Supply Chain Stability

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Finland
Delegate Name: Ethan Han

The Republic of Finland recognizes that stable supply chains are essential for global economic
stability, food security, and sustainable development. In the wake of recent events, such as the
COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and the imminent threat of climate change, the
underlying vulnerabilities of our current supply chains have been exposed. As one of the most
committed nations to multilateralism, sustainability, and technological innovation, Finland calls
for a global effort to reinforce the resilience of supply chains.
Finland proposes that these challenges be addressed through a combination of short-term and
long-term measures, focusing specifically on sustainability and collaboration. Finland, therefore,
campaigns for putting up a Global Supply Chain Resilience Framework under the United
Nations for the occurrence of crises in supply chains. Also by In enhancing real-time download
and analysis of tracking and prediction of merchandise, an advance such as the adoption of
blockchain and Artificial Intelligence shall be supported. Digital infrastructure should be grown to
reduce inefficiencies and increase transparency throughout the supply chain. Finland tends to
use the advances of its technological developments for the purposes of building capacity
worldwide. Those planning should use resources for construction of robust infrastructure e.g.
road and rail systems before thinking of anything else. Regional and international strategies that
can be implemented to fight severe weather effects. And should regard development in low-
income countries.
As a technologically advanced nation and one that fosters international connection, Finland
remains committed to fostering global supply chain stability. By shooting for a solution built
around inclusivity and innovation, Finland strives to enhance supply chain resilience while
allowing for economic growth. Indeed, it is time for the SPECPOL committee to make these
critical challenges and make sure that supply chains are not a weakness but a stabilizing force
in the world.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Mikey Beusse

Committee: Specpol
Topic: Supply Chain Stability
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate: Mikey Beusse (East Grand Rapids)

The supply chain has shown to be extremely fragile. Recently, due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the supply chain has become less sustainable: reducing stockpiles and changing how the world will handle labor and shipping during epidemics. Additionally, the conflict concerning the Russian Federation and Ukraine as well as in the South China Sea have made an impact on delivering necessary goods to other countries, both developing and developed. With other problems such as the Suez Canal obstruction and certain acts of slowing down the manufacturing and transportation of goods, the supply chain is currently extremely delicate.
The United Kingdom plays a crucial role in the supply chains of the world, yet faces the same challenges as other countries. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities concerning goods in our healthcare system, food, and electronics. There were extreme delays in the transportation of essential goods because of manufacturing issues due to labor shortages. The United Kingdom’s relations with the South China Sea and Russia show geopolitical tensions that affect how our supply chain moves. We are also greatly affected by natural disasters which affect the trade routes taken when transporting goods internationally. We have taken many measures to improve our supply chain, however. The UK government has taken steps for improvement: investing in port infrastructure, working with the private sector to improve the logistics system, and increasing the diversity of our suppliers.
The measures that have been taken by the UN have not been effective. Their main action has been educating companies to strengthen their supply chains. It is important to educate the companies, but it is not nearly enough to strengthen the crumbling supply chains of the world. There needs to be more action taken by everybody.
The United Kingdom thinks that many changes could be made to improve the global supply chains. By investing in more technology and innovation, manufacturing and transportation can become more efficient and streamlined. Higher quality technology would make it so events such as pandemics or natural events would not make as big an impact on the supply chain. The UK also would recommend supporting the developing economies of the world. International development aid would help strengthen their supply chains for essential goods such as medicine, food, and technology. There is a lot we can do to combat this issue.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Sierra Leone
Delegate Name: Adelaide Woltil

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Sierra Leone
Delegate Name: Adelaide Woltil

Adelaide Woltil
The Republic of Sierra Leone
Supply Chain Stability
Special Political Committee
Forest Hills Central High School

COVID-19 unequivocably shook confidence in national trade and the long-term functionality of our deep-rooted reliance on the supply chain. The issue in the supply chain caused by the COVID-19 outbreak was due to a lack of workers, exponential growth in demand, and a lack of safe and reliable transportation under the threat of a widespread virus. Some of these issues can be seen through the lack of toilet paper in the U.S. due to overconsumption in fear of running out. This same thing occurred on a global scale with numerous products, bankrupting some companies and majorly wounding workers who were put out of jobs. In early April 2020, the UN created the COVID-19 Supply Chain Taskforce, coordinated by the World Health Organization (WHO), to help ease the transportation and production of essential goods. This included helping to have medical necessities and supplies delivered internationally and biochemical testing done to ensure safety without the transfer of disease (Supply Chain Taskforce). The five essential parts of the supply chain are planning, sourcing, manufacturing, transporting, and distributing goods, and without all five parts functioning and operating smoothly with precautionary measures in place for potential incidents, the chain becomes susceptible to breakdowns and hitches in the process that hinder, manufacturers, consumers, and nations as well as the global economy (Supply Chain Sustainability).

As a strong mining and agriculturally based nation, Sierra Leone mainly exports minerals, diamonds specifically, and crops, cocoa and coffee being the largest agricultural exports. After our nation’s civil war from 1991 to 2002, we struggled with a prolonged period of economic hardship. Our mineral exports allowed us to gain revenue and slowly build our GDP through exports and trade. COVID-19 incapacitated much of the production and exporting facets of our system and hindered us significantly in trade while capping our revenue due to our inability. The pandemic resulted in delayed deliveries, reduced production, and the total halt of some output due to lockdowns and restrictions. The initial lockdowns also led to a rush to secure water supply and an increase in demand for essential goods, but due to breakdowns in the supply chain we were unable to efficiently deliver these goods. Sierra Leone is highly susceptible to massive declines in the economy and an increase in poverty due to the volatile state of the nation after both the civil war and COVID-19, so measures to ensure no breakdowns as significant as those during COVID are strongly desirable (Sierra Leone: Selected Issues).

Sierra Leone proposes that we individually strengthen each process of the supply chain to ensure that it functions smoothly as an entity and doesn’t result in massive breakdowns, as seen during COVID. For planning, we propose that businesses have a mandatory program in place in case of emergencies that assures workers’ jobs to help halt unemployment rates, capping out prices to ensure that essential goods will be necessary at a reasonable price, and a bankruptcy plan where essential businesses can rely on government stipends to stay in business under times of stress. Sierra Leone encourages the UN to implement policies to regulate rises and falls in the economy that affect the supply chain, such as reinforcing exports and imports to keep the global trade economy strong and lowering unemployment rates to help the working class adversely affected by global breakdowns. Diversification of production and trading is also necessary to ensure that the same hindering reliability during COVID-19 doesn’t occur again, given that another crisis adversely affects the economy and the global state. Assuring high standards, reasonable prices, safe methods of production and trade, and regulating economic dips will help ensure that the supply chain remains stable through times of international emergency and help the overall global economy for the bettering of all nations.

Sources:
United Nations COVID-19 Response
https://www.un.org/en/coronavirus/supply-chain-and-covid-19-un-rushes-move-vital-equipment-frontlines#:~:text=In%20early%20April%2C%20the%20United,equipment%20like%20ventilators%20and%20oxygen
United Nations Global Compact Supply Chain Sustainability
https://unglobalcompact.org/what-is-gc/our-work/supply-chain
IMF Library: Sierra Leone: Selected Issues
https://www.elibrary.imf.org/view/journals/002/2022/260/article-A003-en.xml#:~:text=In%20Sierra%20Leone%2C%20the%20pandemic,(Komeh%20and%20Sesay%202021).

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Canada
Delegate Name: Shriya Nallan Chakravarthi

The 21st century showcased to the world just how fragile our supply chain has been. Sharp vulnerabilities have been brought to light in global supply chains–from grains to semiconductors to manufacturing chemicals. Exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tension, and environmental disasters, these challenges have underlined the urgent need for resilient, efficient systems that support global commerce and security, while continuing to keep low prices.
Canada holds a crucial role in trade, innovation, and multilateral cooperation. Canada’s government is committed to resilient, sustainable, and diversified supply chain systems that can meet the future tests of pandemics, wars, and natural calamities. By leveraging excellence in logistics, advanced technologies, and global collaboration, Canada is determined to reinforce global supply chains for everyone’s benefit. Firstly, Canada advocates for strategic investments in infrastructure and technology to reduce inefficiencies and improve reliability. The National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF) modernizes transportation networks and reduces bottlenecks to ensure the seamless movement of goods. As for technology, AI-powered forecasting through Scale AI is effective in improving supply chain transparency and scaling. To mitigate risks and minimize waste, investment is crucial. Secondly, diversification is paramount in reducing reliance. Canada’s extensive trade agreements, such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), facilitate access to alternative markets and foster resilient sourcing strategies. Encouraging businesses to adopt regional supply hubs will decrease dependency on single points of failure and enhance global supply chain resilience. However, none of this is possible until corporations use these practices. Thus, Canada emphasizes the importance of public-private partnerships and international cooperation to reinforce supply chains against global disruptions. By collaborating with the United Nations, national governments, and private industry, Canada fully supports the development of frameworks for risk management, strategic reserves, and disaster response. These efforts must be complemented by sustainability initiatives, such as the Net Zero Accelerator, to ensure that supply chains are environmentally resilient.

The Dominion of Canada urges the committee to emphasize sustainable and diversified solutions to global supply chain instability. Canada promotes international cooperation in leveraging innovation and investment in resilience toward the protection of supply chains from future vulnerabilities. Increased funds and investment in better transportation, efficient practices, business incentives, and global risks, if tackled, would protect not only the flow of vital goods but also economic stability and improved quality of life globally.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Ghana
Delegate Name: Breck Suvedi

Special Political Committee
Supply Chain Stability
Ghana
Breck Suvedi
Forest Hills Northern

The Republic of Ghana recognizes that the global supply chain is vital for the global economy’s stability and resilience against global disruptions. Over the past few years, there have been many challenges in the stability of the supply chain. For a developing country nation like Ghana, disruptions in the supply chain have had major repercussions. These disruptions in the supply chain stability led to food insecurities and affected our industrial output and overall economic stability. Ghana believes in building a transparent, resilient, and inclusive supply chain that addresses the needs of developing nations. As a country that just came out of being in a massive crisis a couple of years ago, Ghana has done an awesome job coming out of that economic slump. Ghana was headed down the wrong path. There were very high interest rates, along with a very low confidence of foreign investors which led to a period of inflation and debt for Ghana. Ghana now is on the right track because they are increasing their interest rates, and deflating their currency, which inflates the value of their currency.

As a country with a growing economy, Ghana relies heavily on the global supply chain for key products such as medical supplies, agricultural inputs, and energy resources. Disruptions in these supply chains have massive consequences on the economy of Ghana. Ghana is committed to working with the United Nations to establish solutions that will ensure long-term supply chain stability for the benefit of all countries, especially lower and middle-income nations. The biggest supply chain instability that has recently affected Ghana has been the conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine. This conflict has led to a major supply chain instability. This conflict along with COVID-19, has led to a 40% inflation gain in Ghana and a 55% decrease in its currency value. Many other smaller and middle-income nations have also felt similar effects from similar events and want justice. while some of the bigger nations have not felt the effects of these events because many of the major corporations funding the stuff are from the big countries, and the companies help their home country before going to help smaller Nations such as Ghana and others. For example, fuel prices spiked 150% in 2022 in Ghana. The war in Russia has led to many shortages in sustenance for the people in Ghana. as the prices of cooking oil, wheat, and fertilizers have all increased majorly because you can’t use the major exporter since they’re in a war, they have no longer been able to export goods. Organizations like the IMF have been able to mitigate these effects and have greatly helped going back to a place where they can trade on the global scale.

Ghana is not just sitting on the sidelines in this fight for supply chain stability, but instead, on the front lines for the fight. Ghana is now building up lots of infrastructure to help decrease the reliability of the supply chain. Furthermore, they’re also farming many of their Foods so they don’t rely on countries like Ukraine which are currently unstable to get those goods. However, they can’t be fully away from the global supply chain because many technological products are only made in big Westernized factories. The IMF has been a prominent donor to these projects. Countries who are willing should provide funds for these projects.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Israel
Delegate Name: Chloe Falkenstern

The State of Israel, like other nations worldwide, has been adversely affected by the changes and consequences in supply chains. Changes have originated from many different places, such as the COVID-19 pandemic to the exports from the South China Sea. From agricultural exports to high-tech solutions, Israel’s economy relies on a robust supply network of both imports and exports for government, individual, and corporate consumption. Disruption in supply chains caused by various factors leaves Israel susceptible to risks in both resilience and international standing. Consequently, Israel supports the reform of supply chains for the good of both its people and the international community.

Supply chains have been in jeopardy for many different years, due to various factors such as international events and global pandemics. These disruptions have left a deep-rooted impact on the stability and accessibility of what can be considered crucial for a country’s well being. In early 2019, the first reports of COVID arose, described as a “pneumonia-like” condition in which patients suffered immensely. When it continued to spread, numerous countries involved in economic production shut down, such as China and the United States. The effect of this global crisis caused individual firms to close, and the diversification of the products that the market needed were unavailable for consumption. In tandem, consumers were unable to get basic products and necessities, and spending overall decreased as a result. Israel’s overall gross domestic product decreased by 2.61% in 2020 alone, which is directly related to the aftershocks of COVID-19. Additionally, disruptions within physical trade routes, such as the Suez Canal and security of shipping through trade routes, pose threats to international trade. The Houthi Rebels in Yemen lay waste to many different ships, and are an active aggressor in our conflict against the terrorist organization of Hamas. Instability in regions such as the Middle East, South America, and the South China Sea cause uncertainty about the availability of manufactured goods. Weather-driven and natural disaster events cause disruptions and reduce the availability to export goods.

Israel is not an exception to these conflicts, and as a power that relies on imports for different products, we have felt much of the burden that is imposed on countries involved in international trade. We are a country that is not abundantly blessed with natural resources, and unlike our neighbors, Israel is one of the most reliant countries on imports due to its barren environment. We are put in a similar disposition to the countries of Liechtenstein, which only has resources of water and gravel, Singapore, with close to no forests and little agricultural lands, and South Korea, a country struggling with the aging of laborers in the countryside and has little natural resources. With heavy reliance on surrounding countries for oil, such as Azerbaijan, and countries such as Switzerland for food, we rely on many different supply chains to supply necessary goods and services to our citizens. The breakdowns in a singular supply chain plagues the production process and limits the availability of these goods to any country. Israel is a global power, both politically and economically. We advocate for the diversification of supply chains, from both countries and types of production. As of 2024, Israel is a global leader in the advancement of new technologies, namely in the realm of artificial intelligence and military development. As such, we support the use of artificial intelligence in the production process, and believe by weaving it into our status quo, the United Nations will produce a more robust and resilient system that will prosper into the future. Furthermore, we believe that putting an end to regional conflicts perpetrated by aggressor groups is a key in the success of such supply chains. Maritime security is threatened due to these factors, and we believe that it is essential to rectify these situations. While this may be the case, the government of Israel emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing these situations, with the instigator of these conflicts taking responsibility and accountability for what they have caused.

As a global power with both political and economic influence, Israel views supply chain stability as the cornerstone of economic and national security. By leveraging and allowing for an influx of technological expertise, diversifying trade partners, and fostering global cooperation, we strive to fortify the once-broken supply chain system. Israel, as a global trade force, continues to remain committed to proactive measures that enhance stability, efficiency, and innovation for these very problems.

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Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Viet Nam
Delegate Name: PJ Valeros

The supply chain can be defined as the comprehensive management of the flow of goods, data, and finances associated with a product or service. This process extends from the initial procurement of raw materials, through various stages of production and distribution. This intricate web of activities plays a critical role in ensuring that products are produced efficiently, delivered on time, and ultimately meet the demands of consumers. However, recent events have highlighted the vulnerabilities within global supply chains. Shortages of labor, compounded by increasingly prevalent inefficiencies, have put immense pressure on businesses to adapt. The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has been particularly severe, causing widespread disruptions that affected global production levels. Facilities experienced shutdowns, transport links were severed, and workforce shortages emerged as significant challenges. Additionally, unforeseen incidents such as the 2021 obstruction of the Suez Canal illustrated just how susceptible supply chains are to global events. This particular incident alone caused a ripple effect across various industries, delaying shipments and increasing costs worldwide. In response to these challenges, the United Nations has made a strong call to action, emphasizing the need for companies to prioritize sustainability throughout their entire supply chain. The UN encourages organizations to establish sustainability as a core value. This alignment can lead to innovative solutions that not only address current problems but also prepare businesses for future uncertainties, ensuring that supply chains remain robust and consistent.

Vietnam’s strategic position in Southeast Asia, bordered by significant markets and trade routes, plays a crucial role in its attractiveness for export-focused manufacturing. The country benefits from low international freight costs, making it easier and cheaper for companies to ship goods to global markets, as well as a large labor pool that is both abundant and low-wage. However, Vietnam heavily relies on imports from China for various manufacturing needs. This reliance can create vulnerabilities in times of tension or supply chain disruption. The infrastructure in Vietnam is still considered underdeveloped, which can hamper efficiency in logistics and transport. Vietnam’s participation in APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) aligns with its goals to facilitate trade and strengthen economic ties with other member economies. APEC promotes free trade and economic cooperation, aiming to ensure that goods move freely across borders. This membership is significant as it opens up opportunities for Vietnam to enhance its trade relationships, attract investments, and participate actively in shaping regional economic policies. Moreover, political tensions in the South China Sea have had a pronounced impact on Vietnam’s trade dynamics. The territorial disputes with China have influenced Vietnam’s import-export strategies and relationships with other countries. These tensions can lead to uncertainty, prompting Vietnam to diversify its trading partners and reduce dependency on China to safeguard its economic interests.

Vietnam has recognized the importance of sustainability in its development agenda. As the country continues to expand its manufacturing and export activities, it acknowledges that sustainable practices are essential for long-term economic viability and environmental protection. This commitment to sustainability aligns with global trends and consumer preferences, positioning Vietnam favorably in the modern marketplace. Vietnam aims to solidify its role as a key player in the global supply chain while embracing sustainable development.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Chile
Delegate Name: Anastasia Placanica

Chile knows how important stable and efficient supply chains are for keeping the global economy strong and helping people live better lives. Problems like COVID-19, political conflicts, and natural disasters have shown just how fragile supply chains can be and why it’s so important to fix these weaknesses. As a country that’s deeply involved in global trade, Chile is ready to face these challenges and work toward stronger, more sustainable supply chains.

The COVID-19 pandemic threw international supply chains into chaos, showing issues with how goods are moved and workers are managed. Political problems, like the Russia-Ukraine war and fights over the South China Sea, have made it even harder to move essential items like grains and semiconductors. On top of that, natural disasters like earthquakes and storms keep damaging key infrastructure. Events like the 2021 Suez Canal blockage proved how one small problem can mess up trade worldwide.

For Chile, supply chains are especially important since the country is a big exporter of things like copper, wine, and fruit. It also relies on imports for other goods. Chile’s location, dependence on shipping routes, and frequent natural disasters make keeping supply chains strong a top priority.

Chile has already taken steps to help with this. At home, it’s improving ports and making customs easier to navigate. It’s also got plans for dealing with trade disruptions caused by natural disasters, which happen a lot because of earthquakes. Internationally, Chile is part of groups like the UN and APEC, working on trade and supply chain stability. It believes balancing economic growth with protecting the environment is the way to go.

Chile thinks global teamwork is key. Countries, businesses, and organizations like the UN need to work together to create better systems for managing supply chains. Building more sustainable infrastructure worldwide can also make a huge difference. Setting up global rules to fix inefficiencies and cut down on waste would help keep goods moving even in a crisis. Chile also suggests starting a special fund for projects that strengthen supply chains, especially in areas hit hard by natural disasters or political problems.

Finally, lessons from COVID-19 should be used to prepare for future health emergencies. This means stocking up on critical supplies and figuring out alternative ways to transport goods when the usual routes aren’t working. Chile is ready to do its part to help make all this happen.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Venezuela
Delegate Name: Rekshitha Rajeshkumar Sharmila

There are some widespread threats to supply chains for essential products and goods in the twenty-first century. Supply chains for grains, semiconductors, and critical goods that manufacture chemicals have been threatened by events around the world, labor shortages, and inefficiencies in the way the supply chains are managed. This COVID-19 pandemic brought devastating and long-lasting disruptions to international supply chains, depleting stockpiles of important goods and forever changing the ways businesses deploy labor and transport goods during epidemics. Moreover, conflicts and political tensions-including those between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, and in the South China Sea-endanger supplies of key goods to the developed and developing worlds. Natural disasters, including earthquakes, hurricanes, and tropical storms, further interfere with shipping capabilities and destroy key facilities. Events like the 2021 obstruction of the Suez Canal and inefficiencies in rail accentuate the vulnerabilities in maintaining the transport of goods. The role that stable supply chains have for global economic stability and quality of life underlines the importance of these problems being addressed.
Venezuela is conscious that stable supply chains are paramount, considering the country’s great reliance on importation for staples and the fact that it needs solid pathways of exportation for its oil and other commodities. The economic impact felt within the country due to disruptions in global supply chains has made addressing the vulnerabilities paramount. Domestically, steps have been taken to facilitate the streamlining of logistics and the promotion of efficient port infrastructure. Internationally, Venezuela has participated in dialogues and agreements aimed at enhancing supply chain resilience, including supporting United Nations initiatives focused on sustainable supply chain practices. The country is a member of various organizations that address supply chain issues and has actively participated in conventions and treaties aimed at global economic stability.
Venezuela will propose a multi-dimensional approach toward stability in global supply chains, improving coordination among the United Nations, national governments, and businesses in a way that could strengthen supply chains and make them safer through new business practices. Venezuela proposes that agreements between nations be established to eliminate unnecessary inefficiencies in supply chains that create waste. There is also a need for strategies to enhance resilience against events from around the world: pandemics, wars, and natural disasters. Specifically, he has called for a global fund to deal with supply chain resilience projects, more investment in infrastructure, and the establishment of international standards regarding supply chain management. Venezuela urges the international community to focus on these priorities as one key issue: stable, reliable supply chains underpin global economic stability and improvement in living standards around the world.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Japan
Delegate Name: Isabella Frederick

In recent years, with the Russian Federation and Ukraine crisis, COVID-19, and various other reasons for inefficiency, the supply chain has been under a severe threat. Many things have the capability of creating instability in the supply chain. Natural disasters and an inability to keep up with demands has also added onto this unfortunate stability of the supply chain. Along with this, globalization has created a global economy that would suffer greatly from this supply chain instability which could have effects worldwide both economically and socially.

Japan is deeply concerned about the ability for this to affect people globally. and believes that it is essential this issue is dealt with immediately. Japan is currently involved and investing in infrastructure and technology that can reduce the risks, effects, and insufficiency of the supply chain. Japan also supports the United Nations in their efforts to promote supply chain stability as well. Japan is committed to finding a way to resolve these issues as soon as possible as this is a great threat to economies across the world. Although many economies could survive this supply chain instability, there are many nations who could not survive this sort of event. Japan plans on also continuing to be involved in programs that have a direct, positive impact on the supply chain and its ability to function.

To address these challenges Japan wishes to seek various ways that the supply chain can be stabilized through investing in infrastructure and technology that directly improves supply chain conditions. Along with this Japan wants to promote behaviors that improve the supply chain as well through digital platforms and networks. Disruptions to global supply chains have become a greater and greater risk throughout recent years and Japan believes that it is time for this to be resolved.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Russian Federation
Delegate Name: Christian Boyce

Committee: Special Political Committee
Topic: Supply Chain Stability
Country: Russian Federation
Delegate: Christian Boyce
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Supply chains have become an important part of geopolitical relations, especially with the development of a multipolar war. However, in recent years, tensions such as the COVID-19 pandemic, disputes over the South China Sea, and the Russian Federation’s 2022 special military operation have affected the stability of supply chains across the world. Additionally, natural phenomena such as waterway congestion, earthquakes, and storms threaten supply chain security. The issue is one of great urgence for the international community.
The Russian Federation has relied on supply chains with nations across the world for both  the importation and exportation of resources. Recently, Western economic sanctions were placed on Russia caused by its special operation in 2022. In response, the Russian Federation has transitioned to trading with other nations. As a member of the BRICS, the Russian Federation has close economic and political ties with all members, and seeks to diversify trade partners and reduce reliance on Western nations.
The United Nations has created plans to increase supply chain stability. The 2024 Global Supply Chain Forum held in Barbados created principles and initiatives for nations to follow to increase the security of and improve global supply chains. These efforts were largely focused on the modernization of supply chains, involving moves toward more clean energy sources, digitization, and enhancing infrastructure to support developing nations
The Russian Federation is a firm supporter of international stability and sovereignty. As such, the country wishes to work with the United Nations to increase the stability, efficiency, facilitation, and modernization of supply chains, while respecting national sovereignty. Nations should allow their organizations to operate freely while supporting supply chains as they exist. Additionally, Russia supports all nations’ diversification of trade relations to maintain their economic security. The Federation encourages an approach that is respectful to all nations’ sovereignty and allows for trade to be conducted efficiently and effectively to create a more secure economic environment for all nations.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Ecuador
Delegate Name: Talia McCollum

Supply chain stability is the capability of a supply chain to operate fluently, proficiently, and anticipated under standard conditions in addition to unplanned upsets. In recent years, Ecuador has been making progress in modifying its economic base. The government has attempted to promote agriculture and tourism, and it has boosted the economy for the better. The distribution of bananas, palm oil, cacao, roses, and shrimp has made Ecuador one of the leading exporters of these categories in the world. Before, Ecuador could only rely on its petroleum oil and natural resources for their exports and GDP, yet, the constant changes in oil prices have made Ecuador very vulnerable to external factors. 
However, Ecuador’s economy is planned to slow down, which would severely affect its GDP (around 62%). This projection of the economy slowing is due to increasing gang violence and drug smuggling. What initially sparked this was the escape of the country’s main criminal group in January 2024. This particular prison escape has triggered a chain of terrorist attacks on the government. These attacks have forced the Noboa government to approve a VAT ( a consumption tax assessed on the value added in each production stage of a good or service) increase to fund law enforcement to fight against crime in Ecuador. 
Ecuador’s economy still faces challenges every day. These struggles contribute to its combination of structural fragility, external factors, and political uncertainty. Accumulating a large debt from organizations, like China, limits the government’s ability to put money towards in-need sectors like healthcare and education. Ecuador’s inability to implement a long-term policy has conjured corruption, and efficient governance throughout the whole country. Although being an oil country, Ecuador still struggles with expressive social inequality. Many rural communities don’t have access to basic everyday necessities which limits economic growth and productivity. 
Ecuador is in a semi-active/sensitive region. This makes Ecuador susceptible to droughts, floods, and earthquakes. Any of these events, which almost occur often, will rupture Ecuador’s agriculture and infrastructure, therefore straining the economy from potential growth and productivity.
Ecuador proposes a multilateral strategy to stabilize global supply chains. Using a multilateral system could help emphasize sustainability, fairness, and perseverance from any external factors. Such as the United Nations and the World Bank, could overall boost developing countries like Ecuador, in general. As Ecuador is still a developing country, diversifying export markets could open up alliances and reduce the dependence on a few trading partners. 
Ecuador is home to exquisite destinations that are renowned around the world such as the Amazon Rainforest, The Andes Mountains, and the Galapagos Islands. Tourism contributes to a high extent to Ecuador’s economic development besides agriculture. Ecuador’s culture is natural and rich making it a primary destination for tourism, and by investing in this eco-friendly tourism infrastructure, the beautiful country can share its story with travelers. In conclusion, Ecuador is capable of so many things to help its economy by encouraging regional trade partnerships, investing in tourism, and using its natural resources efficiently. Ecuador can unlock its full potential to everyone by improving the quality of life for its citizens and tourists.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: China
Delegate Name: Alexandra Pryplesh

In recent decades, as the global economy has grown to unprecedented heights, driven by free trade and an increasingly globalized world, supply chains have come under threat. In instances like the war in Ukraine, oil and wheat from the region became suddenly unavailable and the entire world felt the shockwaves. With climate change’s impact only becoming more pernicious as years go on, and the impossibility of another global crisis on the scale of the pandemic never assured, it is likely that our economy will experience ever greater supply chain struggles. As a market becomes unable to count on a supplier, leading to delays and shortages to consumers, faith in our economy is eroded and issues multiply. The root causes of these supply chain disruptions, such as conflict and climate change, are serious topics for the UN to concern itself with, but as they are dealt with, their immediate negative effects on our global economy must be mitigated. So far, the UN has tackled this issue through education raising initiatives, and left it largely as an issue for private companies. However, this is a global supply chain issue, and as such must be addressed through a global lens as only the UN is capable.

Through enterprises such as China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), China has put supply chain stability front and center of its economic vision, and has projected its goals across the world through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). As the BRI seeks to interconnect the globe through development of trade routes across continents, its work improves efficiency in every corner of the market, speeding the trade slowed by supply chain inefficiencies and fueling the infrastructure that is the foundation of these supply chains. The World Bank projects a 12% reduction in trade travel times and up to a 9.7% increase in trade, lifting millions from poverty, all as a result of China’s investment. Just as China has approached the BRI with zeal and ambition, the international community must approach supply chain stability efforts.

The UN must encourage, through a standard framework, the efforts of companies to improve the stability of their supply chain. The usefulness of such efforts is made ever greater by a potential global response and demand for improved efficiency across countries and continents. Specific suggested actions for these companies can be recommended, such as diversifying suppliers and increasing the prevalence of transparency and risk reducing business practices. As the world progresses, advances in technology also have the potential to improve efficiency and predictability, allowing companies to broaden their management capabilities. Countries across the world must also invest greatly in their own infrastructure projects to diversify avenues for trade, as China has consistently promoted as an essential next step for global development. For developing countries, this kind of investment can yield exponential growth, but is near impossible without aid, which this committee can provide through collaboration and negotiation. By taking full account of the state of supply chains, not allowing them to be obscured by their complexity, problems can be dealt with earlier and mitigated more effectively.

Works Cited:
“Applying the Law of the Sea to Protect International Shipping.” United Nations, United Nations, www.un.org/en/un-chronicle/applying-law-sea-protect-international-shipping. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.
Author links open overlay panelHau L. Lee a, et al. “Supply Chain and Logistics Innovations with the Belt and Road Initiative.” Journal of Management Science and Engineering, Elsevier, 29 May 2020, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2096232020300251.
“China Pledges to Ensure Stability of Global Industrial, Supply Chains.” Xinhua, english.news.cn/20241125/aea87f6dc6164086acc319d384f395e5/c.html. Accessed 27 Nov. 2024.
“China’s Massive Belt and Road Initiative.” Council on Foreign Relations, Council on Foreign Relations, www.cfr.org/backgrounder/chinas-massive-belt-and-road-initiative. Accessed 27 Nov. 2024.
Eleftherios Iakovou, Chelsea C. White III, et al. “Six Ways to Improve Global Supply Chains.” Brookings, 23 June 2023, www.brookings.edu/articles/six-ways-to-improve-global-supply-chains/.
McCarthy, Simone. “China Has a Sweeping Vision to Reshape the World – and Countries Are Listening.” CNN, Cable News Network, 10 Nov. 2023, www.cnn.com/2023/11/09/china/china-xi-jinping-world-order-intl-hnk/index.html.
November 26, 2024, et al. “The European Sting Is Your Democratic, Independent and Top Quality Political Newspaper Specialized in European Union News. Unique Features: Isting & Harry Stingthe European Sting – Critical News & Insights on European Politics, Economy, Foreign Affairs, Business & Technology – Europeansting.comHow Is the War in Ukraine Impacting the Global Supply Chain?” The European Sting – Critical News & Insights on European Politics, Economy, Foreign Affairs, Business & Technology – Europeansting.Com, 6 July 2022, europeansting.com/2022/07/06/how-is-the-war-in-ukraine-impacting-the-global-supply-chain/.
“Supply Chain Stability Index.” KPMG, kpmg.com/us/en/articles/2023/supply-chain-stability-index.html. Accessed 27 Nov. 2024.
Times, Global. “GT Voice: Globalization Logic behind CISCE’s Championing of Supply Chain Stability.” Global Times, www.globaltimes.cn/page/202411/1323711.shtml. Accessed 27 Nov. 2024.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Bangladesh
Delegate Name: Joshua Foor

SPECPOL
Supply Chain Stability
Bangladesh
Mattawan High School

The supply chain is currently facing significant challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has left governments and industries struggling to recover. Global shutdowns triggered economic shocks that severely disrupted supply chains worldwide. Concurrently, COVID-related restrictions shifted consumer demand away from in-person services and toward goods at an accelerated pace. Alongside the COVID-19 issues, slowdowns in the supply chain like the 2021 Suez Canal Obstruction and transportation issues such as rail inefficiencies have left many wondering about the issues that the supply chain is currently facing and how to solve them.
The Republic of Bangladesh experienced significant challenges due to the recent COVID-19 shutdowns, severely disrupting the supply chain market. These global lockdowns brought operations to a standstill. Given Bangladesh’s reliance on the export of low-value finished products, the negative repercussions were felt throughout the economy, stunting its development.
In light of recent political challenges in Bangladesh, the country’s transportation networks have experienced significant slowdowns, leading to delays in shipments. Bangladesh exports around $47 billion worth of garments annually to international clients. Any potential sanctions or trade restrictions could have a profound impact on the economy. Consequently, The People’s Republic of Bangladesh’s interim leaders must maintain a diplomatic balance with Western and Central Asian nations and align itself with China, India, and Russia due to its reliance on these countries for raw materials and parts to produce goods and services. In addition, the transportation infrastructure challenges of Bangladesh cause them to support those countries that provide goods to them, including China, India, and Russia.
The Republic of Bangladesh stands with China, Russia, and India because of their importance in supplying raw goods to Bangladesh’s economy. Bangladesh would support a solution that maintains its strong relations with countries that support them, but also one that provides political stability.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Estonia
Delegate Name: James Zawacki

Special Political Committee
Supply Chain Stability
The Republic of Estonia
James Zawacki
Forest Hills Eastern High School

Supply chains have recently taken massive blows in terms of labor shortages and inefficient management. The covid-19 pandemic created a lasting effect on the global supply chain, limiting the availability of some goods, and creating huge disruptions. Political tension and conflicts between Russia, Ukraine, and South Sea China have also led to a lower availability of some critical goods. In addition to conflict, weather, and natural disasters like tropical storms and earthquakes have damaged manufacturing facilities. On the other hand, congestion of ports and transportation routes like the Suez Canal created inefficient trade and exporting. It has become all too apparent that action needs to be taken to help correct and prevent supply chain disruptions. The UN now looks to educate and help inform industries and companies on how to bolster their efficiency and stability. Estonia hopes to ensure and correct the supply chain stability, to help prevent world shortages and promote a better, more efficient economy.

Estonia has played a significant role in addressing global supply chain issues in the areas of logistics, technology, and commerce. For example, Estonia has worked on creating a strategic logistics trade and transportation Hub in the Baltic Sea region. Estonia has also invested heavily in infrastructure and transportation of goods, creating improvements to highways, ports, and airports. Estonia is very involved with electric commerce and digital trade with a turnover of about 3.54 billion euros in 2022 which accounts for 20% of retail commerce. Estonia also has a large focus on cyber security and data analytics, which provides strong innovation in the field of online trade, tracking of goods, and raising supply chain communications. In terms of collaboration and partnerships, Estonia actively works with other countries to help address and correct supply chain issues. Overall, digitalization and innovation in the fields of technology and logistics give Estonia a valuable spot in preventing and correcting supply issues.

Estonia encourages more communication and digital innovation in trade between countries. As a leader in e-commerce, Estonia can advise on the benefits and uses of technology in trade and government and how to use it effectively to help regulate the supply chain. Estonia would also push for an improvement in cyber security as it has dealt with past attacks and can help give more security to the global supply chain through its innovations. Finally, Estonia believes a push for more communication between suppliers and countries could lead to less congestion and more effective and efficient trade around the world.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Austria
Delegate Name: Adilyn Petros

A new regulatory framework with regards to supply chains, especially the EU Supply Chain Act, is being introduced by the European Union to which Austria belongs.

The legal framework being pursued by Austria and the EU aims at making companies more responsible for human rights and environmental standards within their supply chains. The initiative aims to put companies under a regulatory spotlight, making sure they compel their suppliers to uphold ethical, environmental, and labor standards. Companies will be expected to proactively identify and mitigate risks in their supply chains, reporting on due diligence efforts and rectifying any violations they uncover.

It is with regard to human rights and environmental impacts that the act will force businesses to adopt a risk management approach, shifting the responsibility from the individual state to the corporation. In addition, the act demands public disclosure of such practices for more scrutiny by different stakeholders, including NGOs, consumers, and regulatory bodies.

Austria, as a member of the UN, has an opportunity to contribute to global supply chain governance through international cooperation and alignment with UN frameworks. Austria has a longstanding tradition of supporting international human rights and environmental initiatives, and this position could be instrumental in advancing supply chain due diligence at a global scale.

The UN has already taken on efforts toward corporate responsibility, like the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. These principles insist that companies respect human rights and undertake due diligence procedures to make sure their operations are not found to cause actual or potential harm to the community or the environment. This could typically include Austria’s encouragement of EU businesses to show consistency with UN standards, technical assistance to countries with less-developed regulatory infrastructures, and facilitating communication between corporations and society.

It is through membership in the UN that Austria has an avenue to act on the need for standards on human rights and sustainability into international trade agreements and can facilitate sharing best practices. This role is important, as global supply chains have become highly interconnected, and Austria’s involvement in multilateral forums can help ensure both EU regulations and UN principles are upheld across borders.

Over all, Austria is in a position to use its position within the EU to advocate for the harmonization of regulations between EU member states and UN initiatives. By supporting global supply chain standards, Austria can help create a level playing field for businesses where ethical sourcing will become the rule rather than the exception. Its commitment to sustainability and human rights places the country in a very strategic position to have its voice heard in international deliberations, especially in supply chains characterized by manufacture, agriculture, and technology that are not easy to trace and are liable to exploitation.

Sources:
https://www.bindergroesswang.at/en/law-blog/2023/next-step-towards-eu-supply-chain-act.
https://ascii.ac.at/news/making-disruptions-in-global-supply-chains-visible/

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Afghanistan
Delegate Name: Cosmo Steffke

Cosmo Steffke
The Roeper School
Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan
Special Political Committee (SPECPOL)

As it stands currently, supply chains internationally are struggling to complete their tasks as needed. Between wars and regional conflicts, natural disasters, and supply chain inefficiencies, suppliers have not been able to keep up with increased demand and increasingly difficult conditions. As products are becoming harder to receive, it has a direct toll on national economies in the form of inflation, supply insecurity, and interdependency between companies leading to even more supply chain disruptions.

The delegation of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan would like to bring to attention its struggles with supply chain issues, with healthcare systems in shambles trying to receive life-depending medications from receiving countries, Taliban takeover causing an increase of already one of the worst food insecurity crisis in the world, and the climate crisis with the funding crisis only intensifying an already bad situation. Even though many countries have already continued to contribute aid to Afghanistan, our situation continues to degrade, and many countries are nearing the same level as well.

There is an urgent need to make our supply chains more resilient and solve some of the underlying problems affecting countries worldwide. Because many smaller problems are contributing to this crisis, a solution proposed by this committee needs to be close to all-encompassing to have any effect. Some small solutions that could contribute to our overarching goal could include diversification of supply sources to reduce the overuse of particular sources, improving demand forecasting to give suppliers more time for preparation, and improving communication between suppliers to mitigate problems that arise between interdependencies. The delegation of Afghanistan is urgent to work towards a solution with this committee.

Sources
https://www.allthingssupplychain.com/supply-chain-shortages-and-its-impact-on-manufacturing/#:~:text=Resource%20scarcity%20and%20geopolitical%20risk:%20Essential%20materials,tool%2C%20which%20can%20further%20escalate%20tensions%20and
https://www.csis.org/analysis/what-taliban-takeover-means-food-security-afghanistan
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9461608/
https://blacksmithint.com/the-taliban-takeover-effects-on-supply-chains/
https://www.wfp.org/emergencies/afghanistan-emergency
https://www.unicef.org/afghanistan/sites/unicef.org.afghanistan/files/2018-06/Optimizing%20supply%20chains%20in%20Afghanistan.pdf

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Sweden
Delegate Name: Martinson Arnan

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Sweden
Name: Martinson Arnan

Sweden, despite having a very low population (18.5 million people roughly) is a developed nation and doesn’t need to rely on the Supply Chain as much. Even though they don’t need as much help, however, they still need some help in manufacturing, technology, Consumer goods, and innovation. The efficiency and resilience of supply chains despite major events like tornados, consumers and COVID-19 have gained increased attention, Sweden, being part of the global economy, benefits from well-functioning supply chains.

Sweden, a developed nation doesn’t need the supply chain as much as countries like Algeria, Ghana, Rwanda, etc… Maybe a reason why the supply chain isn’t as needed is because they are in NATO in the E.U. Even though NATO isn’t an economic alliance, it helps countries like Sweden to save money because NATO follows the “One for all and All for one” policy. For example, If a country were to invade Sweden, (say, Russia for instance) all of the countries in NATO, would jump in to save Sweden and tell Russia to back off. This means countries like Sweden don’t have to worry about invasions or rebellions, because countries like France, Germany, Canada, The U.K., and the U.S. can all help each other out. That’s why Sweden doesn’t need to spend as much money on their military because of NATO. However, they’re also in the E.U., which is a pure economic alliance that allows European countries to grow their economies harmoniously. This is probably the reason why Sweden is a 1st world country and why they don’t need to rely on the Supply Chain for their country to survive, unlike other 2nd and 3rd world countries.

The Kingdom of Sweden, doesn’t need the supply chain as much as other countries, but the global supply chain is still relevant for Sweden’s economy: they depend on foreign imports for goods such as Oil, Machinery, Vehicles, Plastic, and Iron and they also export goods such as Computers, Vehicles, Fuels and Equipment.

Bibliography:

https://glica.org/glimun/committees/supply-chain-stability/
https://op.europa.eu/webpub/com/eu-what-it-is/en/#:~:text=The%20European%20Union%20(EU)%20is,union%20between%2027%20European%20countries.
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/decoding-first-second-third-world-countries-thepolicytank-2fgpf#:~:text=The%20countries%20that%20are%20considered,East%20Asia%20(Japan%2C%20South%20Korea

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Belarus
Delegate Name: Toby Leopold

Committee: Special Political Committee
Topic: Supply Chain Stability
Country: Belarus
Delegate Name: Toby Leopold
School: The Roeper School

The Republic of Belarus recognizes the importance of global supply chain stability. Belarus is a landlocked country with limited natural resources, bordered by Russia to the east and several European Union countries to the west. As a result, it is essential for Belarus to be involved in regional and international trade. However, Belarusian supply chains have been impacted severely in recent years by events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and other international conflicts. Since Belarus is heavily reliant on trade for economic stability, a stable supply chain is extremely important for the functioning and growth of the nation.

In response to these challenges, The Republic of Belarus has taken multiple measures ensure the stability of its supply chains. The country has invested in railroads and roads which are essential for transporting goods across borders. The country has also strengthened trade relations particularly in the EEU.

In the future, Belarus aims to stabilize supply chains through multiple different measures. The first of which is to diversify trade partners to reduce dependency on one nation. We can achieve this goal by making new trade agreements in various countries. Second, Belarus plans to continue to invest in railroads and other technology to further advance the transportation of goods.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Iran
Delegate Name: Natalie Gibbs

Islamic Republic of Iran
Supply Chain Stability

Increasing the stability of the supply chain is an important task, as every country in this committee knows well. With recent crises like the Covid-19 pandemic, Suez Canal blockage, and Israel’s acts of ethnic cleansing in the Gaza Strip, the supply chain’s weaknesses have become more and more evident. Collaborating with both big businesses and national governments and creating incentives for them to stabilize their production and exports is essential to ensure economic prosperity and high quality of life for people worldwide. However, in doing so, the SPECPOL committee must ensure that incentives and resources are distributed fairly among all countries. A stable supply chain means a supply chain that works regardless of the conflicts brewing around the world. Thus, too much favor must not be given to Western countries or countries that have aligned themselves with the West.

In the Islamic Republic of Iran, the main problem the supply chain faces is sanctions from Western countries, most prominently the United States of America. Though a wide variety of sanctions have been placed on Iran by the USA over the decades, the most recent ones have been imposed following Iran’s withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or the JCPOA. The JCPOA was created to limit Iran’s nuclear program, dismantling most of the program in exchange for relief from past sanctions. However, the USA’s President Trump withdrew from the deal, and Iran began to stop following it a year later. Despite the fact that they were the first to withdraw, the United States ramped up sanctions against Iran, claiming it was because they’d exited the deal. Since these harsh sanctions have been put in place, Iran has been forced to turn inward and invest more in local production as well as rely on other trade partners such as Russia, China, and neighboring countries like Iraq, Turkey, and the UAE. While Iran is grateful for these relationships, it recognizes that not every country being unfairly sanctioned has such resources, and their citizens shouldn’t have to suffer without essentials like food and medicines because of it. Sanctions are a huge hurdle to the stability of the supply chain.

The creation of a trade corridor regulated by the United Nations is one potential solution to the supply chain issues that exist, and Iran is heavily in favor of it. This trade corridor could strictly be used for food and medicine, but would be functional for all countries, regardless of any sanctions they might have been placed under. While this might be difficult to regulate, a devoted task force and neutral group of countries intent on monitoring the corridor and ensuring its safety could make it happen with sufficient resources. Iran also advocates for a resolution that would encourage more regional trade routes between countries in each area, increasing economic connection and mutual benefit for neighboring countries.

Additionally, this committee should emphasize the importance of investing in long-lasting infrastructure based in each country. While pouring money into furthering local production is not incredibly feasible, every nation needs to be able to turn inward and produce for its citizens for a short period of time during a crisis. The creation of more infrastructure, ideally climate-friendly and sustainable, would be ideal.

https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/what-iran-nuclear-deal
https://www.spglobal.com/commodityinsights/en/market-insights/latest-news/natural-gas/080718-us-confirms-iran-sanctions-waiver-for-azerbaijan-natural-gas-pipeline-to-turkey-europe
https://2009-2017.state.gov/documents/organization/245317.pdf

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: United States of America
Delegate Name: Samuel Solow

The United States, since its independence from Britain, has been a crucial part of the
world supply chain. The United States also created the practices and technology needed to
establish the modern supply chain, revolutionizing the global supply chain and making it what
we know it as today1
.
The Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) Port Infrastructure Development Program
(PIDP) received $2.25 billion from the bipartisan infrastructure plan to modernize and improve
port infrastructure and freight transportation to stay in line with the country’s needs2
. In
November of 2023, President Biden held the inaugural meeting of the Council on Supply Chain
Resilience. The goal of the council is to make the United States supply chain more resilient to
anything that may threaten its stability. The United States has also announced $275 million in
grant selections for its Advanced Energy Manufacturing and Recycling Grant Program to help
communities in America affected by coal mining, this will also attempt to invest in clean energy
and will help the national supply chain3
.
The White House has announced plans to build over 850 ports and waterway projects to
help strengthen the supply chain and American ports. This comes with the announcement of
$580 million to fund over 31 port improvement projects in 15 states and one US Territory. This
project will span ports in the great lakes, inland river ports, and ocean ports4. The goal is to
strengthen the American supply chain, which will in turn support the world supply chain. The
United States also hopes to accomplish lowering overall costs of the ports, creating jobs for the
ports, increasing the capacity of the ports, and increasing port-efficiency. The United States has
continually invested in the country’s supply chain stability, which in turn has made the global
supply chain much more stable, and the United States will continue to do so. The United States is
seeking to develop a global supply chain that can withstand evolving threats and can quickly
recover from anything that may disrupt it5
.
5 National Strategy for Global Supply Chain …,
4
“Investing in America: Biden-Harris Administration Announces Nearly $580 Million for Ports to
Strengthen American Supply Chains and Lower Costs.” U.S. Department of Transportation,
3
“Fact Sheet: President Biden Announces New Actions to Strengthen America’s Supply Chains, Lower
Costs for Families, and Secure Key Sectors.” The White House, The United States Government, 26 Nov.
2023
2
“Executive Order on America’s Supply Chains.” The White House, The United States Government, 24
Feb. 2021
1 Sanyal, Sanjeev. “A Brief History of Supply Chains.” The Globalist, 8 June 2022

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Mexico
Delegate Name: Devinicus Wong

The topic of supply chains is incredibly complicated, yet, for clear reasons, the topic is also vital for the economic success of nations worldwide. However, over the past few years, these supply chains have proven once again that they are unstable and prone to faltering, sparking major concern across the globe. In addition to a myriad of already existent problems such as labor shortages and an increase in strikes, events such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the breakout of new conflicts have led to shortages in many materials, such as grain and computer chips. Furthermore, many of these issues, such as natural disasters, are both unpredictable and unavoidable, leading to sudden disruptions. To minimize losses from these problems, many businesses are starting to shift away from large, globalized supply chains, which remain difficult to maintain, to more locally sourced supplies. Mexico seeks to take advantage of this shift to bolster its growing economy by rooting itself as a major part of supply chains on the American continent.
For its part, Mexico has reached a position where it could see massive economic growth in the upcoming decades. The general shift towards localized supply chains has allowed Mexico to double down on its efforts to promote nearshoring from U.S. businesses. Due to the nation’s geographic proximity, many U.S. companies and manufacturers have increased their reliance on Mexican products. Faster transportation, lower costs, and easier cross-border management have attracted businesses, and Mexico has worked extensively to continue this trend. Mexico has created multiple programs, such as the IMMEX maquiladora program, to incentivize businesses to center more of their operations in the country. Additionally, Mexico has entered into numerous free trade agreements with other nations, notably including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This free trade allows for further growth of the economy, which will, in turn, allow for stronger supply chain development.
While the Mexican economy today is on a path to foreseeable growth, continuous effort is needed to ensure success. As such, the delegation of Mexico encourages nations to do their part in supporting businesses. We ask other countries to promote international trade and to remain open in their willingness to cooperate economically with others. We believe that a strong international economic system is important, not just because it is necessary to foster growth, but also due to its positive effects on international relations. The delegation of Mexico remains open to nations looking for free trade, and we will continue to work towards supply chain stability, as well as the economic prosperity of the region as a whole.

Sources:

https://aratum.com
https://www.britannica.com
https://www.cfodive.com
https://www.evansdist.com
https://napsintl.com
https://novalinkmx.com
https://ustr.gov
https://www.worldbank.org

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Belgium
Delegate Name: Frinz Fisher

The world has succumbed to the mass migration of products our integrated society has to offer. As a result, has led to the instability of the supply chain that drives our economy and individualistic lives. Intercontinental trade routes were barred, political tensions heightened, and pandemics only contributed to reduced stockpiles and new standards of labor and transportation. During this duration of instability, uneven recovery among more prioritized sections of the world has become more perceptible. In a regression of the COVID-19 pandemic since 2020, global economic output is foreseen to be cut by nearly $8.5 trillion, contributing to extreme poverty, increased crime rates, delays in manufacturing, and other foreseeable negations towards a prime society. Belgium formally recognizes this issue as a negative agitator to today’s economy, socio-cultural development, and infrastructure and offers support to coincide with the rest of the United Nations.

Belgium is heavily reliant on exports: chemicals, pharmaceuticals, automotive, and high-quality agricultural products. Throughout the pandemic, however, manufacturing was halted as a safeguard to reduce the reach of the viral spread. This caused exports to fall significantly by 8% in 2020 compared to the 2019 period. At the height of the pandemic, Antwerp, one of Europe’s largest ports, experienced congestion that generated large delays in products that held a substantial contribution to Belgium’s reputation as an exporter and importer. In response, Belgium has prioritized the development of logistics infrastructure to digitize and organize big data to instruct operations. In addition, Belgium has initiated the SPEED project to transport goods on railways to reduce the burden on stressed truck routes. Therefore, Belgium believes that with the utilization of other routing options, the stress on the global supply chain will be alleviated.

In conclusion, Belgium calls for a multi-variable approach to the situation, especially in a day of age in which circumstances are ever-changing with a new set of standards to implement and follow. Belgium supports the idea of executing the United Nations to oversee a more distinguished and overseen means of communication which is necessary for establishing a comprehensive guideline regarding the topic.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Peru
Delegate Name: Joseph Cox

Country: Republic of Peru
Committee: SPECPOL
Topic: Supply Chain Management
Delegate: Joey Cox
School: Williamston High School

The global supply chain is in major jeopardy due to a number of factors, most notably the prolonged effects of COVID-19, climate change, and geopolitical conflicts. Following the disruption of global supply chains after the COVID-19 pandemic supply chains never got the full chance they needed to recover from the issues that were introduced. As climate change gets worse droughts will become more frequent and agricultural production will drop. Droughts have caused large restrictions on the Panama canal and may render it unusable in the near future. Droughts and climate change will also affect other waterways essential to global trade. If agricultural production declines so will food based supply chains will plummet and people will not get access to the food they need to survive. Global conflicts such as the Israel-Palestine conflict have caused disruptions in the Suez Canal. The Suez Canal is vital to global supply chains and its blocking will have drastic effects on the health and viability of trade routes. Disruptions in global supply chains will disproportionately harm low income developing countries compared to high income countries.

Peru has felt the effects of supply chain disruptions firsthand. During COVID-19 Peru’s exports saw significant delays particularly in mining and agriculture. With these two industries encapsulating much of Peru’s income, Peru is still dealing with the after effects of the supply chain disruptions. As a developing nation Peru is greatly harmed by declines in global supply chains. Recent droughts in South America due to climate change have harmed the agricultural industry in Peru and surrounding nations further lowering the efficiency of global supply chains. Congestion in the Panama canal due to these droughts has also harmed Peru and global trade as a whole. Peru has pledged to be carbon neutral by 2050 in order to reduce these effects although Peru’s plan for the reduction of carbon emissions is not yet sufficient. Recently Peru has made an agreement with Japan in order to strengthen the copper supply chain. Peru is a major producer of copper and Japan is in need of more and more copper as time goes on. The goal of this agreement is to make the copper supply chain more efficient and resistant to stressors. Peru is no stranger to supply chain issues and recognizes their importance.

Peru’s plan to solve the issues regarding the global supply chain issues is to call for support for developing nations in order to modernize their supply chains and to push for peace in areas around the Suez canal. Many solutions to supply chain issues involve modernizing the infrastructure and technology related to supply chains. These would however leave developing countries behind so Peru’s plan to fix this is to give the needed resources to developing nations in order to modernize their systems. In addition the situation in Israel and Palestine has decreased efficiency in the Suez Canal and jeopardized trade in the red sea. Peru calls for an immediate peaceful resolution to the conflict that will heavily increase the efficiency of trade through the Suez Canal.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Lithuania
Delegate Name: Pradham Nalam

Pradham Nalam
Lithuania
Supply Chain Stability
Special Political Committee
Forest Hills Central High School

The disasters of Covid-19 showed the world how dependent we were on global trade. Hand sanitizers, masks, medical equipment, and many more supply chains were disturbed without warning and caused mass shortages almost immediately. This led to the suffering of many people including the death of millions around the globe. The realization of the major weakness that the entire world was exposed to enforced fear in the hearts of the many who were affected by it. However, COVID isn’t the only disaster that threatens global trade, other things like natural disasters, human error, and wars can affect the world’s ability to trade and transport goods and supplies that might mean life and death for some. One of the problems facing this world in the status quo is the specialization of products from each side of the world where the product is demanded almost everywhere. The monopolization of such products allows errors of any kind to stop the production of the very demanded product, consequently causing shortages.

The Republic of Lithuania believes that trade shouldn’t be destabilized by events out of human control as well as clerical errors. “Lithuania imports billions of dollars of mineral fuels, machinery, pharmaceutical medicine, and plastics every year.” (TradingEcon 2023). We encourage trade and heavily rely on it for the convenience of our people and government. As the delegate of Lithuania, I invite everyone in this room to cooperate and work together to resolve this pending issue that threatens our world.

A plan to create a stable function of trade in the case of shortage is viable if the UN creates a production plant all over the world that specializes in products that are scarce and are presently only produced by a few. These production plants would have the ability to pump up production in the case of failure to meet demand from suppliers in other places. This would allow a stable balance of global trade to be maintained at all times.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: India
Delegate Name: KenZie Low

Special Political Committee
Supply Chain Stability
Republic of India
KenZie Low
City High Middle

Supply chain instability has been a crisis for the international community; India is taking initiatives to increase supply chain resilience. The Covid-19 pandemic revealed the many flaws of the world’s current supply chain model. Due to the pandemic, the global community suffered from labor shortages, dramatic shifts in supply and demand, production shortages, limited imports, and increased inflation. In addition to the pandemic, global conflicts such as the Russian-Ukraine war and the situation in the South China Sea have disrupted essential shipping lanes and decreased the distribution of essential commodities. Port congestions have delayed the flow of goods, and domestic issues within nations such as climate change or the lack of corporate executive awareness about supply chain sustainability have all contributed to the declining resilience of supply chains. In 2024, the supply chain is more vulnerable than ever. The UN Global Compact declared the supply chain as the biggest challenge facing their stability performance. The Republic of India is aware of this and is taking major initiatives to improve the global supply chain and become an important component of increasing supply chain resilience.

When the supply chain began to falter in 2020, India began to implement policies that would improve their production capacity. As the fastest-growing economy, India aims to become one of the world’s biggest producers. The government of India plans to invest $1.4 trillion in infrastructure projects, and $25 billion to improve shipping and port infrastructure. The nation works to digitalize its infrastructure and improve energy, transport, and urban infrastructure. With increased efficiency and productivity, many countries in 2024 look into India for their operations as a resilience tactic. Shortly after the pandemic, India implemented a Goods and Service tax. This tax eliminated all indirect taxes and provided a single, value-added tax to the manufacturing, sale, and consumption of both goods and services. The tax made trade between India and other countries more straightforward and reduced the trade barrier, making India more popular on the supply chain scale. Prime Minister Modi also created the “Make in India” campaign in 2014. The campaign includes multiple components to shape India into a stable, global supplier: transforming the manufacturing sector and infrastructure in India, re-establishing the relationship between the government and the economy, and instilling confidence in India’s production sector and its global partners. The government of India has also implemented ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) initiatives to further broaden business sustainability efforts. The initiatives emphasized responsible corporate management and business strategies to further strengthen the supply chain. India has also concentrated on AI talent and worked to digitalize their infrastructure. India was also part of IMEEC, the rail network between India and Europe which would increase trade speed by 40% percent. Notably, India and Australia created the INDAUS ECTA (India-Australia Economic Trade Agreement). The trade agreement consists of multiple policies and plans that apply to all the G20 countries: implementation of preferential tariffs to create more trade-friendly environments, reforming migration policies to share talent, increasing visibility, and creating a rapid response forum.

The Republic of India’s rigorous efforts to become a sustainable supply chain contributor emphasize the nation’s increasing advocacy for supply chain reforms. India proposes that all nations diversify their sources and invest in other emerging producers such as India. This diversification will increase resilience and provide more stability in the supply chain. India urges other countries to replicate India’s efforts to improve their domestic production. Focusing on domestic manufacturing and infrastructure can further strengthen countries’ production capacities. India also believes in creating trade-friendly environments; implementing tamer border regulations and consistent taxation such as the goods and services tax can share talent across the globe and create more efficient and convenient supply chain trade. In the likes of the INDAUS ECTA, India proposes G20 countries to discuss creating a rapid response forum. The forum would involve developing ways to detect delays in goods and unforeseen disruptions in borders, as well as ensuring international trade coordination. The trade agreement also proposes greater visibility; India recommends that countries share standardizations of regulatory procedures in essential sectors and share methods for navigating difficult supply chain challenges. India also supports the digitalization of trade, utilizing technology such as AI to increase supply chain efficiency. With conscientious efforts from the leading trade nations and increased awareness of the flaws of the supply chain, India believes that the global community can transform the supply chain to become efficient, transparent, and productive.

Works Cited
Bhaskar, Natasha, and Rahul Sen. Creating a Resilient Supply Chain Framework: The India- Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (INDAUS ECTA) and Its Significance for the G20 Task Force 1 Macroeconomics, Trade, and Livelihoods: Policy Coherence and International Coordination T20 Policy Brief. 2023.
Carmit Glik. “Council Post: Why the Supply Chain Crisis Positioned India for Global Trade Growth.” Forbes, 12 Aug. 2024, www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/06/05/why-the-supply-chain-crisis-positioned-india-for-global-trade-growth/. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.
ET CONTRIBUTORS. “Global Supply Chain Shift: Has India Finally Arrived?” The Economic Times, Economic Times, 22 June 2024, economictimes.indiatimes.com/small-biz/trade/exports/insights/global-supply-chain-shift-has-india-finally-arrived/articleshow/111182936.cms?from=mdr. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.
“India’s Play in Supply Chain Diversification.” BCG Global, Boston Consulting Group, 21 July 2023, www.bcg.com/publications/2023/india-play-in-supply-chain-diversification. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.
SupplyChainBrain. “India’s Modi Calls for Greater Supply Chain Resiliency.” Supplychainbrain.com, SupplyChainBrain, 24 Aug. 2023, www.supplychainbrain.com/articles/37978-indian-prime-minister-calls-for-greater-supply-chain-resiliency. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Saudi Arabia
Delegate Name: Naya Dike

A supply chain is a system with a backbone of community and reasoning. It is a multi-step process requiring every person within the process to maintain organization and remain active to produce necessary goods. With the recent COVID-19 pandemic, supply chains all over the world have been disrupted. As economies have changed, inflation has risen, and customs have shifted, the stability of supply chains has obtained a sense of dynamicity. A large current factor influencing the strength of supply chains is the present geopolitical conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The GDP of Ukraine decreased by 39% from 2021 to 2022, and because of their lowered economy, numerous other nations have been stressed to make up for this, one of these ways being relying on supply chains for manufacturing and exporting goods. As a main exporter of lots of resources, the most abundant being petroleum, the disruption of stability in supply chains greatly impacts Saudi Arabia.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia not only recognizes the ongoing issue of decreasing supply chain stability, but also actively works to prevent it, the most notable way of doing so being Vision 2030. Started by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in 2016, Vision 2030 is a plan for the future of the nation’s economy, which is a direct impact on supply chains. The main ideas of this blueprint are creating a vibrant society by enhancing the lifestyle of Saudi citizens, aiming for a thriving economy with a main focus in expanding industry, and reinforcing the idea of an ambitious nation with loyalty to the state. These three pillars are aiming to achieve a heightened level of industrialization with eagerness that has rarely been seen in the past. In recent events, Saudi Arabia put funding towards the Global Supply Chain Forum, a conference held in May of 2024 to discuss supply chain management on a global scale.

There are countless different ways that Saudi Arabia has contributed to the continuing efforts to boost stability within supply chains. By creating Vision 2030 and being in support of global supply chain stability, the kingdom distinguishes itself as one in favor of strengthening supply chains. It is imperative that Saudi Arabia improves its supply chains by focusing not only on independent actions towards stability, but collaborating with other countries to ensure that the security of supply chains can remain intact internationally.

Works Cited
“Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Program Explained.” Centuro Global, 17 May 2024, https://www.centuroglobal.com/blogs/saudi-arabia-vision-2030/. Accessed 26 November 2024.
“Saudi Vision 2030.” Saudi Vision 2030, https://www.vision2030.gov.sa/en. Accessed 26 November 2024.
Welsh, Caitlin, and Joseph Glauber. “Food as the “Silent Weapon”: Russia’s Gains and Ukraine’s Losses.” CSIS, 29 February 2024, https://www.csis.org/analysis/food-silent-weapon-russias-gains-and-ukraines-losses. Accessed 26 November 2024.
https://unctad.org/meeting/global-supply-chain-forum-2024

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Thailand
Delegate Name: Jessica Liu

Special Political Committee
Supply Chain Stability
Kingdom of Thailand
Jessica Liu
Forest Hills Northern

Issues in recent years, such as the global COVID-19 pandemic, political tensions, and natural disasters, bring to light the network vulnerability and the need for more robust and resilient supply chains. The effects of global crises like COVID-19 are especially apparent in manufacturing, a large industry crucial to many countries, which is at risk due to management and production inefficiencies. Similarly, political tensions, like those between the Russian Federation and Ukraine or in the South China Sea, further limit resource access. Meanwhile, natural disasters and logistical bottlenecks, such as port and canal congestion, continue to disrupt the flow of goods, complicating efforts to maintain economic stability and access to the material. Though the UN has already taken steps to prevent instability through the UN Global Compact, which encourages businesses to adopt sustainable practices and provides guidance on how to do so, as seen in the “Decent Work Toolkit for Sustainable Procurement,” threats toward global shipping and manufacturing continue to arise. As international trade is increasingly interconnected, these issues are most important.
Thailand recognizes the importance of stable, reliable supply chains to the deliverance of critical goods and the economic well-being of all nations. As a significant global supplier of essential goods such as machinery, electronics, foods, wood, chemicals, automobiles, plastics, etc., a leading export partner to ASEAN, the United States, China, Hong Kong, Japan, and the European Union, as well as having an export-dependent economy, Thailand views the current unreliability supply chain status as a direct threat to national and regional prosperity. Historically, Thailand has faced problems such as the 2011 floods in Thailand. According to Wikipedia, “Sixty-five of Thailand’s 76 provinces were declared flood disaster zones, and over 20,000 square kilometers (7,700 sq mi) of farmland was damaged… The World Bank has estimated 1,425 trillion baht (US$46.5 billion) in economic damages and losses due to flooding… Disruptions to manufacturing supply chains affected regional automobile production and caused a global shortage of hard disk drives…” The extensive damage caused by the 2011 floods, which disrupted essential manufacturing chains, provides an example of the issues the UN faces today.
Thailand is fully aware of the damages brought about by instability in supply chains and strongly urges international collaboration to ensure and strengthen the flow of goods. This is especially crucial in the aftermath of the global crisis due to COVID-19 and natural disasters. Collaborations with Thailand’s non-conflict diplomacy would create space for economic cooperation to solve current issues, such as the expansion of FTA negotiations with major trading partners, the upgrading of national standards, and increasing the role of Thailand in the international arena. It is imperative that companies implement management practices to mitigate the impact of sudden crises and lead to long-term resilience. Diversifying suppliers and transport routes to improve congestion and prevent single points of failure is also crucial in building collective resilience against disruptions in the supply chain.

Works Cited:
“Economy of Thailand – Wikipedia.” Wikipedia.org, 2022, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economy_of_Thailand. It was accessed on 14 Nov. 2024.‌
“Supply Chain Sustainability | UN Global Compact.” Unglobalcompact.org, 13 Nov. 2024, unglobalcompact.org/what-is-gc/our-work/supply-chain. It was accessed on 14 Nov. 2024.‌
“Decent Work Toolkit | UN Global Compact.” Unglobalcompact.org, 2024, unglobalcompact.org/take-action/sustainableprocurement. It was accessed on 14 Nov. 2024.
To Contributors. “Major Floods in Thailand.” Wikipedia.org, Wikimedia Foundation, Inc., 5 Oct. 2011, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2011_Thailand_floods. It was accessed on 14 Nov. 2024.‌
“2011 Thailand Floods – Rapid Assessment for Resilient Recovery and Reconstruction Planning.” Preventionweb.net, 10 Feb. 2011, www.preventionweb.net/publication/2011-thailand-floods-rapid-assessment-resilient-recovery-and-reconstruction-planning. It was accessed on 14 Nov. 2024.‌

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Tunisia
Delegate Name: Devon Willis

It is the honor of the Tunisian Republic to speak on the issue of supply chain stability. Following the COVID-19 pandemic that ravaged sickness through all parts of the world in some shape or form during the early years of this new decade, some countries like the major Western powers and large economies in the east (China, Japan, India) have been able to bounce their economies back to normal. Smaller, and less fortunate countries are still facing many of the financial hardships and other large-scale effects of the pandemic. These setbacks have hurt their economies severely in many capacities, such as the supply shortages across the world, which have led to the halting of stable and consistent supply chains and forced countries into attempting to catch back up to world leaders in various ways. One major concept that will be put forth at this conference is the education of companies on sustainable, and progressive supply chain practices. These concepts target the way we are able to acquire materials, the way our nations produce products, and the way we ship our products.

The Republic of Tunisia has always been a dependable ally that prides itself on consistent exporting with major world superpowers, recently however we have struggled in that capacity following the pandemic, we had our mechanical and electronic exports fall from our highest in history sitting at an export value of 21.4 million Tunisian dollars in 2020 fall all the way down to only a 9.85 million Tunisian dollar export value in 2022. These effects have been rippled throughout various countries in a similar fashion to our own. Another big hit our country took was to one of our other mechanical-based exports which are chemicals used in manufacturing, these exports have been affected by the labor shortages and a multitude of supply chain disasters post-2020, meaning our exports to countries like the U.S.A. and India were lessened, not only affecting our economy but theirs. Since then we have begun to improve our supply chain stability but have still had to face the effects, no longer having the U.S. as one of our major export recipients for chemicals lessens our potential economic ceiling.

The Tunisian Republic suggests that we begin to implement programs for nations to help their companies be able to find more sustainable routes of production, shipping, and more communication between countries on ways for these companies to live up to our modern expectations of beginning to become a greener society, reducing waste and limiting obstacles in the production of exports should be two of the main focuses, along with attempting to reconnect our allies before COVID-19, Western Powers and the Middle East need to come together as economic superpowers to help push forward these ideals.

As the Republic of Tunisia, we are looking forward to making progress as a committee we should put forward the building of sustainable, and healthy supply chain education programs to help less economically dominant countries able to catch back up to where they once were before the Covid-19 pandemic, we also want these countries to be able to work alongside well-developed countries that can both own benefit from helping grow the global economy. We ask fellow U.N. members to assist us in our goal to help all countries move forward and progress to a new era of stability within our organization, protecting ourselves from future threats, and issues, and preparing ourselves for our ever-changing landscape within the world.

Sources: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1190780/value-of-exports-from-tunisia-by-sector/
https://glica.org/glimun/committees/supply-chain-stability/
https://www.countryreports.org/country/Tunisia/imports-exports.htm
https://wits.worldbank.org/CountryProfile/en/Country/TUN/Year/2019/TradeFlow/Export/Partner/all/Product/28-38_Chemicals

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Syrian Arab Republic
Delegate Name: Simon Beljak

Supply chains are the arteries of international interactions, which is why protection for these vital connections should be protected at all cost. Throughout history, global supply chains have helped keep nations afloat during times of turmoil. Many warring nations such as ourselves, the Syrian Arab Republic (SAR), rely on imports like wheat to feed their citizens. As a result Syria is in favor of bolstering the strength and protection of global supply chains that service thousands of people in need.

Over the course of this committee, the SAR seeks to have its concerns heard in a possible resolution. One such concern is that some areas might not be able to collect necessary resources due to the surrounding region being unstable. Furthermore, if the supplies get to the correct location, they may not be distributed properly. Another of our concerns is the greed of the supplier(s). This possible greed could slow or even halt a supply chain which is why it should be viewed as a threat of considerable importance. As previously recognized, Syria struggles with food insecurity due to our ongoing civil war, which started in 2011, a series of earthquakes, and an economy in poor condition. 12.1 million Syrians are food insecure, and 3 million are on the verge sliding into hunger. The Syrian government, in collaboration with the UN’s World Food Program (WFP), is able to receive assistance with food, but many more are still struggling.

Some aspects of a possible resolution that we would like to see is the implementation of the ability to set up temporary ports for aid in dangerous locations. This approach to supplying aid has been seen in places such as the Gaza Strip with the Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore (JLOTS) system. But this solution was rather flawed as the communication between the US and Israel struggled to communicate and the implementation of the pier was delayed due to fighting on land. If this solution was able to be further developed and researched, it might make a large impact. Another aspect we would like to see is the creation of an agency to oversee supplier activity and ensure that corruption does not affect the amount of supplies received by areas in need. International assistance, like the WFP, has helped many, but the SAR is looking to drastically improve the situation, not only within our own borders, but also in places like Sudan and Gaza.

Works Cited:
Central Intelligence Agency, Central Intelligence Agency, www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/syria/#introduction. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.
“More than Half of All Syrians Going Hungry: WFP | UN News.” United Nations, United Nations, news.un.org/en/story/2023/03/1134567#:~:text=Record%20food%20and%20fuel%20costs&text=Syria%20used%20to%20be%20self,%2C%20and%20drought%2Dlike%20conditions. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.
Liebermann, O., Atwood, K. and Conte, M.
Liebermann, Oren, et al. “US-Built Floating Pier That Will Allow Delivery of Humanitarian Aid Has Been Anchored in Gaza | CNN Politics.” CNN, Cable News Network, 16 May 2024, www.cnn.com/2024/05/15/politics/us-gaza-pier-moving-construction/index.html.
“Sudan: Humanitarian Assistance.” U.S. Agency for International Development, 31 Oct. 2024, www.usaid.gov/humanitarian-assistance/sudan.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Philippines
Delegate Name: Sam Fairo

The nation of the Philippines is known for taking more of a neutral side to situations, they believe that national sovereignty is a very important idea and that it should be respected. The Philippians have been putting in place efforts to improve the stability to enhance logistics and implement policies to attract foreign investments.

Some countries that agree with the Philippines’ ideals about national sovereignty are Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. All three of these nations also have small infrastructures that rely on the stability of other nations to stay afloat in this ever-growing society. Countries with larger economies such as Japan and South Korea are helping by investing in these smaller countries to keep stability up in Asia.

The Philippines is working on reducing bureaucratic hurdles to make it easier for businesses to operate. This is a part of the country’s border strategy to boost economic growth and to ensure that it remains a global competitor in society.

The country of the Philippines would like an outcome that has smaller countries with less infrastructure, supported by larger countries with more infrastructure, along with enhancing logistic capabilities to help support the smaller countries’ economies. Along with that, we implore that supply chain stability stays reliable for our country, as we depend on trading with other nations and being supported by other countries with larger economies.

Finally, the Philippines believes that we need to have an outcome that values smaller countries, and highlight the importance smaller countries have on the chain stability. As stated before, the nation of the Philippines is a very neutral country. We want to support other countries as well as boost infrastructure for our own, and help support the pressing issue of supply chain stability.

Work Cited
glica, glica. “glica.” Glimun Supply chain, glica, https://asiasociety.org/policy-institute/supply-chains-shifting-indo-pacific/philippines. (“supply chain”)

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Colombia
Delegate Name: Owen Krueger

Colombia has had a long history of supply chain inefficiency and disruption. Colombia has a very real and major stake in the supply chain stability especially when international supply chains fall apart cartels in Colombia take advantage of vulnerabilities within hard to access and easily disconnected communities. Given this and the failures of the current global policy on the international drug trade, Colombia would like to see UN action on building up rural communities to lift the rest of the global supply chain up with them.

In Colombia and other countries in the region, many rural agricultural communities rely on the drug trade to make a living and survive. Many of these rural farmers plant coca which is used in the production of cocaine. Although coca farming is explicitly illegal in Colombia the current Colombian administration recognises that it is the most profitable crop for many farmers to plant. This fact shows the prevalence and impact of the international drug trade. Cartels in Colombia have large amounts of power in remote community they can prevent the export and transport of goods from within and through their territory. They do this by robbing, taxing, and extorting people and businesses who abide by the law. The control over trade that cartels hold is a fact that is little spoken about in the international supply chain discussion but have significant impact on countries like Colombia.

Developing rural communities like those affected by cartels and cartel violence will lift up these communities. For example in Colombia we have awarded Farmers for planting legal crops instead of coca. Lifting up these communities will add more depth to economies like Colombia`s. If more Colombian farmers could farm food products instead of the illegal coca cash crop then it will not only add the ability for these transactions to be taxed and regulated but also make it so Colombians can buy Colombian grown food products instead of foreign imported ones which will strengthen the Colombian economy vastly.

Colombia would like to see all of these issues addressed in the form of legislation in the UN which will call for a further crackdown on cartel violence against legal trade as well as action to build up the global supply chain from the bottom up starting with building up prosperity and legal business in rural areas. Colombia believes that part of such a resolution could add to the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime by adding protocols against the production of illicit drugs as well as protocols to combat drug cartels. Also, Colombia would be interested in developing a UN program to enhance the development of rural communities by promoting legal and proper methods of business and trade.

Colombia looks forward to further productive discussion on this topic in committee.

Works Cited
United Nations. “United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime.” Resolution Adopted by the General Assembly, 8 Jan. 2001, www.un.org/en/development/desa/population/migration/generalassembly/docs/globalcompact/A_RES_55_25.pdf.
“From the Bottom up: A Different Context for the Colombian Drug Trade – Georgetown Journal of International Affairs.” Georgetown Journal of International Affairs, 22 Jan. 2021, gjia.georgetown.edu/2021/01/20/from-the-bottom-up-a-different-context-for-the-colombian-drug-trade.
Supply Chain Stability – GLICA.org. 22 Nov. 2024, glica.org/glimun/committees/supply-chain-stability.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Albania
Delegate Name: Elena Wright

A supply chain is the process of producing and delivering a product, from sourcing raw materials to getting it to the customer. The Republic of Albania acknowledges how important it is to address the instability of supply chains around the world, knowing that the challenges posed by pandemics, geopolitical tensions, and climate events have affected essential goods and services across borders. For Albania, an underdeveloped country located in Southeastern Europe, supply chain stability directly affects the growth and development of our economy, food security, and access to industrial and technological resources.

As a country that imports all its grain, energy, and other essential goods, Albania has felt the consequences of supply chain disruptions, with higher prices and longer delivery times. Yet our position next to several critical transportation corridors puts Albania in a strong position to be a driver of supply chain resilience. The modernization of the Port of Durrës is among many infrastructure projects in Albania that show proof of effort on transportation networks. This was a way to have Albania’s largest seaport be able to handle increased trade. Further investment and international cooperation is needed to solve all the inefficiencies of the global supply chain.

The Republic of Albania supports all the initiatives put forward by the United Nations, especially on sustainable supply chains, such as the Global Compact. At the same time, these initiatives need to be complemented by special interventions that will enhance regional cooperation and build resilience. It also calls on Albania to invest in strengthening infrastructure by developing transport and storage opportunities to prevent bottlenecks and also make the flow of goods more efficient. The Republic urges the adoption of digital tools in real-time, including supply chain monitoring systems, to make everything more transparent and efficient. Additionally, Albania insists on increasing regional cooperation with its neighboring Balkan states to develop supply chains that are resilient enough to reduce dependence on global systems that are highly vulnerable to disruption. Lastly, Albania insists on equity for developing nations, urging increased support from developed countries so that vulnerable economies, like Albania, can adapt to global supply chain challenges without as many challenges.

Albania continues to underline that global frameworks should address specific vulnerabilities related to small and medium-sized enterprises, which are the backbone of the Albanian economy. Improvement of the situation at the national and regional level through resource, technology, and training use remains a priority.

Albania will work with the international community to create sustainable solutions In light of this, addressing inefficiencies, building infrastructure, and encouraging collaboration, Albania hopes the global community will soften the blow of disruptions and guarantee a more secure future for all nations. Albania looks forward to working with other countries in committee to come to a peaceful solution to global supply chain issues.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Malta
Delegate Name: Levi Klein

Council: Special Political Committee.
Topic Area: Supply Chain Stability
Country: Malta
Delegate: Levi Klein, Fishers High School
The Repubblika ta’ Malta believes that having a strong stability in supply chains is necessary. The pandemic has had a significant impact on supply chains around the world. We all have been recovering, but stability just isn’t the same as pre-pandemic times. The KPMG index noticed a severe drop in stability in 2022, and it hasn’t reached nearly the levels it was pre-2022. Places like Norway, Japan, and Switzerland have exceptionally stable supply chains. In places of political tension, not so much. Ukraine is prime example of this. The ongoing conflict with Russia has severely weakened supply chain stability in Ukraine, virtually ceasing outside trade with other countries. Countries like Australia, India, and Japan have launched the “Supply Chain Resilience Initiative,” aiming to diversify and leverage trade and risks in supply chains.
Malta, a country situated in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, is a key trade hub for Europe. Our strategic position allows streamlined communication with Mediterranean trade partners. The Malta Freeport is one of the busiest ports in Europe, and is a key gateway for Europe to trade with the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. As a result, stability amongst our supply chain is imperative. Our facilities have been noted as ‘outstanding,’ and our personnel, as ‘highly skilled & educated.’ We have two different terminals, focusing on efficiency within trade and supply chains (both Reg’l & Int’l), and ever since 1988, we have been a customs-free zone, allowing for even greater streamlining. We plan to expand this port, increasing stability by shortening queue times and increasing total volume capacity. In countries, like Somalia, supply chain stability is challenged due to poor road infrastructure and limited transport options, and their poor logistics lead to difficult market access for the country. The largest reasons, at the time, for unstable supply chains, are labor shortages and transport issues, fueled by a need for specialized workers.
The Maltese republic advocates for a policy to enforce educated workers, minimize violent attacks/raids on active transport, and to keep infrastructure and vehicles up to functional standard, even if doing so requires external assistance or funding. We believe that keeping stable supply chains helps drive the economy, and even increase relations with other countries. If incompetent workers, and crumbling infrastructure plague a country, then the smooth, efficient movement of goods, is almost impossible.

Citations

“Supply Chain Stability Index.” KPMG, KPMG, kpmg.com/us/en/articles/2023/supply-chain-stability-index.html?scrlybrkr=a28fadd7. Accessed 18 Nov. 2024.
“Manufacturing Service and Malta Freeport.” Manufacturing Services and Malta Freeport, KPMG, assets.kpmg.com/content/dam/kpmg/mt/pdf/2016/09/mt-manufacturing-services-and-freeport.pdf. Accessed 18 Nov. 2024.
“Somalia – WFP Fortnight Joint Markets and Supply Chain Update: 18 – 31 October 2024 – Somalia.” ReliefWeb, WFP, 12 Nov. 2024, reliefweb.int/report/somalia/somalia-wfp-fortnight-joint-markets-and-supply-chain-update-18-31-october-2024. Accessed 18 Nov. 2024
“Malta Freeport.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 22 July 2024, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malta_Freeport. Accessed 18 Nov. 2024

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Guyana
Delegate Name: Josh Machnacki

As a small country with a reliance on imports, Guyana recognizes the critical nature of supply chain stability. Exports of goods such as oil and minerals, as well as agricultural exports, are central to Guyana’s economy. With a complex system of moving parts, even small disturbances can have widespread impacts on supply chains. Planning for both small and large scale disruptions is vital to mitigate the harm these events cause.

Currently, United Nations efforts to promote supply chain stability mainly consist of educating companies on sustainable supply chain practices. This is a start, but more can be done. Another UN initiative in this field is the Supply Chain Innovation Challenge. The challenge is run through UN Trade and Development, and its website states, “The challenge aimed to leverage participants’ collective creativity, inspiring them to suggest innovative solutions to global supply chain operation and how to make them greener, more efficient, and resilient.” Guyana believes that challenges such as these are vital in working toward improving global supply chains. They capture the local nature of some supply chain elements as well as ways supply chains can be advanced globally. Guyana is in favor of running a similar challenge locally and encourages other nations to do the same. If a large number of challenges are held the proposed solutions can be compiled and reviewed to examine what elements should be implemented. These elements can be sent to companies along with the current education the UN already facilitates.

In an age ripe with advancement, there are ways supply chains can be aided by technology. The KPMG Supply Chain Stability Index, in association with ASCM, provides an example. The tool uses data analytics and machine learning to look at past trends and predict future shifts in the supply chain. It enables entities to forecast the impact of these trends and prepare for any future impacts. Guyana is a proponent of tools such as this, which will only become more useful and reliable as more data is compiled.

Supply chain stability also benefits from transparency. Companies sharing best practices in supply chain management collectively could help ensure there is not widespread chaos in the event of a major disruption. Guyana is all for working with other nations to share ideas on current supply chain strategies and ways to improve. Although Guyana recognized private companies are not required to share supply chain practices that could give them a competitive edge, Guyana believes doing so would have immensely positive effects that would benefit companies over time. A stronger, more collaborative supply chain furthers innovation, sustainability, and market stability, offsetting the potential downside of sharing company strategies.

Guyana firmly believes that strengthening supply chain stability is essential not only for individual nations but for the global economy as a whole. By fostering innovation, promoting transparency, and using technological tools, countries can collectively build resilient supply chains that stand up to both small-scale disruptions and major crises. Guyana supports initiatives like the UN Supply Chain Innovation Challenge and encourages the implementation of similar programs by other countries. Collaborative efforts to share best practices and advance technology will drive sustainability, innovation, and market stability, benefiting all in the long term. As a small nation with significant stakes in global trade, Guyana is committed to working with the international community to build stronger, more efficient, and resilient supply chains for the future.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Argentina
Delegate Name: Gavin Dakhi

Throughout the 21st century the world’s supply chain has become increasingly unstable. With recent events such as the Covid-19 pandemic which in turn has led to labor shortages and national debt around the globe. In addition, climate change is rapidly speeding up the deterioration of our trade networks by means of natural disasters, and reduced sea levels. As seen with the Hurricane Ian which struck the Caribbean and the United States in September of 2022 resulting in a 75% drop in shipments coming in and out of areas affected. This had global effects on other countries due to the fact that The United States is a high-power trade country. Argentina has been directly affected by climate change Argentina’s agriculture especially is directly affected by the droughts within the country. With these droughts water demand will increase by upwards of 11% by 2050 if the current plans are kept. Damage caused by climate change also heavily affects the economy of Argentina. The costs for rebuilding infrastructure from climate change disasters will take a toll on Argentina’s economy. The United Nations need solutions for the world supply chain crisis, and we need to work together to find them. Argentina is on board to finding sustainable and fair solutions.

With Argentina’s total value of exports being around $90 million and the total value of imports being $80 million. The total percent of crop related exports in Argentina is 54%, this makes Argentina a strong export country for agricultural goods. Argentina’s GDP lowered by 3.4% throughout the first half of 2024. An expected 4% GDP reduction is also to be expected by the end of 2024. But entering 2025 a 6% rebound is predicted. Due to greater investments from big corporations and a higher export of goods out of Argentina, this will benefit the country throughout 2025.

Argentina will move to strengthen the partnerships with Mercosur (an international South American trade bloc promoting free trade and economic integration). Meeting with countries involved with Mercosur such as Brazil and Paraguay to establish local trade route stability. This is the first step Argentina needs to take in order to repair damaged trade routes. Additionally, to mitigate the threat of climate change Argentina would propose energy projects such as solar farms and wind farms that align with international climate goals. These farms will utilize domestic consumption of Argentina’s lithium stock. Another proposition is applying for financing from global green funds such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF) to additionally reduce the impact of the climate crisis. In turn these strategies will work to reopen trade routes internationally and globally.

Implementing these strategies Argentina is enthusiastic about working with other countries to restore the national and global trade systems and help reduce the impact of climate change disasters. Working with neighboring countries and larger global organizations Argentina is willing to work towards a sustainable and practical solution to the supply chain crisis.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Italy
Delegate Name: Benjamin Fischer

Global Supply Chain Stability

Introduction
The Italian Republic believes in a strong economy and with that, comes a strong supply chain. While the current supply chain is relatively stable, we have a responsibility to make sure it stays that way, even through rough times such as war. Therefore, measures should be taken to help reduce the possibility of supply chain instability. It is not an overstatement to say that the world depends on it.

Italy’s Perspective
Here in Italy, we have very high diversity when it comes to exports. The
Italian Republic’s major exports include machinery and equipment (18%), Transport (11%), Metals (11%), Textiles, clothing and leather products make up 11%, consumable goods (8%), chemicals (7%), and pharmaceuticals. This large diversity of exports strengthens the supply chain as well as the economic strength of Italy, making it so that if one product drops in value or has new challenges presented when manufacturing, Italy can still function, limiting the potential of a catastrophic failure in the supply chain. The variety of goods produced also helps to decrease Italy’s dependence on foreign exports, and when exports are necessary, we like to go as close to home as possible. This further strengthens the supply chain, making a collapse in Italy almost impossible.

Proposed Solutions
We, the Italian Republic have an idea of how to further strengthen the global economy. It will also have the added benefit of decreasing the levels of greenhouse gas emissions.

Taxes on major exports
We, the Italian republic, have come up with a plan in order to implement these policies globally. First, countries could place taxes on exports that reflect the amount of that product being exported relative to the total exports of that country. Products that are exported more often will see a slight decrease in profit margin, which will incentivize new up and coming companies to shift their focus on exports that are less prevalent in their country, possibly even receiving tax breaks relative to how their exports relate to other exports in the region. This would incentivize economic diversification and greatly strengthen worldwide supply chain stability. With this set up, worldwide shipping costs are also expected to decrease by 5%-10% in just 5 years after implementation, as products will be geographically distributed more evenly across the globe, allowing easier access to the products that are needed by companies around the world.

Conclusion
Overall, the diversification of exports may be a bit tough at first, but in the end, it will strengthen global supply chains and help the world collectively work towards a better tomorrow.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Spain
Delegate Name: Wyatt Keller

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Spain
Committee: Special Political Committee
Delegate Name – Wyatt Keller
School – New Prairie High School
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the instabilities and unreliabilities of our supply
chains have become self-evident. Minor disruptions within the supply chain can and have caused
a cascade of problems down the line within economies of all sizes. With globalization allowing
for hyper-optimization of production in certain areas, countries will depend on these areas for
their cheap and consistent supply of goods. Yet, as can be seen from the recent crisis, heavy
dependence on these suppliers can cause turmoil for everyone.
The perspective of Spain on supply chain stability is to of course make it stabler. Spain, as a
member of the European Union with a significant economy, wants to ensure that in the face of
recession and that it will be able continue with its economy and possibly thrive. Issues such as
regional cooperation and dependency on distant suppliers are of particular concern, with an
emphasis on food and pharmaceuticals.
Spain looks forward to pushing several ideals as policies, such as supporting local businesses,
incentivizing local production, and promoting regional supply chains. Our local businesses
should be assisted with integrating technology and standards, allowing them to be competitive
throughout our economies. Furthermore, the local production of essential goods and services
must be encouraged, which may include tax breaks and subsidies to these businesses that operate
within Spain and neighboring regions. Finally, strengthening regional supply chains will allow
for less dependency on distant suppliers, especially for essentials like medical supplies and food
products.
There are two main proposals following these policies. These are bilateral trade agreements and
localized production hubs. Trade agreements, especially regionally within the European Union,
could streamline logistics for critical goods. This could also cheapen goods and perhaps lower
carbon emissions. Secondly, hubs, especially for essentials, can be placed throughout the world,
making crucial products for any country available at a moment’s notice.
Spain looks forward to future cooperation with any and all. Reflecting on the recent past, more
must be done for international security. Spain wants to be proactive on this matter by
encouraging local production and economies, allowing all of us to be more resilient on a global
scale.

Hanspal , Amar. “Localized Micro-Factories Are the Best Fit for Entrepreneurs and Consumers.”
World Economic Forum, World Economic Forum,
www.weforum.org/stories/2019/06/localized-micro-factories-entrepreneurs-and-consumers/?scrl
ybrkr=f1c8900a. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.
Schatteman, Olaf, et al. “Supply Chain Lessons from Covid-19: Time to Refocus on Resilience.”
Bain, Bain & Company, 4 Dec. 2020,
www.bain.com/insights/supply-chain-lessons-from-covid-19/.
“The Rise of Regional Supply Chains.” International Trade Council, International Trade
Council,
tradecouncil.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/The-Rise-of-Regional-Supply-Chains.pdf.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: France
Delegate Name: Molly O’Donnell

Great Lakes Invitational Model United Nations Conference 2024 Delegation: France
Committee: Special Political and Decolonization
Topic: Supply Chain Stability
The stability of global supply chains has become an increasingly pressing issue especially due to the effects of the COVID-19 virus and the 2021 blockage of the Suez Canal. These disruptions not only caused panic but also demonstrated the fragile system that is our current network of production and distribution. In addition to these, political conflicts are also a leading cause of supply chain instability causing countries to no longer be in good relations and therefore refusing to import or export essential goods with each other. We have seen this happen countless times, but most recently political tensions between the Russian Federation and Ukraine have caused the countries in favor of or opposed to this war to either continue relations in terms of trade or cut them off entirely. Events like pandemics, natural disasters and political conflicts are unavoidable and will almost indefinitely lead to shortages, upset economies and slow a nations growth. (Thierry) Along with this comes the issue of reliability, many nations are struggling to reliably source things like food, grains, semi-conductors and raw materials, all of which are contributing to leading issues of food insecurity and manufacturing difficulties. Due to this we can find a multitude of nations struggling to keep up and support their supply and demand which is only emphasizing the severity of this situation. (Global)
The Delegation of France has been greatly impacted by these issues, specifically concerning the Russian Ukrainian war. Alongside many other nations The Delegation of France has witnessed firsthand the effects of the current energy crisis caused by Russia’s reduction in gas supply to Europe. Causing nearly a 180% increase in gas prices across much of Europe including for The Delegation of France. (Adolfsen) This drastic increase has brought inflation along with it causing an uptake in public transportation prices, which many citizens once relied on but are no longer able to afford.( Thierry) It is because of this that many families are also affected by food insecurity and are unable to make a living off their wages. (Global)
To combat the multitude of issues that come with an unstable supply chain the Delegation of France proposes a multilateral plan. To address the most prominent struggles of the people, being food security, countries must begin or continue to diversify their relations in terms of trade, as well as creating food stores for things like grains and shelf stable items, which could then be distributed to those in need. In addition to this, nations affected by the energy shortages due to the Russian Ukraine War should begin to look to more renewable sources of energy. To make these new sources more readily available to countries without the means to build the necessary infrastructure funding for this project would be drawn from the United Nations Sustainable Energy Committee working with their plan for 2025, with nations wishing to participate receiving funds based on their population. (Byline)

Works Cited:
“Russia-Ukraine War Impact: Global Supply Chain & Logistics Crisis: GEP Blogs.” Russia- Ukraine War Impact on Global Supply Chain & Logistics | GEP Blog, 18 Mar. 2016, www.gep.com/blog/mind/russia-ukraine-war-logistics-impact.
“Global Food Security.” Global Food Security | Journal | ScienceDirect.Com by Elsevier, www.sciencedirect.com/journal/global-food-security. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.
Adolfsen, Jakob Feveile, et al. “The Impact of the War in Ukraine on Euro Area Energy Markets.” European Central Bank, 21 June 2022, www.ecb.europa.eu/press/economic- bulletin/focus/2022/html/ecb.ebbox202204_01~68ef3c3dc6.en.html.
Thierry Dubois Thierry Dubois has specialized in aerospace journalism since 1997. An engineer in fluid dynamics from Toulouse-based Enseeiht, et al. “French Supply Chain Struggles to Keep up with Production Needs.” Aviation Week Network, 2 May 2023, aviationweek.com/aerospace/manufacturing-supply-chain/french-supply-chain-struggles- keep-production-needs.
Byline:, and Adam Fisher Sustainability Communications. “U-M Publishes Third Annual Climate and Sustainability Report.” The University Record, record.umich.edu/articles/u-m- publishes-third-annual-climate-and-sustainability-report/. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Ireland
Delegate Name: Sophia Harper

Country: Ireland
Committee: SPECPOL
Topic: Supply chain crisis
Delegate: Sophie Harper
School: Williamston High School

The instability of the supply chain has severely impacted countries across the world, including Ireland. Events, like the COVID-19 pandemic, growing energy costs and strains on geopolitical relationships have negatively impacted the supply chain. The global pandemic forced lockdowns that reduced the ability for nations to grow businesses due to the loss of employees and economic activity. These lockdowns halted the transportation and production of goods, becoming detrimental to the needed growth of the supply chain. The pandemic also brought the largest economic deficit Ireland has had to deal with since the financial crisis of 2008. It has taken a large amount of attention to fix everything that was broken by COVID-19, which arguably turned into the leading factor of the recent supply chain crisis. Two years after trying to bandage the world economy from the devastating impact of the pandemic, Russia invaded Ukraine. As a result, Ireland faced repercussions from these attacks on Ukraine. For instance, inflation skyrocketed, making energy and gas prices soar. Production was disrupted and some transportation was stopped due to the war. A more recent geopolitical conflict that has been affecting supply chains in a similar way is the Israel-Hamas war.
Due to the fact that Ireland relies on trade between other countries, there have been many steps taken to combat the supply chain crisis. Ireland is very focused on reducing the country’s carbon footprint and promoting sustainability. Starting in 2010, the Irish industry for food and drink has seen a 50% decrease in their carbon emissions. This is a direct result of dedication to expanding a sustainable supply chain. One law the Irish government passed to help supply chains is the Agricultural and Food Supply Chain Act 2023. A key point in this act is transparency about market prices and date. Another point is publicizing unfair trading methods.
Ireland has a successful history in smoothly recovering from hits to the economy and the supply chain, and could benefit even more from more free trade agreements. These agreements could be especially beneficial with countries outside of Europe, possibly opening up new trade relationships. Thirty-seven percent of Irish companies said that having new openings to possible trading partners would be extremely valuable to their businesses. Continuing on with good relations between Ireland and Ireland’s main trade partner, the United Kingdom, will also aid in fixing the supply chain crisis in the long-term. Irish companies are also taking precautions to reinforce their supply chains from physical and cyber attacks alike to boost security. Ireland encourages any countries, like the United States, where cyber attacks on businesses are common to also improve their companies’ security. In addition, sustainability should be a main focus for companies to reduce waste and be energy efficient. To make this happen, European companies will use recycled materials and less packaging to cost less and be sustainable.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Niger
Delegate Name: Avery Weber

Supply Chain Issues – Niger
Niger is heavily impacted by stalled supply chains even though it is not a major player in the global supply chain. Niger heavily relies on energy, food and agricultural supply chains to supply enough imports, regional trade, humanitarian aid, and limit global commodity price fluctuations.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Niger’s food and agriculture imports were deeply affected. Niger relies on $10 billion of food imports like rice, fish, wheat, grain, and vegetable oil from neighboring countries like Nigeria and Algeria. The pandemic led to breakdowns in supply chains that limited the availability of imported food and increased their prices. With 44.1% of the population living under the poverty line, inflation led to an increase of food insecurity and hunger.
Niger is one of the world’s poorest countries and is highly dependent on international humanitarian aid to address issues like malnutrition, food insecurity and healthcare challenges. The pandemic led to significant delays in deliveries of humanitarian aid due to disruptions in transportation and conveyance of food and basic medical supplies. Many international humanitarian donors focused their attention on pandemic-related problems in other parts of the world, and stopped transporting humanitarian aid and food to Niger. Some organizations continued to operate, but the overall level of support decreased when Niger needed it most.
Niger would support resolution that safeguard the supply chains that deliver its requirements for food, healthcare, and energy. In case of another pandemic, extreme weather event or other supply chain disruption, Niger needs protections to ensure its supply chains continue to deliver its basic living requirements such as food, healthcare supplies, and energy.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: South Africa
Delegate Name: Liem Krueger

Special Political Committee
The Supply Chain Crisis
The Republic of South Africa
Liem Krueger
Forest Hills Eastern High School

During the 21st century, the global supply chain which supplies essential goods and products has come under jeopardy due to a multitude of events. The global Covid 19 pandemic in 2020 caused an unprecedented shut down of all unnecessary businesses in various countries. Many businesses went bankrupt due to lack of sales and large numbers of workers went unemployed leading to mass unemployment. An unfathomable number of goods went into shortages due to lack of production including toilet paper, clothes, shoes, and medicine to name a few. Even today, numerous supply chains are still trying to bounce back from such an enormous economic blow and labor shortage. The war between Russia and Ukraine has caused various supply chain issues due to the inability of many ships and planes to export goods due the constant battles and hazards posed by the war. One notable shortage is grain which is a major export from Ukraine, and Russia has damaged numerous grain silos and trade ships in Ukrainian harbors. Territorial disputes in the South China Sea have led to clashes between Chinese ships and Filipino and Vietnameses ships. The South China Sea is a valuable trade route for oil with 10 billion barrels of oil passing through the lane in 2023. Intensified weather events including hurricanes, earthquakes, and tropical storms pose a significant threat to maritime and land trade. In 2004, Hurricane Ivan destroyed 90% of Grenada’s forest vegetation along with valuable topsoil for plants. The hurricane also wiped 85% of Grenada’s nutmeg crop, a top export, and 60% of its cocoa trees. As it stands, the global supply chain is too vulnerable to disruptions and catastrophic events, and South Africa is working with the United Nations to better prepare the global supply chain for such events.
South Africa has begun to rise up the global supply chain due to its vast amounts of raw materials including aluminum, cobalt, lithium, manganese, and copper which are vital parts in various tech industries including the car industry. Africa as a whole possesses an abundance of metals needed for electric cars, a growing market, which is not seen in most parts of the world. If South Africa can obtain contracts for exploration for metals used in high-tech products, then they can enhance their domestic industries which would allow them to design, obtain, manufacture, and supply the needed components. Such production could raise South Africa’s position on the supply chain market and raise wages in Africa as a whole, as their current minimum is $220 per week compared to the $668 in the Americas. However, South Africa suffers from rail and port shortages. The country’s rail system is owned by the state-owned Transnet SOC Ltd. which has been facing numerous challenges including management upheavals, derailments, and equipment shortages. The conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine have worsened the problems by disturbing the distribution of vital goods.
South proposes that the UN could help prepare the global supply chain from disturbances by shifting its reliance off of goods from conflicted areas such as Ukraine. Instead, they should begin making efforts to build up infrastructure in countries with vast potential in certain markets such as South Africa in the electric car industry. By doing this, the UN can minimize the risk posed by conflict on trade and supply chains and better prepare the global supply chain for disturbances.

Works Cited
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/09/02/world/africa/south-africa-shell-oil.html#:~:text=South%20Africa%20is%20the%20largest,its%20proven%20reserves%20are%20offshore.

https://unctad.org/news/africas-rise-global-supply-chain-force-unctad-report

https://www.supplychainbrain.com/articles/38906-south-african-supply-chain-disruptions-far-from-over-pwc-says

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Jordan
Delegate Name: Ell Johnson

SPECIAL POLITICAL COMMITTEE
Supply Chain Sustainability
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
Portage Central High School
Ell Johnson

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan recognizes the importance and global necessity of sustainable supply chains. As a nation dedicated to international cooperation, Jordan recognizes the global importance of supply chain sustainability and asks for the cooperation of the UN to protect supply chain systems. Supply chains are crucial to the success of nearly every nation and in recent years they have been under threat. Natural Disasters, global conflict, and technological inefficiency all play a role in the recent instability of supply chains. While some things that disrupt global supply chains can be prevented, other matters are inevitable. The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan calls for the minimization of supply chain disruptions and for an increase in the resilience of supply chains.
In the past several years, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan has pledged to increase our supply chain sustainability. While still in the early stages, we have incorporated Green Supply Chain Management techniques, which aim to reduce the production of solid waste and the overuse of raw materials. This will help to increase the sustainability of supply chains that are dependent on Jordanian manufacturing. By adopting green practices in supply chain management, supply chains will be more likely to operate effectively in the future. In addition, Jordan is implementing a supply chain finance program through the Jordan Kuwait Bank, this will provide affordable financing to small and mid-size enterprises, encouraging sustainability and success within Jordan’s industries which will encourage global supply chain sustainability.
Having contributed to supply chain sustainability, Jordan calls on the international community to contribute. Jordan understands the desperate need for an increase in supply chain sustainability. We ask that the United Nations Special Political Committee collaborate to find solutions to instabilities in global supply chains. Jordan calls for a sub-committee to be created to address the issue as it changes over time. We ask that nations take into consideration these issues and work towards increasing the stability of their domestic supply chains, therefore increasing sustainability on a global scale. We request that nations avoid conflict and have diplomatic relations in order to not disrupt supply chains.
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, with help from the United Nations, hopes to increase supply chain sustainability. 

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Republic of Korea
Delegate Name: Hayden Graham

Country: Republic of Korea
Committee: SPECPOL
Topic: Supply Chain stability
Delegate: Hayden Graham
School: Williamston High School

The Republic of Korea recognizes that supply chain stability is critical for ensuring economic resilience fostering Innovation and enhancing National Security. As a key player in the global economy, the ROK is committed to maintaining robust supply chains that can withstand disruption from natural disasters, geopolitical tension, or unexpected global crises such as pandemics. Supply chain stability is fundamental to the Republic of Korea’s Economic growth and Global competitiveness. As one of the most export-driven economies, Korea heavily relies on International Supply chains from various Industries, including Electronics, automobile manufacturing, and semiconductors. Ensuring the stability of these Supply chains is vital for productivity and reduced production costs Economic Development and job creation. ROKs are technological and Manufacturing sectors that depend on the timely delivery of parts and materials. Any disruption that jeopardizes its position as a leader in these fields is also vital for allowing a firm to focus on research and development instead of Crisis management thus promoting innovation.
The Republic of Korea acknowledges several key challenges to supply chain stability such as escalating tensions, particularly in the Asia Pacific region, post risk to supply chain continuation. Along with the frequency and intensity of natural disasters can disrupt Logistics and transport routes. A final reason is the COVID-19 pandemic which illustrates how quickly Global Supply chains can be affected.
To address these challenges and improve supply chain stability ROK advocates for encouraging companies to diversify their Reliance on a single source. Along with promoting the development and adoption of advanced technologies such as AI, blockchain, and IoT which can enhance transparency, traceability, and efficiency. Another reason is engaging in multilateral dialogue and collaboration to share best practices and enhance the collective resilience of Supply chains globally, also emphasizing the integration of sustainability into the Supply Chain. Management to ensure long-term visibility and compliance with global environmental standards

ROK believes that International cooperation is essential in fostering supply chain stability. The nation actively participates in organizations and agreements that promote trade and economic cooperation such as engaging with neighboring countries to enhance regional supply chain resilience and also strengthening economic partnerships with key allies including the United States and the European Union to secure vital supply chains. The Republic of Korea is committed to fostering supply chain stability as a crucial element for economic resilience and Global competitiveness through diversification and technological innovation International cooperation and sustainable practices are ROK aims to build resilient Supply chains that could weather future disruptions. By working collaboratively with Global Partners, Korea strives to ensure that its supply chain remains robust and adapted in an ever-evolving Global landscape.

Works Cited
Kim, Dongsoo, et al. “A Study of Supply Chains of Korean Firms in China Based on Business Survey Data.” SSRN Electronic Journal, 2021, https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4190942. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.
KUMAR, RAJIV. “The Supply Chain Diversification and India–South Korea Cooperation in a Contested East Asia in the Post-COVID-19 Era.” The Journal of Indian and Asian Studies, vol. 02, no. 02, July 2021, https://doi.org/10.1142/s2717541321400076.
Om, Kiyong, et al. “Using Supply Chain Management to Enhance Industry—University Collaborations in IT Higher Education in Korea.” Scientometrics, vol. 71, no. 3, June 2007, pp. 455–71, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11192-007-1690-3. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.
Park, Byung In, and Hokey Min. “Global Supply Chain Barriers of Foreign Subsidiaries: The Case of Korean Expatriate Manufacturers in China.” International Journal of Services and Operations Management, vol. 14, no. 1, 2013, p. 67, https://doi.org/10.1504/ijsom.2013.050562. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Ava Cousineau

Delegate: Ava Cousineau
School: Williamston High School
Country: Germany
Committee: SPECPOL
Topic: Supply Chain Stability

The stability of global supply chains has become a critical concern in recent years, as businesses face a range of challenges that threaten their ability to deliver goods and services efficiently. Historically, supply chains have been designed for cost-effectiveness, often relying on just-in-time inventory models and global sourcing to maximize efficiency. However, events like natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, and trade disruptions have exposed the vulnerabilities of these interconnected systems. These disruptions have led to delays, shortages, and rising costs, prompting companies to reassess their supply chain strategies. Key issues affecting current supply chain stability include over-reliance on single suppliers, a lack of supply chain transparency, labor shortages, and increasing demand volatility. As a result, businesses are investing in greater diversification, digitalization, and risk management practices to build more resilient and agile supply chains capable of withstanding future shocks.

Efforts made by the German government to combat these issues include the implementation of the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act. The German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (SCDDA), which came into effect in 2023, mandates that large companies take responsibility for human rights and environmental standards across their global supply chains. The law requires companies with over 3,000 employees (or 1,000 employees starting in 2024) to establish processes for identifying, preventing, and addressing human rights violations and environmental damage within their supply chains, including those of their direct suppliers and, in some cases, indirect ones. This includes ensuring that suppliers adhere to labor rights, fair working conditions, and environmental sustainability. Companies must also regularly monitor compliance, report on their due diligence efforts, and implement corrective actions where necessary. The law’s implementation has had significant effects on businesses, driving them to increase transparency, improve risk management, and revise supplier contracts. It has also created challenges for companies managing complex, global supply networks, as they must now invest in tracking and verifying compliance at various stages of the supply chain. While the Act aims to promote ethical sourcing and corporate responsibility, it has placed a heavy compliance burden on businesses, particularly those dealing with smaller suppliers or operating in regions with weak regulatory frameworks.

The German government has announced plans to modify the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act, planning to scale back certain aspects of the act. The upcoming changes to the German Supply Chain Act will significantly alter its scope and impact, with fewer companies being subject to its requirements—likely less than a third of the current number. A key adjustment is the introduction of a grace period, which will exempt companies from enforcement of the Act until January 1, 2025. Additionally, the revised rules are expected to ease the burden on smaller, downstream companies by setting clearer guidelines for how larger businesses in scope can request information from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within their supply chains. While the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D) is anticipated to be a complex challenge for companies, the changes to Germany’s regulations should help alleviate the compliance strain of navigating both the German law and the broader European legislative framework.

https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/scdda
https://www.csr-in-deutschland.de/EN/Business-Human-Rights/Supply-Chain-Act/supply-chain-act.html
https://www.bmz.de/en/issues/supply-chains
https://practicalesg.com/2024/07/germany-seeks-to-scale-back-german-supply-chain-act/#:~:text=The%20German%20government%20has%20announced,Diligence%20Directive%20(CSDDD).%E2%80%9D

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Indonesia
Delegate Name: Noah Lewis

Supply chain stability is key to a country’s success. Without a stable supply chain, a country will crumble and be unable to function. Many factors, such as natural disasters, conflict, and labor shortages, can affect a country’s supply chain.

For years, Indonesia’s supply chain has been inefficient. It faces significant challenges such as poor infrastructure and a weak logistics industry. Indonesia’s inadequate transportation infrastructure, such as poor road networks and limited port capacity, leads to delays and increased costs for businesses and makes it difficult to transport goods within the country and to international markets. Indonesia’s logistics industry is also underdeveloped. These logistical difficulties result in poor operations and domestic delivery times that are two to three times greater than in comparator countries. A bottleneck is created in inbound logistics due to Indonesia’s lengthy turnaround times, which are more than twice as long as those in foreign ports. Indonesia is being prevented from having an effective logistics and supply chain sector by these issues, which range from planning to last-mile delivery. Due to its underutilized transportation infrastructure, high domestic demand, and lengthy domestic delivery times, Indonesia’s logistics cost-to-GDP ratio is up to three times higher than that of other nations.

The country’s progress toward a better national logistics and supply chain is being delayed by these underlying problems, which are causing a vicious loop. However, recently Indonesia has begun to pay greater attention to improving the efficiency of the supply chain. Indonesia has set a goal of being the fifth to seventh largest economy in the world by 2045. Indonesia has started projects to support this goal by reducing logistics and supply chain costs by 17%. Another way to achieve this goal is digitalization. Many other countries around the world have used digital technology to rebuild their supply chains and logistics industries, and this strategy is having a significant influence. Indonesia has started this process, but there is still a long way to go. Continuing on this path in Indonesia has the potential to significantly enhance operations and give the nation the tools it needs to grow.

Bibliography:

Uncovering the challenge of Indonesia’s supply chain: https://blog.fleetx.io/uncovering-the-challenges-of-indonesia-supply-chain/#:~:text=In%20conclusion%2C%20Indonesia%27s%20supply%20chain,the%20efficiency%20of%20its%20economy

Indonesia’s Digital Economy
https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/indonesia-digital-economy#:~:text=National%20Focus%3A%20Indonesia’s%20government%20has,leading%20digital%20economy%20by%202030

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Australia
Delegate Name: Brayden Savoie

Conference: GLIMUN
Committee: SPECPOL
Country: Australia
School: Fishers High School
Author: Brayden Savoie

Topic 2: Supply Chain Stability
In the twenty-first century, supply chain stability has emerged as a pressing global concern. The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the vulnerability of international supply chains, with severe shortages in essential goods like grain, semiconductors, and critical manufacturing chemicals. In total, the pandemic cost the world 5% of its global GDP. Compounding these challenges are geopolitical conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine and tensions in the South China Sea, which strain trade routes and disrupt resource availability. Natural disasters, including hurricanes and earthquakes, further destabilize transportation networks and damage critical infrastructure. Meanwhile, inefficiencies like port congestion amplify these issues, making the consistent delivery of goods more unsteady. The Suez Canal block halted 400 ships and caused $10 billion in losses each day it was blocked. Although the United Nations has taken initial steps to address supply chain sustainability and resilience, a more comprehensive approach is necessary to target all aspects of disruption.

As a nation deeply embedded in global trade networks, Australia recognizes the importance of stable supply chains for economic prosperity and societal well-being. With an export economy reliant on the transport of natural resources, agricultural products, and advanced manufacturing goods. Australia’s total exports in 2022 amounted to approximately $424 billion. Australia is aware of the vulnerabilities that disrupt supply chains. The country has actively worked to strengthen domestic and regional infrastructure, diversify trading partners, and implement policies aimed at reducing reliance on single suppliers. Australia is currently investing a significant amount in infrastructure, with a major public infrastructure spend valued at approximately $230 billion over the next five years. Australia also acknowledges the role of climate change in exacerbating natural disasters and supports integrating climate-resilient measures into supply chain planning. On the international stage, Australia advocates for increased cooperation between governments, businesses, and organizations like the United Nations to address inefficiencies, promote transparency, and establish contingency frameworks to mitigate the impact of crises on supply chains.

To enhance global supply chain stability, Australia encourages a multi-faceted approach. First, fostering international cooperation to create standardized frameworks for supply chain management and data sharing will enhance transparency and efficiency. This includes leveraging the United Nations Global Compact to educate businesses on sustainable practices and risk mitigation strategies. Second, building regional supply chain hubs can reduce dependency on single trade routes and centralize essential stockpiles, improving resilience to disruptions. Australia is prepared to lead efforts in the Asia-Pacific region to develop such hubs. Finally, investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and green technologies can protect supply chains from natural disasters and align with global sustainability goals. Climate change is predicted to hurt global infrastructure by 1.7 trillion by 2050. By addressing inefficiencies, encouraging collaboration, and prioritizing resilience, the international community can better safeguard supply chains and ensure the continued availability of critical goods for all.
Sources:

https://www.ascm.org/making-an-impact/research/supply-chain-stability-index/

https://unglobalcompact.org/what-is-gc/our-work/supply-chain

https://www.dfat.gov.au/

https://www.un.org/en/

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Kenya
Delegate Name: Perla Perez-Montiel

Conference: GLIMUN
Committee: SPECPOL
Country: Kenya
School: Fishers High School
Author: Perla Perez-Montiel

Topic 2: Supply Chain Stability

The stability of global supply chains has become increasingly critical in the twenty-first century. Key supply chains for goods like food, semiconductors and chemicals are threatened by global challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted trade, costing the world economy $4 trillion or 5% of global GDP, as factory shutdowns and transport restrictions worsened labor shortages and reduced stockpiles. Political tensions like the Russia-Ukraine war have further strained supply chains, especially for wheat as Ukraine produces 10% of global supply and its export capacity has been severely impacted. Disputes in the South China Sea, where China controls 40% of global shipping routes, also threaten key trade flows. Natural disasters such as the 2021 Suez Canal obstruction delayed 400 ships and caused $9-10 billion in losses daily. These disruptions raise costs, delay production and negatively impact both developed and developing economies, especially in regions more vulnerable to these challenges.

Kenya, as a developing nation with a growing economy, faces significant challenges from supply chain instability. The country depends heavily on global trade, with agricultural exports like tea, coffee, and horticultural products making up 40% of its $21 billion in trade. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kenya experienced major disruptions in its agricultural supply chains. Transport restrictions and labor shortages delayed food production and distribution. The World Bank reported that these disruptions resulted in losses for key exports like cut flowers and fresh produce. As a member of the African Union, Kenya advocates for regional solutions to address systemic inefficiencies in African supply chains. The African Development Bank estimates that poor infrastructure in Africa costs the continent $25 billion annually, undermining economic growth and trade. Kenya supports initiatives to build resilience, especially in the face of natural disasters. It also calls for increased cooperation between governments, businesses, and international organizations like the United Nations. Kenya emphasizes the need for investment in infrastructure and technology to modernize supply chains. Improving Africa’s infrastructure could increase trade by 25% and reduce logistics costs by up to 30%.

To enhance the stability of global supply chains, Kenya advocates for a comprehensive approach that strengthens infrastructure and management practices. First, governments and international organizations should work with businesses to adopt sustainable supply chain practices. The United Nations Global Compact has encouraged 15,000 companies to implement transparency and sustainability measures. Technologies like AI-powered forecasting, used by companies such as Walmart and Amazon, improve flexibility and reduce waste. Second, governments should incentivize investments in infrastructure such as ports and roads, especially in developing regions. The African Development Bank estimates that Africa’s infrastructure deficit costs the continent $130 billion annually. In response to disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chains should diversify sourcing and production hubs. Companies like Apple have already shifted production from China to reduce risks. Finally, promoting regional cooperation within the African Union through initiatives like the AfCFTA can increase intra-Africa trade by 52%, improving self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on global supply chains. By strengthening infrastructure, adopting new technologies, and fostering cooperation, the committee can significantly improve global supply chain stability.

Sources:

https://www.ascm.org/making-an-impact/research/supply-chain-stability-index/

https://unglobalcompact.org/what-is-gc/our-work/supply-chain

https://www.dhl.com/discover/en-ke/small-business-advice/business-innovation-trends/building-resilient-supply-chains-in-kenya

https://direct.mit.edu/rest/article/105/6/1335/109915/Electoral-Violence-and-Supply-Chain-Disruptions-in

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Algeria
Delegate Name: Liam Ahmad

Special Political Committee
Supply Chain Stability
the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria
Liam Ahmad
Forest Hills Eastern High School

In the 21st century, global supply chain systems that transport and deliver essential goods like food, electronics, and chemicals have become increasingly unstable. Global events such as Covid 19, labor shortages, and political conflicts (such as the war between Russia and Ukraine) have disrupted the availability of crucial products. In addition, natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes can damage factories and shipping routes making it even harder to distribute goods.. Problems with major transportation routes, such as the Suez Canal blockage in 2021, have also created major delays. The United Nations is working to educate companies on more sustainable supply chain practices. However, more action is needed to ensure that global supply chains remain stable and can recover from these challenges. Algeria sees this problem as a global effort and is more than willing to discuss reasonable solutions with The United Nations.

As a developing country, Algeria’s economy relies heavily on its major exports of Petroleum and other sought-after natural gasses. Algeria pushes for international cooperation since the pandemic reduced global trade by 5.3% in 2020, severely impacting the economies of developing nations. The heavy dependence on exporting natural gasses which make up 95% of total exporting revenue is at risk and steps for economic protection are favored by Algeria. Since Algeria is in Africa, it has the least infrastructure development in the world leaving it more vulnerable to supply chain disruptions with ports and transportation. While Algeria has made internal investments to help combat these problems, it has yet to directly take action in collaboration with The United Nations. Algeria also hasn’t joined any organizations centered solely around the supply chain but has joined organizations like African Union (AU), Arab League, Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), and World Trade Organization (WTO) all promoting trade and cooperation. Finally, government officials have spoken on topics of exports revolving around natural gas stating that Algeria has taken steps taken steps to help stabilize the chain by increasing its gas exports to countries seeking it from sources other than Russia due to conflict. This increase benefits Algeria’s revenue but is a short-term act for stabilizing the supply chain.

The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria suggests to the UN that international cooperation on the issue and providing economic support to nations would be beneficial. Economic aid to Algeria would be invested in infrastructure improvements and further economic development.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: United Arab Emirates
Delegate Name: Tejasvi Annadurai

Committee: Special Political Committee
Topic: Supply Chain Stability
Country: United Arab Emirates
Delegate Name: Tejasvi Annadurai
School: Forest Hills Northern

Supply chain stability has emerged as one of the important challenges in the 21st century, as interruptions ripple through economies, world trade, and quality of life around the world. Events like the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical conflicts, natural disasters, and inefficiency within global transportation and logistics networks have exposed weaknesses in grain, semiconductors, and pharmaceutical supply chains. These make shortages worse and feed into economic uncertainty. The United Arab Emirates at the crossroads of global trade, is all too aware of what supply chain instability brings. The UAE relies so much on international shipping and also serves as a re-export center for everything from automobile parts to spices, making it particularly vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions. The United Nations has thus tried, through the Global Compact and other initiatives, to impress the need for sustainability in the management of supply chains, but the efforts at resolving such deeper issues have remained incomplete. Against the persistence of these threats to the international community, supply chain stability has become imperative for global economic health.

The UAE realizes the impact of resilient and efficient supply chains on its economic and strategic interests. The general feat is based on its status as a global logistics and trading hub. It has mega-ports, such as Jebel Ali Port, among the busiest in the world, and these are interconnecting to key global shipping routes. This makes the country irreplaceably linked to international supply chains. The UAE has been developing its supply chain efficiency in recent years by investing in infrastructures and technologies, automating its seaports and airports, and having advanced tracking systems while in transit. Nationally, the UAE has pursued the creation of a strong and resilient network in logistics and transport that would be less prone to interruptions; these have involved the development of smart cities and green infrastructure. Internationally, it has actively supported the UN Global Compact and other international initiatives through the sustainability of supply chains by adopting green logistics practices and embracing digital technologies that currently streamline operations. Our government has time and time again stated the importance of international cooperation in keeping supply chains resilient, especially against natural calamities and geopolitical tensions that are increasing threats to trade routes across the world. A member of the World Trade Organization, the UAE has called for free and fair trade, underlining the need for cooperation by countries over disruptions to global supply chains. The UAE has further supported UN resolutions related to disaster risk reduction and infrastructure resilience for mitigating the consequence of disruption in supply chains.

The UAE would, therefore, call for a multi-pronged approach to meet such challenges that beset global supply chains at many different levels-national and international. Internationally, the UAE recommends the increased role of the United Nations and specialized agencies in promoting dialogue between governments, the private sector, and international institutions to establish holistic risk management frameworks. This shall include the development of effective early warning systems on key disruptions, embedding sustainability in the entire value chain of supply chains, and mutual aid agreements amongst countries experiencing any such crisis. The UAE also believes that more investments in digital infrastructure would enhance the real-time tracking of goods, iron out inefficiencies, and allow for real transparency across borders. It is also hoping to avoid the consequences of natural calamities and geopolitical strife by pushing for more stringent international agreements on the protection of vital trade routes and contingency measures for staple goods. The UAE looks forward to forging the kinds of partnerships that will help the international community chart a course through the headwinds of supply chain instability and is ready to collaborate on innovative solutions that foster long-term stability, resilience, and sustainability in global trade.

Works Cited

Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) World Factbook. “United Arab Emirates.” 2023. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/united-arab-emirates/
United Nations Global Compact. “What is the UN Global Compact?” 2023. https://unglobalcompact.org/what-is-gc/our-work/supply-chain
UAE Ministry of Economy. “UAE Vision 2021: Economic Development and Infrastructure.” 2023. https://www.economy.gov.ae/
World Trade Organization (WTO). “Trade and Development: The Role of the WTO.” 2023. https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/reser_e/ersd202101_e.htm
“Sustainable Supply Chain: UAE’s Role in Global Logistics.” Arabian Business, 2023.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Ethiopia
Delegate Name: Shruthilaya Venkatesh Kumar

Committee: Special Political Committee
Topic: Supply Chain Stability
Country: Ethiopia
School: Portage Central High School

Supply chain stability is a global problem because of the economic issues in other countries such as the Russia-Ukraine war. This means essential supplies such as food, technology, and chemicals could not ship their products. With this problem, many people would not be able to survive as they cannot receive enough life supplies to support themselves and their families. However, there are many solutions to how we can prevent these shortages and create strong economies. My proposal aims to give a solution to how supply chains reduce food waste and improve reliability to sustain products so people do not have to be concerned about this topic.
Countries need resources to help sustain the population, but due to global pandemics such as COVID-19, places such as Ethiopia have struggled immensely in terms of food and health. The pandemic disrupted the food supply in Ethiopia and caused children to experience terrible conditions in terms of health. According to Juliet McCann and others from the National Library of Medicine, “Before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ethiopia was burdened with poor maternal and child health indicators. Child malnutrition including high rates of stunting (38.4%) and wasting (9.9%) among children under five years, and anemia among women of reproductive age (23.6%) are severe public health challenges [3]. Additionally, in 2019, 51.5% of households reported experiencing food insecurity, with the average household not able to satisfy food needs for 1.3 months” (McCann et al.). Supply chain management is important because, without proper stability, many people drag themselves through hardships that could affect their lives dramatically and escalate drastically.
Adding on, McCann states, “The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic were felt across the food system and include limited agriculture inputs due to travel restrictions and closed borders restricting trade, reduced in-person support by agriculture extension workers, income losses, increases in food prices, and the reduction in food security and dietary diversity. Maternal and child health services were disrupted due to fear of contacting COVID-19, diversion of resources, and lack of personal protective equipment. Disruptions eased over time due to the expansion of social protection through the Productive Safety Net Program, and the increased outreach and home service provision by the health extension workers” (McCann et al.). Ethiopia has tried to help the food supply to avoid more deaths and is looking for more health services that can solve the issue.
Ethiopia has faced shortages of water as well, and they have attempted to reduce the shortages. For instance, the USAID organization has helped improve water sources, irrigation for food security, livestock health, promoting economic opportunities for women and youth, and restoring markets in areas of drought or conflict. There are many programs within the organization that commit to these services. USAID states, “USAID investments support the construction and rehabilitation of critical drinking water sources in rural areas of Ethiopia where water is scarce. Over the past five years, we have connected over 200,000 Ethiopians to sustainable sources of safe drinking water. In addition, USAID projects promote healthy behaviors and educate families and communities about safe sanitation and hygiene practices at their homes to prevent illness and disease” (USAID). The program is an impeccable reason why Ethiopia is improving its health.
My proposal to solve the supply chain stability issue is that the UN should consider providing more suppliers along with back-up suppliers so if a main supplier cannot provide goods or services, the back-up supplier can do so. Taulia claims, “A diverse approved supplier base, with failsafe suppliers on-board for key goods or materials, meaning that normal operations can continue if a key supplier is unable to meet their obligations” (Taulia). This solution can help improve global supply chain stability and help more countries, including Ethiopia.
The supply chain stability of the world is immensely significant to the global population. These issues such as the pandemic or shortages of goods could affect these processes negatively, which is why the UN must take action immediately with my proposed solution.

Bibliography
McCann, Juliet, et al. “COVID-19 Disruptions of Food Systems and Nutrition Services in Ethiopia: Evidence of the Impacts and Policy Responses,” National Library of Medicine.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10162349/
Taulia, “Overcoming the challenges of a global supply chain.”
https://taulia.com/resources/blog/overcoming-the-challenges-of-a-global-supply-chain/
USAID, “Water.”
https://www.usaid.gov/ethiopia/water#:~:text=USAID%20investments%20support%20the%20construction,sources%20of%20safe%20drinking%20water

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Slovenia
Delegate Name: Ava Tate

The Republic of Slovenia understands the seriousness of maintaining a stable supply chain. As a crucial connector of trade in the Adriatic Sea and the Balkans, we are no stranger to how insufficiencies in the supply chain can leave marks on the economic state. Slovenia is eminently committed to ensuring considerable changes in the handling of the supply chains are made. With ambitious hopes of conserving the international community’s prosperity, Slovenia strongly supports efforts to develop infrastructure, technology, and sustainability of supply chains.
Supply chains for critical goods such as grain, semiconductors, and chemicals utilized in manufacturing have become threatened by world events such as Russia’s war on Ukraine, and the global COVID 19 pandemic. In Slovenia we have faced a significant downturn in economic growth because of these issues, going from 8.2% in 2021 to only 2.5% in 2023. With Slovenian domestic market at only around 2 mil, Slovenia greatly relies on foreign trade. Our reliance on such trade leaves us substantially susceptible to complications instigated through the global supply chain stability. We pride ourselves in our advanced infrastructure, educated population, and EU transportation ports; therefore as proud members of the EU, we are in agreement with a series of policy suggestions composed in an EU parliamentary briefing. These policies aim to “increase domestic capacity, diversify suppliers and support the multilateral rules-based trade environment,”
Based on reports from the European parliamentary research service, Slovenia favors increasing public funding in companies allowing sectors to more strategically monitor, and stress test their supply chains; this measure will help catch vulnerabilities beforehand, thus preventing potential disruptions. Slovenia believes countries all over the globe should be open to extending trade agreements and removing tariffs to diversify markets and increase the availability of goods, ensuring that demand can be met. Along with this, it is crucial that countries take action to expand domestic production and the stockpiling of goods, in efforts to increase supply chain resilience in case of emergency.
Furthermore, Slovenia encourages that increased funding be allocated to research and innovation that will develop industrial capabilities, and strengthen transportation infrastructure; therefore, making importing and exporting goods more efficient, and less prone to potential damage. Moreover, Slovenia stands by The March 2020 EU’s “industrial Strategy” calling for putting in place a crisis-preparedness strategy in sectors where supply chains risk interruption. Ultimately Slovenia is ready to take the proposed measures for the sake of economies around the globe. We hope with your help we can make these proposals a reality,

Works Cited
“Slovenia – United States Department of State.” State Department, https://www.state.gov/reports/2022-investment-climate-statements/slovenia/. Accessed 20 November 2024.
Slovenia – Market Overview.” International Trade Administration, 18 March 2024, https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/slovenia-market-overview. Accessed 20 November 2024.
Szczepański, Marcin. “Resilience of global supply chains.” European Parliament, https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/BRIE/2021/698815/EPRS_BRI(2021)698815_EN.pdf. Accessed 20 November 2024.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Pakistan
Delegate Name: Jack Kingston

Committee: Special Political
Topic: Supply Chain Stability
Country: Pakistan
School: Portage Central High School

Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic’s disastrous effects on the global economy, supply chain stability has been thrust into the spotlight as a pressing issue facing every nation on Earth. The Islamic Republic of Pakistan recognises this fact, and, due to Pakistan’s large number of manufacturing plants, believe it to be vital to not only the nation’s future, but the world’s. Current threats facing the supply chain include pirates in Somalia and Yemen, aggression and conflict over straits or seas, and other various geopolitical issues. If the supply chain were to ever break down due to one of these issues it would cause worldwide economic devastation. It is because of these reasons that Pakistan recognises the need for a stable supply chain, and is prepared to work to make it happen.
Pakistan is a nation that understands the importance of supply chain management. Pakistan has faced numerous problems with the supply chain for various reasons, such as poor infrastructure and inefficient customs inspections. Pakistan and China have come to multiple agreements concerning the safety of the world supply chain and establishing better chains worldwide. These agreements have ensured the future safety of Pakistan’s supply chains, and have allowed for greater economic growth and cooperation between the two nations. Accords over factory regulations, however, have disrupted the supply lines as companies are now needing to pay higher wages or move locations, affecting the regional supply chain stability. Going into the future, Pakistan will continue their trade agreements with Sri Lanka, China, and Malaysia, as well as continue cooperation with the SAARC, in order to further reinforce supply stability.
Pakistan is dedicated to ensuring a stable future for the supply chain, and has taken steps to encourage this train of thought. The nation of Pakistan calls upon all UN member nations to increase diverse trade and enter into more trade agreements, to diversify the chain and ensure it’s safety and stability for years to come.

Topic: 2024-Supply Chain Stability
Country: Brazil
Delegate Name: Cailu Jiang

Topic: Supply Chain
Country: Federative Republic of Brazil

Delegate Name Cailu Jiang
Committee: Special Political Committee
School: Portage Central High School

The Covid-19 pandemic has raised many questions about the stability of the world’s supply chain. As climate change rises the world’s food supply and water resources are in risk of completely being annihilated. The Houthis in Yemen are blocking the Suez Canal raising cost shipping for ships. Inflation has risen the costs to unprecedented highs. Energy crisis in European nations. An international blockade of certain countries from participating in world trade are increasing costs. Various wars around the world, impacting stability of food chains, mineral resources. The Federative Republic of Brazil recognizes it is simply an understatement to say the world’s supply chain is at risk.

During the Covid-19 pandemic Brazil suffered reductions in manufacturing gross output and relative job losses as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Global trade within the first two months of 2024 fell about 50 percent in the Suez Canal while a drought forced the Panama Canal to drop about 32 percent (IMF). This forces many shipping companies to redirect through the Cap of Good Hope. This further increases prices and destabilizes global markets. Meanwhile, the Russia-Ukraine war has raised global food prices and brought energy concerns to many European countries. As of current predictions by the World Bank state Brazil’s economy will grow by 2.8 percent throughout 2024, however this could change through relatively as if conflicts such as Israel and Palestine continue then the Houthis will continue to allow limited passing of the Suez Canal. Potentially hurting Brasilia’s ability to further help sustain global prices such as on various natural resources.

Brazil recognizes the reality that most of the current states quo could not change. However, Brazil also recognizes the importance of mediating peace between the current ongoing conflicts. As a mediated peace between Israel and Palestine would prevent the further excursions by the Houthis in Yemen. As they have stated as long as the Israel and Palestine conflict continues they will continue erupting the Suez Canal in its trade. Brazil’s ratification of the Paris Agreement also commits us to reducing carbon-dioxide emissions in which, this could help reduce the effects of rapid climate change. This is beneficial as drought, and other natural disasters would have less effect on crops helping reduce global food prices. In summary Brazil will be taking strategic steps in further securing the global supply chain as the break up of it will result in economic decline across the global community. Brazil encourages cooperation in settling the problems regarding the global supply chain as it does not only hurt refugees but our very own economies that we depend on for survival.

Works Cited
https://www.imf.org/en/Blogs/Articles/2024/03/07/Red-Sea-Attacks-Disrupt-Global-Trade
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9550638/#sec0008
https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/brazil/overview

Position papers for GLIMUN 2024 will appear above this line, with the newest being at the top.