Topic: Determining the Legitimacy of Secession Movements and Obligations of Parent States
Country: Rwanda
Delegate Name: Lauren Brewer
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All Rwanda position papers GLIMUN 2016 committees
Oftentimes, in periods of political unrest, part of a state separates from its parent state. Although secession can cause an advancement in geopolitical borders and nation-building, it commonly comes along with civil war and uprisings. Even if the situation starts peaceful, there are many other issues such as currency and treaties to be settled, defining borders, and sustaining the economy. Nowadays, it is easier for the seceded states to be validated; memberships into organizations, such as the UN, help to legitimize the states and the universal agreement for new states is that they are self-determined and adhere to international laws.
Secession movements are not currently an issue in Rwanda. Nothing has been done about secession since Rwanda and Burundi’s independence from Belgium in 1962, but that independence was more on Belgium's behalf and Rwanda did not technically secede. We have been known to support new independent nations. However, if the movements cause harm to people, Rwanda would not support it, as Rwanda strives to be a peaceful nation.
Rwanda recommends that the issues of secession are left to the specific states involved. If secession benefits the parent state and new independent state, then the state should be allowed to secede. Also, if the new independent state is willing to follow the universal agreement of being self-determined, to adhere to international laws, and be self-sufficient in its own economy, then the state should be allowed to secede. Rwanda would not like to take a personal role in this issue, nor do we believe the UN should take role, unless secession movement becomes violent and threatens to send harm to people.
