2

Message from the Academics Department

Greetings Delegate,

We are delighted to have you as a part of the 6th session of Notre Dame College Intra
Model United Nations. After extensive research and hours of hard work, we have
handpicked an agenda for your committee session and accordingly prepared this Study
Guide to provide you a brief analysis of the agenda and relevant guidelines for making
your conference a successful one. The agenda at hand for United Nations
Development Programme(UNDP) is:

“Assessing the state of democratic rule in the African region and tracing the
subsequent challenges”

This study guide is designed to provide you a conclusive overview of all the issues
accommodated by the agenda. However, your very own research and understanding of
it is what will make you stand out from other delegates.

Looking forward to the conference, our team wishes you an excellent one full of
heated debates, intense diplomacy and most importantly, reaching solutions based on
consensus.

Heartiest Regards,
Department of Academics
Notre Dame Intra Model United Nations 2024
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Index

Keywords of the agenda -------------------------------------------------------------- 4

Introduction to the committee ------------------------------------------------------- 4
Mandate and scope of discussions --------------------------------------------------- 5
What UNDP can do ------------------------------------------------------------------ 5
What UNDP can’t do ---------------------------------------------------------------- 6
Discussion on the agenda -------------------------------------------------------------- 6
Current scenario of democracy in Africa ------------------------------------------ 7
Case studies of some African countries ------------------------------------------- 8
External influences on African democracy ------------------------------------- 10
Past notable actions regarding the agenda --------------------------------------- 13
Previous UN resolutions regarding the agenda ------------------------------------------------- 14
Further research resources --------------------------------------------------------- 15
Position paper: Sample ---------------------------------------------------------------16
Position Paper Guidelines ----------------------------------------------------------- 17
Draft resolution: Sample -------------------------------------------------------------18
 4

Keywords of the agenda:

Assessing: Evaluating, examining, analyzing, or reviewing the current status or condition.

State: Refers to the condition, situation, or level of democratic rule.

Democratic rule: The form of government in which power is vested in the people and
exercised by them directly or through freely elected representatives.

African region: The geographical area encompassing the continent of Africa and its various
countries and islands.

Introduction to the committee:

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is working as the largest catalyst in
the development agendas around the world and functions in major universal developmental
missions such as eliminating poverty, uplifting sustainable development and bringing
inclusive and holistic growth. It is a leading agency in international development currently
working in 170 countries across the globe. UNDP was primarily two corporate bodies of the
UN, United Nations Extended Programme of Technical Assistance and the United Nations
Special Fund. Then, E/RES/1020(XXXVII) consolidated the corporate bodies, and thus
UNDP was formed on 1st January, 1966. Thus, the management of the United Nations
Extended Programme of Technical Assistance and the United Nations Special Fund was
ratified accordingly through General Assembly sessions. There are three primary focus points
UNDP concentrates on: -

· Sustainable development

· Democratic governance and peace building

· Climate and disaster resilience

As UNDP is the largest developmental programme, it is headed by an administrator who

supervises a 36-member Executive Board representing both developing and developed
countries. Global presence, strategic partnerships, program design, capacity building, human
resources development, monitoring and evaluation etc. are the elements which are combined
as the main operational executions of UNDP to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDG) of the United nations.
 5

Mandate and scope of discussions:

UNDP’s mandate ranges to eliminate poverty, build democratic governance, rule of law and
institutions which promotes inclusiveness and holistic growth. Coordinating all UN
development activities at country level is the one-line summary of UNDP’s function
according to the General Assembly resolution 59/250 and 62/208.

What UNDP can do: -

· Advance sustainable development: UNDP can promote sustainable development by

implementing activities that combats poverty, inequality, and environmental challenges,
enhancing inclusive growth and progressing the global Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs).

· Advocate for eradication of poverty: Through policy influence, strategic partnerships and
promoting inclusive economic opportunities and social equity, UNDP can actively
advocate for poverty eradication.

· Facilitate Capacity Building: By providing technical assistance, training programs and

information sharing initiatives to empower governments, institutions and communities,
UNDP facilitates capacity building.

· Promote Gender Equality and Empower Women: Through empowerment programs and
advocacy efforts, UNDP can create environments that ensure women's rights,
participation, and opportunities and remove discrimination.

· Ensure Environmental Sustainability and address climate change: UNDP tackles climate
change and promotes environmental sustainability through projects that foster resilience,
adaptation, and sustainable resource management.

· Foster Innovation and Technology: UNDP actively fosters innovation and technology,
leveraging these tools to enhance development outcomes.

· Conduct research and data analysis: As part of its consultancy, UNDP focuses on the
proper flow of data, and thus conducts negotiation with concerned authorities.

· Negotiating with local governments: As part of its target to develop peace, negotiating
with local governments not only portrays the organization’s ability to talk, but also
provides a path to feasible solutions.
 6

What UNDP can’t do: -

· Cannot enforce legally binding agreements: Only urges and expresses the scenarios, and
motivates the authorities to adapt or change accordingly.

· Impose sanctions or punitive measures: UNDP, adhering to its mandate, refrains from
imposing sanctions or punitive measures and focuses on development and poverty
alleviation initiatives.

· Promotes commercial ventures: UNDP only provides and collects funds from member
states, donors, and partners, and does not engage in commercial activities themselves.

· Conducting peacekeeping operations: UNDP promotes peace, but it is not in their

mandate to operate peacekeeping missions themselves.

· Make laws or enforce laws: UNDP is not empowered to legislate or enforce laws,
concentrating its efforts on developmental activities.

· Act as a sovereign governing body: UNDP does not function as a sovereign governing
body and does not have the authority to govern or make decisions on behalf of nations.

· Cannot independently allocate financial resources: UNDP cannot independently allocate

financial resources. It operates with funds provided by member states, donors, and
partners, directing resources towards projects and initiatives aligned with its development
goals.

Discussion on the agenda:

African nations were colonized by European powers during the late 19th and early 20th
centuries which left a lasting impact on political, economic, and social structures, often
creating divisions along ethnic and tribal lines. The African territories were under different
colonial rule, and so they lacked constitutional and democratic institutions after
independence. Several African nations faced struggles and challenges to build stable
democracy due to the effects of military coups, one party rule etc.

Though there has been the rise of different democratic organizations, the dominance of the
autocratic regime is still noticeable. ‘Competitive Autocracy’ has become dominant in the
continent. One reason is that many autocratic leaders have survived, successfully limiting any
opposition, and their influence on changing the regime is dominant as noticed in the African
Countries. A common misperception of African politics is that a single leader – a ‘big man’
– orchestrates a hierarchical patronage network of elites who exploit, suppress and extract
from citizens, while not subject to any external constraints. African autocracies have
 7

institutions that restrain the ‘tyrannical’ tendencies of any single ruler, and regulate
competition among regime insiders more so than from external and opposition elements. So,
the leader’s and the elite’s power are depended upon one another, and they negotiate the
distribution of power among themselves. So, the regime in Africa stays immovable as there is
mutual understanding between the regime elites.

Democratic institutions’ role in Africa has become as providing legitimacy to the regime.
Despite decades in which democratic institutions have become prevalent across the continent,
African states continue to be vulnerable to military takeovers and autocratic forms of power.
1990s time had light of democracy as there was a wave of democratization across the
continent. Multiparty systems, influenced by global shifts and a growing demand for political
reforms. Despite progress, in the 21st century Political Instability persisted in some African
countries due to contested elections, disputed results, and irregular transitions of power.

Current scenario of democracy in Africa: -

Many instances of democratic backsliding in some African nations have been noticed.
Concerns about electoral integrity, abuses of human rights, shrinking civic space and attempts
to prolong incumbencies have been reported in countries like Uganda, Zimbabwe, Tanzania,
Burundi. Over the last 5 years, the continent has witnessed a decline in the number of
democratic systems, with 45% of the population now living in hybrid regimes.

According to Hollyer, ‘the collapse of autocratic regimes is often brought about through large
scale mobilization and collective action by elements of the populace’. The democratic
governments are also showing harmony within their nation. This democracy removes the
power within a particular group of people. For instance, between 2017 and 2019, Algeria’s
Abdelaziz Bouteflika, Sudan’s Omar al-Bashir and Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe were ousted
after almost a decade of them being in power. Analysis shows that their removal was the
culmination of ripened factionalism rather than a direct consequence of mass protests and
economic downturns, which took place after the leaders’ attempts to centralize power.

There are at least 5 Regional Cooperation Organizations all of which have democracy
mentioned in their governance framework. For instance, Article 4 of the Constitutive Act of
the African Union consists: respect for democratic principles, human rights, the rule of law
and good governance; condemnation and rejection of unconstitutional changes of
governments. But it’s crucial to note that while these challenges persist, some African
countries have made symbolic progress in strengthening democratic institutions and
processes. The state of the continent’s democracy can be noticed from the picture attached
below: -
 8

Case studies of some African countries: -

● Republic of Chad:

Chad went through significant political instability following the death of President Idriss
Déby in April 2021. Déby, who had been in power for over three decades, was killed during
conflict between government forces and rebel groups in the northern part of the country. His
death brought the end of an era characterized by authoritarian rule and a centralized political
system. After the death of Deby, a military council led by his son, General Mahamat Idriss
Déby, took control of the country. The military council didn’t follow the constitution,
dissolved the government, and promised to oversee a transition to civilian rule. Former Chad
opposition leader appointed as PM of transitional government Masra fled Chad shortly after
dozens of people were killed in October 2022 in a crackdown on protests against the military
rulers, who had just extended by two years an 18-month transition supposed to culminate in
elections and the return of power to a civilian government. Chad faces security challenges,
including threats from rebel groups, terrorist organizations, and intercommunal violence. The
instability in neighboring countries, especially in the Sahel region, has contributed to unsafety
within Chad's borders. Decades of instability since Chad’s independence in 1960 have
 9

hampered development in the central African country, where nearly 40 percent of its 16
million people are dependent on humanitarian aid.

● Republic of Mali:

Mali has experienced major political instability and security challenges in recent years. In
August 2020, President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta was ousted in a military coup following
months of protests for reasons like corruption, governance issues, and insecurity. Since the
coup, Mali has been governed by a transitional government tasked with overseeing a return to
civilian rule. Human rights deteriorated drastically in Mali in 2022 as attacks against civilians
by Islamist armed groups and killings of suspects by pro-government forces during
counterterrorism operations surged. Limited advancements were observed in reinstating
governmental control and providing essential services, including the judiciary. The
humanitarian predicament deteriorated due to worldwide food scarcities, the impacts of
climate change, and, at times during the year, regional economic sanctions resulting from the
political turmoil. The count of internally displaced individuals rose from the previous year,
reaching a total surpassing 422,000.
In June, the transitional government revised the schedule for transitioning back to democratic
governance, condensing the timeline from five years to two, aiming for completion by March
2024. Additionally, a fresh electoral legislation was introduced, permitting members of the
governing junta to contest in forthcoming elections on the condition that they step down or
retire from security positions six months ahead of the voting process. Acts of intimidation,
harassment, and the expulsion of journalists and bloggers instilled a climate of apprehension
and self-restraint, particularly concerning reported misconduct by security forces.

● Republic of Senegal:

Senegal has managed to build a democratic nation with harmony and peaceful cohabitation
amongst the different ethnic groups and religious denominations. Before 2012, Senegal had a
stable political environment, in addition to an advantageous geographical position and
abundant natural resources. Despite this favorable environment, many Senegalese people still
face immense hardship. Ever since President Macky Sall’s entry to the Presidential cabinet in
April, 2012, things started getting controversial. After completing the first tenure, he also got
re-elected in February, 2019. As of 6th February, the election in the country has been
postponed by a whopping ten months. This last-minute amendment will provoke further
opposition backlash and risk a repeat of more violent protests. This was referred to as a
master plan of President Macky Sall’s alleged authoritarian overreach by several human
rights activists. Protesters have described the postponement as a constitutional “coup”.
Additionally major opposition leaders have been controversially jailed or excluded from the
list of eligible candidates to run for the Presidential Elections. Amnesty International has
 10

recently called on Senegalese authorities to “stop arbitrary arrests of opponents and activists,
respect freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression”. Will democracy persist in
the vague scenario of Senegal where the current president might opt for third candidacy of
the upcoming presidential limit breaking the constitutional limit, is a burning question
amongst the Senegalese civilians.

● Republic of Guinea:

Guinea's political agenda has been majorly influenced by recent events, particularly the
military coup that took place in September 2021. Following the overthrow of President Alpha
Condé, the military established a transitional government led by Colonel Mamady
Doumbouya.

In 2024, Guinea's political landscape continues to be characterized by fragility as the country

remains under military rule. Dissatisfaction with the junta's growing authoritarian tendencies
will persist, particularly after the prohibition of political demonstrations. The country's
economic activity will remain below its potential due to ongoing political instability and a
deteriorating global economic outlook. Guinea faces many security challenges, including
threats from armed groups and intercommunal violence. The transitional government has put
efforts on the importance of maintaining security and stability as it works towards the
resaving of a democratic conversation.

Addressing Guinea's socio-economic challenges, which encompass high poverty rates,

unemployment, and insufficient access to essential services like healthcare and education,
stands as a paramount task for the transitional government. Corruption is pervasive in Guinea
and undermines democratic governance, economic development, and public trust in
institutions

External influences on African democracy: -

● United States of America: -

The USA's view on negotiating with Africa has drastically increased. President Joe Biden’s
statement, "when Africa succeeds, the United States succeeds. Quite frankly, the whole world
succeeds as well" is a proof of this. Despite the heterogeneity of the participants, including
key opinion-makers, a firm consensus emerged that the US is strongly pushing an external
process that has come to be known as “Democratization”.
 11

For instance, the Ethiopian insurgents, who were assisted by the US to take Addis Ababa in
1991 after many years of armed struggle, have never kept their promise to permit the smooth
flow of a fair democratic system. Besides, the Biden-Harris Administration’s new ADAPT
initiative invested 75 million dollars in order to counter democratic backsliding and support
durable political transitions. Announced at the 2021 Summit for Democracy, the PIDR (The
Presidential Initiative for Democratic Renewal) is another landmark set of assistance
initiatives totaling more than $400 million that continues to bolster democracy and support
democratic reformers in Africa.

However, the question of credibility arises as Beijing’s growing success in Africa has been of
particular annoyance to Washington. This demonstrates the US’s hunger for global
dominance; quite contradictory to the principles of mutual respect. The US application of
‘Paternalism’ can be said to be a prime reason for the decline of US dominance in Africa and
diplomats should start listening instead of lecturing their African partners.

● People’s republic of China:

China is the African continent’s largest trading partner and source of foreign direct
investment. Its investment has helped spur infrastructure development and economic growth.
Amidst Beijing’s growing popularity in Africa, there has been several pieces of evidence that
China legitimizes and facilitates the current authoritarian political systems in Africa.

For instance, during the 2018 presidential elections in Sierra Leone, China was providing
resources and monetary assistance to the All-People’s Congress (APC), a close ally in the
country. Such one-sided political relations raised questions about the legitimacy of China’s
diplomatic endeavors in Africa. Besides, China’s timing of financial investments aligning
with electoral cycles was proved during the 2021 Zambian presidential elections. Mega
projects like 2 international airports and a hydropower station were completed a few weeks
prior to the election.

Although China has shown a keen interest in deploying economic incentives to achieve
favorable outcomes for pro-China politicians in Africa, China’s role in African infrastructural
growth is undeniably true. However, whatever the case, today’s democratic backslide on the
continent does not serve the African, let alone Chinese interests.

● Russian Federation:

Amidst the constant democratic backslide in Africa, Russia is found in a very contentious
position. There has been evidence that undermining democracy in the continent has been a
strategic objective of Russia. The Kremlin has blocked several UN resolutions condemning
fraudulent electoral claims in Africa. For instance, in October 2019, after Omar al-Bashir, the
 12

former president of Sudan, was ousted in a coup, Russia blocked the call by the UN to
condemn it.

Russia’s influence has been mostly notable in the Central African Republic (CAR), Mali,
Sudan and Zimbabwe, where unsurprisingly Wagner group’s presence has been found too.
Besides, in Egypt, Russia had shown staunch support for General Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who
led a military coup back in 2013. Moscow has also been a strong proponent of Kais Saied,
who caused massive democratic backslide and political violence in Tunisia.

Russia’s well-documented support for instigating the recent military coup in Burkina Faso is
also well-noticeable. Within hours of the coup, the head of the Russian mercenary
organization, Wagner Group, congratulated the new junta ruler. However, the Kremlin denied
any ties with the Wagner Group. Amidst the growing danger of widespread autocracy in
Africa, Russia has been regularly found preaching ideals of neo-colonialism, further
strengthening their ever-desired global political influence.

● French Republic:

France's influence in shaping Africa's democratic landscape transcends mere historical

legacy, deeply impacting governance structures and political dynamics across the continent.
Dating back to the 19th century, France embarked on a relentless campaign of colonial
conquests across Africa, which laid the groundwork for its enduring presence on the
continent.

The post-colonial period witnessed a continuation of French influence, with France often
propping up authoritarian regimes to safeguard its strategic interests in the region. This was
notably evident in its support for long-standing autocratic leaders like Omar Bongo in Gabon
and Paul Biya in Cameroon, despite widespread allegations of human rights abuses and
electoral fraud. The Rwandan genocide of 1994 stands out as a stark example, where France's
support for the Hutu-led government implicated in the massacre of Tutsis raised questions
about its role in African conflicts and its commitment to democratic values.

As African nations strive to navigate the complexities of French influence, they face
formidable challenges in consolidating democratic institutions and fostering genuine
partnerships that serve the interests of their citizens. greater accountability, transparency, and
respect for African sovereignty growing louder. However, overcoming the entrenched power
dynamics and structural inequalities perpetuated by French influence remains a daunting task,
requiring concerted efforts at both the national and international levels.
 13

Past notable actions regarding the agenda: -

Over the past thirty years, the UNDP has been actively involved in facilitating elections
globally, with a particular focus on Africa. Their assistance spans beyond governmental
bodies to include civil society, media, political parties, and parliaments. Utilizing the
"electoral cycle approach," UNDP ensures holistic support throughout all stages of the
electoral process: before, during, and after elections.

The Bata Declaration for the Promotion of Lasting Democracy, Peace, and Development in
Central Africa underlines the collective commitment of Central African nations to set
democratic governance, peace, and sustainable development. It puts efforts on the importance
of fostering democratic institutions, electoral processes, and respect for human rights.
Additionally, the declaration emphasizes the importance of good governance practices and
anti-corruption steps to ensure transparency and accountability.

The African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance, ratified by the African Union
in 2007, champions democratic governance, free and fair elections, and human rights. It
advocates for transparent, inclusive, and accountable governance, condemning
unconstitutional government changes and promoting peaceful power transitions. It
encourages regional collaboration to uphold democratic principles and ensure peace and
stability across the continent. Overall, it represents a collective commitment among African
Union member states to promote democracy, protect human rights, and foster good
governance throughout Africa, contributing to the continent's development and prosperity.

The ‘ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance’ was adopted in 2001 by the
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This protocol promotes
democracy, good governance, and the rule of law in West Africa, including mechanisms for
conflict prevention and resolution.

‘SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections’ was adopted by the
Southern African Development Community (SADC) and signed in the Republic of Namibia
back in 1992. These principles and guidelines provide a detailed framework for conducting
democratic elections in the region, emphasizing transparency, inclusivity, and credibility. If
implemented properly, these principles could create a healthy democratic environment in
Africa.

Adopted in 2003 by African Heads of State and Government, the Cairo Declaration on
African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) established a voluntary mechanism for African
countries to assess their governance performance based on agreed-upon principles and
standards. The mission of the APRM is to promote the African Union’s ideals and shared
values of democratic governance and inclusive development by encouraging all Member
States of the Union to collaborate.
 14

Previous UN resolutions regarding the agenda: -

United Nations Security Council Resolution 1973 (2011): This resolution authorized
military intervention in Libya to protect civilians during the Libyan Civil War and to support
democratic aspirations in the country.

United Nations Security Council Resolution 2100 (2013): This resolution established the
United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) to
support political processes and institutions in Mali and to promote stability and democracy in
the aftermath of the 2012 coup d'état.

United Nations Security Council Resolution 2206 (2015): This resolution emphasized
support for the political transition and reconciliation process in Burundi following the 2015
political crisis and violence.

United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250 (2015): Similar to Resolution 1325, this
resolution focuses on the role of youth in promoting peace and security, which is relevant for
democratic processes in Africa where youth demographics often play a significant role.

United Nations General Assembly Resolution 70/1 (2015): Adopted as part of the 2030
Agenda for Sustainable Development, this resolution emphasizes the importance of
democratic governance, the rule of law, and effective, transparent, and accountable
institutions in achieving sustainable development, including in African countries.

United Nations Security Council Resolution 2301 (2016): This resolution extended the
mandate of MINUSMA in Mali and reiterated support for the Malian peace process and
democratic governance.

United Nations General Assembly Resolution 71/1 (2016): Similar to Resolution 70/1, this
resolution reaffirms the commitment to the principles of democracy, rule of law, and good
governance as essential for sustainable development, with a focus on their implementation in
Africa.

United Nations General Assembly Resolution 72/242 (2018): This resolution supports the
efforts of African countries to consolidate democracy, promote good governance, and
strengthen democratic institutions, recognizing their importance for peace, stability, and
development on the continent.

United Nations General Assembly Resolution 73/228 (2019): Adopted as part of the
International Day of Democracy, this resolution reaffirms the commitment to promoting and
 15

consolidating democracy worldwide, including in Africa, and encourages international

cooperation in this regard.

United Nations General Assembly Resolution 75/1 (2020): Adopted as part of the
commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, this resolution reaffirms the
commitment to democracy, rule of law, and human rights as fundamental principles of the
United Nations, with implications for African countries.

United Nations General Assembly Resolution 76/1 (2021): Similar to Resolution 75/1, this
resolution reaffirms the commitment to the principles of democracy, rule of law, and human
rights as fundamental for the United Nations and its member states, including those in Africa.

Further research resources: -

· What causes regime change in African autocracies? | Africa at LSE The role of democracy
in sustainable development | United Nations Development Programme ([Link])
· Autocracy and Instability in Africa – Africa Center for Strategic Studies
· Regime cycles and political change in African autocracies | The Journal of Modern African
Studies | Cambridge Core
· State of democracy in sub-Saharan Africa ([Link])
· South Africa: finely balanced between autocracy and democracy ([Link])
· Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance | Ghana | U.S. Agency for International
Development The threats to the democratic institutions of Senegal: An autocracy in the
making - L'Afrique des Idées ([Link]) ([Link])
· Senegalese lawmakers vote to postpone presidential election to Dec. 15 | Reuters
· 6 Africa-focused conversations not to miss during UNGA78 | United Nations Development
Programme ([Link])
· 2023 African Economic Conference | United Nations Development Programme ([Link])
· The Role of UNDP in Supporting Democratic Elections in Africa | United Nations
Development Programme
· The role of democracy in sustainable development | United Nations Development
Programme ([Link])
· [Link]
·
[Link]
20signed%20from%20ECOWAS%[Link]
· [Link]
 16

Position paper: Sample

[Committee logo] [Country flag]

Country: The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Committee: United Nations Development Programme

Agenda: Evaluating the steps taken to promote an inclusive and sustainable recovery in
African regions afflicted with war.

The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia recognizes the great significance of setting up
efficient measures to make sure of a sustainable recovery and return to a state of development
in the African regions. The state went through a massive civil war with many conflicts
between the diversity of ethnicities residing in the country. As a result, violence, destruction,
financial struggles, people fleeing out the country, famine and loss of basic facilities of many
people in Ethiopia have been seen. However, Ethiopia is working on getting humanitarian
assistance, rebuilding and reconciling communities that had been affected in the war. Besides,
a Crowdfunding campaign, CRGE Strategy for carbon resilient economy, partnerships with
the UN, African Union, European Union, international NGOs, bilateral assistance
organizations, regional organizations, and local partners have been developed following the
civil war in Ethiopia to strengthen recovery efforts. Ethiopia urges the international
community to support the reconstruction operations in affected areas financially and
technically. Ethiopia is aware that a really sustained recovery depends on the participation of
women and young people. Ethiopia supports youth involvement in community
redevelopment and women's active participation in decision-making processes. Youth
inclusion and gender-responsive strategies are essential for building strong, thriving societies.
Cooperation between the states and ethnic groups and the overall people has to be present for
making the condition where all of the solutions work effectively and reach their full potential.
Ethiopia's civil war recovery calls for a diversified strategy. It is essential to give
peacebuilding, inclusive government, economic recovery, healthcare, and humanitarian relief
first priority. Promoting sustainable development, community-based projects, and youth and
women's participation can help create a complete and well-coordinated recovery strategy.
Ethiopia urges the committee and the countries around the world to become concerned about
the recovery of the war effects in Africa to revive the unlimited potential African countries
possess in a number of sectors such as economy, agriculture, natural resources, man power,
renewable energy. When talking about the recovery from African war consequences, Ethiopia
wants the committee to emphasize conflict prevention, humanitarian relief, peacebuilding,
economic recovery, and governance. Initiatives for gender equality, youth involvement,
 17

sustainable development, and peacemaking are also crucial. Ethiopia places a strong
emphasis on funding vital industries like those that create jobs, healthcare, and education.
Decentralized governance empowers local communities, which is essential for ensuring
resilience and long-term stability. In conclusion, Ethiopia is unwavering in its commitment to
helping African countries heal from war. Regionally specific solutions, global collaboration,
inclusion, and capacity building are essential components of successful recovery projects.
Ethiopia is prepared to work with other UNDP members to advance a more durable, just, and
prosperous Africa.

References: -

1. [Link]

2. [Link]

3. [Link]

4. [Link]

5. [Link]

Position Paper Guidelines:

A position paper serves as a framework for your action plan during the conference, outlining
your country's stance on the agenda and proposing actions for the committee to consider. The
opening paragraph introduces your country and its relevance to the agenda and committee
mandate. The following paragraph discusses recent issues related to the agenda and how your
country is addressing them. Next, suggest topics for committee discussion and potential
collaboration with other countries or bodies. Finally, propose specific action plans for the
committee to agree upon. Careful referencing, using credible sources like UN websites and
government reports, is crucial. Avoid relying on local news agencies, YouTube, or Wikipedia
for references.
Formatting: -
Font: Times New Roman
Font size: 12
Line spacing: 1.0
Alignment: Justified
Page limit: 1.5 (Excluding references)
References: Add them at the end of the position paper. Paste the full URL
Watermark: National emblem can be used as watermark
Plagiarism: Only 15% plagiarism is allowed. If it crosses the limit, position paper will be
nullified
 18

Draft resolution: Sample

Committee: United Nations Development Programme

Agenda: Evaluating the steps taken to promote an inclusive and sustainable recovery in
African regions afflicted with war

Sponsors: Federal Republic of Germany, The Republic of India

Signatories: French Republic, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland,
Republic of Finland, Russian Federation, Democratic Federal Republic of Ethiopia,
Dominion of Canada, Democratic Republic of Congo, Federative Republic of Brazil,
Republic of Chile, State of Qatar, United Arab Emirates, State of Eritrea

Draft resolution 1.0,

To the United Nations Development Programme,

Guided by the Charter of the United Nations,

Bearing in mind about the destabilization of the sustainable development of African Nations
due to conflict,

Recalling the Paris Agreement on 12th December 2015 which provides a durable framework
for the international community to work together to adapt to the impacts of climate change
and calls on countries to strengthen their commitments over time,

Further Recalling the Universal Declaration of Human rights, which serves an integral part in
the sustainable development of African Nations,

Reaffirming its resolution 70/1 of 25th September 2015, entitled “Transforming our world:
the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”, in which it adopted a comprehensive,
far-reaching and people-centered set of universal and transformative Sustainable
Development Goals and targets, its commitment to working tirelessly for the full
implementation of the agenda by 2030,

1) Suggests to execute an initiative of Climate Change Shield in Africa that will:

a) bolster early warning systems at regional and national level, strengthening governance,
and promote risk-informed decisions – in line with the UN initiative “Early Warning Systems
for All” unveiled by UN Secretary-General Guterres at COP 27,
 19

b) develop and implement Climate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance (CDRFI) tools
and mechanisms – such as innovative climate risk insurance products to further protect
vulnerable population,

c) support climate risk data collection, aggregation and analysis to improve relevant
decision-making processes;

2) Recommends UNDP to deepen its engagement with the International Monetary Fund
(IMF), including regional and national development banks as well as with commercial banks,
businesses and ministries of finance to build consensus on how best to finance development
solutions to the agenda;

3) Further recommends UNDP to address root causes of conflict, with risk-informed

development, targeted prevention approaches and mainstreaming conflict sensitivity and
social cohesion throughout the work of UNDP;

4) Suggests UNDP to strengthen and prioritize existing partnerships, including The

Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) and the UN’s Peacebuilding
Architecture;

5) Encourages coherence across UNDP to improve policy and programmatic responses

across regions and strengthen the Crisis Bureau and the broader Global Policy Network
(GPN) to:

a) enable the cross-practice, cross-bureau and multidisciplinary expertise needed to provide

more effective responses to the complex development challenges that conflict-affected
countries face,

b) help the African countries afflicted with conflict to achieve Sustainable Development
Goals and respond to crisis in an integrated and coherent manner;

6) Further suggests UNDP to:

a) support state institutions to take full ownership over the process that should also include
the perspectives of the displaced populations and affected communities,

b) develop targeted programmes to address internal displacement in a comprehensive manner

in partnership with other UN agencies, international financial institutions (IFIs), multilateral
development banks (MDBs), civil society, or the private sector;

7) Recommends African Countries to focus on the sustainable development of the economic

sector of natural resources that are abundant in that country respectively.