Topic: Rights of Accused
Country: Benin
Delegate Name: Harrison Greenleaf
School: Williamston High School
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All Benin position papers GLIMUN 2015 committees
Every nation around the globe has a few things in common, one of which being crime. It does not matter whether a country is wealthy or poor, developed or developing there is still crime. While crime might be a common factor for society, each nation has different policies and justice systems. An issue that has developed since the ratification of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is how countries should treat those accused of a crime. Even though there are clear guidelines within the Declaration, many have argued that it infringes on national sovereignty. Multiple reports have illustrated the disregard that states have when it comes to fulfilling the guidelines the Declaration has set. Horrible stories of injustice and abuse are starting to show that even the most basic of rights are being abridged in the name of the protection of the state. One of the most controversial reports being about Torture. In Article 5 of Universal Declaration of Human Rights, it directly prohibits any form of torture. Yet, even nations who are the utmost supporters of the document have admitted to using torture. As a global community, the United Nations and the Human Rights Council must address these alarming issues. There has to plan which will either enforce the Declaration within nations’ borders or revise it entirely.
Benin deeply cares about this issue as it is our duty to uphold the protection of all people, even those who are accused of a crime. Our constitution affirms those rights that are stated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Article 18 of the Benin constitution condemns the torture and inhuman treatment of any person no matter the circumstances. Article 19 punishes any individual that is guilty of torture. Benin considers all people innocent until proven guilty as it is written in Article 17. We also protect the right for accused individuals to a defense and doctor while the detained. No citizens can be arrested for any crime besides the one of which they are accused of. We strive to guarantee these rights to every individual in our nation. However, it is hard for us to maintain them at a local level. There have been reports of torture and brutality by local forces for which we will not stand. Benin believes that people who are accused of a crime should be treated fairly and humanely.
Benin, as a nation that protects the rights of accused, is deeply worried about both the global community and our own country. While we strive to uphold the rights that are stated in our constitution, we do not have the man power or financial support to maintain them at a local level. Looking at other countries, this problem is not unique. Some nations simply do not have the supplies necessary to preserve the rights of the accused. This can be solved through cooperation as a global society. Allies, especially wealthy nations, must support smaller countries by providing aid. In order to affirm national sovereignty, this aid could only be monetary. However, countries must be held accountable for the use of the money. An independent organization consisting of officials with multiple nationalities could report directly to a country’s government and advise what should be done to further protect the rights of the accused. Unfortunately, there are some countries that are not willing to adopt the rights. To combat such countries, economic sanctions might be an option. As a global community, we must promote the adoption of rights to protect the accused. Unless accepted by the United Nations, there is no circumstance under which torture is acceptable. Benin will look upon the United States and France for help.
