Tensions rise in the room from the very start of the day - all are aware of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, which reflects in their delayed exchange. Russia, starts off with an impressive statement “War is Bad”, as if they’re not directly responsible for explosive ordnance impacting Ukraine, who has trouble keeping up with the ludicrous amounts of UXO to clear up. Even more, they push the topic of an agriculture crisis, when countless countries are covered in bombs inhibiting civilians’ livelihoods.
A common thread between the East is the fact that they have not signed the Mine Ban Treaty, all offering various excuses for this inexcusable inaction. Meanwhile, the West remarks itself by productive steps taken towards eliminating the threat of UXOs on their territory, as well as others. Take, for example, Bosnia, who has implemented a law that anyone involved with the creation or distribution of anti-personnel mines would face up to 10 years in prison. Canada, which has been dealing with ERWs for a long time, is an active participant in disarming machinery and arms control, yet they are still looking to do more. Or even Colombia, with the 2nd biggest victim rate, which has been helped since 2006 by Danish, Swiss, and Canadian humanitarian organizations, still hoping to implement better solutions.
Most other western countries have signed multiple treaties and agreements, have taken part in processes and proved able of cooperation, all towards the bettering of the quality of life, while Israel, Syria and Russia’s reticence is obvious. Which raises the question, should those asking for aid, but not having signed the treaty, be offered help? Can they be trusted with the money? Ever benevolent, those on the American continent are willing to lend a hand.
Back in action, the delegates seem pleased with most solutions discussed priorly, agreeing and developing on the specifics of bomb squads, ROVs, tracking UXOs down and education programmes. Palestine, taking on the role of the pacifist, proposes mediating conflict as a prevention method of ERWs. Afghanistan, on the other hand, seems to lean into the role of a madman, stating that sending humans into the field is less dangerous than sending AI, claiming an “AI takeover” were they to use such technology. Seemingly affected by the same loss of touch with reality, Russia feigns ignorance to the war waged with Ukraine.
When Bosnia proposes the discussion of more efficient methods of clearance, Colombia and Vietnam bring newer ones to the table, specifically x-ray and radar. Many pipe up in agreement, but the delegate of Yemen stands their ground and demands an universal solution be found.
Russia feels this an impossible feat, and further spreads their propaganda by suggesting Ukraine is victimizing itself. As most participants are still split between solutions, France agrees with Laos that a consensus must be reached.
After break comes a session of many POIs, with every argument questioned to the last detail. Improvements are slow, but a new suggestion seems to have serious potential – a monthly check-up on the country’s progress in eliminating UXO threats. Continuing from a safety perspective, Colombia is in agreement with Canada and Vietnam’s proposition of using x-rays and radars, which not only protect human lives, but are also more accurate. (However, Iraq claims no delegates show genuine interest in the population’s safety. When questioned about the 1980 invasion of Iran, they assume no responsibility.)
To meet those who do not wish to sign the treaty halfway, Bosnia proposes countries adopt certain aspects dedicated to bettering living conditions, while Vietnam gives up altogether on the Mine Ban Treaty and puts forward a treaty allowing only defensive use of EO. A solution that trumps both options is a new, focused solely on the problem of UXOs, an organization called United Nations Explosive Ordnance Detachment. This, of course, prompts a Q&A with the delegate of the French Republic. Most seem in favor, with the exception of Afghanistan, who cannot join as they are not recognised by the UN.
Our last day at MUNtenia. Resolutions are a-brewing in the room of DISEC. Even at this ungodly hour, Russia is still able to paint itself in a less than unfavourable light - whereas the Western bloc has proven to be flexible and forgiving, the delegate of Russia states they refuse to add any amendments to their resolution, and show no support towards humanitarian corridors. Can they really not think of anyone else? With this introduction, the work towards the long-awaited conclusion begins.