Topic: 2025 – Responsibility of International Organizations
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Harnoor Bath
Legal
Responsibility of International Organizations
Federal Republic of Germany
Harnoor Bath
Forest Hills Eastern High School
The responsibility of International Organizations (IOs) is a pressing issue currently because actions by IOs can lead to harm, and victims struggle to find meetings to seek justice or reparations. IOs such as the United Nations have immunity, which often benefits them, but leaves victims of misconduct with no legal venue to sue for damages. The United Nations’ primary contribution to this topic is establishing The Draft Articles on the Responsibility of International Organizations (DARIO), established by the International Law Commission (ILC), which lay out the legal framework for when an International Organization can be held accountable for its actions. Additionally, the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutes those who have committed misconduct, and it works with the UN to ensure responsibility and accountability. When International Organizations fail to take responsibility, many victims are affected, and they are unable to get the help they need financially and morally.
Germany is concerned with the responsibility of International Organizations as a widespread issue today. We are concerned with pushing for legal clarity, accountability for crimes, and financial support for victims of misconduct. Germany has specifically participated in discussions surrounding The Draft Articles on the Responsibility of International Organizations (DARIO) to ensure it serves as a framework for international law. This is relevant to Germany because it determines whether the conduct of an agent is legally the act of an IO or the contributing Member State. Furthermore, they urge Troop-and Police-Contributing Countries (T/PCCs) to establish jurisdiction in their domestic laws. This makes certain that organizations are held accountable for misconduct, even when committed abroad, and ensures the victims are provided with aid. To address its own domestic legal system, Germany has a Code of Crimes against International Law to model a high-standard system of prosecution and investigation.
Germany is also a major contributor to victim trust funds, providing support to victims and children, including medical care, psychological support, and legal services.
The Federal Republic of Germany encourages the United Nations to address the responsibility of International Organizations with urgency by establishing jurisdiction, Codes of Crimes, and trust funds for victims. By implementing these necessary measures to hold International Organizations accountable for misconduct, we believe that victims can be provided the care they need and organizations can be viewed with integrity. Countries should contribute to the Trust Fund in Support of Victims of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse and the Trust Fund for Victims (TFV) to provide aid to victims who are suffering, and join Germany, which is a prominent donor contributing to the victims.
