Topic: 2024-Indiscriminate Weapons
Country: Estonia
Delegate Name: Sarath Badithala
Disarmament and International Security Committee
Indiscriminate Weapons
The Republic of Estonia
Sarath Badithala
Forest Hills Eastern High School
Indiscriminate weapons, such as landmines, cluster munitions, and chemical agents, are designed to inflict widespread harm without distinguishing between combatants and civilians, violating international humanitarian law. Their historical use, from chemical weapons in World War I to modern-day conflicts like the wars in Israel and Palestine, has resulted in significant civilian casualties, long-term damage, and psychological trauma. Organizations like the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL), and the Cluster Munition Coalition (CMC) have effectively advocated for bans and provided victim assistance. The United Nations has taken action through the Chemical Weapons Convention, UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS), and Security Council resolutions that condemn these weapons. Addressing the issue of indiscriminate weapons is crucial for international peace and security, as they hinder development, cause harm to civilian populations, and compromise global humanitarian norms. The international community must persist in its efforts to eliminate these weapons and mitigate their devastating effects on both current and future generations.
Estonia has a strong stance against the use of indiscriminate weapons, including landmines and cluster munition, and is committed to upholding international humanitarian law (IHL). As a member of the UN, The Republic of Estonia collaborates with allies, NGOs like Human Rights Watch, and the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) to promote disarmament and humanitarian assistance. Estonia ratified the Ottowa Treaty (Mine Ban Treaty) in 2002 and the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) in 2011, prohibiting the use, production, and transfer of these weapons. Estonia also supports international mine clearance programs and victim assistance initiatives, contributing over €5 million to global mine action. Through its advocacy in the UN, Estonia pushes for stricter control over arms, and enforcement of disarmament norms. While a small military power, Estonia plays a significant role in international diplomacy, supporting treaties and solutions aimed at eliminating weapons that cause extensive harm to civilians. Estonia’s work in international diplomacy helps the world be more safe and secure.
As a dedicated member of the United Nations and a strong advocate for global peace and security, the Republic of Estonia proposes the gradual implementation of a ban on the use of indiscriminate weapons, acknowledging the critical threat they pose to civilian safety and international stability. To this end, Estonia calls for greater international pressure on major powers such as the United States, China, and Russia, which continue to support the use of such abusive weaponry. Furthermore, Estonia emphasizes the necessity of mobilizing resources to fund the removal and safe disposal of these weapons, thereby safeguarding human lives and enhancing global security. By taking concerted action, the Republic of Estonia reaffirms its commitment to fostering a secure and peaceful future for all nations, working collaboratively to eliminate the dangers posed by indiscriminate weapons and uphold the values of peace and safety.
