Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Georgia
Delegate Name: Emily Keefer
School: Forest Hills Central High School
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All Georgia position papers GLIMUN 2008 committees
The instability and terrible suffering that has existed within the Congo since the late 1990’s has created turmoil that still exists today. Even with the help of peacekeeping forces from the United Nations, it was still not enough to stop the rebels lead by Laurent Nkunda from seizing a territory on the east side of the country. This recent development proves that the current peacekeeping forces need assistance to solve this continuing problem. Just recently, the United Nations has called for another 3,000 peacekeeping forces in addition to the 20,000 currently stationed, and hopefully this decision will bring stablity to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This situation, beginning with the removal of Robert Mugutu from office, has created the need for a plan that will bring the globe together for a united political effort. This is exhibited by the involvement of the European Union and other organizations to bring this traumatic crisis to a close as swiftly as possible. The European Union has refrained from sending troops over to the Congo based on a need for a diplomatic solution, and not one involving excessive force. Georgia remains one of the European Union’s closest allies, and fully supports them in their decision. The European Union is taking steps to solve this crisis, but is refraining from supplying more troops to the region. Georgia believes this will integrate peace into the region, and hopefully stabilize the country of the Congo.
This ongoing situation, caused by the turmoil following the end of the war, has lead to malaria, malnutrition, pneumonia, and diarrhea and various other internal conflicts. Sadly, many of these deaths could have been prevented with the implementation of health care policies and a reformed health care system within the Democratic Republic of Congo. Georgia deeply feels for the citizens of Congo caught in this crossfire, and is appalled at the devastating amount of hardships they have endured. Nearly 5.4 million people have perished within the last decade, and 20 rapes are reported a week within health care centers in Goma. The health and well-being of these innocent civilians is an important issue that needs to be addressed within the United Nations. The country of Georgia looks forward for a constructive response within our conferences, and hopes the health crisis in Congo will be dealt with immediately.
