Topic: Building Safe Communities in Conflict Zones
Country: Russia
Delegate Name: Mitchell Plichta
School: Mattawan High School
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All Russia position papers GLIMUN 2014 committees
So long as there is war, there will be conflict zones. A priority for many nations in these situations is maintaining a healthy and stable standard of living. Those who inhabit countries such as Syria and Iraq face a number of issues in areas of conflict. Civilians are displaced because of destruction to homes and facilities; thus, refugee camps are formed outside of the area.
The federation of Russia has been assisted by many of its neighbors in reconstruction after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Many Eastern European countries aided the nation with economic support. The delegation, therefore, recognizes that it is a necessity for other states to aid those who have experienced war and the side effects of conflict.
Russia holds the view that protecting citizens from harm in combat zones is critical, but the goal is unrealistic in active combat zones. Rebuilding cities and providing for populations when there is ongoing conflict is a difficult issue. Increased intensity in violence can lead to the destruction of important buildings in communities, thus resetting any projects that may be finished by any groups attempting to aid the distressed individuals. Relief can only be granted in areas isolated and separate from combat. The issue then becomes more important in how to assist refugees who have been displaced because of conflict, and how to help nations after times of conflict. Although the Russian Federation believes that safety and necessities are paramount, the United Nations does not have unlimited resources. This committee must put into close consideration the amount of funding, and the lives that may be at risk because of independent groups during times of war. We cannot, however, simply ignore the refugee groups. Independently funded groups such as NGO’s should play a significant role in assisting those who have been displaced in times of war.
Many nations simply do not have the resources to aid those in other nations who are facing war. There are much more persistent internal problems such as disease and natural disasters for nations rather than worrying about whether or not refugees hold a suitable standard of living.
