SSN - SNUC INTRA MUN
UNSC BACKGROUND GUIDE
An Agenda for Peace – January 31st 1992
Letter from the Executive Board
Dear Delegates,
It is our pleasure to welcome you to this simulation of the UNSC on 31st January 1992 at the first
SSN SNUC Intra MUN. We are looking forward to meeting you in committee and hoping to have
a fun 2 days of debate and discussion. This background guide is meant to be a starting point and
by no means the end of your research journey for this conference. Please keep in mind a fair
disclaimer for speeches: A delegate’s conceptual clarity is significantly more important than
statistical/factual knowledge, leading to more policy debate as opposed to speeches without
creative redefinition of the topic of discussion. TLDR: Stop using ChatGPT and start using your
brain.
Looking forward to meeting you all in committee.
Good Luck!
Anirudh and Raghav
NOTE:
1. Position Papers will not be required for this committee.
2. Point of Information (POI) chits via EB will not be accepted.
3. All events after the freeze date (31 January 1992) are considered null and void and are
inadmissible in this committee.
4. No directives will be permitted in this committee.
Introduction to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the six main components of the
United Nations (UN), tasked primarily with the responsibility of preserving international
peace and security. Founded in 1945 in accordance with the UN Charter, the Security
Council was intended to act as the executive decision-making body of the UN, enabling it to
respond quickly to emergencies, enforce sanctions, and authorize military interventions
when necessary. Unlike other UN entities, its resolutions hold legal authority over all
member states, granting it a distinct position in international governance. The Council has
been instrumental in managing conflicts, upholding peace agreements, and initiating
peacekeeping operations worldwide. Nevertheless, it has encountered criticism regarding
its structure, specifically the veto power held by the five permanent members, which has
resulted in stalemates during significant global crises.
The Security Council is composed of fifteen members: five permanent members (P5)—
China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—and ten non-permanent
members, elected for two-year terms by the General Assembly based on regional
representation. The P5 members possess veto power, enabling any one of them to obstruct a
substantive resolution, regardless of the support from the majority. The presidency of the
Security Council changes monthly among its members, impacting the agenda and the
decision-making process. Decisions made by the Council are implemented by UN
peacekeeping forces, which member states voluntarily contribute and are financed
separately from the main UN budget. This positions the UNSC as the most influential entity
within the UN structure, capable of molding global security strategies through both
diplomatic and military actions.
Mandate and Powers of the UNSC
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) holds the primary responsibility for the
maintenance of international peace and security as designated in Article 24(1) of the UN Charter.
This role involves a variety of actions designed to prevent conflicts, settle disputes, and maintain
global stability. The UN Charter outlines a framework of mechanisms that empower the Security
Council to effectively fulfill this responsibility, ensuring that conflicts are addressed through
diplomatic channels before resorting to coercive actions becomes necessary.
At the heart of the UNSC's mission is the encouragement of conflicting parties to settle their
disputes through peaceful means, as specified in Article 33. These methods encompass direct
negotiations, fact-finding missions, mediation, conciliation, and arbitration, emphasizing the
priority of dialogue and diplomacy over conflict. The Charter also permits disputing parties to
seek judicial resolution or assistance from regional organizations, further supporting a
multilateral conflict resolution approach.
Beyond promoting negotiations, the Security Council possesses the authority to investigate
disputes or situations with the potential to generate international tension or escalate into
conflicts under Article 34. This allows the Council to engage in early intervention and preventive
diplomacy, addressing threats before they escalate into crises. Once a dispute is detected, the
Council is able to propose appropriate methods and strategies for its resolution, as outlined in
Article 36.
Additionally, according to Article 37, the Security Council can suggest terms for resolving
disputes, ensuring that these terms are just and aligned with the goal of promoting long-term
peace. The Council also has the capability to offer guidance and recommendations to conflicting
parties as stated in Article 38, fostering resolutions grounded in collaboration and compromise
rather than coercion.
The Security Council plays a crucial role in identifying and tackling dangers to international
peace and security. According to Article 39, the Council assesses whether a situation poses a
threat to peace, constitutes a breach of peace, or represents an act of aggression, and
subsequently suggests measures to avert further escalation. This provision enables the Security
Council to swiftly respond to emerging crises and take actions that help maintain or restore
global stability.
If diplomatic initiatives fail, the Security Council possesses the authority to take coercive
actions under Article 41, imposing non-military sanctions to enforce its resolutions. These
sanctions may include economic restrictions, travel bans, diplomatic limitations, and trade
embargoes, all of which serve as effective tools to sway state behavior. If non-military
strategies do not achieve peace, the Security Council can authorize military force under
Article 42. Military actions may involve air, sea, or land operations, and can be executed
through UN-led initiatives or coalitions of member states.
To ensure the effective management of military operations, the Security Council engages
in discussions with UN member states under Article 43 to secure military forces, logistical
support, and essential facilities for peacekeeping and security efforts. Additionally, Article
46 requires the development of strategic military plans, devised in consultation with the
Military Staff Committee, to ensure well-coordinated military interventions.
The Security Council also promotes the peaceful settlement of regional disputes by
collaborating with regional organizations, agreements, and agencies as outlined in Article
52. By utilizing regional mechanisms, the Security Council ensures that conflicts are
managed in ways that are culturally and politically relevant. This approach reduces the
need for wider international intervention and enhances the efficacy of conflict resolution
initiatives.
The Security Council’s responsibilities cover a wide array of areas, including preventive
diplomacy, conflict resolution, sanctions enforcement, and military actions. Although its
powers are substantial, the success of the Security Council relies on the cooperation of its
member states, the political commitment of the international community, and the capacity
to effectively execute its resolutions. Nonetheless, the Security Council continues to be the
foundation of the global framework for peace and security, entrusted with the significant
task of preventing conflicts, resolving disagreements, and maintaining international
stability.
Rules of Procedure
Although we will be explaining the RoP in detail before the commencement
of the committee, please do go through this to understand the basics of the
RoP.
MOTIONS:
ESTABLISHING A GSL
Delegate of would like to raise a motion to establish the general speakers’
list with an individual speaker’s time of _____
MODERATED CAUCUSES
Delegate of _______ would like to raise a motion to suspend formal
debate and move into a moderated caucus on the topic _______ for a
total time period of _______ minutes with individual speaker’s time being
_______.
UNMODERATED CAUCUSES
Delegate of ________ would like to raise a motion to suspend formal
debate and move into an unmoderated caucus for a total time period of
_______ minutes.
EXTENSION TO INFORMAL DEBATE
Delegate of _______ would like to raise a motion to extend the
current moderated / unmoderated caucus by ______ minutes.
POINTS:
POINT OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE
Personal inconvenience e.g., inaudibility of some part of the speech of
another Delegate CAN interrupt an active speaker
POINT OF ORDER
Used to point out inaccuracies in procedure and if allowed, even on factual
inaccuracies within the speeches of other delegates CANNOT interrupt an
active speaker
POINT OF PARLIAMENTARY INQUIRY
Used to clarify doubts on the rules of procedure CANNOT interrupt a
speaker
POINT OF INFORMATION
Used to ask questions to other delegates on their speeches CANNOT
interrupt an active speaker
YIELDS:
YIELD TO POINTS OF INFORMATION
Yielding the remaining time to other delegates so that they can question
you on the speech you made.
YIELD TO ANOTHER DELEGATE
Yielding remaining time to some specific delegate to let her/him make
her/his speech. Prior consent to the yield by the other delegate is
necessary.
YIELD TO THE EXECUTIVE BOARD
Yielding the remaining time to the EB. Such yielded time is deemed elapsed
by the EB but not always. Such time usage is up to the discretion of the EB.
Introduction to the Agenda
The Cold War has ended, bringing significant shifts in global power dynamics. While ideological
conflicts between the United States and the Soviet Union have subsided, new challenges have
emerged. The dissolution of the USSR has led to instability in Eastern Europe and Central Asia,
while ethnic and regional conflicts are escalating worldwide. The United Nations Security
Council (UNSC) convenes today, January 31, 1992, with the goal of drafting a framework for
international peace and security in this rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. The primary
objective of this session is to propose mechanisms that can enhance the UN’s ability to prevent
conflicts, mediate disputes, and ensure sustainable peace.
World leaders recognize that the absence of global-scale war does not equate to peace. Civil
wars, ethnic strife, and territorial disputes persist, necessitating stronger international
mechanisms to prevent escalation. The UNSC must explore diplomatic, economic, and, if
necessary, military strategies to manage crises. This session represents a crucial moment in
defining the future role of the UN in maintaining global stability.
Hostile Situations Around the World
As of early 1992, several regions remain volatile, requiring urgent international attention. In
Yugoslavia, the ongoing wars in Croatia and Bosnia signal the fragmentation of the former
federation. Ethnic tensions and nationalist movements threaten to destabilize the Balkans
further. In Somalia, state collapse has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, with warlords
controlling different regions and civilians suffering from famine and violence. The UN’s limited
peacekeeping efforts in the region highlight the need for a more structured and effective
approach to conflict resolution.
In the Middle East, Iraq remains under heavy sanctions following the Gulf War. The country’s
leadership challenges UN-imposed restrictions, raising concerns over regional stability.
Tensions between Israel and Palestine continue, with sporadic violence and failed diplomatic
efforts exacerbating the situation. Afghanistan, ravaged by the Soviet-Afghan War, is now under
the control of warring factions, creating further instability in Central Asia.
Across Africa, civil conflicts in Liberia and Sudan persist, while South Africa transitions from
apartheid to democracy amid political uncertainty. Meanwhile, in Latin America, guerrilla
insurgencies in Colombia and Peru continue despite efforts to integrate rebel groups into the
political framework. The world is at a crossroads, requiring decisive action from the UNSC to
prevent these crises from escalating into larger humanitarian disasters.
The Necessity for an Agenda for Peace
The challenges of 1992 demonstrate that existing UN mechanisms are insufficient to manage
post-Cold War conflicts. Many peacekeeping operations struggle due to unclear mandates,
insufficient funding, and lack of military coordination. The UNSC must define a new approach
that strengthens diplomatic efforts, improves early warning systems, and enables rapid
deployment of peacekeeping forces when necessary.
Diplomatic mediation remains the first line of defence in preventing conflicts. Strengthening
UN-led negotiations and regional cooperation is critical. However, recent events have shown
that diplomacy alone is often inadequate. The UNSC must address questions regarding peace
enforcement—whether it has the authority to intervene in domestic conflicts and what level of
force should be permissible to maintain peace.
Economic sanctions, often used as a means of coercion, must be reassessed. While they can
pressure governments into compliance, they also risk harming civilian populations. The UNSC
must refine its approach to sanctions, ensuring they target leadership rather than the general
public. Additionally, humanitarian intervention must be prioritized, with clear guidelines on
when and how the international community
should respond to mass atrocities.
Feasibility and Execution of an Agenda for Peace
For this agenda to be effective, structural changes within the UN must be considered. The
Security Council must improve coordination between peacekeeping forces and member states. A
dedicated rapid-response unit could enhance the UN’s ability to deploy forces efficiently in crisis
situations. Additionally, financial and logistical support mechanisms must be established to
sustain long-term peacekeeping missions.
The role of regional organizations should be expanded. Entities like the African Union, the
Organization of American States, and the European Union possess a deeper understanding of
local conflicts and can act as intermediaries before the UN steps in. Strengthening collaboration
between these organizations and the UN will improve early conflict detection and resolution.
Political consensus remains a challenge. The veto power held by the five permanent members
often leads to deadlocks in decision-making. While major reforms may be unrealistic, increased
transparency and cooperation between member states could improve the efficiency of the UNSC.
The council must also establish clear criteria for military intervention, ensuring actions are
justified and supported by the international community.
Potential Achievements of an Agenda for Peace
If implemented effectively, this agenda could redefine international conflict resolution. A
structured peacekeeping framework would enable faster and more efficient responses to
global crises, reducing the likelihood of prolonged conflicts. By prioritizing diplomacy, regional
cooperation, and strategic intervention, the UN can enhance its role as a global peacekeeper.
The agenda’s success would also set a precedent for future international interventions. A clear,
enforceable policy on peacekeeping operations would provide legitimacy to UN actions and
encourage member states to contribute resources. Furthermore, refining the use of economic
sanctions could lead to more targeted and ethical enforcement measures, ensuring compliance
without unnecessary civilian suffering.
In the long term, the establishment of a reliable global peace framework would promote
stability, economic development, and humanitarian protection. By addressing the
shortcomings of current peacekeeping efforts and proposing concrete solutions, the UNSC has
the opportunity to shape the future of global security.
As the Security Council convenes to draft this agenda, it must recognize that its decisions will
define international conflict resolution for years to come. The world is watching, and the
responsibility of securing peace rests in the hands of those who choose to act today.
LOCs (Lines of Communication):
The Executive Board members will accept documentation from delegates only when the LOC is
open. We will approve the documents and decide whether it should be passed depending on its
substance, quality and specificity. The floor for LOCs will not be opened throughout, further
will be explained in the 1st committee session. Lines of communication, simply put, is the
channel for communication between the delegate and their country to suggest and co-ordinate
key actions. Back in 1992, communicating to a government halfway across the world was
painstakingly slow and complicated. In this simulation, lines of communication can be used by
delegates to send MOUs (suggestions of deals) and/or send portfolio requests to their
government for review and execution. Lines of communications during committee will only be
open during specific intervals at the discretion of the EB and these intervals will be
communicated during committee. The EB will serve as the governments of the countries,
evaluate these MOUs on logic, foreign policy, logistical realism, and will have complete
discretion over whether or not to pass it.
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is a non-binding deal/agreement between two or
more nations to outline collaborative intentions or cooperation regarding a certain situation
or to further their mutual ties. It is not an official directive of action but serves as a diplomatic
tool to establish consensus.
Format:-
Type of MoU: Covert/Overt
(Covert MoU: Like the name suggests, a covert MoU is secretive in nature. The purpose of a
covert MoU is for a deal to take place in the fog of war. Some examples for this could be secret
arms deals, intelligence collaboration, and so on.
Overt MoU: This is the type of MoU where the fog of war is irrelevant and the deals are open
knowledge to the entire world)
Country A:
Country B:
Via the EB
The above-mentioned parties after deliberation have come to the following consensus:
1.
2.
3.
Portfolio Request:
Before writing an MoU or once an MoU has been sent, if a delegate needs specific confidential
information from their country based on their previous MoUs, to help decide further course
of action, they can send in a portfolio request referencing the confidential/specific
information required. The same can also be used to get information about a delegate’s
country’s own ministries, resources, personnel and/or military capabilities.
Policies of the EB for this UNSC:
1. All MoUs will be marked equally irrespective of the type of MoU (covert or overt).
2. All MoUs are to be submitted in writing only.
3. We will not tolerate the use of AI in MoUs or in the final document.
4. We do not encourage the usage of internet during committee sessions.
5. The decisions of the EB members are final and binding
Policies of the EB for this UNSC:
1. All MoUs will be marked equally irrespective of the type of MoU (covert or overt).
2. All MoUs are to be submitted in writing only.
3. We will not tolerate the use of AI in MoUs or in the final document.
4. We do not encourage the usage of internet during committee sessions.
5. The decisions of the EB members are final and binding