Topic: The Situation in Israel/Palestine
Country: Belgium
Delegate Name: Zoe Atkins
School: Grand Rapids City High School
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All Belgium position papers GLIMUN 2017 committees
Belgium prides itself in its passion as a longtime member of the United Nations, collaborating with other nations to reach a shared goal of improving living quality for all people. No stranger to internal conflicts such as that between Israel and Palestine, Belgium recognizes the complexity of this issue. As is the case for most of today's modern issues, no simple or clear solution presents itself to completely remedy the tensions between these people. Yet, there are steps that should be taken to achieve progress, facilitating the ultimate goal of peace. In the spirit of Belgian compromise, we are optimistic as to how much this body can accomplish.
Political differences, conflicting religious ideology, and problematic territorial divisions have caused the suffering of innocent people within both nations. We must work together to overcome this issue despite the divide it has created between nations. Belgium has tried to remain neutral, but in several instances has had to react to misconduct from both parties, such as in the commemoration of an act of terrorism against Israel in the renaming of a Belgian-endorsed school. However, the disproportionate cruelty of Israel can no longer be denied or ignored. Most recently, Israel boldly disrespected the efforts of the European Union by destroying schools which were made possible by the combined resources and priorities of twenty-eight countries.
Prior to this, many attempts have been made to reinvigorate the peace process, but Belgium believes that this body has the potential to successfully do so. Specifically, Belgium would like to see restrictions placed on Israel, ensuring that they do not intervene in efforts to increase stability in the lives of Palestinians. In addition, mandatory negotiating meetings should be scheduled and supervised by the United Nations. We look forward to creating substantial progress and seeking paths to our common goal with the other nations of the United Nations, to act in the best interest of both Israel and Palestine.
