Topic:
Country: Finland
Delegate Name: Charlotte Dykstra
Committee: SPECPOL
Topic: De-escalation of sectarian conflict
Country: The Republic of Finland
Delegate: Charlotte Dykstra, FH Northern HS
Intrastate sectarian conflict has been a deep-rooted issue in the global political and social landscape for an innumerable amount of time. Sectarianism can occur when a group forms an intense attachment or association with a particular set of beliefs, especially religion. TIn the global landscape of instrate sectarian conflict, the international community faces the difficult task of formulating guidelines for UN intervention. The impacts of conflicts caused by sectarianism stress the need for establishing a policy that helps to govern when the UN should intervene in such conflict.
The Republic of Finland approaches the issue of intrastate sectarian conflict with a tradition of advocacy for peace and international cooperation. Up to this point, Finland has not been directly involved in sectarian conflict to the degree as seen in other regions, but the delegation recognizes the gravity of intrastate sectarian conflicts and their potential and ability to destabilize regions, cause immense human suffering, and hinder socio-economic development. Finland’s commitment to diplomacy and conflict prevention aligns with the broader goals of the UN.
The UN has been at the forefront of efforts to address sectarian conflicts. The UN has formulated various resolutions, declarations, and proposals that are aimed at providing a comprehensive guide to UN intervention such as the Responsibility to Protect (R2P), the Brahimi Report, and the United Nation Charter. Finland recognizes the significance of these UN positions and emphasizes the need to build upon existing guidelines while considering the unique challenges posed by sectarian conflict.
Emphasizing diplomatic and non-coercive measures, Finland advocates for guidelines that take into consideration both respecting states’ interest in national sovereignty and fulfilling the UN responsibility to protect future generations from the devastation that can arise from such conflicts. The Finnish delegation also recognizes the varying dynamics between sectarian conflicts and proposes guidelines that address root causes, promote inclusive dialogue, and protect vulnerable populations. While recognizing the importance of the domestic government’s opinion in regions of sectarian conflict, Finland proposes a careful assessment of its legitimacy. The Republic of Finland supports guidelines that take into account the UN’s responsibility to protect, especially in cases involving human rights abuses and lack of inclusivity. Rooted in its commitment for peace and international cooperation, Finland is committed to working collaboratively with fellow committee members in order to develop guidelines that promote the de-escalation of sectarian conflict.
