Situation in Congo

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Afghanistan
Delegate Name: Henry Whittier-Ferguson
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

Since the conflict began in 1998, more than 5 million people have died in the Congo. This has been the most costly conflict in terms of human lives since World War II. Obviously, this crisis is extremely pressing, and requires resolution. The problem, however, does not lie in lack of action on the part of the United Nations. Resolutions have been passed, and Peacekeepers have been deployed to the region. However, it seems like these measures are not enough, or are not working effectively.

Afghanistan believes that we must do whatever it takes to put an end to this violence. The overwhelming toll on human lives is far too great to endure any longer. With that in mind, we must analyze the measures already in place regarding the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In 1999, the United Nations authorized the creation of a peacekeeping mission (MONUC) in order to help control the violence and enforce the Lusaka accords, a temporary ceasefire. In late 2007, fighting once again broke out, but in January 2008, all parties signed the Goma peace accords. It is obvious that there has not been a lack of effort on the United Nation’s part to help solve this conflict. What is necessary is to promote the enforcing of the Goma peace accords.

The most pressing matter, and the one that requires our immediate attention is the human rights issue. Hundreds of thousands of refugees have been displaced, and nearly 45,000 people die each month from the war and its complications. Malnutrition and disease are widespread, and are among the leading causes of death. Sadly, many of the conditions people are perishing of would be fully treatable if we were able to get aid to them expediently. These people are of paramount importance, and we must do everything in our power to provide aid to them.

One thing Afghanistan would not like to see is the creation of more beaurocracy and bodies. There have already been adequate resolutions and actions taken to prevent the conflict. However strengthening the existing measures will be necessary. It is not always a question of creating more, instead sometimes we must refine what is already in place. Afghanistan believes that the best way to remedy the situation is not through new, unnecessary resolutions, but through refinement and improvement of existing ones.

Afghanistan realizes that the situation in the Congo is highly volatile, and requires our immediate attention. We must revise and strengthen our existing resolutions, and in this way, we will be able to move forward. The humanitarian crisis as well is an extremely pressing issue, and we must find a way to get aid to those in need as quickly as possible. Afghanistan hopes that all members of the Special Political committee will be ready and willing to move forward in order to make the world a better place.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Algeria
Delegate Name: James Love
School: Royal Oak High School

Algeria is frightened by the news that is coming out of the Congo. Algeria has been sure to watch the area around Congo since 1999, and has been slightly worried since the start of the conflict, the worry only increasing over time. The recent Goma Peace Accords are a step in the right direction, due to the fact that they, of course, stopped fighting in the Great Lakes region of Africa.

Since the Rwandan genocide, Algeria has been worried about the Great Lakes area here in Africa. Mainly because this genocide can be used as an excuse by Tutsi government to exact vengeance the on the Hutus. Though Algeria hopes these allegations are not true, it is important to remember that the genocide is only a little more than a decade old, and many still have the horrific memories.

Rwanda is obviously very important in this topic, and their involvement should be made more clear in this session. However, the true issue is still the Congo. Algeria believes all nations can agree that the situation in Congo is a nightmare. This committee's agenda should be to deal with the problems here, and perhaps hammer out a solution. This committee must at least try to end the problems in the Congo.

Algeria knows of the problems the Congo has faced, mainly their three recent civil wars, and Algeria realizes that stability may be difficult. Overall, Algeria is very happy to see some peace returning to the region, and wants to help in the effort in any way it can.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Angola
Delegate Name: Adarsh Shah
School: Roeper School

As a nation with three major ethnic groups, the Republic of Angola understands the issues of ethnic tensions. In our neighboring nation of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, major rebel groups have been methodically killing without remorse, and preventing any sort of aid from reaching those who desperately need it. The atrocities being committed in the Congo are unacceptable and must be stopped. Rebels in the nation are a very serious issue and are dangerous to the government, whom they seek to overthrow and so a very serious potential problem to any bordering nation of the Congo.

The Republic of Angola has in the past decade sent troops to support the national government in Kinshasa against invasion forces of Hutu rebels. Today, Angola has no troops in Congo, except for those few under the UN and AU authority. Angola would hope that the existing situation in the Congo can be stabilized through international assistance, and Angola would not be forced to recommit its own troops. In this regard, Angola strongly calls for redoubled efforts by the international community to assist the government of DR Congo in its defense against rebel forces.

Angola would like to applaud the efforts made by UNICEF and other humanitarian organizations to assist in the Congo. These organizations have done much to improve the deplorable situation, but more must be done to assist this nation. While the Republic of Angola generally believes in the principle of national sovereignty, the situation in DR Congo is so grave, and the threat to the national government and its people so strong, that the usual principle of non-interference in the sovereignty of the Congo, would allow its government and people to continue to be victimized by forces beyond their control. United Nations assistance is required immediately. The world community must work in concert to address this crisis.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Australia
Delegate Name: Lexie Clark
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Advances in the protection Human Rights have intensified exponentially since the formation of the United Nations and has turned international attention to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Australia supports the United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUC), which lists the ways that the UN hopes to improve the situation in the DRC and what is required of the people of Congo, their government, and foreign countries to achieve their goals. However, Australia would like to see increased emphasis on the local economy in the DRC as it is believed that the improvement of the economy is important for achieving demobilization.

Australia strongly believes in MONUC and believes that aiding the Congo is important because the improvement of the Congo will give the Congolese better lives, more rights, and will become a beacon of hope to other oppressed countries in the world. The devotion to the fight for Human Rights is very strong in Australia and thus the country is very concerned about the situation in the Congo and strives to aid the people there. Australia has sent peacekeeping forces to the Congo in the past and has also been involved, and continues to be involved, in peace building missions.

The current UN suggestions on how to improve the situation in the Congo are listed in their resolution along with the approval of MONUC. The resolution includes actions that the peacekeeping forces can take to ensure peace and security within the DRC’s boarders. It also elaborates on the protection of civilians in the Congo. Requests are made to the Government of National Unity and Transition to work closely with the UN so that the implementation of the actions stated previously can be guaranteed. It repeatedly draws attention to the protection of Human Rights. The resolution does not, however, include any kind of plan for aiding the economic advancement of the DRC.

In order to make the mission of the UN stronger in influence Australia believes that they must include in their resolution a section about the local economy of the Congo. There currently isn’t enough to go around and Australia is of the opinion that should the economy be paid more attention to more resources will become available to the people of the Congo. One way that this could be made possible is by utilizing the private sector of Eastern Congo to create opportunity for large-scale employment. Through the creation of more jobs the Congolese can begin to make more money that will allow them to buy food and other necessities that will become more readily available due to production of goods in the Congo that will open doors to stronger international trade.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Austria
Delegate Name: Benjamin Van Airsdale
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The DCR or the Democratic Republic of Congo has been a crisis overlooked for far too many years. Now that the world’s attention has focused on the situation, aid will hopefully find this disaster zone. Experts are calling the horrific killings the worst in human history since the Second Great War. Over 5.4 million Congolese people have died from the chaotic tribal militias, coming over the border from Rwanda. As the Congolese government tries to halt the rebel General Laurent Nkunda in the eastern regions of the DCR, many civilians are killed in cold blood and forced from their homes. Even though this country seems to be democratic on paper, in reality, they cannot hold fair elections. The electoral process is slow, unreliable and usually affected by corruption. People do not feel safe going out to the polls and electing their choice of candidate, because of random violence and political killings. Also the DCR has a huge abundance of natural resources that the world’s economy depends on, such as, diamonds, coltan, oil, cobalt and copper. The weak central government is not capable of organizing a domestic industry to harvest their own resources, so most of these valuables are nationalized to other rich powerful nations. Basically, the world’s powers are taking advantage of the DCR and its vulnerability to protect their own natural resources.

Austria does not directly intervene in this foreign affair due to the neutral foundation the country was formed upon. However, this does not mean we simply do not care about the bloodshed and instability of the DCR. Austria is a forward thinking state and believe deeply in humanitarian values. Austria supports the works of the European Union (EU) and the European Commission. We will commit any funds available to this crisis in the Congo, but do not have much direct power due to our neutrality, lack of foreign aid funds, and military force. Our contribution will go the EU, which we feel will make more of a difference because of its strong presence in the world, and it’s huge workforce.

Austria hopes the problem in the DCR will be resolved in the immediate future. With the help of the EU, Austria would like to see the continuation of funds and aid flow continually being sent to the Congo. Also we would be in favor of some governing body, whether the EU, UN, NATO, or an independent government, overseeing elections and daily governmental procedures. This may combat the corruption and also reinstate trust in the Congolese people about their government. This governing group should help the Congolese government in the disarmament of rebels, as well as security around the borders, especially to the east (Rwanda).

The Austrian supported EU has contributed over '44 million in the DCR (provided by the European Union website). The EU’s specialized group that is responsible for the aid in the DCR is the European Commission Humanitarian Aid department (ECHO). They collect funds from the member states of the EU, so that it may positively affect the some 700,000 internally displaced people of the Congo (European Union website). They currently provide food assistance to the malnutritioned people in the Congo, as well as provide vaccinations, road and house reconstruction, and other aid related programs.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Belarus
Delegate Name: Emily Bruinsma
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Belarus is deeply disturbed by the ongoings in the Congo area. Malnutrition, war and disease are claiming the lives of 45, 00 people every month. In the past decade, around 5.4 million lives have been taken, and many more to come. Belarus realizes that there needs to be a change in the Congo area and is willing to take the steps toward the change.

Belarus implores the many nations of the world to recognize the problem in the Congo and to strive for a change. The change should start with a better health care program. The national governments in Congo need to start instilling health care programs themselves and depend on other nations less. A way for Congo to be less dependent on other nations would be for Congo to start utilizing their national resources and making a profit off of them. A starting point is for the Congo buy back the plants in the country that are currently owned by the United States. While these are attainable long-term goals for the Congo, immediate measures must be taken to preserve the lives of as many citizens of the Congo as possible.

In the short term, other countries of the world need to assist the Congo as they strive for more. Countries need to step in and instill education to African countries. The countries currently do not know how to govern themselves seeing that they do have self-governing governments that are extremely corrupt. Countries of the world will have to go to Africa and have people from their country teach the people of Africa, such as doctors how to do certain procedures, politicians the correct way to go about politics, and entrepreneurs a way to make a profit. The situation in the Congo is very grave at the moment, but with help and determination of other countries the situation can resolve itself.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Bolivia
Delegate Name: Sarah Koehn
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Violence has broken out in the Congo, a place torn with violence and strife. The UN authorized peacekeeping troops to be sent to Congo and surrounding nations in 1999. The UN enforced this act after the ending of the Second Congo War between the Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire), Zimbabwe, Angola, Chad, Sudan, Namibia, Rwanda, and Burundi. The war led to over 5.4 million deaths. Causes of violence are due to many ethnic and religious groups tension. Violence remains prominent in the area with recent fighting breaking out in Goma. There have also been accusations that the Tutsis have been supporting Congolese Rebels in an effort to eliminate any threats from Hutus based in Congo.

Bolivia, like many other countries in the UN, has had peacekeeping troops present in Congo. As of November 17, Bolivia has had to relocate its peacekeeping troops because of the violence. Bolivian troops, along with other South American countries, are in danger and need to protect their own safety. Bolivia reports that the country’s detachment of 130 soldiers was moved to a new base outside the eastern provincial capital of Goma because of threats against their previous base near the city of Bukavu. Bolivia feels that peacekeeping troops are being endangered and need to be removed. The conflict has spun out of control and something else needs to be done.

Other countries who feel the lives of their troops are being endangered will agree with Bolivia. South American countries surrounding Bolivia have already followed their example and are contemplating their own mission’s security in Congo. Also, Uruguay’s defense minister and top generals plan to visit Congo this week to review the security situation of their 1,300 peacekeepers.

Bolivia believes the morals of the UN peacekeeping mission (MONUC) in 1999 were credible and reasonable. Bolivia feels that the original goals have been veered from and would like to see the UN countries get back on track. Also, the Goma Peace Accords, signed by Congo countries in January 2008, needs to be reinforced and respected. Conformity of the accords has been lenient, with numerous violations in the Congo.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Bosnia and Herzegovina
Delegate Name: Sanel Mahmutovic
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The Democratic Republic of Congo has been in severe turmoil for the past Decade. The war is killing 45,000 Congolese every month in a conflict-driven humanitarian crisis that has claimed 5.4 million. Internal ethnic struggles have torn the country to shreds and the future doesn’t look too bright if the crisis isn’t resolved soon. In 1994, Hutu extremists carried out genocide against Tutsis in Rwanda. Many Hutus fled to Congo once it became apparent that the Tutsi-led Rwandese Patriotic Front was going to win. In the Second Congo War (1998-2002), Laurent Nkunda was an officer in the rebel Rally for Congolese Democracy (RCD). In 2003 Nkunda joined the new integrated national army of the transitional government as a colonel and was promoted to general in 20004. He rejected the authority of the government and retreated with some of the RCD troops to Nord Kivu. On October 26, 2008 Nkunda’s rebels seized a major military camp. This happened after the peace treaty failed, with the fighting displacing thousands.

Bosnia and Herzegovina strongly believes that the war in Congo needs to be resolved immediately. It has gone unchecked for too long and it need to be dealt with once and for all. Unproductive measures can no longer be accepted in Congo but rather more efficient and effective changes need to be carried out. In order for new changes to be successful, new strategies have to be implemented and followed through on. With the cooperation of everybody involved, change can and will come to Congo.

In an effort to stop the violence, a peace agreement was signed between the government and the various armed groups active in the Congo. It was signed on January 23rd and it called for an immediate ceasefire, disengagement of troops and the creation of a buffer zone. This solution was never really meant to be permanent because all the parties involved have not been truly loyal to the agreement. Conflict has continued to rage on despite all the parties having signed the peace agreement. In order to reduce the amount of illicit flow of weapons within and into the Democratic Republic of the Congo, The Security Council has unanimously adopted Resolution 1807, which extends the arms embargo concerning Congo. Bosnia believes that by adopting more resolutions pertaining to the illicit flow of weapons in Congo, the rebel army will eventually run out of firepower and be forced to surrender.

Bosnia firmly believes that a weapons-free zone needs to be established and that new militias and former members of the Local Defense Forces (LDF) need to be disarmed. Instead of directly fighting the rebel forces, a strategy of containment needs to be utilized. Bosnia believes that mines and trade routes need to be secured that are the FDLR’s main revenue sources. A plan needs to be developed with Rwanda and MONUC to isolate and capture the genocide leaders among the FDLR and offer resettlement in the Congo or integration into the Rwandan army to those who were not involved in the genocide and are willing to demobilize. Bosnia also believes that in order to improve the economy, agencies responsible for tax collection and supervision of mines need to be strengthened.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Burundi
Delegate Name: Jacob Garber
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

For far too long, war and violence have devastated the hard working people of Southeast Africa. More devastating than the loss of life caused by violence itself, is the humanitarian crises which are so often stirred up as a result of war. Burundi knows this, as we are a country still rebuilding and uniting after years of civil war. But we are confident that if we can achieve peace to move forward and prosper, then the same is possible for the Democratic Republic of the Congo. However the loss of life that the Congo has faced in recent years is truly astounding, as well as incomprehensibly devastating.

We believe that to achieve peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, it is necessary for all parties involved to overcome ethnic divisions that spark violence. However healing ethnic division is a tasks that the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo must conquer on their own. To set the foundation necessary for the country to move forward, Burundi Believes an Effective Ceasefire is necessary. The Lusaka Cease Fire of 1999 has been ineffective in curbing the violence. More recently, Burundi believes that the Goma Peace Accords have been a step in the right direction, but clearly more needs to be done to enforce the cease fire. Burundi believes that it is unrealistic for Rebel forces such as the CNDP (National Congress for the Defense of the people) and the FDLR (Democratic Liberation Forces of Rwanda) to achieve their ultimate goal of overthrowing the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and with that being the case, peace is the best option for all parties involved in the conflict. Burundi believes the MOUNC can be an effective force in securing the peace. We believe that MOUNC must step up to its task of securing peace, and until they do so, the people of the region will continue to suffer.

Until there is peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo there can not be peace in our region as a whole. The future of Burundi is tied together with the future of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We have confidence that the more powerful nations of the world can come together with us and aid our war struck region.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Cambodia
Delegate Name: Phil Staples
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The Democratic Republic of Congo has had many problems which have been overlook and sometimes even ignored for many years now and the situation just continues to worsen as the time goes by. There have been missions such as the UN peacekeeping mission called MONUC in 1999, which were efforts in trying to end the second Congo War. Congo isn’t the only country involved. Such countries as Zimbabwe, Angola, Chad, Sudan. Namibia and Rwanda are some others named that are part of this problem. They have also signed the Goma peace accords in January of 2008.

Cambodia, like almost every other single country, wants to see a peaceful outcome and wants everyone involved in this situation to listen to what some of the more peaceful countries want and need to say about how obscured the situation is within The Democratic Republic of Congo.

Like I said earlier, the countries that will support my position are the ones that want to see a peaceful outcome and wants everything to come to a stop. Countries will also support my actions who want this resolution to be passed fast so the countries involved can start to follow the motions from a resolution paper. This has been going on for many, many years now and will by no means be solved over night but the sooner an agreement is reached, the sooner these countries can start their baby steps back to normality.

The United Nations needs to set up an increased amount of aid being outputted in Congo and also would like to see The peacekeeping mission of MONUC continue its peaceful ways. This region needs peace to be brought and it can be started by putting peace keeping troops in the area to help outbreaks from occurring so often.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Cameroon
Delegate Name: Mitch Mort
School: Traverse City West High School

Cameroon believes that war is not the answer. Fighting between other countries, especially a group of countries in Central Africa, shakes up not only those countries, but neighboring countries such as Cameroon. Cameroon believes in peace keeping. Killing others from different countries because of ethnic background and or natural resources results in nothing but more disagreements and more bloodshed.

Keeping these countries in peace is key to solving this problem. The more fighting going on leads to nowhere. The situation is put further behind because there is anger towards one another and by no means successful negotiations. The Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire), Zimbabwe, Angola, Chad, Sudan, Namibia, Rwanda, Burundi, and neighboring countries must meet together to discuss the problem. MONUC and the Lusaka accords need to be gone over and discuss the agreement made in previous years. The fighting must stop. These African countries have to look at what is important to them and what they can agree on to stop bloodshed.

The United Nations has to play a key role into loosening the tensions between these countries. Keeping these countries at peace or stopping the war will allow for negotiations to be made. If they are not willing to stop the war, all of Africa will be at war. Cameroon is in the middle of this conflict and it is starting to spread into our country. Children's lives are already in danger along with everyone else. Thousands of children are being left dead or homeless. Reducing fighting and keeping peace needs to be in effect immediately.

Cameroon welcomes the announcement by the United Nations that over 3,100 more UN Peacekepping troops are being deployed to the DR Congo.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Canada
Delegate Name: Taylor Fields
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The past century of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) history has been a lurid tale of imperialistic corruption. Beginning in the late 1800’s with King Leopold the Second’s rubber regime, the Congo has battled with rebuilding its society and creating a democratic government free of European abuse and one that most justly represents the will of the people. Canada recognizes that the rebel groups and bloody civil war are a major crisis that needs to be addressed, but Canada would like to increase involvement in humanitarian efforts improving the life of Congolese, especially in the lives of children.

Canada has been diligently working towards improving the life of displaced, and impoverished children in the DRC. An estimated 250,000 people have been displaced from the homes in the past 4 months by the fighting in the North Kivo Province, making the total number of people displaced in the province at an estimated 1,000,000. This has left hundreds of thousands of children in dangerous, and insecure positions. Many children are not getting enough food, and fatal diseases are spreading due to the lack of clean water, and sanitary facilities. Abductions, and sexual abuse, have exponentially increased, as unprotected children become easy targets for predators.

Through UNICEF, Canada has made significant strides to improving the lives of the Congolese citizens. By providing therapeutic food to stop malnutrition, clean water and basic purification supplies, families can regulate their diets to create healthy lifestyles. Canada also works to release child soldiers and child sex slaves from armed groups, and provides counseling for traumatized children.

The DRC has been deemed one of the world’s most dangerous places to live as a child. Canada has invested more time, money, and efforts to the DRC than any other country in the world. Though Canada has achieved high levels of success in the Congo, we request that further support and assistance be provided. Peace is an important goal, but the safety and well-being of the DRC’s people should be the main concern of the U.N. Peace cannot be made until the lives of the Congo’s people, and the future of the Congo, the children, are in secure situations of which they can learn, and prosper.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: China
Delegate Name: Jim Smith
School: Roeper School

The People's Republic of China is deeply concerned by the crisis unfolding in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). While the Congolese people have experienced numerous internal conflicts in the past decade, we feel that the intervention of outside forces, in any situation but particularly in this one, can only lead to further strife.

China believes that the efforts of the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC), while achieving limited success in some areas, are in the end detrimental to the course of the DRC’s future. The DRC must learn to be independent in order to have any hope of achieving true sovereignty, which is the goal of every nation. Such issues and concerns as those of the DRC must be addressed and resolved domestically via non-military means–within the confines of international and domestic law. Every nation must be able to exercise self-determination without fear of interference. While the international community may offer aid, and can supply suggestions for solving the Congo crisis, these “suggestions” must not be accompanied by intervention, armed or otherwise.

The People's Republic of China proposes that before international intervention makes the DRC wholly dependent on outside nations, MONUC must be dismantled, and the Congolese must be allowed to solve their problems themselves. At the heart of the DRC’s problem is the inability of the central government to effectively maintain control of its national territory. The PRC has no desire to influence the wishes of any nation's government with regards to domestic affairs – to do so would be a violation of their national sovereignty – and we hope that other nations hold no such aspirations. However, the People’s Republic of China is ready to assist the DRC in bilateral exchanges of any nature that the DRC may request, be it of an economic, diplomatic, or technical nature, that will better enable them to defend themselves and bring their territory under control of the national government.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Colombia
Delegate Name: Chad Feezel
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

When war erupted in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in August 1998, barely a year had elapsed since the end of the country's previous conflict, which itself had followed decades of dictatorship and misrule. The Democratic Republic of Congo is the site of one of the world’s worst ongoing humanitarian crises. Although the country emerged from what has been called “Africa’s first world war” in 2003 when the former warring belligerents came together to form a transitional government, credible mortality studies estimate that up to 1,200 people continue to die each day from conflict-related causes, mostly disease and malnutrition but ongoing violence as well. Rampant corruption and pervasive state weakness allows members of the national army and members of armed groups alike to perpetrate abuses against civilians. Today, millions of people are trying to eke out an existence amid chronic insecurity, economic despair and widespread disregard for international humanitarian law.

The risk of renewed violence in Ituri is limited today by the presence of the UN Mission in the Congo, the dismantling of the majority of armed groups and the local population’s war weariness after years of suffering and destruction. To ensure lasting stability, however, it is essential to tackle the conflict’s root causes and abandon purely reactive or short-term approaches. Those root causes persist, including unequal access to land and unfair sharing of revenues from exploitation of natural resources. As local elections in 2009 approach, the absence of inter-community reconciliation and persistence of impunity for the majority of crimes committed during the war are also extremely worrying. To prevent new violence, which would affect women particularly, an integrated peace building strategy has to be implemented, involving national and provincial institutions and with the active support of the UN Mission in the Congo and donors.

Disarmament of the remaining armed groups and the recovery of the many weapons held in the different communities will not be achieved by force or by simply co-opting community leaders into national institutions. It has to be accompanied by establishing at least minimal trust between the local communities and the administration. Another key element in creating this trust is the replacement in pacified zones of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Armed Forces (FARDC), which continue to be responsible for numerous human rights violations, by the national police force.

Beyond the issue of disarmament and restoration of state authority, and in view of the risk that the local elections could trigger renewed violence, three further major challenges have to be addressed simultaneously in the district. Land-related tensions that were at the origin of the conflict have not been eased and constantly threaten to lead to new inter-ethnic confrontations. With the return of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their homes and the resumption of economic activity, a resurgence of those tensions seems inevitable. It is, therefore, indispensable to take preventive measures on the ground and to clarify the judicial muddle linked to land law and the status of chieftainships.

Another risk for the district is the absence of transparency and justice in the management of natural resources and mining. While nepotism continues to plague local politics, the uneven, opaque distribution of revenues from exploitation of gold, collection of customs fees and, even more so, extraction of oil at Lake Albert risks causing renewed tensions. It is critical to the peace process to establish a framework for transparent management of Ituri’s resources, to dismantle local mafia networks that extract resources from mining and forestry and to manage the expectations raised by the discovery of oil at Lake Albert.

Finally, inter-community reconciliation remains superficial, and local justice mechanisms are incapable of combating impunity effectively. If Ituri is to have a real chance of turning the page from a devastating war that has lasted for almost a decade, it is essential, therefore, that the International Criminal Court (ICC) continues its investigations, mixed (international/national) judicial chambers are established and a truth and reconciliation commission created.

The international community has worked hard to achieve the disarmament of armed groups and has to a large extent taken the lead in the political and military process that has allowed for their progressive surrender during the transition process. Today, the success of Congo’s reconstruction hinges on Ituri, a district that has too often been ignored by Kinshasa. A voluntary and integrated approach is required that reunites national and regional institutions and international partners in order to consolidate peace there. Otherwise, the return of chaos is likely, which would signify the failure of a peace process that has so far mostly been to the advantage of warlords and has failed to bring true benefit to the victims of the conflict.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Congo
Delegate Name: Zen Pace
School: Flint Central Academy

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been on a fragile state for years, and it only worsens everyday with the myriad of rebel groups that destroy the land. DRC has the highest morality rates in the world, with 1200 people dying everyday and many of them being children; this is worst conflict since WWII. Of the 5.4 million died, 3.5 is contributed to the Uganda and Rwanda occupation in the DRC. The DRC is not happy with the Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundian forces that are still present, and hopes that this body can come to a conclusion for their removal. The internal problems that the aforementioned countries are facing are theirs, and for Congo to be used as a bloody battlefield for their purposes is simply unacceptable. Occupying Congo will not solve their problems, solutions must be found in their respective countries. The National Congress for the People’s Defense, or CNDP led by Laurent Nkunda has done nothing but bring harm to the people of Congo, recruiting child soldiers, taking over villages, raping girls (sometimes as young as 4), and taking the minerals of Congo for their own use.

The DRC supports MONUC, but wishes them to take more effective measures when dealing with rebel groups. MONUC is the United Nations most expensive mission ever, and MONUC recently was not even able to stop Nkunda forces from coming through the gates of Goma. DRC commends the efforts by UNICEF, and various NGOs that have helped the Congolese people to make their life slightly bearable.

The body of GLIMUN must be cognizant of the fact that throwing troops into Congo sporadically, dancing around the topic, and asking for unrealistic solutions must not be tolerated. As a professional committee, we can all agree that the main goal is to bring peace to Congo, and with this in mind, the DRC is extremely pleased. The DRC looks forward to meeting the delegates of Special Political to make the most effective and realistic resolution as possible.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Costa Rica
Delegate Name: Mike Sadler
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The situation that plagues the citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is one that plagues the international community as well. So far, over 5.4 million people have been killed and millions more have been displaced from their homes. This issue has reached the world scale and affects every country, especially those in the United Nations (UN) because it is a prime example of the shortcomings of humanitarian efforts and helplessness.

The Republic of Costa Rica strongly believes that the violence needs to be brought to a halt immediately and the most important concern is the well being of the millions who are currently running for their lives. Costa Rica endorses the same opinion as Security Council President Adolfo Aguilar Zinser of Mexico, who stated in a press statement that “Members of the Council condemned the massacres perpetrated in the Ituri area and asked that the perpetrators be identified and brought to justice immediately.” Zinser also added “Council Members demanded the immediate cessation of the fighting and massacres in the eastern part of the DRC.” This is the opinion shared by Costa Rica, and the majority of UN states. The UN, including Costa Rica, reiterated their full support for the role of United Nations Organization Mission in the DRC (MONUC) while backing the peace process in the DRC.

The Costa Rican government, led by Oscar Arias Sanchez, has repeated backed UN and Security Council resolutions to better the situation in the DRC, the most recent of these being Resolution 1807 (2008) by the Security Council. This resolution favored tightening borders and removing troops and militants from neighboring hostile countries to prevent further loss of life. There was also a strong emphasis on the need of the Government of the DRC to be strong and assertive in negotiations between all of the belligerents involved.

The Republic of Costa Rica strongly believes that first and foremost, every possible effort must be set forth to eliminate the loss of human death and suffering in the future. This is in accordance with the principle that the UN was created upon, the social wellbeing of all. Other UN countries such as Mexico and Brazil share the same point of view. To address the issue, Costa Rica believes that all rebel forces must be removed from the country so that the government is able to become stable and address further issues that plague the country. The Republic of Costa Rica, with other Special Political delegates, wishes to produce a resolution that successfully removes all rebel forces from the DRC so that the genocide stops and refugees may return to their homes. This must be done by peaceful negotiations between both heads of the countries involved and the leaders of the NGO’s

It is imperative that the violence in the DRC ends as soon as possible. The Republic of Costa Rica endorses any and all efforts to bring peace to the country. The problem cannot be solved without the help of the entire international community.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Cuba
Delegate Name: Chelsea Bollman
School: Williamston High School

The Republic of Cuba is incredibly concerned with the crisis that is unfolding in the Congo. Human deaths on such a large scale are unacceptable and action obviously must be taken to prevent further loss of life. However, building dependence on the international community is not the answer. The region is incredibly unstable now, and it will continue to be if we send numerous international troops and peacekeepers into the area. The Democratic Republic of Congo will continue to rely on the international community to sustain the peace, and they will become a burden to us all. Congo needs to build and support a government themselves, we are in no position to enter the region and demand a government from it.

The Republic of Cuba believes that it is in the United Nations best interest to support the standing government in the Congo. Cuba urges the international community to recognize their places in the situation. While Cuba does not disregard a request for international involvement, Cuba calls upon the nations to recognize that stability does not always come through international force.

Cuba also calls upon the United Nations to uphold the nation’s sovereignty and to build upon it. As members of the United Nations and the international community it is our duty to provide sovereignty to all nations. In bringing stability to the Democratic Republic of Congo, we must build up the Congolese government to a point that it is capable of supporting itself. Just as all other nations, The Republic of Cuba wishes to see peace overwhelm the region once again. Cuba is willing to work with all nations in pursuit of a peaceful end to this crisis.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Egypt
Delegate Name: Brett Fogel
School: Forest Hills Central High School

In 1999 the Second Congo war was ended with the help of the UN peacekeeping mission (MONUC). After much turmoil between the Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe, Angola, Chad, Sudan and Namibia and Rwanda and Burundi, 5.4 million people lost their lives as a result of the war. In January 2008, all of the countries involved in the conflict signed the Goma peace accords, which called for ceasefire and disarmament and returning of refugees, however, some of the countries have had a tough time keeping trough to the accords as many violations have occurred. Many Congolese people are dying because of disease starvation because so many of their homes have been destroyed by enemy rebels from neighboring countries. The city of Goma has been devasted by the effects of the conflict as many of the countries are not respecting Goma accords that were signed. Many of the inhabitants of Goma have had to find refuge and many children are growing up with food or shelter and are being separated from their families. There is also much ethnic tension because of Hutu refugees that fled from the neighboring Rwanda after the Tutsis won the civil war in the 90’s. Some humanitarian aid has been provided but many are still in need.

Egypt is very saddened by the recent devastation and destruction happening in the southern part of Africa. The main effect of this crisis on Egypt is the immigration of refugees from affected countries heading north into Egyptian borders looking to start over with a new life in wealthier countries. These developments have caused our relations with our southern neighbors to become somewhat strained. We have applied attempted to slow this down as best as we can and are trying to control the number of immigrants coming from southern countries in Africa. Millions of impoverished and war torn citizens have tried to flee to Egypt, but we can not deal with significant amount of refugees flooding through our borders. We believe that it would be best if it be a goal to send more humanitarian aid towards the areas needing it the most and that conditions can be improved so that refugees may return to their countries and the refugee situation may be regulated.

The countries that would tend to agree with Egypt would be the other countries that are becoming overwhelmed by the refugees created by this conflict and would like to see this conflict come to an end. These other countries can relate to the tension on the borders that we are currently experiencing.

The Lusaka and Goma accords have played big parts in slowing down the violence and devastation in the affected regions. The nations have all come together and signed these documents that are trying to bring this long drawn out situation to an end, a peaceful end.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: El Salvador
Delegate Name: Freida Blostein
School: Royal Oak High School

El Salvador feels that one of the greatest tragedies of our time is the fact that the conflict in Congo is not yet resolved and lives continue to be lost each day to violence, malnutrition and preventable sicknesses. We would very much enjoy the prospect of a safe and healthy Democratic Republic of Congo, but as much as humanitarian aid is necessary, it is almost impossible to supply aid to a population fleeing violence still present in eastern Congo. Food trucks can not continue on their routes when refugees clog the roads and bullets fly through the air, after all. Therefore El Salvador proposes that before any helpful humanitarian aid can be provided efficiently, the very root of the problem-the conflict between rebel forces-must be halted.

Of particular concern to El Salvador is Rwanda’s suspected assistance of rebel Tutsi leader Laurent Nkunda and the persistent disregard for The Ceasefire Agreement of 1999. Nkunda is a war criminal and must be brought to trial before a fair justice system, such as the ICC. His forces and other miscellaneous rebel groups must be disbanded and brought to justice. It would seem that the easiest way to accomplish these goals would be to deploy more peacekeepers. In review however, the Democratic Republic of Congo holds the largest amount of UN peacekeepers and they are still be pushed farther into retreat as Nkunda advances towards cities and more victims. Perhaps what is needed, instead of more peacekeepers, is a switch in strategies, giving more latitude with in MONUC mandate regulations. Peacekeepers first duty is to protect citizens from being hurt by warring groups, often by quite literally standing between two armed forces. In circumstances such as this, when United Nation peacekeepers are pushed back and are not allowed to advance to reclaim territory lost, more leeway in offensive strategy would be invaluable. Giving peacekeepers the right to remove dangerous people from the area and to even launch attacks rather then defenses would be acceptable options to the Republic of El Salvador. El Salvador would also like the questioning of Rwanda’s involvement in the conflicts to be considered. One way to prove or disprove involvement would be to perform regular border checks for weapons and ammunition as trucks pass from Rwanda to Congo. The repeated disrespect of multiple resolutions and agreements by many of involved nations must be remembered and reviewed as well. In future documents, perhaps a clause could be included listing multiple penalties depending on the degree of the offense, ranging from an international rebuke to embargos on non-necessary items.

The other branches of this issue must not be neglected, however. Humanitarian aid must be continued to be supplied by such countries as can supply it. Food and clean water as well as medicine and health care are greatly needed by the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Basic medical care is being neglected with catastrophic results. Vaccinations and clean water as preventative measures should most defiantly be considered. Once again though, El Salvador would like to stress the issue of conflict resolution, with fighting groups brought to justice or negotiated with in binding agreements. Before any serious and efficient humanitarian aid can be given, these problems must be addressed.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Eritrea
Delegate Name: Kristian Jones
School: Flint Central Academy

The nation of Eritrea does not support genocide. How can we support the murder of millions of people, it is not right in any way why would a country support the murder anyone. This is just as bad as killing someone because of the color of their skin, or who their parents are, murder should not be supported by anyone. The citizens who have been displaced need to return to their homes and their families because they must help to support them every member of a family is important. These guerilla wars are displacing people of this country; these wars are hurting all the people in and around this country are losing their lives just because people want to go to war with each other.

The guerilla armies known as the Tutsi’s and the Hutu’s need to be dismantled and properly punished for the actions that they have carried out upon each other and upon the innocent people of the nation of Congo. These innocents should not have to suffer because of the actions of specific group of people, the government needs to take control of their nation and stop the groups that have evil intentions for one another. The people of Congo need not suffer because of how greedy the Tutsi’s and the Hutu’s truly are. The government of Congo needs to focus and take control of their nation and people, it is very important that they get this problem under control because they are putting unnecessary stress and pressure on their people.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: France
Delegate Name: Blake Hendricks
School: Flint Central Academy

The nation of France is concerned and disappointed by the amount of lives that have been lost in the Democratic Republic of Congo and every nation surrounding it. The war with the Tutsi rebel group has been going on for decades and it needs to be abolished so that families can unite once again. The nation of France will continue to provide any aid that is needed for the continuation of humanitarian help as well.

France urges all nations to support the humanitarian effort in all of the affected nations. For nations that are now assisting the humanitarian effort we ask that you continue to do so. The international community needs to become more successful when protecting the innocent lives affected because of this situation, which means that we need a more offensive strategy to combat the Tutsi rebel groups who are indeed harming many innocent lives; France believes that this is the main key and a beginning to resolving all the problems in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

France wants all soldiers that are protecting citizens in these nations to become more aggressive. France agrees with the European Union on the idea of sending 1,500 European Union troops to in any and all of the affected areas along with the already 17,000 United Nations troops.

The Democratic Republic of Congo must take proper command of its forces, honor its obligations under Nairobi accords, and establish channels of communication with all communities in the nation and all of its neighbors, because France feels that these things will in fact become a start to peacefully resolving this horrific problem.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Georgia
Delegate Name: Emily Keefer
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The instability and terrible suffering that has existed within the Congo since the late 1990’s has created turmoil that still exists today. Even with the help of peacekeeping forces from the United Nations, it was still not enough to stop the rebels lead by Laurent Nkunda from seizing a territory on the east side of the country. This recent development proves that the current peacekeeping forces need assistance to solve this continuing problem. Just recently, the United Nations has called for another 3,000 peacekeeping forces in addition to the 20,000 currently stationed, and hopefully this decision will bring stablity to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

This situation, beginning with the removal of Robert Mugutu from office, has created the need for a plan that will bring the globe together for a united political effort. This is exhibited by the involvement of the European Union and other organizations to bring this traumatic crisis to a close as swiftly as possible. The European Union has refrained from sending troops over to the Congo based on a need for a diplomatic solution, and not one involving excessive force. Georgia remains one of the European Union’s closest allies, and fully supports them in their decision. The European Union is taking steps to solve this crisis, but is refraining from supplying more troops to the region. Georgia believes this will integrate peace into the region, and hopefully stabilize the country of the Congo.

This ongoing situation, caused by the turmoil following the end of the war, has lead to malaria, malnutrition, pneumonia, and diarrhea and various other internal conflicts. Sadly, many of these deaths could have been prevented with the implementation of health care policies and a reformed health care system within the Democratic Republic of Congo. Georgia deeply feels for the citizens of Congo caught in this crossfire, and is appalled at the devastating amount of hardships they have endured. Nearly 5.4 million people have perished within the last decade, and 20 rapes are reported a week within health care centers in Goma. The health and well-being of these innocent civilians is an important issue that needs to be addressed within the United Nations. The country of Georgia looks forward for a constructive response within our conferences, and hopes the health crisis in Congo will be dealt with immediately.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Andrew Romano
School: Roeper School

The Democratic Republic of the Congo currently has a violent situation involving rebels from the eastern part of the nation. The four local groups involved are the Congolese government forces, the National Congress for Defense of the People, the local Militias, called Mayi-Mayi, and the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda. Foreign forces are also involved. The UN has peace keeping forces in the region and there have been Angolan troops seen. In the Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Congolese government troops the acronym for which is FARDC and rebel forces under the command of Laurent Nkunda or the National Congress for the Defense of the People whose acronym is CNDP. All four parties met for peace talks on the issue in this past January. A cease fire agreement was reached during the peace talks. None of the sides have held to their word completely about the cease fire. UN troops are also in the region to help sustain the cease fire. Many civilians from this region have been turned into refugees by this conflict. Currently the UN troops have been under attack from rebel forces, and there has been evidence of possible collusion between pro-government and rebel forces, with each side seeking economic gain at the expense of peace and safety to civilians.

The nation of Germany believes in the idea of peace. Peace is necessary for the refugees to return home. This should be the UN’s main goal, to create a peaceful environment for refugees to return to, and to provide aid for them. The nation Germany fully backs the European Union’s idea of sending 1,500 EU troops into the region. We believe that the UN peace keeping forces will help strengthen the region. We also need to help settle down the Hutu-Tutsi ethnic conflict in the region. In addition, Germany supports efforts to strengthen the effectiveness of DRC’s central government. Without greater effectiveness from Kinshasa, any peace effort will be unenforceable, given the vast size of the Conge. This circumstance is at the root of the temptation for extra-national groups to exploit the resources and people of Congo’s provinces for their own economic and political gain, at the expense of civilians in these regions.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Greece
Delegate Name: Carl Stanfield
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has continued to worsen since the spillover of conflict from Rwanda in 1996. The conflict has focused in the North Kivu region of the Congo where Rwanda is the neighboring country. The fighting has resumed between the insurgents of Laurent Nkunda and the national army, over 370,000 civilians have displaced in the province (Crisis Group). An attempt was made to reduce the threat posed by Nkunda by trying to integrate his troops further into the FARDC (Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo) in early 2007. The process was unsuccessful with Nkunda gaining control of five brigades rather than two. Peace deals in 2008 failed when the CNDP (National Congress for the Defense of the People) declared war on the FDLR with the CNDP became dissatisfied with the progress of the peace terms. Nkunda declared he hopes to relocate victims of the recent fighting between his CNDP forces and UN peacekeepers with the UN forces around Goma.

It is the opinion of Greece that the situation in the Congo should be solved with up most hast. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is critical to the stability of the region, and therefore should be of prime concern of the United Nations. It is in the best interest of the world including Greece to secure a stable government and lasting peace in the Congo. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is mineral rich in many important resources such as diamonds, copper, and cobalt. The United Nations must move as one to be able to solve the underlying problems in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. If the world is going to stabilize the region, the world must move we all hast with the force required to solve this degrading problem.

The issue of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been extremely important for the United Nations for a number of years. Currently, the United Nations has 17,000 peacekeepers in the Congo, the largest current peacekeeping force (Crisis Group). The United Nations has passed many resolutions on the issue over the years. More specifically the United Nations Security Council recently passed the non binding resolution 1807 on 31 March 2008. The resolution reaffirms the Security Council’s commitment to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of the Democratic Republic of the Congo as well as all States in the region. It also reiterates the Council’s concern regarding the presence of armed groups in North and South Kivu and stress the importance that the DR Congo’s government maintains security there. The resolution restates a demand in an earlier resolution that the Rwandan armed groups operation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo lay down their arms without any further delay or preconditions. The opinion of Greece is that the resolution goes in the correct direction in supporting peace immediately, but does not go far enough to solve the underlying issues of the region.

The underlying issues can be solved in a few simple additions to current resolutions. Offensive action against Nkunda’s troops must be halted and a policy of contaminant must be put in place. A weapons free zone must be established and militias must be disarmed of their weapons. A plan of peace must be devised between all parties that should include resettlement of Rwandans with increased border patrols. The United Nations should also establish a land commission to redistribute the highly disputed land that is the root cause of the conflict. The economic opportunities of the area should also be increased with improved control of the mining operations in the area to help stabilize the prices.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Guyana
Delegate Name: Rachel Kent
School: Forest Hills Central High School

War has been present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for a very long time. It is now in what has been a very long, brutal and costly war. A few of the heartbreaking things that have been diluting the country for years are mass murder, rape, forced labor, forced relocation and torture. The DRC is now involved with many foreign countries in this war, some within the immediate sub-region, and some from much further away. This makes the whole situation much more complicated and makes finding a peaceful resolution of the conflict very complex. This war, taking place mainly in eastern Congo, has involved nine African nations and directly affected the lives of 50 million Congolese people. Between 1998 and 2004, about 3.8 million people died in Congo. These deaths were not directly from the fighting but from the famine and disease that is rapidly destroying the lives of the DRC people. Besides the citizens killed, millions more have been displaced.

Guyana does not currently have plans to intervene in this issue. It is already being dealt with, however poorly, by many African countries. Guyana urges the need for peace and the need for aid with getting the displaced refugees back to their homes.

Guyana agrees with all countries that are looking for peace for all the people of DRC. It wants to bring to attention the importance of making DRC a safe home for its people once more and allowing all those who have been displaced to go home.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Holy See
Delegate Name: Kai Chen Yeo
School: Forest Hills Central High School

One of the greatest and largest crimes against humanities is currently occurring in the Republic of Congo. In the past decade nearly 5.4 million people have been killed and more are dying every day. Despite the Lusaka peace accords that were an effective first step towards ending the Second Congo War five years ago, the situation is still in a terrible place. The war-torn region covers and immense amount of land that contains tens of thousands of refugees and ongoing violence. On top of the millions killed in the first war, killed since the violence officially came to an end and refugeed because of the violence, there has recently been another situation near Goma between Rwanda’s government and Congolese rebels. This current violence is especially volatile because it deals heavily with past events with ethnic undercurrents. The Holy See hopes to work with other countries to detangle and deactivate the violence in the region and thereby free Congo from the bloody chains that have held them down for so long.

The Holy See is incredibly saddened by the events occurring in the Republic of Congo. We will not stand for any solution but a peaceful one, obtained through dialogue and reconciliation. Without peaceful talks between the two sides, we do not see how there can be any progress towards stability and solid development. The eventual solution must include aid for the tens of thousands of refugees fleeing from war. These refugees are exposed to disease and natural hazards, such as starvation and the weather. We also hope to see greater cooperation among countries, even if they have conflicting opinions, because the Holy See believes that the solution in Congo is so immense that it can only be solved with a unified vision of peace. Taking this one step further, the Holy See encourages the parties warring with one another to come together diplomatically in an attempt to assuage violence occurring in the region.

Any country concerned about the violence in the region and the plight of the numerous refugees will support the Holy See’s policy. The Holy See simply wishes to see a path towards peace that will not harm any more lives. There should be no country in this committee opposed to such a goal.

Upon the resurgence of violence in Congo, the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace officially asked the parties in the conflict to come to a peaceful conclusion on November 4, 2008. The Address of Pope John Paul II to the Ambassador of the Congo to the Holy See can also be referenced as it very clearly outlines the Holy See’s opinion towards progress in Africa. The Holy See’s participation in UNHCR should be also be noted in our ardent concern for the refugees created by this conflict.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: India
Delegate Name: Margo Sena
School: Royal Oak High School

The constant turmoil through out the region the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its neighboring countries is a matter in which the Republic of India has had a continuous effort in attempting to bring peace to the region. The ethnic based conflict has had an intricate history of innumerable death tolls and humanitarian crisis’, which this committee needs to address.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo in correlation with the body of the United Nations has been working diligently towards a hopeful end to the conflict. The creation of the peacekeeping mission MONUC in 1999 has shown an international concern for the welfare of the citizens of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. As recently as 2008 peace agreements have been made, as well as rebel leaders in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have made statements of respecting and supporting a ceasefire.

The Republic of India is a chief advocate of peacekeeping, as well as upholding the virtues of human rights. When looking at the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, India’s involvement in the ending of the conflict is apparent, with the sending of peacekeeping troops as well as police personnel to the peacekeeping mission of MONUC. Our position of Police Commissioner in MONUC mission shows our steady involvement and continuous efforts to bring peace to the region. The Republic of India firmly believes the efforts of MONUC along with the 2008 Goma peace accords cease fire agreement need to continuously be a part of stabilization attempts in the area. The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s transitionally elected President Joseph Kablia needs to continue to be recognized with legitimacy through out the region.

Peace talks and ceasefires between competing rebel groups as well as government armies on all sides need to occur to help ensure the creation of a peaceful state of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The continuing of peacekeeping forces in the nation are necessary for stability at this time, of which the Republic of India will continue to advocate and contribute to. Humanitarian aid is a fundamental in assisting the Democratic Republic of the Congo, but the Republic of India feels aid from various nations and NGOs should be delivered and consumed with some sort of transparency if not already occurring.

The Republic of India sees the issues of stabilization of the area, reconciliation of ethnic groups, delivering of aid, and secured peace for the betterment of the Democratic Republic of the Congo as the goals of this body.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Indonesia
Delegate Name: Tom Musselman
School: Traverse City West High School

The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is most dire. Since the spill-over of the conflict in Rwanda in 1996, the situation has become worse and worse. Whether or not this conflict is solved is important to the stability of this entire region in Africa. Indonesia believes that all nations should be committed to creating peace within this region to ensure the lives of many human beings.

Indonesia is committed, as should all other nations, in proceeding with MONUC, as we have continued to send more Indonesian peace keepers there recently. Through the build-up of MONUC we can work to create weapsons-free zones, and disarm new militias, also using MONUC to patrol borders to prevent armed immigration into the DRC. All these are only parts of creating full stability in the region.

Also observed within this situation is the mass amounts of violation of human rights. We should observe these violations and work to solve them accordingly. Peace keepers will also play an important role in the most crucial job. We must let those who are committing these crimes against humanity know that there will be consequences. Also the high number of refugees within the region must be dealt with so that long-term peace may be on the horizon.

We will continue to advocate all forms of peace throughout the world, and anything must be done to ensure this peace and security for all people in this region, so that we may have stability in the region and the build-up of democracy.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Iran
Delegate Name: Todd Flynn
School: Traverse City West High School

We the Iranian delegation are very concerned within The Congo, especially the mounting violence as of late. While it is a clear a conscious effort has been made on the part of the Assembly, it is also clear that the effort we have made has failed. The violence has spiked lately, and the death rate is higher than ever. 1000 Africans-not just Congolese- are dying a day. More rebel groups are forming, and many groups seems to be waging war on each other, meaning that the war has multiple sides, not just two factions fighting each other. The war is also spilling over Congolese borders, with surrounding nations reporting fighting in their borders. It is clear something needs to be changed regarding our plan of action for The Congo.

While it is obvious that foreign influence is necessary, we would like to make it clear that the resolution should not be dominated by western nations, nor their opinions. We give warning that their selfish desires often lead to a conflict of interest. We as a human population cannot let a group of people from similar areas and with similar ideals dominate the entire world, nor the proceedings that take place in it. The relief needs to come from all areas of the world, and needs to occur swiftly. Increased funding is not an option if we look to succeed in saving the peoples of Central Africa.

There are some strict guidelines that should be implemented, and then followed by all parties. Those rebelling against the government should be disarmed and be allowed to return to their original homes, no matter what side of the war they were on. Refugees should be returned homes, and peace kept between all ex-factions. These peace-keepers should be funded by not only the UN, but also by The Congo and the other nations effected over the past decade. While the financial aid they have to offer will pale in comparison to what the UN will give, they will feel that they are helping, and that is an important first step. Eventually the situation will have to be funded by the local governments and the shift of power will have to begin immediately. Deciding the members of the governing bodies will be the hardest part.

After peace has been maintained for a month, the leaders of all factions, must sit down and decide how to form governments in each of their countries. All parties should be represented in government and in the meetings. This must happen not only for the Hutu and Tutsi ethnic groups, but also for the Congolese rebels and the government. These parties must come to agreements for the conflict to end. Both sides opinions need to be taken into consideration, and many compromises will have to be made. Peace-keepers must then monitor the situations between the government and the rebels, and the Hutus and the Tutsis. Make no mistake, the situations will be tense for the first few months and maybe years, but the lack of killing every day will make our world a better place, and help bring many African nations into the 21st century. The eventual peace in the region will bring stability, both humanitarian and economic. This is essential for the growth and well-being of the region.

Lately the situation has escalated in unimaginable ways. The leader of our UN forces, Allen Doss, has called for troop increases, and his pleas need to be answered. Both rebel forces and Congolese forces have been accused of war crimes as recently as the last month. Without more troops and funds, the situation will only get worse. Over the past decade the war has spread from a Hutu Tutsi ethnic war, to a war involving many factions and countries. Without action the problem will continue to get worse in such a fashion. It is the goal of us here in the UN to better the world, and we would be ignoring our duty if we allowed this war to continue to kill so many people, innocent or not. The violence must stop.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Iraq
Delegate Name: Bridgette Collins
School: Flint Central Academy

The securtiy situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains tenuous due to the Second Congo War between the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe, Angola, Chad, Sudan, Namibia, Rwanda, and Burundi, which led to the deaths of 5.4 million people. IN January 2008, all parties signed the Goma peace accords, which called for ceasefire, disarmamant and the return of refugees. Conformity with the Goma accords has been spotty, with numerous violations among the various parties.

As a neighbor to Rwanda, parts of Congo include Hutu and Tutsi ethnic groups. In 1994, Hutu extremists carried out genocide against minority Tutsis in Rwanda. Many Hutus fled to Congo once it became apparent that the Tutsi-led Rwandese Patriotioc Front was going to with the Rwandan civil conflicts and topple the genocidal regime. Those fleeing to Congo include many of the "genocidaires" responsible for carrying out violence. Operation Turquoise, a mission that was launched be France with the consent of the UN Security Council in order to assist humanitarian safe passage for refugees, aided their crossing to COngo. France's role is very controversial because they did not disarm the genocidaires as they crossed into COngo.

There have been claims that Rwanda's government, which is led by Tutsis, has been supporting Congolese Rebels in an effort to eliminate any threats from Hutus based in Congo.

Iraq is disturbed by the violence in the Congo. We reprimand the Hutu and Tutsi groups for their violence towards each other. Iraq would like each group to cease their attack of the other and come to peaceful agreement. The UN should monitor negotiations between Hutu and Tutsi leaders so that a peaceful conclusion can be reached.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Israel
Delegate Name: Jillian Madden
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The State of Israel is deeply concerned by the tragic situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The war in the Democratic Republic of Congo started in August of 1998 and continued until 2003. The fighting then simmered out for a while, but the fighting was rekindled in August of 2008. The conflict is over a struggle for power, diamonds and resources. Approximately 5.4 million people have been killed in the Congo conflict and it is brutal. The violence, rape and terror that have controlled the region need to be ended.

Israel believes that the battle for resources and power is tearing apart the people of Congo. The absurd amount of deaths cannot keep piling up. Israel has supported the Congolese refugees that have fled to Israel. Many organizations in Israel have reached out to the victims of the conflict in Congo, such as aid from an Israel-Jewish volunteer movement shipped medical equipment and medicine to East Congo earlier this year. Groups like Latet, an Israeli Humanitarian Aid organization, have been helping victims of rape and trying to help as much as possible. Israel would like to see a decrease in the violence and help for the rape victims.

The United States and Israel are strong allies and the United States will back Israel on its policy, as will Israel to the United States. The United States is a powerhouse in the world and can greatly influence other nations because of its strong position in the world. Through the United States and its allies, Israel hopes to put an end to the fighting and hatred in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Italy
Delegate Name: Ryan Tarr
School: Royal Oak High School

As you are well aware, the situation in the Congo must be handled, and done so in a timely manner. Italy is in support of the government currently in place, and feels that the Nkunda headed rebel group, Congrès National pour la Défense du Peuple (CNDP), must be stopped. We have been supplying aid to the Congolese; we even sent aid as recently as early November. The rebel group needs to be stopped before they cause any more destruction, we propose that a regional solution takes place, in order to improve the chances of it taking effect; if that does not work the international community can always step in to negotiate a cease-fire. The rebel faction has been going against the Goma peace accords, and must be punished for doing so.

We are shocked by the possible support of these rebels by the Rwandan government. They, of all nations, should not be supporting this genocide against the Congolese. If they are in fact aiding in this murder by the CNDP, they must be punished. The nation of Italy would be in support of intervention by the global community, if the need arises. We feel that human rights are to be value above all, and no man, woman, or child should have to suffer for the sins of a few. The Italian government has been supplying aid in many forms to Congo for years, and we are in full support of almost any attempt to end this devastation that is occurring on the African continent.

The CNDP has been committing many crimes against humanity; they have gone against articles 3, 5, 12, 13, 14, and 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These violations cannot go without punishment. Italy feels that Nkunda should be tried before the ICC for these crimes. There should be further investigation into the accusations that the Rwandan government is aiding these rebels in the murder of the Hutu people.

We also commend the local organizations that wrote a plea to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). We are in support of an increase of peacekeeping troops inside of the North Kivu region. Italy is aware that in order to return the Democratic Republic of Congo to a stable nation, there must be peace. This peace will not come through peacekeepers alone, there must be some sort of legislation passed that stops the rebel Nkunda and his followers.

We have recently learned that the rebel group has pulled back 40 kilometers, in order to let UN aid in. This is a step forward, but in order for peace to blossom, there must be talks held between the rebels and an international entity. These talks would expedite the peace building process, and Italy sees them as very necessary. We are also in full support of the expansion of United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC) in order to stop the violence. We know there are many cynics of the MONUC out there, but we feel that with more funding and manpower there will be peace within Congo.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Japan
Delegate Name: John Bihn
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

The country of Japan is alarmed by the fighting occurring in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Currently, combat exists between the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) and the Rally for Congolese Democracy (RCD), led by Laurent Nkunda. The RCD claims to be defending the Tutsi group from the Hutus in the eastern region of Kivu. In early 2008, the RCD signed the Goma Agreement with the DRC. This was essentially a ceasefire between the two parties; the Hutus gave immunity to Tutsis in return for the withdrawal of rebel forces in Kivu. On August 28, however, Japan was deeply disturbed to find out that fighting had continued. Nkunda then proposed another ceasefire on October 29, after a violent four-day stretch. On November 6, the rebel groups in the DRC broke this cease-fire and captured yet another city in the DRC. In addition, there is the possibility that there are Angolan troops fighting on the government’s side.

The nation of Japan expresses its hope that the DNC will continue to further peace talks. Japan strongly urges the peaceful and enduring resolution of this conflict. Furthermore, Japan encourages the resolution to be in compliance with former agreements, such as the Goma Agreement and the Global and All-Inclusive Agreement.

As fighting in the Congo persists, Japan recommends that other countries impose economic sanctions upon the DRC. With these economic sanctions in place, the DRC will be under increased pressure to quickly resolve this conflict. However, we call upon the United Nations to provide economic aid to the DRC in order to support the upcoming elections. Japan strongly believes that democracy must continue in the DRC and that democracy is the ultimate solution to this conflict.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Kazakhstan
Delegate Name: Domenic Smith
School: Royal Oak High School

The nation of Kazakhstan is gravely concerned with the ongoing crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The DRC is becoming the stage for the world’s largest humanitarian disaster, greater than even the crises in Sudan and Zimbabwe. Since the war in Congo ended in 2003, over two million people have died, and in the Kivu region over 500,000 people have been forced to relocate. The crisis seems to be taking a darker turn as rebel leader Nkunda threatens to topple the government, and president Kabila refuses to have peace talks with him, claiming Nkunda is a terrorist.

In order to create lasting peace in the DRC, the international community must fundamentally change its strategy for bringing stability. Specifically, root causes of violence in the region must be adequately addressed, primarily local disputes over land and power disputes. Local disputes throughout the DRC both cause and fuel broader tensions. Kazakhstan believes that the mandate of MONUC, the largest UN peacekeeping force, must be reevaluated and adjusted for greater efficiency. Natural resources in the region must be secured, corruption lowered, and military factions be integrated into the national army.

While attempting to create post-conflict peace after the war in 2003 ended, the international community overlooked critical post-conflict tasks, including local peace building, and the overhauling of the justice system. Local conflicts have proven to be a critical source of violence and instability. Land matters are vital for families because they are key to survival and nourishment. Throughout the DRC different ethnic groups, clans, and families are fighting over land claims. The natural resources of the DRC are another area of violent contention for rebel groups, as well as the government. The DRC is rich in gold, diamonds, columbotantalit, cassiterite, and other rare minerals. Since the end of the war many militias have fought for control over mining sites. Access to these resources allows rebel groups money to purchase arms and reward troops, and then the ability to secure political power. Additionally, both Congolese and foreign politicians have manipulated local leaders to enrich themselves of these resources and to advance their causes.

Kazakhstan believes that the government of the DRC must establish new land legislation that upholds the rights of vulnerable peoples and clarifies the application ownership laws. The government must also review all of the mining contracts throughout the country. The land and mine disputes should be resolved through local courts, which will ensure fairness and compensation for those whose property is being taken away.

MONUC has played an important role in the DRC. Kazakhstan feels that the UN peacekeeping force has had a positive impact in the region overall, but believes more can be done to help end the crisis in the DRC. Kazakhstan believes that MONUC should start working on resolving conflicts at the local level, and should distribute its resources according to the height of conflict in certain regions. These new directives could be issued from the Department of Peacekeeping Operations.

Another crucial element that must be addressed is the reintegration of all the armed groups in the DRC. Positive steps have been taken in recent months. In January, a peace conference was held, at which the government and many warlords signed a cease-fire agreement. While this seems to have posed a temporary solution, Kazakhstan feels that a more solid solution must be formed, addressing the grass root issues. Regarding Nkunda, Kazakhstan condemns recent actions and atrocities instigated by him and his rebel group. We believe that it is important to end the violence in the region, and while Nkunda has committed many acts of terror, we feel that it is important that Kabila holds peace talks with Nkunda, to prevent further violence.

Kazakhstan is committed to seeing a peaceful, and prosperous DRC. We feel that if the aforementioned criteria are properly addressed, peace will become sustainable. It is up to us, the Special Political committee, to address these issues to the best of our abilities to end the largest humanitarian crisis in the world.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Kenya
Delegate Name: Jenny Voss
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Over ten years ago, a meeting took place between the leaders of the East African Cooperation group. They identified the underling problems that had brought up the 1996-1997 crises in the Great Lakes region, and they prepared specific points that would insure a resolution to the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo and prevent any further damage. To this day, they have yet to be acted on. Kenya firmly believes that a peaceful resolution needs to be made by the Democratic Republic of Congo and all other parties involved. Kenya believes that a neutral international peacekeeping force is necessary to achieve the measures required to bring peace. Kenya is a leader of the Eastern African Cooperation group, and therefore helped create the points concerning an immediate resolution to the conflict in the Congo. The points of this resolution were: firstly, to put an immediate end to the fighting; secondly, to call for negotiations of ceasefire and agreement to remove troops; thirdly, to seek security measures for close member states; fourthly, open political dialogue: and fifthly, the deployment and placement of a peacekeeping force by the United Nations.

So far, over 5.4 million people have died due to the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the numbers of civilians dying everyday are continuing to grow. The United Nations Security Council needs to expand the number of peacekeeping troops in the eastern section of the Congo in order to control the war crimes. Ever since October 3, the United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUC) has been requesting another 3,000 soldiers to help promote peace in the Congo. Kenya realizes the severity of the task at hand and is confident that sending more troops to the afflicted area is what is necessary to achieve peace. Kenya is aware that this situation is very delicate and must be dealt with extreme caution. By administering a stronger international peacekeeping force to the area near Goma (where most recent fighting has taken place) Kenya believes two things will be accomplished. First, the obvious security and political issues will be helped, and secondly there would be included a peace building incentive, so that the relationships between the opposing states will be mended. 1,242,729,000 dollars has been awarded to the United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and from that amount, 47,991,000 dollars is specifically set aside for peacekeeping missions within the time period of 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009. Kenya proposes that since international intervention in the afflicted parts of the Congo is the best remedy to protect the millions of civilians dying, more money should be set aside for the peacekeeping mission. Currently there are not enough funds to support the troops needed to start the peace building process Kenya is in agreement with raising the total amount of money specifically for the peacekeeping mission.

Currently the main focus that Kenya wants to work to resolve in the Congo is the protection of civilians. Those that are lucky to still be living are fleeing the land that used to be their homes in search for safety. The number of internally displaced persons (IDP’s) is at such a high number that the IDP camps are being overfilled at some places. Those who are not lucky enough to make it to a camp have no shelter from the rainy season storms in the Congo. Children under five years of age have added up to half of the total death toll of those who died from normal mortal occurrences. The death toll is raised by 85 percent once you move the location to areas near the rebel groups and it becomes obvious that all the deaths are either a direct or indirect result of the rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Kenya is hopeful that by quickly administering more peacekeeping aid to the Congo we will see a rapid change in the death toll, and the amount of rebel uprisings. Kenya fully supports the action of sending more international troops the Congo in order to restore peace and return security to the country.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Lebanon
Delegate Name: Tiana Crayton-LaGrone
School: Flint Central Academy

The conflicts taking place between the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, Nambia, Zimbabwe, Uganda, and Rwanda ended in 2003 with the formation of a transitional government. However, there are still conflicts going on in which Lebanon is completely upset by. Currently, an estimated 250,000 civilians in the Democratic Republic of Congo have fled their homes and are living in desperate conditions following the latest outbreak of violence in the eastern part of the country. For years, the fighting has been fueled by the country’s vast mineral wealth, as well as conflicts over basic resources such as water and other resources. Conflicts are also a result of various conflicting political agendas. These conflicts, along with newly arising issues are now raising international concerns of another humanitarian disaster. Lebanon recognizes that Congo is striving to recover from a lengthy civil war in which about three million people died, mostly because of starvation and disease. In 2000, the United Nations entered Congo in order to help encourage a ceasefire during the five year war. However, now that there are increasing threats in Congo, there shall also be an increase in peacekeeping efforts led by the United Nations.

Lebanon is totally and completely against any form of genocide, political corruption, mass violence, and poverty that continues to be an epidemic in Congo. As countless children are separated from their families and as countless people (47% of them being children) are killed and tortured or die or starvation, Lebanon cannot urge all nations enough to rally against this as well. On a personal note, Lebanon has been a victim in many cases, suffering from violence from extremists and rebel groups, just as Congo has been. This is why we must urge all United Nations countries to encourage peace so that aid can begin to help the Congolese people.

The creation of the United Nations peacekeeping mission (MONUC) has done some good in Congo, as it has helped protect the Lusaka Peace Accords, which has encouraged peace between Congo and conflicting areas. Lebanon would like to see continued United Nations support. It is clear that the constant violence makes it hard for aid to enter into the area. However, Lebanon must make it even clearer that the civilians of Congo are suffering and we cannot allow this to continue any longer. The Congolese people have been victims of mass rape. Many of those who have fled to Goma have been homeless and starving. There is no food or shelter for these poor people, and it has even been evident that now, children are being forced to fight as well. Lebanon is urging immediate action upon this disaster in Congo, for it is of the utmost emergency.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Liberia
Delegate Name: Jim Bieszka
School: Dexter High School

African Nations have throughout history been oppressed, colonized, and supported by various European countries. Many African colonies started to gain their independence in the 1800s and became the first countries of Africa. However, African countries have always had bloody civil wars and land disputes that have taken millions of lives over many years.

The situation in Congo is the continuation of a terrible civil war that ended in 2003. Due to corruption at the government level in Congo, the national army and other groups are not being challenged in their attempts to force millions of people in Congo from their homes and in some cases kill them. Many African countries have spoken out against the killing in Congo, and met in Nairobi calling for a ceasefire. Liberia was not among them.

It’s difficult to say whether Liberia has a strong position or has taken a side in this crisis. However, because of several reasons it reasonable to infer that Liberia has the following position. Liberia has to be understanding of the people in the Congo, due to the fact Liberia has had decades of bloody civil wars as well. It would be in Liberia’s best interest to also support a ceasefire, due to the fact that civil wars can spread to neighboring countries. Liberia’s economy would struggle of they were sucked into another crisis such as this, however unlikely it is.

Although Liberia is a small country not directly border Congo, they must do what they can to support a cease fire.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Madagascar
Delegate Name: Noah Fisher
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

The issue in the Congo is a commonly debated topic that dates back to 1999 when many African nations signed The Goma Agreement in order to stop the bursts of violence between various forces in Congo. The Security Council has since then been sending UN Soldiers to help ease the hostilities in the Congo. Today, there are over 15,000 uniform personnel in the Congo, coming from 50 different nations.

As a neighbor country, the Republic of Madagascar strongly agrees with the United Nations, in that we are in favor of the MONUC troops who are working to disarm militias in the Congo, as well as control arms trafficking, and increased border security so as to stop militias from infiltrating the area. Unfortunately we do not have much help to offer. We would help more, but we have neither the money needed nor the people power to make much of a difference.

Despite this fact, we are still more than willing to hold talks with other nations so as to improve already existing operations. The best solution is for any and all nations able to contribute funds or send soldiers. With the combined funds and as many uniform personnel from as many nations as possible, the conflict in the Congo can hopefully be taken care of and if we are successful this fighting may finally end for good. Thank you for your time.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Malaysia
Delegate Name: Daniel Dormer
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

We in Malaysia are utterly appalled by the situation in the Congo and also by the conduct of various countries that border the Democratic Republic of Congo. We believe that the key to resolving the conflict in the Congo will come through Rwanda. Also we believe that the United Kingdom should take action in applying pressure to the Rwandan government.

The main conflict in the Congo and surrounding region is a tribal one. The Hutus and Tutsi’s have been warring for the past decade. In 1994 a group of Hutu extremists slaughtered about 800,000 Tutsi’s in Rwanda and then proceeded to flee the country once a Tutsi regime had been put in place. Rwanda claims that their involvement in the conflict stopped there however a man named Laurent Nkunda is leading a Tutsi movement in the Congo. Nkunda served in the Rwandan army and maintains several ties in the Rwandan army. Whether it is sanctioned by the Rwandan government or not we are not sure, however the fact remains that aide is being given to Nkunda from Rwanda. It is their responsibility to seek out those people who are in fact aiding Nkunda. However Rwanda seems content to simply deny any involvement and to wash their hands of the situation.

The United Kingdom contributes about half of the aide that Rwanda receives on an annual basis. They have given Rwanda 790 million dollars in the past 5 years. We propose that unless Rwanda completes a thorough investigation into its millitary’s involvement with Nkunda’s rebel movement that the United Kingdom should withdraw aide thus giving Rwanda ample incentive to solve the problem.

In conclusion because we believe that each country is entitled to their sovereignty and that no country should violate a neighboring countries sovereignty we believe that the rebel movement in the Congo should be stopped by military means. And that their aide should be cut off via diplomatic means. Tribal warfare is simply not acceptable in the modern era and its blemish on humanity should be stamped out starting in the Congo.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Mauritania
Delegate Name: Fletcher Smith
School: Williamston High School

The nation of Mauritania is concerned with the amount of lives being lost in our fellow continental nation of the Congo. The havoc that the Tutsi rebels have been causing has gone on long enough and we believe that it is time that they are stopped so that peace may reign in the Congo. What happened some years ago in Rwanda was a tradgedy must never happen again. Mauritania supports any nation that wishes to help in this crisis however our involvement will be very minimal due to funds and lack of military strength.

Being that there was recently a fair democratic election in the Congo, we as Mauritania believe that in the event that the Democratic Republic of Congo gaining control of its military forces may sufficiently help in the control of this crisis. Again our nation of Mauritania can provide no help due to lack of funds and a strong military however we urge other nations to support in helping bring the peace back to the Congo that it desrves and needs. We also support the idea of adding additional UN troops to the Congo to get through this chaotic mess. Until they Tutsi rebels can be controlled, as the people of Mauritania, believe that there is no end in sight.

Mauritania supports the addition of additional UN troops into the Congo as well as the addition of troops from other nations that also believe that the Tutsi’s should be stopped to protect the lives of these innocent people.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Mexico
Delegate Name: David Ulrich
School: Traverse City West High School

The United Mexican States are quite troubled with the situation in the Congo. Obviously, this rings true across the globe. When word of the Hutu's genocidal regime over the Tutsi's reached the shores of Mexico, we were very worried about the inevitable backlash. And when we heard that the Tutsi's had toppled the former regime and started their own we had hoped that the fighting would stop, if not at least shrink. But hope isn't as giving as war is. We even hoped that time would heal the wounds so evident in this unstable land.

But, as for any problem, there are possible solutions. The only solution that Mexico sees as having a chance at succeeding is patience. The mandate of MONUC, known to some as the Mission de l'Organisation de Nations Unies en République Démocratique du Congo, is a well thought out plan, addressing the key points necessary for maintaining stability in that area.

These points range from the simple, such as maintaining the cease fire and liaison of government buildings, to the subtle nuances that could have proven catastrophic, human rights monitoring and search for unexploded ordinance. One point of action that cannot be stressed enough is the support and overview of electoral process that has been upheld for roughly forty years. For if a democracy becomes corrupt, it ceases to be a democracy. Mexico believes that not enough time has passed to truly see the effects of the actions of MONUC.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Mozambique
Delegate Name: Kara Hanley
School: Forest Hills Central High School

We the people of the Republic of Mozambique recognize the importance of the situation in the Democratic of Congo (DRC), and we have great sympathy for those most affected by the condition. Since gaining independence from Belgium in 1960, the Congo has not been able to rest. Issues including being able to maintain a stable and dependable government, poverty, violence, and a civil war have all been present since their independence. Rebels in the National Congress for the Defense of the People (CNDP), under the power of ethnic Tutsi, Laurent Nkunda, have been advancing on government strongholds on the province, predominantly the regional capital, Goma. Though this news has been recently headlined for the past few weeks, the conflict has been going on since 2004, when Nkunda rebelled against the DRC army, as well as even longer considering the harsh conditions faced everyday. About 5.4 million lives since 1988 have been taken due to the conflict and humanitarian crisis in the DRC. The conflict continues to leave over 45,000 lives per month, gone, and the statistics will continue to grow unless more action is taken now. Mozambique urges that a peaceful approach to the situation is the only way to resolve the turmoil that the Congolese endure.

Mozambique is still optimistic for peace in the North Kivu region after the Goma Agreement was signed on January 23, 2008, which was about negotiations between the government, Laurent Nkunda and Mai Mai militias, and included a ceasefire, withdrawal of troops from large areas and the creation of a UN “buffer zone.” Although it was not as effective as we had hoped, Mozambique is also in full support of the Lusaka Ceasefire Agreement that was introduced in 1999, as well as the United Nations Organization Mission in the Congo (MONUC).

The fact that we are close neighbors to Congo reinforces our deep concern, as well as our obvious conformity with other African countries. But, of course, every country in this committee should concur considering that peace, and a safe, better sense of the word "home" is wanted for all of the people that have been displaced and corrupted by the ongoing events in the DRC.

Being that after finally gaining independence from Portugal in 1975 and being considered one of the poorest countries in the world, we closely identify with the DRC. As well as the Congo, a brutal civil war lasting fifteen years worsened our situation, and we can only emphasize that the time to address this major crisis of the Congolese is now. The North Kivu conflict has been repeatedly postponed over the past three years. The immense suffering being produced needs to be put to an end, because if it continues it carries wider risks for Congo and its neighbors. Mozambique even calls for a summit to come to a new, peaceful agreement that will put an end to the challenges the country has faced for too long.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: New Zealand
Delegate Name: Jack Duiven
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, though first brought to the world’s attention years ago, has yet to be resolved. In a region of Africa where 45,000 Congolese die each month, a stable society has yet to be found. Political turmoil, civil conflict, and an overall feeling of unrest dominate the area, an area still not fully recovered from its own civil war. The country of New Zealand believes the United Nations must continue and improve its support to the Congo to ensure a better civilization for all parties involved.

To gain an adequate understanding of today’s conditions in the Congo, one must go back years. In 2006, the Democratic Republic of the Congo held its first multiparty election in the country in 46 years. Though the outcome of the election is largely disputed, and though disputes over the election’s outcome have caused the death and displacement of a number of Congolese people, Joseph Kabila was finally proclaimed the winner. Fraud and corruption became a significant problem in the election, and still remains one to be solved today. Additionally, considerable conflict exists between the Congolese government under the direction of President Joseph Kabila and rebel forces under the command of Laurent Nkunda. Also, to make matters more complicated, Rwandan forces are involved in the conflict. Rwanda’s interaction in the situation goes back all the way to 1994, when warfare broke out between two ethnic groups existing in the Congo and Rwanda – the Hutus and the Tutsis. In 1994, the Hutus attempted to carry out a genocide on minority Tutsis in Rwanda. Upon realizing that the Tutsis might win the conflict and stop the genocidal Hutus, many Hutus fled across the border into the Congo. This in itself presents a conflict, because France was supposed to disarm the refugees as they crossed into the Congo and they failed to do so.

New Zealand believes that the time to bring peace to the Congo has finally come. Though this has been said in the past, action must be taken by the countries of the world and by the United Nations to prevent further bloodshed and violence. For instance, in January 2008, the parties involved in the conflict signed the Goma peace accords, which called for ceasefire, disarmament, and the return of refugees. Although this at first seemed like a sound step for those parties involved, neither side has obeyed the rules entirely. Recently, fighting broke out near the Congolese city of Goma, resulting in the upheaval of 250,000 civilians. A better effort than that must be made.

It has been found that a majority of the deaths in the Congo are due to easily preventable and treatable diseases. Thus, the United Nations ought to improve its level of support to the Congo using simple human resources. New Zealand believes in any proposal or resolution that calls for increased aid for the Congo, whether it is through these resources or through peacekeeping troops. New Zealand supports such actions such as pursued interest in sustainable development for the Congolese people or better regulation of the country’s democratic elections. The Mission of the United Nations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC) must also continue its level of aid to the Congo to ensure a more stable government, a safer public, and a better society for the people of the Congo.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Nigeria
Delegate Name: Dylan Jenks
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The Democratic Republic of Congo is currently in a state of turmoil as their military struggles to protect the Congolese citizens in the Kivu region. Rebel forces led by Laurent Nkunda, known as the National Congress for the Defense of the People, continue to invade civilian zones in the region. The violence has caused over 350,000 civilians to be displaced from their homes and many civilians have been killed in the conflict. There have been multiple violations of international law and of the cease-fires that were agreed upon. Nigeria stands firmly against any further violence in the Congo and wishes to work for a peace agreement that will permanently serve as a solution.

Recently, on November 3rd, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister stated that the fighting has become a threat to African peace and security and threatens to further impoverish the continent by diverting attention away from development needs. Nigeria is being affected as well as many developing African countries that are in need of economic aid and this whole conflict is drawing away from the needs of the rest of the continent. Nigeria needs resolution to this conflict. For this reason, the Federal Republic of Nigeria urges all those involved to begin the peace process.

To begin with, there must be a cease-fire that is agreed upon by all factions involved in order to facilitate an immediate humanitarian aid effort. Negotiations or peace talks that also include everyone concerned have to be conducted to finally agree on a solution. A strengthened presence of peacekeepers is also imperative to this entire process, to aid and protect the Congolese people as they return to their homes. Envoys of political and economic advisers may also help the government to stabilize their country.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: North Korea
Delegate Name: Ben Mason
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea is greatly alarmed by the present situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Though the Congolese people have dealt with numerous conflicts since the creation of the free state of Congo in conjunction with the escape of Belgian oppression, the People’s Republic of Korea cannot help but note that the intervention of Western imperialist nations such as the United State has brought even further hardship to the area. In fact, distinct parallels can be drawn between the United States promotion of the Joseph Mobutu kleptocracy and the suppressive reign of Syngman Rhee in our own homeland.

When the United States took steps to intervene with the on goings of the Korean Peninsula, we were forced to suffer at the hands of the tyrant Syngman Rhee. These imperialist aggressors managed to manipulate the floor of our great United Nations to make Rhee an elected head of state, and forcing their so-called democracy on our Juche state. During his imposed reign, the Communist ideologies of Marx and Lenin were spat upon, and our people’s belief in unity was marginalized. From this tension sprung forth the divide of our nation which still exists to this day.

The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea would like to make certain that all intervention from the international body of the United Nations is done for the sole benefit of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and not the free-market intentions of western capitalist democracies. It should be noted in any such proposed legislature that the citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo are free to govern themselves how they see fit and that no other power should apply further pressure or strain to their right of self-determination. In addition, no sanctioned military force should be put in place to protect this claim of national sovereignty. No good will come of it, and it will simply lead toward further strife.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Pakistan
Delegate Name: Kyle Szczepaniuk
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The ongoing conflict in the democratic republic on Congo is and has been a terrible one. It has led to the deaths of over five million four hundred thousand people. The main reason for the conflict is to gain control of sustainable natural resources in the country such as diamonds, copper, zinc, and coltan. In Ituri, MONUC has proven it was unable to contain the numerous militia and groups driving the Ituri conflict. This war has been the deadliest since World War II.

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan believes firmly that the conflict cannot go on for much longer. The death tolls are too high. NGO participation needs to increase, as well as the amount of peacekeeping troops stationed by the UN. Decisions about containing strategy and border patrols shall be discussed and decided by the UN. Only with these actions taken will the situation in the Congo die down, and peace be restored.

The NGO Amnesty International should partner up with the UN to help efforts in the DRC. They are appealing to the UN Security Council to urgently reinforce the UN peacekeeping force in the DRC and give it all the necessary support to enable it to fulfill its mandate to protect citizens. The organization is also calling for high-level international pressure on the DRC and Rwanda to resolve their differences and to use their influence over armed groups to halt the slide towards greater bloodshed. The organization also called for the Security Council to step up pressure on armed groups to halt all attacks against civilians and to immediately release all children associated with their forces as well as women and girls held as sexual slaves.

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan believes that the initiations of these requests are for the betterment of the situation in the DRC. Only if actions are taken, will the killing and violations against human rights end. Special consideration should be given to the children involved in the conflict. Although children make up only 19% of the population, they account for 47% of the deaths. The UN should team up with Amnesty International to end this bloody conflict.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Palestine
Delegate Name: Anna Paneral
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Palestine genuinely sympathizes with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. For the past century, the Congolese have been plagued by corruption and exploitation, all the while fighting for independence. Palestine supports the Lusaka Ceasefire Agreement of 1999, which attempted to end fighting in the Congo, released prisoner of war, and deployed an international peacekeeping force issued by the United Nations. Additionally, Palestine strongly identifies with the Congolese struggle for independence, as we, the Palestinian people, continue our ongoing fight for a united and independent Palestinian state.

Through a recent democratic election, the Congolese elected Joseph Kabila as their president. Although the election was widely boycotted and experienced many problems, Palestine recognizes the election as a step in the right direction towards stability and independence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Palestine encourages the United Nations to support the Kabila administration, in continuing to promote peace and initiate successful power transitions. However, the United Nations must respect this new administration as the authority of the Congo. The United Nations must allow them to devise their own plans of action in regards to the future of the country.

Despite these recent elections, the Congo remains very unstable and divided. The western Congo includes the capital as well as the majority of the military, and is therefore much more stable. The eastern Congo contains more of the rebel factions. These rebel factions have limited the effectiveness of the recent democratic elections.

Due to this increasing instability, Palestine believes that the United Nations must continue to extend aid to the Democratic Republic of the Congo until the new administration is secure enough to stand on its own.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Panama
Delegate Name: Stephanie Huffman
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has faced major adversities and difficulties. Gruesome battling in the area has been going on for decades until the DRC and five other states signed the 1999 Lusaka Ceasefire Agreement. According to some sources, as part of this ceasefire agreement the UN has sent peacekeepers, the United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC), which includes 16,700 peacekeepers and 450 policemen to help install democracy in the DRC. In the agreement, it also includes that there should be “normalization on the DRC border, the control of illicit trafficking of arms and the infiltration of armed groups, the holding of a national dialogue, the need to address security concerns, and the establishment of a mechanism for disarming militias and armed groups. The first parliamentary elections under the Lusaka Agreement were held in June 2007 but along with it have come numerous difficulties. Opposition parties have boycotted elections and protestors have gotten into brutal fights with government troops who have alleged election fraud. In September 2007, thousands of civilians were forced to flee their homes when in Eastern Congo conflict erupted between the governmental, renegade troops and other armed groups. The Republic of Panama encourages the democratization of the Democratic Republic of Congo and realizes the importance to unite as a nation for the better of the DRC and the world.

The Republic of Panama proposes to increase education in the DRC so that conflicts similar to the Congo situation do not happen again. Panama wants to increase the standards of the DRC’s social and political views. We can build a better sense of current and political issues that are happening in the world today through education. If we were to build a strong central education program in the DRC, more civilians would reintegrate themselves into their communities. Other problems in Congo that can be solved involve the military. The DRC’s military has caused problems with the free use of arms. To solve this issue, Panama suggests that the Congo enforce stricter laws, forcing their government to hold their police and military forces to higher standards of conduct, and stricter punishing for those who have committed those crimes. Panama engages the Congo to build programs that eliminate the stigma associated with the victims of the crimes committed in Congo, and help the futures of many people. This should set up a more stable DRC government, a more involved society, and change the lives of the people in Congo positively so that there are things to look forward to in the future. With the help of other countries, Panama hopes to change Congo into a much more able country, one that will flourish and lead to greatness.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Paraguay
Delegate Name: Hayden Leithauser
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Since the Democratic Republic of Congo’s(DRC) independence in mid 1960 DRC has been one of the most turbulent countries in Africa. The main reason for the current situation was the switch to the Kabila Era and the Second Congo War. Following the switch to Kabila there was a period of corruption and then the Second Congo War which furthered struggle of civilians in the DRC. Following Laurent Kabila’s death Joseph Kabila Took control and reformed the corrupt government. Although when Hutu Militias from Rwanda enter DRC, these militias had conducted genocide on Tutsis who gained control of Rwanda’s government. Since then the situation in eastern DRC has become evermore drastic.

Paraguay is deeply concerned by the humanitarian situation in eastern DRC. Paraguay disapproves of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda efforts to provoke rebellion and strife. We request that this organization be disbanded and disarmed. We also desire all parties to follow their commitments placed by the Goma accords and the Nairobi Communiqué. Paraguay encourages the Congolese government to halt its provocations and to avoid any further fights. Paraguay hopes this conflict can be solved as soon as possible and we are eager to conduct trade with every country in the future

Paraguay hopes all countries will agree with these terms and we hope the other Mercosur nations and powers such as the United States will find these terms not only acceptable but endorse them. We may accept other propositions to end this conflict if they seem feasible.

Paraguay reaffirms our support for the United Nations Mission in the Congo, for we believe it is vital for any sort of solution to come into action. We also reaffirm our support of the Congolese government and hope to them prosper in the future.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Philippines
Delegate Name: Katherine Curley
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The violent situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo affects the entire world, including the Philippines. As a power of the Asian Pacific, the Philippines is a major exporter of components of machines and technological instruments, and when the Congo is in such turmoil, the difficulty in obtaining the materials that are necessary for construction of said exports is made very difficult. In the last ten years, the violence and bloodshed in the Congo and surrounding areas has cost approximately 4.5 million lives: a cost that The Philippines feels is completely unacceptable. The Philippines, as a member of the UN (which has over 17,000 peace keeping troops in the Congo), is a part of the largest peacekeeping mission in the world. But the major problem of the situation in the Congo is that Congo's national army and the UN are both incapable of dealing with the rebel leader's challenge.

The Philippines believes that the situation in the Congo should be remedied as soon as possible. Solutions supported by the Philippines are those suggested and supported by the United States, a main ally of the Philippines. The suggested solutions to the violence include a peace treaty with the rebels. The violence has been proven too harsh and extreme to control with military power, so the solution can only be solved with peace. The US is on a permanent delegation committee on the matter, so the Philippines has a strong faith in the policies of the US concerning this matter. Thus far, the Philippines has taken no direct action or signed any conventions or resolutions concerning the Congo, but the US has supported the so far ineffective peace treaty that was signed between the battling parties in summer 2008.

There have been many problems with the few peace treaties that have been signed in the Congo region, mainly because the rebel tribes have very little allegiance to an country or to the UN. Without major repercussions for violation of the peace treaties, the treaties are obviously very ineffective. 3 days ago, the UN called the situation in the Congo ‘desperate,’ with the death toll reaching all time highs and the treatment of women the worst in the world.

The Philippines supports their main ally, the United States, in the fight to stop the violence in the Congo. The Philippines hopes to put an end to the senseless violence and bloodshed as soon as possible and looks forward to working with the special political council at the UN.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Poland
Delegate Name: Alycia Pucci
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

The Democratic Republic of Congo is in need of the full support of the international community in overcoming the crucible conflict in the Republic of Congo. The Republic of Poland fully encourages allies and members in the European and African Unions in supporting and presenting aid towards the recent brutal and gory events taking place in the Republic of Congo.

The Republic of Poland has full confidence in re-establishing entirely the state administration throughout the national territory of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Malaria, diarrhea, pneumonia and malnutrition are the leading factors to the outrageous number of deaths occurring daily in the Republic of Congo. The Republic of Poland strongly encourages its neighboring countries and allies to put forth effort in total reformation of hospitals and healthcare throughout the Congo. This issue has been a increasing impact on the entire republic; we must act now and enforce stabilization among all conflicts.

The Republic of Poland strongly affirms the position in finding an offensive strategy to combat and punish the Tutsi groups who have rebelled against many nations in the Congo and are guilty to the crimes they have committed in taking away many innocent lives.

Thus, Poland urges the establishment of humanitarian corridors and efforts throughout the unstable area and to address the humanitarian crisis and tragedy fully. Immediate achievement of Nairobi communication and the Goma Agreement will ensure peace and political stability through enforcing strict protocols and relevant agreements.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Portugal
Delegate Name: Caitlin Heinrich
School: Traverse City West High School

As of gaining independence from Belgium in 1960, the Democratic Republic of Congo has been in a continuous state of suffering from a large scale of issues that have been ongoing up to this day. As of gaining independence, the Democratic Republic of Congo has failed to establish a reliable and stable government due to civil war, violence, and corruption since declaring independence. The Lusaka Cease fire act of 1999 showed potential and provided hope among the Congolese government and people. However, This agreement seemed to only take effect for a short period of time. Rapidly resolutions declined to increasing violent structures of reform resulting from a rising political group. Due to the causing an inability to hold the 2007 elections. The Democratic Republic of Congo continues to remain in a complete state of instability containing revolt and corruption.

Portugal, while not directly involved in this particular situation , We strongly and fully support NATO's ideology and views in these affairs. Portugal would like to see the direction of the Democratic Republic of Congo turn into a more goal oriented and swift recovery.

Portugal Feels that peace is of the up most importance, while the first thing kept on mind is the safety of the Congolese people. We first and foremost would like to stabilize the situation. Although the Democratic Republic of Congo has endured many complex situations for numerous years, Portugal continues to believe that there is still much hope for the future of the DRC.

We also feel that support of a peacekeeping force would further help contain ethnic violence. Thus, Portugal supports an an inclusive peace process in which all ethnicity's are included in the current decisions of the situation. Portugal would like to see a discontinuance of unnecessary bloodshed and violence , and hopes to find a solution to restore peace among the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Romania
Delegate Name: Anna Slowik
School: Royal Oak High School

As the situation in the nation of Congo heightens and continues, it is clear strong and forceful actions need to be taken. First of all, the nation of Romania sees it as unambiguously necessary for negotiations to be made between the current President Kabila and Nkunda. The best possible situation that could arise from actions taken by the International Community and the United Nations would be the removal of Nkunda and the restoration of the current president’s legitimacy.

Restoring President Kabila’s legitimacy as the one and true leader of the Congo is unconditionally imperative at this time, as the government won't be taken seriously unless it is seen as legitimate.

The nation of Rwanda has been conducting questionable relations with Nkunda, aiding him in his actions in Eastern Congo, which have caused the deaths and displacement of many civilians. This is not to be tolerated and cannot be fathomed as acceptable in any matter. Nkunda’s actions in the Congo are perceived as genocide by the nation of Romania, as he has "committed serious violations of international law involving the targeting of children in situations of armed conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, including killing and maiming, sexual violence, abduction, and forced displacement.”

What the Congo needs is agreements to be implemented, an agreement that can hold Nkunda accountable for these intolerable acts of violence. Such agreements have signatories committed to them, they need only to be held to their word and executed cleanly and efficiently.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Russia
Delegate Name: Nicole Smith
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

The Russian Federation resolutely believes that the solution to the turbulent situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo resides in supporting a democratic government that has the authority and the competency to rule fairly over the entire republic. Currently, the lack of an authoritative government divides the Congo into two irreconcilably separated regions. The more stable western portion of the Congo contains the capital and the majority of the Congolese military, while the eastern portion of the Congo has been subject to countless rebel attacks which have decimated the region. The rebels, who represent minority factions, are one of the major factors limiting the influence of the democratically-elected government. While these geographic divisions persist, there cannot be peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Recently, the Congo held a free and fair democratic election through which the Congolese elected Joseph Kabila. It is in the best interests of the United Nations to support the democratically-elected Kabila Administration and to encourage peaceful power transitions in the nation. The United Nations should work with the Kabila Administration in order to promote the peace for which the Congolese voted. With the diplomatic support of the United Nations, the democratically elected government of the Congo can become strong enough to quell the violent rebel attacks and secure peace and prosperity in the region. The only way to affect long-lasting peace in the region is to allow the people to govern and for the people, not the United Nations, to determine the future of the country.

Bearing these facts duly in mind, the Russian Federation awaits a spirited forum that will help to ensure security for the citizens of the region.

Most Respectfully Submitted,

Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

Russian Federation

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Saudi Arabia
Delegate Name: Thomas Miller
School: Forest Hills Central High School

There is a terrible act being committed against humanity in the Republic of Congo, and has been affecting the region for some amount of time. Over the past ten years, approximately 5.4 million people. Because of this mass of unnecessary deaths, the UN authorized the creation of a peace keeping mission to keep the violence from escalating any further, and to attempt to cease the killing of the hundreds of people who die every day. This is the second of such wars in the region with thousands of refugees remaining from the first war in the region. Recently another situation has elevated in the region around Goma. This recent violence is between the Rwandan government and Congolese rebels. These and other reoccurring events and racial and ethnic situations have plagued and brought suffering to thousands of people in the regions over the past few decades even with attempts to end the conflicts. People are not only dying directly from violence, but also by many causes created by the violence or influence of violence. These include famine, disease, and extreme poverty.

Saudi Arabia wishes to remain a neutral country in the issue. We do not want to make any important decisions that will affect the outcome of the issue in a way another country feels unfit. We would like to lend support, but don’t necessarily see ourselves making decisions on behalf of any other nations. We would like to see a solution soon, preferably one reached by discussion, although we would like the countries that take the responsibility to make changes do so until the situation is resolved. We would also like to see that the proposed resolution would be of benefit to the refugees in the surrounding areas. We would like to see a variety of countries give their input, not just the countries directly involved.

Most of the countries that wish to see a timely end to the crisis will most likely agree with Saudi Arabia. We would not like to choose any specific sides on the issue of the wars going on in the area, although we would like to agree with those who would like to see it end.

The Lusaka Ceasefire Agreement in July 1999, singed by the five regional states, was designed to maintain healthy relationships between the involved countries. The Political Council for Justice and Peace requested that the parties involved were to come to agreement on a peaceful conclusion on November 4, 2008.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Somalia
Delegate Name: Levy Gourdie
School: Traverse City West High School

The Somali government has decided that the Congolese government needs to stand. The rebels have no claim to the land and area. To think that they can just march in and take the land is preposterous. We believe that the UN must increase its peace keeping force and give them orders to kill any rebels found; no more truces no more cease fires, the war must be won by the current government.

If the DRC falls then the whole region will fall to instability, since the DRC is in the center of Africa the instability will effect the whole continent; Angola, Zambia, Tanzia, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Sudan, The Central African Republic, and The Republic Of Congo will fall to instability. This will trickle out like an Octopus and will eventually reach our own borders, which are already in turmoil; every African nation is at stake even relatively stable ones such as South Africa are at risk.

The Hutus are on a rampage and must be stopped at all costs, they will kill every one of the Tutsis if they are given a chance, right down to the last man, woman, and child. The natural resources are also a huge concern, the west part of the DRC is rich in natural resources that belong to the Congolese people, not to ravaging brigands, the resources are not there to be pillaged by any country or group that so please; in fact many diamonds are coming out of the region that are just fueling the bloodshed. Somalia also wants the human rights abuses to end; there have been horrifying reports of massacre, rape, looting, and children being conscripted, this needs to stop now; even the military of the DRC is joining in, the UN peacekeepers should do their utmost in preventing this. Somalia also believes that any and all African nations that can afford to must aid the DRC in anyway possible. We cannot sit idly by and let the continent that we so love fall into complete chaos.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: South Africa
Delegate Name: Annelise McGoff
School: Williamston High School

The awful situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo is saddening and discouraging but it not yet a situation that the UN cannot fix. South Africa recognizes that many other nations have contributed money and aid to DRC but this is not enough. South Africa was hopeful that the Goma Peace Accords would help solve the conflict but now recent news has reported otherwise. The extreme hate and violence in The Dominican Republic of Congo needs to be put to a stop. South Africa is so concerned about this issue that we hosted the Extra-Ordinary Summit of the SADC heads of State and Government. Here all African nations were invited to come up with solutions on how to make Africa a better place and how to end the imediate danger like what is happening in the DRC. We hope that this conference will help set in place more action from not only South Africa but other nations around the world.

The DRC has plenty of natural resources, which is contributing to the problem along with all the Rwandan refugees. South Africa would like to see an immediate ceasefire by all armed men and militia. Also the Extra-Ordinary Summit of the SADC would like to see the establishment of humanitarian corridor throughout the area to ensure that there are people to address immediate issues, the agreement that everyone will follow the Goma peace accord, and to send peacekeeping forces directly to the source of many main conflicts. South AFrica is aware that these things take time but we are also aware that many are dying over in the DRC and that calls for the quickest action the United Nations can provide.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: South Korea
Delegate Name: Hema Karunakaram
School: Saline High School

The Republic of Korea is deeply concerned about the current situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The world's largest humanitarian crisis, accompanied by the UN's largest peacekeeping force, seem to put the DRC in a very extreme and vulnerable position. Millions of lives have been lost in this region due to war, disease, malnutrition, and genocide—and still the chaos has not relented. As a major trading partner of the DRC, the Republic of Korea is concerned not only for the DRC's government and security, but also for its overall economy and infrastructure.

The DRC's new government under Joseph Kabila, elected democratically, seems to be heading in the right direction. However, peace and security are still very far away from becoming a reality. General Nkunda has proved to be ruthless as a leader and unappeasable as a rebel, and the DRC has no hope for stability unless Nkunda can be cornered and properly dealt with. Several peace treaties have been signed, but unforutnately, none have been effective. Moreover, the Republic of Korea expresses great concern for the people of the DRC and the surrounding regions in turmoil, particularly the women and children. These people deserve a better life, and it should be a priority of every nation's to ensure this in the future.

The Republic of Korea puts its full support behind MONUC and all financial and humanitarian aid being supplied to the region currently. In the word's of the Republic of Korea's own Ban Ki-Moon, the UN Secretary-General, “The conflict along the Rwanda and Congolese border has gone on too long and with catastrophic consequences.” The Republic of Korea envisions a DRC in the future that is safe and secure, with a blossoming economy and successful infrastructure, healthy and educated citizens, and a democratic government free from military conflict. The Republic of Korea is eager to find a solution to this situation and restore peace and stability to the region.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Spain
Delegate Name: Ian Magenta
School: Saline High School

Over the past decade the conflict in the Democratic Republic Congo (DRC) has been a bloody one. Conflict in this region has been referred to as the African World War and is the deadliest war since World War II. As a result of this conflict, 5.4 million people have died. It is even more distressing to hear that today fighting continues in this region between the Tutsi and the Hutu ethnic groups. The Rwandan government, led by the Tutsis, has been supporting Congolese Rebels to eliminate threats from the Hutus who are based in Congo.

The nation of Spain is also concerned with the conflict in this region and is willing to cooperate with other nations to find a peaceful solution. Spain fully supports the European Union’s decision to send 1,500 EU troops into the DRC. Spain would like to resolve the conflict between the Tutsi and the Hutu so that peace may begin. In order to achieve this, great steps must be taken.

In an attempt to reduce violence in the region, Spain would like to see a disarmament program set up to remove weapons from those who currently posses them in the DRC. Spain believes that more peacekeeping forces must be deployed to better help stabilize the DRC. Spain also believes that more aid must be given to this region in order to help the people affected by this conflict. Spain would like to strengthen DRC’s government in the hopes one day the region will be able to provided better jobs and living conditions for its residents.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Sri Lanka
Delegate Name: Ryan Williamson
School: Traverse City West High School

Sri Lanka is not directly affected by the situations in the Congo, but any threat to peace affects the whole world. We cannot sit idle and watch passively while innocent civilians are dying. My country, and myself, applaud the humanitarian efforts that have been so successful, but more direct action must be taken to strike at the heart of the problem. Resolutions must be passed to solve these crises, and Sri Lanka intends to help pass those resolutions to the best of our ability.

Sri Lanka expresses concern for anyone affected by war. Our country has long been fighting the brutal terrorists of the LTTE and we sympathize with anyone who has ever experienced such conflict. While we stay neutral, we must urge both sides to make peace and resolve their differences. We also express the need for the global community to band together to fight for peace and help one another in their times of need. No one truly benefits from war, peace is the only option and Sri Lanka is willing to work with the rest of the world to help achieve it.

Sri Lanka wishes to remain as neutral as possible, and instead of passing around the blame, work on correcting the problems at hand. The global community must come together and decide quickly on a strategy to end the conflict in the Congo. 5,400,000 have died war related deaths there since 1998. If the conflict doesn’t end soon who knows how high the numbers will rise.

Negotiations must continue until the conflicts are resolved. The conflict as Sri Lanka sees it in the Congo is the Tutsis are fighting against the DRC in an attempt to gain political power. The Tutsi’s must compromise with the current government to bring the fighting to an end. The goals have been almost lost entirely amid the chaos and death that has engulfed the region. If they refuse to compromise they must be dealt with militarily.

Sri Lanka believes that needy people in the Congo should receive aid, but we are in no position to offer any. Our current issue with the Tamil Tigers occupies our military and we cannot give foreign aid as we are currently receiving over one hundred million US dollars a year. Those that can give should, and although we have little, we will try and set up trade arrangements with the DRC that lower tariffs.

Sri Lanka has not released any official statements on the issues in the Congo, but is still watching and making decisions regarding the issues. We will keep watching and trying to help resolve the issues, but we wish to remain neutral and help all sides involved.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Sudan
Delegate Name: Jun Sik Won
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

The crisis in Congo has largely escaped the attention of the International community. The current conflict has stemmed from previous Second Congo War and the original cause is elusive and fabricated. This, however, should not be a reason why the International community is ignoring such issue. In January 2008, Goma agreement was reached but the agreement did not stop any militia group from violating its agreements. The Republic of Sudan calls for an intervention by the International community to prevent such violations from occurring and further suggest that immediate measure are enforced to stabilize the renewed violence.

The crisis in Congo is so widespread and prevalent; it could easily overwhelm under prepared actions, similar to what happened with MONUC. In order to prevent another failure, the problem must be tackled at couple different levels. First, the problem needs to be contains within the country. Rwanda has been accused of supporting militia groups to oppose the FDLR or the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda. If such intervene by another country is allowed, this could easily escalate into Second Congo War, where eight African nations were involved. Also this includes border controls and refugees. The surrounding nations, including the Republic of Sudan have been accepting the Congolese refugees without proper or adequate aids to support displaced population. The Republic of Sudan requests humanitarian and economic aids to help support these refugees from Congo crisis.

Second, the crisis needs to be broken into manageable size. Once the crisis had been contained, the regions of most violent conflict need to be isolated and handled. At this point, the crisis in Congo can be separated into Kivu and Ituri Conflicts. The International community must come up with an appropriate program to deal with these issues. The MONUC has failed more times than it has succeeded. The Republic of Sudan suggests a drastic reformation of the MONUC operation to improve its effectiveness or an introduction of more suitable program to alleviate the situation in Congo, especially in Ituri.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Sweden
Delegate Name: Rei Gjeci
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The violent situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been occurring for many years. It is a war between the DRC and Namibia, Rwanda, and Burundi. This was has led to 5.4 million deaths. Even though DRC is considered to be a democracy, it’s the farthest from it. When elections come around, it truly shows the unfairness. The process is long and people do not feel safe to vote for who they wish to win because of violence that could erupt. The people of Congo also do not feel safe because the Democratic Republic of Congo’s military is also weak and the security in this country fails. This conflict seems to not progress because just recently fights broke out near Goma. This will results in conflicts between ethnic groups such as Hutu and Tutsi.

The European Union has taken many actions over the course of years in order to aid this issue as much as needed. EU troops have been sent to Congo for peace keeping resolutions. In the recent issue in Goma, many people left their homes in need for help. The EU along with UN sent food and medical help.

In the year or 1999 the UN approved of forming a peacekeeping mission called the MONUC. In the conflict of Congo, MONUC has allowed about 5,537 military personnel to support these areas, human rights, humanitarian affairs, and political affairs, child protection also medical and administrative support. MONUC along with JMC (joint Military Commission) has some propositions which include: to establish and maintain continuous liaison with the headquarters off all the parties’ military forces, to monitor the implementation of the Ceasefire Agreement and investigate violations of the ceasefire. These are only a couple of the propositions and the rest include such things as assistance and protecting human rights and more.

Sweden supports any decision the EU has and supports any action that is willing to be taken by the EU. The EU is going to send troops in order to keep the peace. The EU is also going to send in aid such as food, medication and anything else needed by the people. Also by sending in the troops they won’t only prevent the violation as much as possible but they will also help by making the people feel safe in their own homes.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Syria
Delegate Name: Charlie Pacer
School: Traverse City West High School

In 1999 the Democratic Republic of Congo, along with five other states, signed the Lusake agreement, which ended an extremely bloody regional conflict. As part of this agreement the United Nations deployed 16,700 peacekeeping troops and 450 policeman to ease the transition to a democratic form of government. In June of 2007, the DRC saw it's first parliamentary election under the Lusake agreement, however there were numerous problems reported with the voting system, which caused several leading parties to boycott the election. Violent confrontations followed the election, between the police and the protesters who alleged election fraud. Also, in September of 2007conflict broke out in the Eastern Congo between the government and renegade troops along with other groups, forcing thousands of civilians to flea their homes.

The Syrian government currently holds a peaceful position regarding the war in the Congo, with 234 peacekeeping troops, we hope to help the effort to encourage a peaceful and cohesive government. Following the point in 2005 when our honorable representative Mikhail Wehbe voiced that the attacks on the Congolese government were unjustified, Syria had no involvement.

In the current time, as stated earlier, we have placed 234 peacekeeping troops in the Congo, which we hope will aid the people and government to bring them closer to a time when their government and people can be safe. Also, the Syrian government is currently donating 7.5 million to the world food program, which actively distributes food and needed resources to the people of the Congo that have been either driven from their homes or driven to starvation by the rebel forces. The rebel forces are inflicting their ways upon the people of the Congo, and also recruiting young children to fight in the war.

We would like to point out our newly formed agreement with Italy concerning the world food program. The exhibition highlights a strong commitment to the environment and development in the Mediterranean with emphasis on natural resource management and sustainable development through cooperation between Italy, Syria and FAO.

The attacks on the Congolese government and the people were unjustified, cruel , and for which reasons we voice our support for a peaceful agreement that will put a stop to the war in the Congo. We hope that a resolution will be drawn up that will make all the countries involved in this war pleased and satisfied. We also hope that this resolution will put a halt to the war and the abuse of the Congolese people, and bring back a peaceful government that will work in the best interest of the world community around them and for the internal dealings of this country.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Turkey
Delegate Name: Jeanette Tobasco
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

Due to the toppling of Mobutu’s regime in 1997, the quarreling ethnic parties have made it hard for the Congolese government to stabilize and strengthen the unity of the country. Ever since the Lusaka Ceasefire Agreement, on the 17th of July 1999, the Security Council began to express the issue surrounding the Democratic Republic of Congo, authorizing the deployment of 90 officers. As of October 2007, The Mission of the United Nations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC) has sent a total of 18,407 uniformed personnel to monitor the peace process, mostly focusing on the Ituri and Kivu conflicts. Though the efforts of the MONUC have significantly contributed to the pacification and general improvement of security in the country, in January 2008 an International Rescue Committee (IRC) survey reported that about 5,400,000 people have died from war-related events in the DRC.

The Republic of Turkey maintains peaceful relations with the DRC, and finds the efforts to obtain peace and security in the DRC of great importance. Turkey has supported MONUC’s efforts in the DRC since 2002, and currently provides the MONUC with 10 civilian police officers. Also, in 2005 and 2006 combined, Turkey has contributed $2,009,741 US dollars to the MONUC in order to fund their missions. After a visit by His Excellency Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan of the Republic of Turkey to Ethiopia on March 2, 2005, relations between Turkey and The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) have increased; Africa recognizing Turkey with great respect as a major player in international peacemaking and peacekeeping operations of the UN. One of Turkey’s recent contributions to The Congo Observation Police Commission is recognized and appreciated by Africa and NEPAD recognizes and appreciates. The Republic of Turkey is recognized as an important partner in the framework of NEPAD and is a clear indication of Turkey’s initiative to give full attention to Africa.

Though Turkey is not directly a part of the European Union (EU), Turkey has become an applicant to accede to the EU. The EU’s objective in the DRC is to support the reconstruction of the DRC, while pursuing stabilization efforts in some regions of the country. In this, the EU considers improving governance a key aspect to redress the country, notably issues related to security sector reform, decentralization, public finances, public enterprises reform, public administration reform, natural resources management and investment climate. For over two years, two of the EU’s missions, EUSEC and EUPOL, have been in the DRC to assist and advice the government to reform and reconstruct its army and police.

Turkey believes that in order to promote peace, security, and cooperation, the DRC must commit to: respecting the international law, democracy, the observation of human rights and humanitarian laws, disarmament, prevention of combating of terrorism, combating of illicit trafficking in small arms, the pursuit of social justice, and the eradication of hunger and poverty. Through these measures, Turkey shall continue to participate and help amend the situations in the DRC in an effort to reach peace and stability.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Uganda
Delegate Name: Dustin Bender
School: Williamston High School

The country of Uganda does not support and is against the current war that is going on in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Congolese government is facing corruption and the rebels are closing in on them. We call for a cease-fire now and to stop this fighting. However we also believe that we shall give the Democratic Republic of Congo their national sovereignty and not invade them or send any troops in to enforce this cease-fire.

In the country of Uganda we are facing many problems. In our own country we are facing rebel fighting rising up, armed fighting between many ethnic groups and other government forces that extend past are borders. Uganda does not have the arm forces or money to put up any stand against this threat to there national security. Uganda is located directly east to the Democratic Republic of Congo, putting immense pressure on the surrounding countries including Uganda. The rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo are quickly broadening their borders and if something is not done about this then it could soon pose a threat to all off central Africa. We however believe that the Democratic Republic of Congo be given the right to work out the situation on their own without outside countries bringing troops within their borders. With time to work out the situation we believe that a resolution may be within reach. This war has gone on ten years and it is time that it should be brought to the front of our attention, the death count has already toped 5.4 million people due as a direct consequence of this situation, and we must keep it from getting any higher.

The situation must be addressed, sooner rather then later. More then 100,000 refugees seek shelter in Uganda and we are not yet stable enough to support all these people coming into our country. We do not have enough manpower or money to close our borders, but something must be done. We call for an immediate cease-fire and an agreement to end this for the betterment of our country and the surrounding countries in Central Africa.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Ukraine
Delegate Name: Chloe Bryan
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Unstable government and constant bombardment from rebel groups has caused the Democratic Republic of the Congo to be in a continuous state of turmoil. The DRC plunged into a series of wars in 1996, beginning with the ousting of Robert Mugutu by Laurent Kabila in 1997, and continuing with Kabila’s assassination and his son Joseph Kabila’s election to the presidency. Throughout these government changes, the people of the Congo have been forced to undergo the widespread violence, famine and devastating health-related effects of transitional war. The UN was successful in ending the Second Congo War with the Lusaka peace accords, and in establishing a UN peacekeeping organization for the region. However, in more recent years, a rebel group led by Laurent Nkunda, known as the CNDP, has been the perpetrator of more violence in the Congo. Nkunda has been accused of utilizing child soldiers in his warfare, as well as many other inhumane tactics. Ethnic violence from Rwanda has also spilled over into its neighbor, particularly in correlation to Hutu extremists’ 1994 genocide against the Tutsis. Community-based militant groups have also played a large role in the overall clash. In recent weeks, violence has begun anew in the Congo, causing new threats to the already displaced and impoverished residents of the country and furthering both ethnic and government tensions.

Ukraine has sent small peacemaking contingents at part of the UN mission to the Congo in the past, and we will continue to take similar action. Unfortunately, Ukraine’s domestic haphazardness, along with the current situation in Georgia, regrettably prevents us from sending a more substantial number of troops or playing a more tangible and direct role in the Congo. However, Ukraine, as always, is more than willing to provide diplomatic assistance to the Congolese government. Ukraine will also support the European Union in any humanitarian or diplomatic efforts it wishes to initiate in the Congo. We will also, as a functional member of the United Nations, fully support and contribute to all endeavors made by the UN to provide humanitarian aid to the suffering regions, which we believe is sorely necessary to ensure lasting peace and sanctuary.

We believe, of course, that the international community as a whole wishes to see an end to this bloody and long conflict. The role of the United Nations is to facilitate cooperation, security, and peace, therefore Ukraine does not see how any nation could oppose a peaceful resolution to the conflict, even if it does not have the means to play a powerful role in the implementation of such a resolution.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Louis Rhoden
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

The grotesque situation in the DRC is disheartening and saddening yet is not a situation that is not fixable. The United Kingdom along with many other nations in the world strongly believes that with the cooperation of member states and the UN the situation in the DRC can be diminished. When the conflict in Rwanda spread and the armed citizens poured over the border without any disarmament the situation began to escalate. The fact the DRC is rich in natural resources also greatly contributes to the problem. The United Kingdom believes that with disarmament and the resolving of the conflict over the natural resources the DRC can return to being a prosperous nation.

As a giving and caring nation, the United Kingdom believes strongly that the development of the Congo and other struggling African countries with have an incredible effect on our world economy. Since 2000 the UK has donated immense sums of money to the DRC. We are currently the second largest bilateral donor to the DRC, donating about £75 million in 2007.

Along with the current donation the UK believes that to eradicate the problem in the Congo we need to provide more peacekeepers and develop a massive disarmament program for those who currently posses weapons. The first priority in this situation is protecting the people. 5.4 million Congolese have died because of this conflict and it has been called the bloodiest war since the Second World War and it is our job to help and save them. To begin the prevention of death we need to get rid of the weapons. We also need to provide the government with substantial aid both monetarily and with people. The government is currently very unstable and laden with corruption and ineffective employees. The UN is obligated to provide aid in the hope that Congo can one day have a self-sustaining government. By establishing a stable government more jobs would be created for the impoverished people in the DRC who currently live on and average of $1 per day.

The DRC’s resources can also be turned into a great mining industry for the country, run by the government; this would create more jobs and bring in money to help the economy. As a committee we need to first find a way to protect the people and stop the killing, and then we need to develop plans to create a government that will eventually be able to support itself.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: United States
Delegate Name: Nick Paauwe
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The United Sates of America has come to understand that the Congo is split into two separate pieces. One the more violence pron. The other a peaceful rebuilding sector. We have also heard that there are a lot of disease related deaths. Now these diseases are not incurable. According to MONUC a peace keeping force sent to observe and identify the country. Found that there were several problems. Some being the ones I previously sated. But also rebel groups that are fighting for power. Once again we must call upon the nations of the region to help bring this government back to its feet and help them eradicate the forces opposing democracy and protect the newly forming government.

The United States agrees with the Russian Federation in some of its stated ideas. The one we like the most is the UN supporting of the democracy there. The United States proposes that we send an army of different groups. Each with its own task. We could send in aid groups to begin attacking the disease related issues. We could also send in a corp of engineers to begin rebuilding cities and towns. On top of that we may even send in UN troops to protect the boarders and other important targets that may be targeted by rebel groups. There are many things that when we as a UN pull together I know will come to many solutions.

We believe that anyone whose nation is for development of corrupt nations into flourishing peaceful ones will be with us in our endeavor to reunite the nation of Congo and its people under one flag. Not two broken rebel stricken ones, but a magnificent unified one. That once established will grow peacefully for years to come.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Venezuela
Delegate Name: Colleen Cronin
School: Traverse City West High School

Rebel groups of Congolese origin should be dealt with in a peaceful manner, not actively destroyed unless for protective purposes of civilian populations during attack. Rebel groups should attempt peace settlements and resolve differences with government. Groups attempting to reform the country are patriotic, not terroristic, they want for the betterment of their people. This ends, though, when these groups attack their own peoples. Rebel groups leaders should seek talks with their countries, whose leaders in turn should grant them safe communication and allowance for these talks.

Concerning Hutu and Tutsi issues, there are several topics Venezuela would like to address. The first being the creation a Tutsi leadership to speak on behalf of all Tutsi's, so the international community would not be forced to rely on the words and actions of small-percentage militant groups. This leadership would be formal and peaceful, and would allow for easier talks and communication between the Rwandan Hutu government, the Tutsi militants, and the rest of the international community. Secondly, France has been given control of the border situation between the Congo and Rwanda in order to allow Tutsi re-migration and control militant crossings from both sides. This control is fundamentally flawed as well as unsuccessful. French troops are not disarming militants as the cross the borders and return after genocide, nor are they allowing for Tutsi return without the Rwandan governments permission. This border needs to be operated under UN control with representation from both countries and a Tutsi leadership seat. We cannot allow for imperialistic control of sovereign lands or an revert to old western-influence in colonized foreign states. Both states have the right of sovereignty which should be kept. Third, Rwandan government should engage in reforms that end discrimination against the Hutu's and all ethnic groups and allow for an equal chance for representation in government. The Rwandan government should also stop all military threat from the Hutu groups against the Tutsi's and allow them to re-migrate back to their homes and regain citizenship. The UN, working alongside a Tutsi leadership, would be responsible for disarming and keeping peaceful the Tutsi people, as long as they are given equal human rights to Hutu's. These three measures would effectively rid the Congo of the Tutsi-Hutu issues as well as Rwandan military disruptions along the northern border, and place the border in the hands of the UN instead of western imperialism.

Refugee camps of Congo should be considered for the highest concern with human rights aid, with 1000 persons a day dying, mostly from easily curable disease, due to this conflict. This is the greatest death toll since WW2. Rebel groups should stay away from these camps with the incentive for peace talks and agreements that would be withheld. Refugees should begin to be resettled and reintegrated where safe by the UN Human Rights Committee. The Congolese government should allow these people the ability to move around and not be trapped within walls. Refugees should not be considered prisoners and should not be forced to remain in camps if from Congo or Rwanda. When possible, refugees from foreign lands should be returned to their respective countries.

Children soldiers should be disbanded from military groups and should be integrated into society with the help of the UN. They should also be the target of humanitarian efforts and effectively reconvened with family, or when not possible, adopted into other families or communities.

Schooling is another important step for the children and adults of Congo. It should be provided universally for the children of Congo as well as for those children in refugee camps. Without an education, children have no future, and adults need job training as well in the camps. This should also be provided once basic humanitarian aide has been supplied, thinking for a long term plan.

The Congo should be able to maintain a government elected by democratic vote that is not in any way controlled by imperial forces, including France, the UN and MONUC. It should be allowed to deal with Rwandan invaders threatening its Tutsi population with deathly measures, due to the refusal or lack of competence of the Rwandan Hutu government for halting the attacks. It should also be responsible for halting militant groups from border crossing, either way. Congolese government should take anti-corruption methods and remain attentive to rebel groups, and attempt peace with them.

Topic: Situation in Congo
Country: Zimbabwe
Delegate Name: Emily Caponi
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The region known as the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been plagued with instability for many years now. The unfavorable conditions that exist there today area result the recently ended, but not all together forgotten, Second Congo War. This war, once referred to as Africa’s Civil War, was in deed the most devastating act of violence since World War Two. Not only were the battles and causalities demoralizing but also the aftermath as the region tries to transition from times of conflict. The Congo has been in a stage of a political and economic decline for decades and is in major need of recovery. In the years following the war the world has seen deteriorating conditions claim the lives of millions and easily fixable problems such as disease wreak havoc when the familiar diseases could cured without much effort. Tens of thousands of people are trying to flee their home in the hopes of escaping the fighting, and attempts to help these misplaced persons have proven very difficult. In these most dire times the Congo desperately needs the help and support of the international community.

Zimbabwe has proven to be a key player in the region throughout it’s worrisome past. Zimbabwe considers itself in every way much like a brother to the Congo in this situation. During the Second Congo War Zimbabwe was inarguably the most ardent supporter in Kabila’s behalf. In 1998 Zimbabwe sent troops to assist Kabila and his cause in the heat of the conflict. Zimbabwe has taken numerous steps in the attempt to resolve the unsettling problem which many countries have taken a back seat to and often advocates the importance of making this issue more predominate in the world. Many times money that has been promised to be used in the humanitarian effort has fallen short of pledged amount, and the economic side of this resolution will surely only speed up the process of insuring stability.

Zimbabwe will find allies in those countries who are willing to give a combined effort to insure the reinstating of a humane environment in the region. Zimbabwe will look to the AU to help resolve this problem and looks to its fellow African states as having the most important input and opinions. More than any others, Zimbabwe expects to receive support from those countries who fought along side it against the rebel groups in The Second Congo War.

Zimbabwe has been party to the Lusaka Peace Agreement and the Goma Peace accords. Zimbabwe was represented at SADC's Extra-Ordinary Summit in which it fully participated. Our delegation is more than willing to take part in the leadership of resolving this issue and voicing its opinions on what is best whenever possible. In all Zimbabwe has partaken in numerous efforts on behalf of the Congo and will continue to do so in the future until peace and stability once again reign throughout the region.