Topic: 2024-Spread of Animal Viruses
Country: Indonesia
Delegate Name: Claire Yuan
Committee: ECOSOC
Topic: The Spread of Animal Viruses
Country: Indonesia
School: Portage Central High School
The global spread of animal viruses, especially zoonotic diseases transmitted from animals to humans, threatens public health and the environment. Wildlife trade and human activities like deforestation have increased the chances of these diseases, with outbreaks like COVID-19 demonstrating their severity. These viruses harm not only human populations but also ecosystems and communities that rely on animals for their livelihoods. The Republic of Indonesia is committed to tackling this issue by strengthening conservation efforts, improving disease monitoring, and working with other nations to prevent future outbreaks.
The Republic of Indonesia recognizes the interconnectedness between human and animal health and is dedicated to addressing the root causes of zoonotic disease transmission. Pangolins, considered the most trafficked mammal in the world, are known carriers of coronaviruses that can potentially transmit to humans. To address this issue, Indonesia has strengthened enforcement measures under its Wildlife Law of 1990 by increasing penalties for traffickers and collaborating with organizations like TRAFFIC and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to monitor markets and trade routes. For example, in 2021, Indonesian authorities seized over 36 tons of pangolin scales destined for export, representing a significant step in disrupting this illegal network.
Deforestation in Indonesia, primarily driven by palm oil plantations, has also contributed to increased human-wildlife interactions. Between 2000 and 2020, Indonesia lost approximately 28 million hectares of forest, creating ideal conditions for zoonotic diseases to spread. One notable example is the Nipah virus, which is linked to bat populations that encroach on agricultural lands after losing their natural habitats. To address this, Indonesia has initiated reforestation projects like the National Movement for Forest and Land Rehabilitation (GERHAN), which aims to restore over 2 million hectares of degraded land by 2030. These efforts not only reduce the risk of zoonotic disease outbreaks but also support biodiversity and the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities.
Indonesia has taken significant steps to address zoonotic diseases through stricter enforcement against wildlife trafficking, reforestation initiatives like GERHAN, and enhanced disease surveillance systems under the Global Health Security Agenda. Collaborations with organizations like the FAO and ASEAN have improved outbreak detection and regional data sharing, as seen in the containment of avian influenza cases in 2020. Additionally, Indonesia’s ongoing investments in community education aim to reduce reliance on illegal wildlife trade by providing sustainable alternatives for local livelihoods. These efforts show Indonesia’s commitment to balancing public health, environmental protection, and economic development. The Republic of Indonesia calls on member states to adopt similar approaches, emphasizing global cooperation to combat wildlife trade, protect natural habitats, and strengthen health systems. The global community can prevent future outbreaks and build a safer, more resilient world with unified international efforts.
