Topic: Role of the UN in Encouraging and Aiding Democratization
Country: Italy
Delegate Name: Esperanza Cirilo
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All Italy position papers GLIMUN 2012 committees
As a part of the EU, Italy is focused on establishing and maintaining democratization throughout the world. Italy sees this agenda as a way to establish long-term political, social, and economic stability especially in concerning the recent Arab Spring. Italy understands that there is a The European Commissioner for Enlargement and the ENP has recently made a statement on behalf of the EU saying “Too many of us fell prey to the assumption that authoritarian regimes were a guarantee of stability in the(Northern Africa) region. This was not even Realpolitik. It was, at best, short-termism – and the kind of short-termism that makes the long-term ever more difficult to build.” This was in reference to the EU’s support of previous authoritative regimes in the region in hopes of stability.
Italy has been quick to adopt these new ideas. Italy was one of the first countries to recognize the Benghazi-based Libyan National Council, or otherwise known as the rebel government when civil war broke out in Libya. The decision came from Italy’s recognition that the official Libyan government had not established any military prominence and was facing international isolation. When the Libyan foreign minister refused to negotiate the ousting of Gaddafi or agree to any conditions set forth by the international community, Italy recognized this as a blatant sign that the old regime was no longer rational, reliable, or credible. Those three factors should be key components when analyzing a new government’s right to be recognized.
Overall, Italy supports other EU countries in going above and beyond in support of Arab Spring rebellions than dictated by the UN security council in 1973. Also, Italy is a part of the SPRING Program, or Support for Partnership, Reform, and Inclusive Growth. This is an initiative that will support economic growth in the wake of the Arab Spring.
Essentially, Italy sees the recognition of new regimes as a decision best analyzed from specific aspects. The old regime’s cooperation with the international community, the viability of the old regime to uphold itself militarily, and the popularity and coordination of the new regime are all important aspects for review in government recognition.
