Topic: Promoting Peaceful Post-Election Transitions
Country: France
Delegate Name: Amber Walters
School: Flint Central Academy
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All France position papers GLIMUN 2008 committees
As we lean toward a more democratic world, the issue lies with the the legitimacy of the outcome and the transition of power. Nations including Kenya, Zimbabwe and the United States have all dealt with either of these issues. Often, the disputes ignite violence throughout the nation, as seen in the recent transition of power in Kenya. Furthermore, voter discrimination and intimidation are further hindrances to peaceful transitions. Voters are less likely to have faith in the outcome of the election if they feel intimidation has occurred.
France feels that promoting peaceful transitions of power is necessary for a functional government. In nations that have had previous instances of voter intimidation, France wold like to see increased protection ensuring the citizen is able to exercise their constitutional right. If the nation should want help with this issue, the United Nations could offer aid to these nations in the form of security at polling locations to ensure fair voting. This would be one of the first steps in ensuring the citizens are able to believe in the outcome of the election. Discrepancies in ballot counting processes have also been present in many nations. France feels measures should be taken to ensure ballots are fairly counted. France is interested in discussing situations such as the recent election in Zimbabwe, where a clear winner could not be determined, and looking to find some an adequate resolution to prevent future displays of violence. France feels in order to have a productive conference and fully help combat this issue, all of the aforementioned issues need to be fully discussed and dealt with accordingly.
