Future We Want Model United Nations

About This Guide

This guide introduces the Disarmament and International Security Committee (DISEC) of the Future We Want Model United Nations (FWWMUN) conference. It contains essential information to assist delegates with research on their assigned country and the topics under consideration.

Position Paper Guidelines

  • Each committee topic must be addressed in a succinct policy statement called a Position Paper.

  • Position Papers must be a maximum of 750 words (5,000 characters) per topic, formatted in Arial, 10 pt. font.

  • Include the conference name, country, and committee assignment.

  • Clearly label agenda topics in separate sections.

  • Do not include national symbols (headers, flags, etc.).

  • Only one delegate typically represents a country in a committee, with a maximum of two.

  • Citations are not required; however, direct quotes should be acknowledged with quotation marks.

Structure of a Position Paper

  1. Introduction: Discuss the importance of the topic and the challenges in finding solutions.

  2. General History: Outline major events shaping the country’s current policy on the topic.

  3. Country’s Position: Explain your country’s stance on the topic, mentioning any relevant resolutions.

  4. Proposed Actions: Include suggestions for reaching a compromise where applicable.

  5. Plagiarism Policy: All writing must be original; copying from the guide or other sources is prohibited. Violations may result in dismissal from the conference.

Important Links

  • Submission link for position papers.

  • Additional research material can be accessed on the FWWMUN website.

  • Check submission deadlines in the email received approximately one month prior to the conference.

Letter from the Chairs

Dear Delegates,

Welcome to the DISEC Committee of the FWWMUN. We anticipate rigorous debate and effective compromise as you address pressing global issues. The topics for discussion include:

  • Countering the Threat Posed by Improvised Explosive Devices

  • Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons

We encourage you to use this background guide and conduct further research.

Best Regards,
FWWMUN DISEC Chairs

Introduction to the Committee

DISEC is the first committee of the United Nations General Assembly, focusing on disarmament and international security issues. It aims to address global challenges affecting peace and security, working closely with the United Nations Disarmament Commission and the Geneva-based Conference on Disarmament. DISEC's scope includes:

  • General principles of cooperation in maintaining international peace and security.

  • Regulatory measures for disarmament and armaments.

  • Collaboration for stability through reduced armaments.

Topics Before the Committee

Topic A: Countering the Threat Posed by Improvised Explosive Devices

Topic B: Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons

Topic A: Countering the Threat Posed by Improvised Explosive Devices

I. Introduction and Definitions

IEDs are improvised devices constructed with explosive materials designed to destroy or cause harm. Used in asymmetric warfare by insurgents, their indiscriminate nature raises significant threats to civilian populations and security.

Definitions

  • Improvised Explosive Device (IED): An explosive device made from available materials, often used in terror attacks.

  • Asymmetric Warfare: Conflicts involving unequal military resources, often where non-state actors utilize unconventional tactics.

  • International Humanitarian Law: Guidelines governing armed conflict and protecting those not participating.

II. Timeline of Events

Since World War I, IEDs have been used in military conflicts. Their usage surged post-2001 in conflicts such as in Afghanistan and Iraq, where they became the primary method of attacking military forces, notably NATO troops.

III. Discussion of the Topic

IEDs have severe humanitarian impacts, resulting in numerous casualties and hindering socio-economic development. A comprehensive international response is vital for addressing the threats posed by IEDs, particularly following the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development that includes reducing violence and promoting safety in communities.

UN Efforts

The UN has addressed these threats through various resolutions and the establishment of programs aimed at preventing and managing IED threats, including calls for international cooperation and regulatory measures.

IV. Bloc Positions

National positions typically align with historical involvement in conflicts where IEDs have posed significant threats. Countries involved in counter-terrorism efforts or as part of international military coalitions often seek advancements in technology and cooperative agreements to counteract these threats.

V. Conclusions

Addressing the threat posed by IEDs requires collaborative international approaches underpinned by shared strategies and commitment to peace and stability.

VI. Questions a Resolution Should Address

  1. Strategies for addressing different stages of IED production.

  2. Roles of various actors in cooperative solutions.

  3. International measures to mitigate IED threats.

Topic B: Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons

I. Introduction

2022 marked the 50th anniversary of the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT I). Despite various treaties and frameworks, recent geopolitical actions warrant reevaluation of nuclear treaties.

II. Timeline of Events

Nuclear weapons have been a global concern since their inception, impacting international relations and national security. The SALT treaties aimed to limit the arsenals of superpowers.

The Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)

Initiated in 1968, the NPT seeks to prevent the spread and promote disarmament while facilitating peaceful nuclear energy use.

  • Pillars of NPT: Non-proliferation, disarmament, peaceful use of nuclear energy.

III. New Nuclear Powers

India and Pakistan

Both countries possess nuclear weapons and have a history of conflict, raising global concerns about regional stability and security.

Israel and North Korea

Israel continues its nuclear development in secrecy, while North Korea has been openly hostile, testing nuclear weapons despite international sanctions.

IV. Discussion of the Topic

Current global tensions and defense spending underscore the fragility of international peace, highlighting the need for effective deterrence and disarmament frameworks.

V. Overview of International Actions

A chronological overview of significant treaties and actions in the sphere of nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament demonstrates the ongoing challenges faced by the international community.

VII. Questions a Resolution Should Address

  1. Examining the impact of the prohibition treaty nine months post-adoption.

  2. Strategies to further reduce the global nuclear arsenal.

  3. Mitigating military spending linked to distrust in international frameworks.