Topic: 2025 – Authoritarianism and Democracy
Country: Saudi Arabia
Delegate Name: Finola Green
The world continues to debate the balance between democracy and authoritarian governance, with these questions affecting global stability and development. The United Nations faces the challenge of promoting peace and cooperation while respecting each nation’s sovereignty and cultural traditions. Saudi Arabia maintains that every country has the right to choose its own political system. As a monarchy rooted in Islamic traditions, the Kingdom argues that no single model of government fits every society. Today, Western models of governance seem to dominate the UN’s thinking, without making space for other ideals to foster and inspire reform.
Reform in Saudi Arabia is gradual and internally driven, shaped by the nation’s culture and needs. The Vision 2030 plan illustrates this approach, aiming to diversify the economy, reduce dependence on oil, and expand transparency and efficiency in government. Large-scale projects such as the NEOM mega-city and the Red Sea tourism initiative demonstrate efforts to modernize the economy and preserve cultural heritage. Social reforms have also advanced, with female workforce participation rising to over 35 percent and increased investment in entertainment, culture, and tourism. Environmental initiatives, including the Sudair Solar PV Project, show a commitment to sustainability and long-term stability.
Internationally, Saudi Arabia actively participates in UN initiatives while emphasizing respect for sovereignty and non-interference. The Kingdom joined the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework from 2022 to 2026 to support global development goals while maintaining national autonomy. Through these domestic reforms and international engagements, Saudi Arabia demonstrates that effective governance, modernization, and peaceful development can coexist with cultural identity and sovereignty.
Works Cited:
https://treaties.un.org/doc/publication/ctc/uncharter.pdf
https://legal.un.org/avl/ha/dicc/dicc.html
https://www.undp.org/saudi-arabia/publications/undp-saudi-arabia-report-2022-2023
https://databank.worldbank.org/id/4c12fa1e
https://www.elibrary.imf.org/view/journals/002/2022/275/article-A001-en.xml
