is to blame? A global standard cannot apply here, for we have a different background than the other varying countries that induce the plan. Because Serbia is in a complete and total transition period out of our dark past and into a better tomorrow, the UN should keep in mind the virtue of our people and reputation that precedes them. They face many threats, from both the inside and the outside, and the government is doing its best to help counter and null said threats. We will not protect one minority over the entire majority, but your policy says, in simple terms, that at least an attempt must be made to calm the racial violence. National security threats from the inside occasionally come from the racial minorities themselves, and because of the above statement dealing with these groups, we may not take the international community policies into consideration if it endangers the majority of our population. In the event that a nation is unable to protect minorities in their country against xenophobic violence, it is the responsibility of the United Nations to provide political and financial support for their efforts. However, it is wrong to assume that a single, universal policy can possibly be implemented to cover the vastly different situations that countries face.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Sierra Leone
Delegate Name: Allie Cobb
School: Williamston High School

Although the idea of xenophobic violence occurring in Sierra Leone is absurd, Sierra Leone’s government still recognizes it as a problem, especially in surrounding African countries. Although there is no set definition of a hate crime, xenophobic violence would seem to fall in to the hate crime category.

Xenophobia is characterized as intolerance to a different ethnic or racial group within ones community. Xenophobia is seen as a real world problem in African nations when residents of one country migrate to another. Many African countries pride themselves on the heritage within their cultural groups and are upset by the idea of newcomers joining them. Although outlandish, one South African group “Buyelekhaya” (loosely translated to “Go home”) have claimed that immigrants from neighboring African country have led to a rise in sexual assaults, HIV/AIDS, and unemployment rates within their country.

Although these types of events do not occur in Sierra Leone, they do affect our citizens that go to search for work outside of Sierra Leone, thus indirectly affecting the success of our country. Sierra Leone believes that the UN should have a no tolerance policy for any crimes based on ethnicity and race, such as xenophobic violence. Sierra Leone see’s the stop of xenophobic violence of utmost importance, and believes that the UN should do whatever necessary to stop the spread of xenophobic violence in Africa, and the rest of the world. Sierra Leone hopes to help the UN find a safe and successful resolution to this issue in a timely manner.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: South Africa
Delegate Name: Emma Stout
School: Royal Oak High School

The United Nations has been attempting to remedy racial tension and violence, including xenophobic violence ever since the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. They have adopted such resolutions as Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action, the Commission on Human Rights resolution 1997/74 of 18 April 1997, the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action all attempting to address this issue. Still, the issue of xenophobia violence is unresolved, and a growing issue in many regions. Recently, xenophobic violence has been an issue for many countries with influxes of Muslims. This stems from several factors including anti-immigrant sentiments and racial profiling and is becoming an issue in many European nations. South Africa has a history of dealing with such issues, having abolished apartheid not yet twenty years ago. With one in every fifty people living in a foreign country we view this as not only an issue of global importance, but one that is especially important for South Africa.

From a global standpoint xenophobic violence has occurred all over the world. Possibly the most famous case would be the holocaust, but that is not the only; there have been outbreaks in the United States, Rwanda, Australia, Russia, often borne out of anti-immigrant sentiments xenophobic violence is an issue that has continued to prevail in the modern world. South Africa has been dealing with a rush of xenophobic violence, the first major outbreak having occurred May of 2008, when a series of riots began against refugees. South Africa has had subsequent issues with xenophobic violence since then, namely in 2010 after the World Cup. These outbreaks of xenophobic violence are triggered by several factors. The education system in weakening at the same time as the job market is deteriorating. Many South African’s blame this on the rush of refugees and immigrants from Malawi, Zimbabwe and Mozambique who are willing to work and sell their goods for less than South Africans will. With twenty percent of South Africa’s population being foreign nationals, xenophobic violence is a key issue that South Africa hopes we can work towards resolving.

South Africa treats xenophobic violence as an extremely serious issue and has taken many steps towards eradicating it. We have a strong commitment to treating the root causes of the violence, as well as dealing with it head on. Our police force is trained in reacting to xenophobic violence and we have added additional police to help combat the issue. Additionally the perpetrators of such violence are dealt with in the fullest extent of the law. We also call upon organizations to work with the police to stop the violence and encourage them to educate their community about living peacefully with foreign nationals. We believe that community programs are crucial part in dealing with this violence. This is a way to deal with the violence before it begins and that is always preferable to dealing with it after the fact. We have also received monetary assistance to strengthen our educational and legal services regarding xenophobic violence and believe that we would benefit from continued assistance to support these programs which help us combat the tide of xenophobic violence.

There are several steps South Africa believes should be taken when tackling xenophobic violence globally. As we are already doing, police forces should be trained and added to in order to protect the people from this violence. Steps to educate people should also be taken in order to stop the violence before it occurs. We believe also in strengthening the laws against those who commit such crimes and creating strong anti- hate crime legislation. It is very important that people do not believe that they have impunity in committing xenophobic violence and that others are encouraged to turn those who commit these crimes in so they do not go un-punished. These are all viewed as important steps for South Africa, but in our nation as in many others they cannot be achieved without the support of other nations and NGOs. We recognize that this is often an issue borne of poverty and a lack of education and so aid should be provided for those countries who are dealing with the daunting task of combatting xenophobic violence. In the past South Africa has received some aid in order to strengthen our educational system and legal services and we believe this should be an option for all countries in need of assistance when dealing with xenophobic violence.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: South Korea
Delegate Name: Sara Griffith
School: Mattawan High School

"All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood." In article one of the Declaration of Human Rights, the United Nations conclude that people are created equal; they should treat each other in this fashion as well. However, the United Nations has failed in eradicating such violence. Today, such countries like South Africa still battle major struggles with xenophobic violence. The United Nations must take further steps in reducing xenophobic violence in countries.

South Korea believes the xenophobia is prevalent in their society. Most of South Korea's population has light skin, and anyone with darker skin or different skin tone is discriminated against. The country's people do not accept foreigners, immigrants or any persons with darker skin. People who are different in race or ethnicity struggle to find employment and respect in South Korea.

The constitution states that all persons are created equal in South Korea regardless of religion, gender, nationality, race, skin color etc. The are, however, no anti-discrimination laws or acts in place that enforce the constitution. Without any regulations, citizens are allowed to discriminate without and reparations.

It is important that the United Nations enforce anti-discrimination policies in countries in order to prevent acts of xenophobic violence. In order to address the violence, the United Nations must act at the problem's roots. South Korea believes in the prevention of xenophobic violence starts with legislation preventing discrimination.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Spain
Delegate Name: Elizabeth Butterfield
School: Fishers High School

One of the key fundamentals of the U.N. is to promote peace between nations, and intervene in situations of hate crimes. However, the Kingdom of Spain believes that xenophobic violence within the country is not being properly addressed by the U.N. Since the early 1990’s, the Kingdom of Spain has experienced a large influx of immigrants. The foreign population in Spain has risen to more than 12% in the past 20 years, from just under 1% in 1991 (Eurostat). Many people have immigrated illegally into the country. The government has found it difficult to regulate this immigration, and law enforcement is not trained to handle situations of illegal immigration. Immigration has also created racial tensions. Many racist groups have killed people and openly demonstrated their discrimination towards particular races. Organized acts of violence and terrorism have been demonstrated. Without invasive action from the U.N, the Kingdom of Spain will continue to have violent internal attacks as the situation grows more out of hand.

Spain has addressed the issue of xenophobic violence and created the Spanish Observatory of Racism and Xenophobia. The observatory’s main focus is on collecting data through public surveys to assess situations of racism. The observatory has also worked to provide training for law enforcement officials in matters of equal treatment of all races, and started regulations against racism in the media (UN Chronicle). Although this idea has been set into motion, there has been no evident response. It is apparent that many diverse ethnic groups do not “mix” with society, and many Spaniards maintain ethnocentric viewpoints. According to the UN Chronicle, it is also apparent that people associate immigration in Spain with trouble and crime. As a way to promote overall equality, the Kingdom of Spain has passed the Gender Equality Law, the Marriage Law, the Law of Dependents, and the Law on Gender Identity. Two organizations, The Foundation for Pluralism and Tolerance, and the State Council of the Roma People, were created to recognize and handle integration issues. Through the enactment of all of these laws and organizations, Spain has taken initiative in the fight against racial discrimination and xenophobic violence. The Kingdom of Spain has taken these measures, yet still faces many challenges.

The Kingdom of Spain feels that to truly integrate Spanish society and further suppress xenophobic violence, it is necessary for the General Assembly to make recommendations. With the various ethnic groups living in Spain, Spain finds it important to educate not only Spaniards about equality and acceptance, but different races within the country as well. The situation in the country has remained more stable in recent years, but it cannot be expected to remain this way given the country’s history. The Kingdom of Spain believes that having diplomats from the U.N. occupying parts of the country would aid in the assurance of peaceful pursuits. Having the U.N. take more specific actions towards Spain will help prevent any further violence and terror threats.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Sri Lanka
Delegate Name: Taylor Westmoreland
School: Williamston High School

Although Sri Lanka acknowledges that conflicts often arise when people of varying religious, ethnic, cultural, and economic backgrounds interact, we are strongly opposed to the use of violence and intimidation in expressing these differences. We believe that under the guidance of the United Nations, all nations should put forth considerable effort into the promotion of peace throughout the world. Stated simply, Sri Lanka sees xenophobic violence as the manifestation of a form of intolerance—something we urge all nations to put an end to, regardless of politics.

As a nation that has long struggled against terrorism, we are sympathetic to the battles of our fellow nations however we maintain a strong belief that national sovereignty is of considerable importance and all decisions made in ending violence must not be at the cost of this sovereignty.

Sri Lanka feels that the decisions made in Durban in 2001 are a significant step toward the realization of our goals as an international community and we strongly support the use of the Intergovernmental Working Group. Despite this, we feel that this issue has not been entirely resolved. Equitable and effective international standards must be developed and enforced if positive change is to be made. Sri Lanka has taken on a leadership role in this issue and is eager to continue this work in the future.

Xenophobia is merely one of the many forms of intolerance that plague our world today. Just as racism has been acknowledged as being unacceptable, so should the problem before us today. Xenophobic violence must be ended if we intend to forge a greater and more peaceful world for future generations but the United Nations must work with individual nations to make this change. Few, if any, would argue that xenophobic violence is tolerable. Although wars occur, we can be hopeful that one day xenophobic violence will not. The solution is to develop and enforce concrete guidelines while maintaining sovereignty.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Switzerland
Delegate Name: Fatima Sheikh
School: Fishers High School

The Swiss Federation believes that, as stated directly in our constitution:

No one may be discriminated against, in particular on grounds of origin, race, gender, age, language, social position, way of life, religious, ideological, or political convictions, or because of a physical, mental or psychological disability

This strictly implies that it is our upmost duty to maintain peace throughout different cultural and religious groups in the nation and do our best to prevent any form of xenophobic violence. This includes listening to the needs of our small Muslim minority, the recent ‘minaret’ incident and helping to overcome social and religious barriers between them and the rest of the community, especially considering that one-third of our population is comprised of people from other nations. For example in 1848, after a brief civil war between Protestant Liberals and Catholic conservatives and the political change that followed, Switzerland became a federation. However, instead of entirely shunning the Catholic minority (at the time), our country made several provisions to placate them and maintain peace between different groups. Now, in a somewhat similar conflict between the Muslim minority and the rest of the community, the country will do it’s very best to pacify differences.

A more recent issue is the banning of minarets in the country, which was taken upon by the government to do by popular vote of the people. The fact that the issue was even left up to a vote and taken to consideration by the government raises concerns and uproar amongst the Muslim community, who accuse this as a violation of their religious freedom. However, The Swiss federation does not believe this to be a rejection of the Muslim community, religion, and culture because the minarets are a "political-religious claim to power, which challenge fundamental rights." Therefore, it is not a violation of rights to ban them if they challenge rights to begin with.

In 2007, the Federal Council of Switzerland wrote an official reply on the subject to the UN that whoever displays xenophobic behavior in the country will be implemented with fines and imprisonment, showing our take on battling prejudice. The Swiss federation would like to keep all religions at an equal footing and establish peace and prosperity.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Syria
Delegate Name: Debra Kue
School: Forest Hills Central High School

When xenophobia structures a collective apparatus within a community, it severs the enormity of human potential, but if conceived with violence, it severs the core of being human. It deflects reason with fallacy and misunderstanding, and chastises the innocent for the sake of others’ acrid intolerance. Many neglect this hostility amid the populace because the masses that are subjugated through xenophobic anxiety far exceed alarming. Foreign fear plagues at a global scale and hatred by the hated spins an endless cycle. Discrimination and violence has stained many nations, and this is a fact, as a united body, need to eliminate.

Syria has emphasized the quantum of eliminating xenophobic discrimination under the Syrian Criminal Code of 1949. This code provides prosecution to anyone who commits any offense, act, writing, speech or association with communal racial fanaticism. The Syrian Ministry of Education has also contributed into dismantling the sowing of discord through numerous educational curricula to fight against racism and derogatory discrimination by encouraging openness to discuss and settle xenophobic disputes. Furthermore, Syrian government-funded programmes have stressed the importance of media connections – such as journalists, media employees, and reporters to disassemble the drape of intolerance. As several nations unsuccessfully highlight the magnitude of unity, Syria urges countries to stress this problem amid all peoples through mandated laws and programmes teachings against anti-Semitism.

For generations, families of Niger have undergone an extensive anguish of slavery implemented by four of Niger’s eight major ethnic groups: the Tuareg, Fulani, Toubou and Arabs for thousands of years. Despite Niger abolishing slavery in 1960, prohibiting it in 1999, and recently making it illegal in 2003, 8% of Niger’s population, 800,000 people continues to be shackled by it. February of 2010, Sweden had also experienced first-handedly of anti-Semitic hate crimes in the city of Malmo when a Jewish church was burnt down due to a gang of Muslim racists. However, according to the report Racism and Xenophobia in Sweden by the Board of Integration, many Muslims experienced religious harassment and 40% of the interviewed said they had witnessed verbal abuse towards Muslims.

Russia’s Medvedev has also emphasized that the 'communication between cultures' should begin in schools and universities. Implementing training sessions for student organizations, Russia has recognized the need to disperse an open environment to rid of mistreatment upon others. Through various youth and university clubs, Russia has pushed its government to receive support from NGOs to produce a network of knowledge to the general public. Similar to Syria’s promotion against xenophobic intolerance, countries should recognize this global concern and launch educational programmes to expunge discriminatory ignorance.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Thailand
Delegate Name: Xiaohong Tan
School: Fishers High School

The nation of Thailand hasn’t had too strong of a stand or view on the xenophobia violence. Xenophobia is defined an unreasonable fear or hatred of foreigners or strangers or of that are foreign and strange in dictionary.com. The nation’s capital Bangkok is known to many as a land of smile, and it is open to tourists around the world, however, just recently, the nation of Thailand had slightly changed its view to foreigners because the people of Thailand do not want foreign nations to be involve in Thailand’s governmental system. Thailand believes that nationalism is important, and that Thai remain defensive against those who criticize the government from other nations. The rise of xenophobia violence rooted from government system or hatred from other nations or organization. For example, 9/11 in the United States of America is a clear example of why there is a rise of xenophobia. However, there are many situations or problems that led to the violence part. Racism, ethnicity, and nationality have a huge part in dealing with xenophobia violence because those are always problems that separate two different groups, and in the world, there has been long history about how all these cause violence to erupt.

Thailand promotes world peace and would work with nations to decrease the rate of xenophobia violence, and also, xenophobia violence should not exist if all nations cooperate or respect each other’s properties and values. Differences in ethnicity should not be a reason in xenophobia violence; however de facto, most xenophobia violence came from ethnicity problems. The people of Thailand have been working toward to lower xenophobia violence in the nation, but it is very hard to tell everyone in the nation to ease xenophobia because it is not simply a physical state but also a mental situation. As fact, Thailand would be willingly working with the UN to spread the anti-xenophobia message across the nations and to the people. The nation of Thailand believes that the sense of xenophobia would not be completely disappeared because there are terrorists in the world. Thailand respectfully criticizes the UN for not showing much action toward the problem. One thing, Thailand notices is that sometimes this xenophobia violence are directed toward refugee because refugees came from other nation that the people might dislike. There are refugees in our nation, and we respect and provide all necessary materials to those who needed them. Xenophobia violence can be tie to the attack on humanitarian workers because usually humanitarian workers come from different nations.

Thailand believes the UN’s involvement in combating the rise of xenophobia violence is valuable; however, different nations need to work together to ease xenophobia because xenophobia is basically dealing with foreign relationship. A combating the rise of xenophobia violence committee should be form composing of delegates from different nations to discuss the problems that result such violence. This committee can also discuss how nations should respect each other’s ideas and to build a stronger foreign relationship among the nations. Thailand would like to point out that respecting the different races, ethnicity have a huge effect on xenophobia violence.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Turkey
Delegate Name: Obinna Ugwuegbu
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

There is not much xenophobic violence occurring in Turkey. The problem is xenophobic violence outside of Turkey affecting the Turkish people. Xenophobia is defined as "an unreasonable fear of foreigners or strangers or of that which is foreign or strange". Turkish people have usually been on the receiving end of xenophobic violence. Xenophobic Violence has been targeted to the Turkish people all over Europe since the 16th century and Turkey is outraged over this.

Since the 16th century hundreds of racist acts and xenophobic violence have been targeted towards Turkish people. The main areas where xenophobic violence and racist acts occurs in Europe towards the Turkish people are in Bulgaria, Cyprus, Germany, Greece, Netherlands, and former Soviet Union.

Xenophobic violence towards the Turkish people is still a problem today. “Today, everyone agrees that xenophobia and populist parties are gaining ground. Extremism and discrimination are major threats against our societies,” Davutoğlu, a Turkish political scientist, said while inaugurating the 121st meeting of the Committee of Ministers of the 47-nation Council of Europe. There is also a problem with forcefully assimilating the Turkish people in Bulgaria. One agency is trying to put an end to this problem. The DPS is a Bulgarian ethnic Turkish party Movement for Rights and Freedoms. The DPS is trying to give Rights and Freedoms to Turkish people in Bulgaria. There are many people who support the DPS. “Bulgarian politicians purposely stir hate towards Turkey and the Turkish people. The fight of DPS against such actions is just and we support them,” the Turkish Deputy PM is quoted saying. Turkey has also been trying to join the EU since April 14 1987. The EU has been putting more and more obstacles for Turkey to overcome-obstacles that other EU members weren’t asked to face when they were applying. This could be a small form of xenophobia and/or racism by the EU but there is very little evidence of this.

In order to stop xenophobia against Turkish people all of Europe needs to stop looking down on Turkish people and treat them equally like they would treat other peoples. If one can be an African- or Italian-American, why not a ‘hyphenated European.' A Turkish-German, a North African-Frenchwoman or an Asian-Briton?

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Ukraine
Delegate Name: Karigan Pliml
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The number of hate crimes based on the fear or hatred toward strangers or foreigners of different cultural backgrounds has increased substantially over the past decade in Ukraine and many other countries, such as Israel, the United States, European countries with issues concerning immigrants, and Zimbabwe, due to poverty supposedly caused by Caucasian farmers. A main cause of Ukraine’s heightening xenophobia is the excessive nationalism the youth (aged, on average, in the mid-teens to late twenties) expresses, which can be dated back to Ukraine’s struggle for independence (1917-1920) and the protest of the Ukrainian state’s downfall in the 1920s. As the movement developed through the twenties, the initial patriotism progressed to integral nationalism. This nationalism has caused tensions between Ukraine-born citizens and migrants. Other causes could be political instability, low income, or illegal migration. Ukraine recognizes the severity of this crisis and has, over the past four years, taken steps to rectify the situation, such as acts by Former President Viktor Yushchenko, Interior Minister of 2007 Vasyl Tsushko, Education and Science Minister of 2007 Stanislav Nykolaenko, the Chair of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Human Rights, National Minorities and Interethnic Relations of 2008 Ihor Sharov, and Interior Minister of 2008 Yuriy Lutsenko. These acts include the criticism of Ukraine’s law enforcement’s general failure to act, the development of strategies to combat racism and working with NGOs on these issues, and the overall condemnation of xenophobic violence. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) established a unit to monitor the activities and prevent the crimes of known neo-Nazi groups in October 2007. In November 2007, the foreign ministry created the office of Special Ambassador on Racism, Xenophobia and Discrimination. The State Committee for Nationalities and Religion (SCNR) combats racism, monitors the media, raises awareness, and will establish a council to combat xenophobia with lawyers and government agencies. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine established an Interministerial Commission on Combating Racism, Xenophobia, and Discrimination in April 2008. It is chaired by the SCNR and includes representatives of the Interior Ministry, Foreign Ministry, and the SBU. Internationally, there have been efforts to solve the continually rising problem of xenophobic violence. The UNHRC was established in 2006 to promote human rights and correct the violations of these rights. Recently, in late January to February, the HRC Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants, Jorge Bustamante, evaluated the conditions of the rights of migrants in South Africa, and developed recommendations for the government. The Special Rapporteur from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, of which the Ukraine is currently a member, also considered the case of racism in Ukraine in 2003.

Bearing in mind the recent rise in hate crimes and having noted with deep concern the severity of the issue in areas such as Ukraine, western countries with rising immigration issues, and some African countries due to the rise of drought, famine, and poverty, Ukraine urges the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to call upon all nations, in which the UNHRC takes note of xenophobic actions occurring at a level either requiring international attention or increasing in number or severity, to incorporate acts promoting and protecting human rights into their national law. Ukraine further requests the development of a council with the sole purpose of providing the international community with the knowledge of these crimes, their effects, and possible actions to protect human rights. This council on hate crime education will ensure the support needed to initiate the reversal of the rise of xenophobic violence.

Italy and Austria are likely to support Ukraine’s requests. During the Durban Conference of 2001, Italy pushed for “new principles” to be agreed upon universally in its statement. In that same conference, Austria requested human rights education.

China’s and Japan’s methods to eliminate racial discrimination and xenophobia differ from that of Ukraine. China wishes to create equality and respect between countries to ensure peace and understanding through dialogue between the countries in Durban 2001. Japan also pushed for a mutual understanding between countries in its statement during the Durban Conference of 2001.

Works Cited

"2008 Hate Crime Survey: Ukraine." Human Rights First. 2008. Web.

Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor. "Country Report on Human Rights Practices in Ukraine." U.S. Department of State. 11 Mar. 2008. Web.

Bustamante, Jorge. "Report of the Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants, Jorge Bustamante." United Nations General Assembly. A/HRC/17/33/Add.4, May 2011. PDF.

"Conference Statements – World Conference against Racism." Welcome to the United Nations: It's Your World. United Nations, Aug.-Sept. 2001. Web.

Martynenko, Oleh. "Racism and Xenophobia in Ukraine: New Challenges in Human Rights Protection." Khpg.org. International Renaissance Foundation and National Endowment for Democracy (USA), 6 Apr. 2008. Web.

“Resolution on Strengthening Efforts to Combat Racism and Xenophobia and Foster Inclusion.” OSCE PA. OSCE PA Belgrade Annual Session 2011. AS (11) Res 17 E, July 2011. PDF.

"Ukraine 2007." Antisemitism and Racism – The Stephen Roth Institute for the Study of Contemporary. The Stephen Roth Institute, 2007. Web.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Jason Feuerstine
School: Fishers High School

The United Kingdom believes that xenophobic violence is on the rise in many countries and that it is a very dangerous act to partake in. The United Kingdom wishes to express their view xenophobic violence must be stopped for more than just the morality issues it raises.

First of all it is important to realize that xenophobic violence is a very deadly form of discrimination. It is also important to realize it is indeed racism. People partaking in xenophobic violence are discriminating against other peoples because of their race or ethnicity. However it is not the traditional form of racism where it is one race against one other race. It is one race against any race that is not their own. They are merely attacking all forms of immigrants.

It is also important to understand the hotspots for xenophobic violence to see how that affects the United Kingdom. South Africa is and always has been a huge spot of xenophobic violence because of the racial tensions between the indigenous Afrikaans people and the huge mass of Caucasians, Arabs and Asians that are traveling to the country. Also Scandinavia is another hotspot of xenophobic violence. The people already living in Scandinavia are quarrelling with the people seeking the fresh air of those countries.

All of those factors, one, South Africa, a big trading partner, and Scandinavia, a very close neighbor, greatly influence the United Kingdom’s stance. The following concerns also come into play.

The population if the United Kingdom is quite large and steadily growing. A lot of the growth is attributed to an increase in immigration. This helps the United Kingdom maintain not only their image as a better place to live but helps to maintain their economy as well. Immigration brings in many people and their, albeit little amount, of money to help stimulate the economy. That’s one of the problems many country’s economies are having today is that they don’t have enough of an influx of capital as they did ten years ago when the economy was booming. If the United Kingdom condoned xenophobic violence they would really be hurting a large contributing factor to their economy.

Also xenophobic violence is a big issue of morality. Many third-world countries find it allowable however a sophisticated country such as the United Kingdom feels that this type of violence is an international “party foul”. It really crosses the line of morality. Not very many people would condone acts of racial violence and the United Kingdom feels that xenophobic violence is in fact a form of racial violence and should be stopped.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Venezuela
Delegate Name: Vincent Hayes
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

The *Universal Declaration of Human Rights* states, “no one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.”

Although this doctrine was adopted in 1948, the world has fallen quite short of this goal. Acts of xenophobic violence occur in all states and it is the responsibility of the international community to ensure that all peoples are treated with equality and respect. Despite collaborative efforts at combating human rights violations across the world, such as Mr. Githu Muigai’s assignment of the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, the United Nations has been incapable of eradicating the frequent violent and xenophobic acts that minorities or immigrants must face every day around the world.

The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has been historically known as a safe haven for persecuted groups to settle and start new, worry-free lives safe from the ice cold clutches of racial and xenophobic intolerance. Before its colonization, Venezuela was a culturally-diverse land made up of up to five different prevalent cultures that lived in social harmony. Venezuela believes that in order to prevent future xenophobic acts, nations must strictly preach love and tolerance amongst their denizens. If someone if found guilty of an intolerant or xenophobic action, they must receive the maximum punishment applicable for their charges so they can be an example of what repercussions one will face if they are to commit an act of xenophobic violence. Nonetheless, Venezuela recognizes that such a drastic global change cannot happen overnight. Venezuela would like to assist the world in promoting international, intolerance of intolerance.

The most recent major acts of xenophobia took place in July 2010 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Two consecutive days of perpetual xenophobic violence caused thousands upon thousands of Zimbabwean immigrants to flee in hopes of sparing their lives. These atrocities bring to mind the not so ancient anti-foreigner xenophobic riots of 2008 that took place in South Africa which led to the deaths of over sixty people and the displacement of more than 200,000. These reoccurring acts of intolerance are just a reminder to us that we cannot remain seated while the citizens of our fellow member nations harm immigrants for no better reason than the difference of heritage.

In order to prevent future xenophobic violence, member nations must work side-by-side to build a culture of support, equality and community. Fundamentally, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela looks too vehemently offer its unequivocal support, in any beneficial form possible whatsoever, to member nations that are inflexibly committed to ending xenophobic violence on all visible fronts permanently.

Topic: Combating the Rise of Xenophobic Violence
Country: Yemen
Delegate Name: Shamus Carey
School: Royal Oak High School

Xenophobic violence is a problem for all nations. Whether it be members of the nation committing those acts of violence, or the members of the nation becoming victims of xenophobic violence. Yemeni people have been the target of racial profiling, being targeted merely due to their ethnicity. As members of the United Nations, Yemen believes the responsibility to prevent further acts of xenophobic violence falls upon us.

Since it’s founding, the constant issue of xenophobic violence has plagued the United Nations. Over time, it has been proven that if ignored, small acts of violence will simply fester and grow into a larger problem causing problems on a wider and wider scale. Xenophobic violence must be stopped before it becomes a larger problem than it already is. If this issue is allowed to continue it will simply become more impossible to solve.

Yemen believes that a major cause of violence based on ethnicity among the people of many nations is the lack of education about other cultures. Unfamiliarity between different cultures can cause resentment between the people on each side, which can lead to acts of xenophobic violence, based not on anger or hatred, but fear and misunderstanding. Yemen believes that the United Nations should encourage the governments of it’s member nation to implement programs to educate their citizens about the effects of xenophobic violence, in order to discourage further similar acts of violence. Yemen encourages it’s fellow member to support a resolution concerning this issue as our nation believes that will take major strides towards the solution of this problem.