Topic:
Country: Finland
Delegate Name: Charlotte Dykstra
Committee: SPECPOL
Topic: Impact of Conflict Minerals
Country: The Republic of Finland
Delegate: Charlotte Dykstra, FH Northern HS
Conflict minerals, often sourced from regions with a history of armed conflict and human rights abuses, have become integral parts of several industries. These minerals, according to the United Therapeutics Corporation (UT), include cassiterite, columbite-tantalite, gold, wolframite, and their derivatives, which are limited to tantalum, tin, and tungsten. Conflict minerals contribute to the financing of several armed groups and the continuation of forced labor, which only further perpetuates violence and human suffering in these regions.
As an advocate for peace and sustainable development, the Republic of Finland recognizes the pressing issue of conflict minerals and their detrimental impact on global stability. Finland currently supports existing regulations, such as the EU’s Conflict Minerals Regulation and the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains. Both frameworks promote responsible sourcing practices. Finland also promotes regional cooperation and responsible sourcing in line with ICGLR (International Conference on the Great Lakes Region) efforts.
Although Finland acknowledges the importance of regulatory practices and supports initiatives taken by the UN and other international organizations to place restrictions on conflict minerals, Finland also recognizes the potential economic backlash of harsh restrictive practices. The Republic of Finland emphasizes the importance of balancing the ethical need to address human rights concerns with economic considerations when crafting effective policies.
Finland is aware of the need for international cooperation on this issue and the UN’s obligation to present an international response on the regulatory policies regarding conflict minerals. The delegation of Finland proposes the establishment of a collaborative platform in which various stakeholders, countries, and other organizations can coordinate efforts to address the root causes of conflict mineral trade. Finland also advocates for increased transparency in supply chains, with companies disclosing information about the sourcing of their minerals. Transparency within various industries will allow consumers to make informed decisions and create incentives for businesses to make ethical decisions regarding minerals.
The Republic of Finland is committed to addressing the impact of conflict minerals through a balanced and cooperative approach. While recognizing the need for regulations, Finland emphasizes the importance of considering the negative economic impacts that could occur as a result. The delegation of Finland strongly believes that by working together, the international community can build a more sustainable and ethical framework regarding conflict minerals.
