POSITION PAPER
Position Paper – Delegation of the Republic of
Zambia
Committee: United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
Topic: Civilian Protection: Rethinking UN Peacekeeping Mandates in Today’s
Conflict Zones
SDG Alignment: SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Conflicts in today’s world are more complex and unpredictable than ever,
placing millions of civilians in extreme danger across regions such as the
Sahel, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Civilians
often find themselves trapped between government forces and armed
groups, enduring violence, hunger, displacement, and the collapse of essential
services like healthcare and education.
The environment in conflict zones suffers deeply. Forests are destroyed,
water sources polluted, and farmlands are abandoned, leading to severe
food shortages and environmental degradation. This destruction creates a
destructive cycle where poverty and insecurity fuel further conflict.
When civilians migrate, both the origin country and the host country suffer. The
origin country loses skilled workers, students and labor, who play a key role in
shaping the economy. On the other hand, the host country faces extreme
demands for water and electricity, and this migration also contributes to
overpopulation.
Within Zambia, refugee realities illustrate this challenge. For example, the
settlement near Solwezi — Meheba Refugee Settlement — hosts approximately
45,973 people, according to recent data. These large numbers emphasize the
burden on local infrastructures and the need for comprehensive support for
displaced communities and host districts.
Modern conflicts require modern solutions. According to the UN, nearly 90% of
conflict-based deaths are civilians.
The Republic of Zambia has a long and proud history of contributing troops to
peacekeeping missions, including United Nations‐African Union Mission in
Darfur (UNAMID), United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in
POSITION PAPER
the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) and United Nations
Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). Zambia strongly supports UN Security
Council Resolutions 1265 (1999) and 1894 (2009), which emphasize the
protection of civilians and the effectiveness of peace operations.
Zambia also recognizes that youth are essential in prevention of conflicts. With
over 60% of Africa being under 25. Youth is key in preventing conflicts. Zambia
believes in empowering youth through peace education, early-warning
systems, and community leadership programmes. Engaging young people in
decision-making builds trust, reduces violence, and promotes sustainable peace.
To achieve this, Zambia calls for clearer mandates, better training, and latest
technology to be presented to peacekeepers, so they can respond quicker, more
effectively, and reduce the amounts of conflicts in the future.
Zambia further urges UNSC permanent members to exercise responsibility in
using veto power, especially in urgent humanitarian crises where quick action
can save millions of lives. In addition, Zambia supports stronger partnerships
between the UN, the African Union (AU) and the Southern African Development
Community (SADC), ensuring that peace efforts are inclusive, regionally led,
and sustainable.
Finally, Zambia emphasizes expanding youth-led initiatives in conflict zones,
training young people as mediators, peace educators, and community protectors.
By empowering youth, reforming mandates, and strengthening global and
regional cooperation, the UN can ensure civilian protection, fulfil SDG 16, and let
youth lead the path to lasting peace and sustainable development.