Topic:
Country: Colombia
Delegate Name: Hannah Bhaskaran
Specpol
Columbia
Central African Republic
Hannah Bhaskaran
Forest Hills Eastern
As proved by historical evidence, civil wars are the bloodiest versions of human conflict to ever occur. The Central African Republic (CAR) has been the home of such a conflict since 2003 when politician Francois Bozize staged a coup for the presidency. Bozize’s rise to power was met with disdain from some (CAR) citizens, who consequently revolted during the Central African Republic Bush War. After the Bush war claimed 10,000 lives, multiple peace agreements were signed. In these agreements, both parties agreed to disarm- and the CAR planned to integrate rebels back into African society. Various rebel groups, however, accused the government of failing to abide by the agreements. These groups united under the name Seleka and currently clash with anti-balaka groups in what seems to be a continuation of the Bush War. The groups’ tension is fueled by differing political stances, ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, and property disputes. Colombia wishes to calm the strife in the CAR, whilst not getting directly involved in the conflict.
Colombia is experienced with civil wars, as we are currently attempting to quell our own. The Colombian conflict began as certain far-left groups fought amongst themselves for political influence in 1964. These guerrilla groups, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), the National Liberation Army (ELN), and the Popular Liberation Army (EPL), cause daily strife in our country and are a massive drain on military resources. Although multiple peace treaties have been signed, conflict still churns. For this reason, Columbia empathizes with the Central African Republic government and hopes that tensions will soon ease. Unfortunately, Columbia is quite occupied with our own civil unrest and does not have resources to spare for the CAR. However, we hope to aid in creating a long-term solution for Central African unrest and will put forth ample effort in this committee.
Columbia urges the CAR government to seek common ground with its rebel groups. Perhaps a sense of national pride will unite the different groups and a lasting agreement will be forged. Additionally, it may be wise for the CAR government to follow through with its vows on each agreement to prevent further turmoil.
