UNGA

Disarmament and International Security

Global
Maritime
Security
 LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE BOARD

Dear Prospective Members,

At the outset on behalf of the Executive Board, we extend a warm welcome to all of you and
congratulate you on being a part of the United Nations General Assembly Committee
simulation at Mayoor MUN 2024.

We believe that ‘study guides’ are detrimental to the individual growth of the members since
they overlook a very important aspect of this activity, which is - Research. We are sure
however that this background guide gives you a perfect launching pad to start with your
research.
The Background guide would be as abstract as possible, and would just give you a basic
perspective on what the executive board believes you should know before you commence
your research.
This being clear, kindly do not limit your research to the areas highlighted, further but ensure
that you logically deduce and push your research to areas associated with the issues
mentioned.
We are not looking for existing solutions, or strategies that would be a copy paste of what
countries you are representing have already stated; instead we seek an out of the box
solution from you, while knowing and understanding your impending practical and ideological
limitations.

The onus is on you, members, to formulate a resolution which gives a fair attempt and
frames practical solutions by pushing humanity towards the brim of war. Concluding, the
Executive board would encourage all the member states to be a cause of ‘Construction” and
deliberately remove all the ‘Destructions’ for the development, betterment and welfare of
the society and the globe.

Wishing you all a very warm good luck and hoping to see you all at this conference discussing
imperative issues of international interest and we look forward to meeting you all at Mayoor
MUN 2024.

Nikita Bablani Dikshant Malik Abhyuday Saksena

Vice Chair - UNGA Chair - UNGA Rapporteur - UNGA
Nikitabablani1311@[Link] malikdikshant@[Link] abhyuday.saksena06@[Link]
 ABOUT THE COMMITTEE

Introduction
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is one of the six main organs of the
United Nations (UN). It serves as a forum for member states to discuss and coordinate
on international issues, including disarmament and international security.

The Disarmament and International Security Committee (DISEC), also known as the
First Committee, is one of the six main committees of the UNGA. It focuses on
addressing disarmament, global security
challenges, and the maintenance of international peace and security.

Mandate
The primary mandate of UNGA DISEC is to promote disarmament and arms control
measures, address global security challenges, and make recommendations to the
General Assembly on issues related to disarmament and international security. It
operates under the purview of the UNGA and functions as a deliberative body, allowing
member states to
discuss and negotiate on various disarmament and security-related topics.

Structure
The UNGA DISEC is composed of all 193 member states of the United Nations. Each
member state has the right to participate and engage in discussions and negotiations.
The committee operates on the principle of equal sovereignty, meaning that every
member state has an equal voice and voting power.

Functions
1. Policy Formulation:
DISEC convenes to deliberate on maritime security issues, utilizing reports from
authoritative bodies like the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
 It formulates policies and strategies based on authoritative documents such as the
United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Policies encompass measures to combat piracy, smuggling, and environmental
threats, ensuring adherence to international maritime law.

2. Norm Development:
DISEC works towards the development of international norms and regulations
governing maritime activities, in alignment with UNCLOS.
It collaborates with authoritative bodies like the International Maritime Bureau
(IMB) to draft guidelines for maritime law enforcement and security.
Norms also cover navigation rights, environmental conservation, and the
prevention of conflicts at sea, adhering to authoritative legal frameworks.

3. Capacity Building:
The committee facilitates capacity-building efforts among member states,
drawing on expertise from authoritative organizations like the UN Office on Drugs
and Crime (UNODC).
This involves providing technical assistance, training programs, and resources
based on authoritative guidelines such as the International Ship and Port Facility
Security (ISPS) Code.
Capacity-building initiatives aim to improve maritime governance structures and
promote compliance with authoritative international maritime regulations.

4. Conflict Prevention and Resolution:

DISEC addresses underlying issues contributing to maritime insecurity, referencing
authoritative reports on conflicts and tensions in maritime regions.
It seeks to prevent conflicts through authoritative diplomatic initiatives and
confidence-building measures, drawing on precedents set by successful conflict
resolution efforts.
The committee mediates disputes, referencing authoritative legal frameworks like
UNCLOS, fostering dialogue and cooperation among states to resolve maritime
conflicts peacefully.
5. International Cooperation:
DISEC promotes international cooperation and collaboration among member
states, citing authoritative mandates from the UN Charter.
It facilitates information sharing, joint patrols, and coordinated operations based
on authoritative agreements and resolutions.
The committee establishes mechanisms for maritime domain awareness and
intelligence sharing, leveraging authoritative expertise to address common
maritime challenges effectively.

Past Achievements
[Link] of Resolutions:
DISEC has adopted resolutions addressing specific maritime security challenges,
referencing authoritative documents like UNCLOS.
Resolutions have tackled issues such as piracy, illegal fishing, smuggling, and the
trafficking of drugs and weapons at sea, aligning with authoritative mandates from
the UN General Assembly.

2. Multilateral Agreements:
The committee has facilitated the negotiation and adoption of multilateral
agreements and conventions related to maritime security, citing authoritative
frameworks like UNCLOS and the IMO's conventions.
Notable agreements include UNCLOS itself and the ISPS Code, which have set
authoritative standards for maritime security and governance.

3. Capacity-Building Initiatives:
DISEC has supported capacity-building initiatives in regions vulnerable to maritime
insecurity, citing authoritative reports and recommendations from organizations
like UNODC and IMO.
Training programs, technical assistance, and resources have been provided based
on authoritative guidelines, enhancing states' maritime law enforcement
capabilities and infrastructure.
4. Conflict Resolution Efforts:
The committee has successfully mediated maritime disputes, referencing
authoritative legal frameworks and precedents.
By addressing underlying grievances and promoting dialogue, DISEC has
contributed to the prevention and resolution of maritime conflicts, adhering to
authoritative mandates from the UN Charter and UNCLOS.

5. International Collaboration:
DISEC has fostered international collaboration among states and organizations,
citing authoritative mandates from the UN General Assembly and Security Council.
Cooperation mechanisms established by the committee have enhanced maritime
domain awareness and facilitated coordinated responses to security challenges,
drawing on authoritative expertise from relevant organizations like the IMO and
UNODC.

In conclusion, UNGA DISEC is an essential forum within the United Nations for
addressing
disarmament, arms control, and global security challenges. It provides member states
with a platform to discuss and negotiate on various issues related to peace and
security, with the goal of promoting a safer and more peaceful world.
 Introduction: Global Maritime Security

In recent years, maritime piracy has emerged as a significant challenge for the
international community. There are currently four major global piracy hotspots: the Gulf of
Aden near Somalia, the Gulf of Guinea in Nigeria and the Niger River delta, the Malacca
Strait between Indonesia and Malaysia, and the waters between India and Sri Lanka.
Piracy emanating from Somalia is particularly problematic, recognized as "by far the
greatest global piracy threat." A dramatic incident in April 2008 drew international
attention when Somali pirates captured the French yacht, Le Ponant. After a ransom was
paid and the hostages were freed, French commandos attacked the pirates, capturing six
who were later sentenced by a French court. This episode highlighted the severity of
Somali piracy and prompted the international community to intensify anti-piracy efforts.

Despite these efforts, piracy remains a persistent problem. In April 2009, the Maersk
Alabama, a U.S. cargo ship, was hijacked by Somali pirates. The incident ended with a
dramatic rescue by U.S. Navy SEALs, which captured global headlines. The Maersk
Alabama incident demonstrated both the danger posed by modern pirates and the
effectiveness of international military response.

In November 2010, the Samho Dream, a South Korean supertanker carrying crude oil from
Iraq to the United States, was hijacked 600 miles off the coast of Somalia. This was the
largest vessel taken by pirates to date. The ship and its crew of 24 were held hostage for
217 days before being released after a ransom of $9 million was paid. This prolonged
ordeal highlightedthe significant financial and human costs associated with modern
piracy.

The situation further escalated in February 2011, when pirates off the coast of Oman
hijacked the yacht Quest, carrying four Americans. Tragically, all the hostages were killed
just before a rescue attempt by U.S. Special Forces. During the altercation, two pirates
were killed, and fifteen were detained. This incident underscored the increasing boldness
and brutality of pirate attacks, as well as the high stakes involved in rescue operations.
The growing frequency and audacity of these attacks illustrate the escalating capabilities
of modern pirates. The international community must therefore intensify its efforts to
combat piracy, not only by enhancing security measures but also by addressing the root
causes, particularly in failed states like Somalia where governance and economic
opportunities are lacking.

Historically, customary international law has long applied to piracy, with pirates
considered enemies of all states and subject to the jurisdiction of any state under this
system of unwritten law. This customary law was codified in the 1982 United Nations
Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). According to Article 101 of UNCLOS,
piracy consists of the following acts:
1. Any illegal acts of violence or detention, or any act of depredation, committed for
private ends by the crew or passengers of a private ship or private aircraft, directed:
• On the high seas, against another ship or aircraft, or against persons or property on
board such ship or aircraft;
• Against a ship, aircraft, persons, or property in a place outside the jurisdiction of any
state;
2. Any act of voluntary participation in the operation of a ship or aircraft with knowledge
of facts making it a pirate ship or aircraft;
3. Any act of inciting or intentionally facilitating an act described in subparagraph (1) or
(2).

This comprehensive definition provides a legal framework for the international

community to address piracy. However, given the recent surge in piracy, especially off
the coast of Somalia, it is evident that more robust measures are necessary to secure
the world's oceans. Effective international collaboration, increased patrolling of piracy-
prone areas, and initiatives to stabilize and develop governance in failed states like
Somalia are critical components in the fight against maritime piracy.

In conclusion, while significant strides have been made in combating piracy, the
international community must enhance its efforts. By strengthening maritime security
measures and addressing the underlying causes of piracy, we can strive towards a safer
and more secure global maritime environment. The time to act decisively is now, and it
is imperative that the international community remains vigilant and proactive in this
endeavor.
 History of the Issue
Maritime piracy has been a persistent problem for over two millennia. In ancient Greece,
individuals labeled as "sea robbers" were significant threats to trading routes. The
Vikings, whose name means "Scandinavian sea-raiders," were notorious for attacking
coastal settlements and shipping vessels during the early medieval period. The peak of
global piracy, known as the Golden Age of Piracy, spanned from 1620 to 1720. This era
saw infamous pirates like Jack Rackham, also known as Calico Jack, who is credited with
creating and flying the iconic black and white "jolly roger" pirate flag. Perhaps the most
notorious pirate of this time was Edward Teach, famously known as Blackbeard, who
used fear and intimidation as his primary tactics to plunder vessels.

In the late 1700s and early 1800s, European Imperial navies undertook substantial efforts
to eradicate piracy globally. Under the classic law of nations, pirates were regarded as
both criminals and military enemies. This legal status permitted navies to capture and try
pirates; if encountered on the high seas, pirates could be attacked and killed. Nations
that captured pirates could choose to deal with them either militarily or criminally, with
the flexibility to conduct shipboard proceedings, acknowledging the impracticality of
returning pirates to a port for trial. These international efforts proved effective, and by
the early 20th century, the pirate lifestyle was nearly eradicated, making piracy a
significantly diminished threat to the international community.

However, piracy resurged during the post-Cold War period due to several factors. The
end of the Cold War led to a reduction in the size and duration of international naval
patrols. Simultaneously, a substantial increase in international maritime trade made
organized piracy more lucrative and easier to execute. Additionally, the rise of "failed
states" – nations lacking the capacity to control their own territories and borders –
provided a fertile ground for piracy. These states, unable to enforce maritime security,
offered potential pirates the opportunity to operate without fear of significant state
intervention.

A notable example of this resurgence can be seen off the coast of Somalia. Following
the collapse of the Somali government in 1991, the ensuing instability and economic
dislocation created a haven for piracy. By the early 2000s, Somali fishermen, initially
arming themselves to defend against illegal commercial fishing fleets, transitioned into
full-time piracy due to the lucrative nature of ransom payments from captured ships.
This situation underscores the link between state failure and the rise of maritime piracy,
highlighting the need for robust international cooperation to address both the
symptoms and root causes of piracy.
 Current Situation
In 2011 alone, there were 439 reported pirate attacks worldwide. While piracy hotspots
exist in regions like West Africa and Southeast Asia, more than half of these attacks in
2011 were perpetrated by Somali pirates. These pirates operated in the Gulf of Aden, the
Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean, and surrounding areas. Although data from
2012 indicates a decrease in the number of attacks by Somali pirates, piracy-related
incidents continue to occur, necessitating ongoing international efforts to address the
issue.

Somalia has become a haven for pirates due to several key factors. The collapse of the
Somali government in 1991 triggered a period of profound instability and economic
dislocation in an already impoverished state. The ensuing humanitarian disaster
prompted the United Nations to send a mission to Somalia in 1992 to restore order and
provide relief supplies. However, the mission failed, and UN forces withdrew in 1995.
Despite multiple efforts by the international community, regional organizations, and
individual states to stabilize Somalia, the country has experienced nearly continuous
conflict. During the twenty-year civil war, an estimated one million Somalis have died. In
2011 alone, between 50,000 and 100,000 people perished due to drought, famine, and
ongoing conflict.

The inability to establish effective governance in Somalia has not only led to a
humanitarian catastrophe but has also created an environment conducive to piracy. The
surge in piracy off the coast of Somalia in the Gulf of Aden is closely linked to the
collapse of Somali government authority. With the absence of a functioning Somali
government after 1991, commercial fishing fleets entered Somali waters, effectively
robbing local fishermen of their livelihoods. In response, Somali fishermen armed
themselves and began levying "fines" against these illegal fleets. Given the dire
economic conditions in Somalia, the income from such activities soon surpassed what
could be earned from traditional fishing. By the mid-2000s, many Somali fishermen had
transitioned to full-time piracy. With no central government to curb such activities,
piracy thrived along Somalia's 4,000-mile coastline.

Piracy has become an attractive option for many individuals in Somalia due to the lack of
economic opportunities. The substantial ransoms paid by owners of captured ships
have made pirates some of the wealthiest individuals in Somali society. Compounding
the issue, many Somalis do not view piracy as a significant problem. Everyday life in
Somalia is dominated by more immediate concerns such as hunger, poverty, ongoing
conflict, and the threat posed by extremist groups like Al-Shabaab, a faction of the
militant Islamist group al-Qaeda.
The impact of piracy extends beyond Somalia, affecting the entire international
community through significant economic costs. According to estimates, the direct cost
of pirate activity ranges from $7 billion to $12 billion per year. These costs encompass
ransoms for captured ships, increased security measures for commercial vessels,
potential re-routing to avoid pirate-infested waters, higher insurance premiums, shipping
delays, and negative impacts on fishing and tourism. For example, customers face longer
delivery times and increased costs if shipping traffic is diverted to the longer but safer
route around the southern tip of Africa instead of using the Suez Canal, which passes
through the pirate haven of the Gulf of Aden. Recent actions by major shipping firms
highlight the substantial impact of piracy on the global economy. If the situation
deteriorates further, piracy could contribute to the volatility of oil prices, potentially
leading to broader economic instability.

One notable aspect of the current situation is the concentrated effort by Somali pirates.
In 2011, Somali pirates were responsible for 237 out of the 439 reported global attacks.
This figure underscores the significant threat posed by piracy in the region and highlights
the need for concerted international action. Although there was a decline in piracy
incidents by 2012, with reports indicating a total of 297 attacks globally and Somali
pirates responsible for 75, the problem persists. The international community must
remain vigilant and continue to address the root causes of piracy, particularly in regions
like Somalia where governance and economic stability are severely lacking.

Efforts to combat piracy have evolved various strategies, including naval patrols,
international cooperation, and legal frameworks. The Contact Group on Piracy off the
Coast of Somalia (CGPCS), established in January 2009 pursuant to United Nations
Security Council Resolution 1851, has played a pivotal role in coordinating international
efforts to counter piracy. This group includes over 60 countries and international
organizations working together to enhance maritime security, share information, and
support regional capacity-building initiatives.

Naval operations have also been a critical component of anti-piracy efforts. The
European Union Naval Force (EU NAVFOR) launched Operation Atalanta in December
2008, aimed at protecting vessels of the World Food Programme (WFP) delivering food
aid to displaced persons in Somalia and deterring piracy in the region. NATO's Operation
Ocean Shield, initiated in August 2009, has similarly focused on counter-piracy
operations off the Horn of Africa, providing naval escorts and conducting surveillance
missions.
The United Nations Security Council has passed several resolutions to strengthen the
international legal framework for combating piracy. Resolution 1816, adopted in June
2008, authorized states cooperating with the Transitional Federal Government of
Somalia to enter Somali territorial waters to repress acts of piracy and armed robbery at
sea. Subsequent resolutions, including 1838, 1846, and 1851, expanded these provisions,
allowing for land-based operations and urging states to take decisive action against
piracy.

Despite these efforts, challenges remain. The root causes of piracy, including political
instability, poverty, and lack of economic opportunities, must be addressed to achieve a
long-term solution. Strengthening governance in Somalia, promoting economic
development, and enhancing regional cooperation are essential steps toward reducing
the appeal of piracy and ensuring maritime security.

In conclusion, maritime piracy, particularly off the coast of Somalia, poses a significant
threat to global security and economic stability. While international efforts have
achieved some success in reducing the number of piracy incidents, continued vigilance
and comprehensive strategies are required. Addressing the underlying causes of piracy
and fostering collaboration among nations will be crucial in securing the world's maritime
routes and safeguarding the global economy. Delegates in the UNGA committee must
consider these factors as they work toward solutions for global maritime security.
 UN and Other International Actions

Piracy, especially from failed states such as Somalia, poses significant challenges for the
international community. Individual states and coordinated international actions have
been employed to combat piracy as the world has recognized the rising danger over the
past few years. However, these efforts have largely failed to halt pirate activities,
primarily because they have not addressed the root cause: the instability and chaos in
Somalia.

Countries with robust naval capabilities have undertaken various actions to counter
piracy. These measures range from defending commercial vessels and staging hostage
rescues to capturing pirates and attacking pirate ships. A notable incident occurred on
April 1, 2010, when the USS Nicholas captured a pirate mother ship and sank a pirate skiff
off the coast of Somalia. Five pirates were apprehended, later convicted, and sentenced
by a Federal Court in Virginia to life imprisonment, followed by an additional 80 years in
prison. Nations like the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, India, Russia,
Japan, and others have deployed naval vessels to combat piracy and protect vital
commercial sea lanes off the Somali coast.

Beyond individual national efforts, countries such as Russia, Japan, Pakistan, and
Malaysia have offered to contribute to coordinated international efforts to fight piracy.
In a historic move, China deployed its naval forces to another region for the first time to
combat piracy.

The international community has progressively organized its response to piracy. In 2008,
the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) launched its first mission against pirates,
deploying four vessels to patrol Somali waters, primarily to protect UN food aid
shipments to Somalia. In 2009, NATO commenced Operation Ocean Shield, aimed at
assisting the international effort in combating piracy off the Horn of Africa. This ongoing
operation not only focuses on at-sea counter-piracy operations, such as helicopter
surveillance to trace and identify ships but also aids regional states in developing and
enhancing their anti-piracy capabilities.
The European Union has undertaken similar actions. Operation Atalanta, which
commenced on December 8, 2008, involves the European Union Naval Force (EU
NAVFOR) maintaining a presence of 5-10 warships and 2-3 Maritime Patrol Aircraft
patrolling the Horn of Africa. Mandated by the United Nations Security Council,
Operation Atalanta includes:
Protecting vessels of the World Food Programme (WFP) delivering food aid to
displaced persons in Somalia;
Protecting African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) shipping;
Deterring, preventing, and repressing acts of piracy and armed robbery off the
Somali coast;
Protecting vulnerable shipping off the Somali coast on a case-by-case basis;
Contributing to the monitoring of fishing activities off the coast of Somalia.

The United Nations has supported these efforts through a series of Security Council
resolutions targeting piracy off the coast of Somalia since 2008. On June 2, 2008, the
UN Security Council unanimously approved Resolution 1816, which, with the permission
of the Transitional Federal Government of Somalia, authorized countries to enter Somali
waters for six months and use all necessary means to combat pirate activity, while
adhering to international law.

This action addressed a shortcoming in the United Nations Convention on the Law of
the Sea (UNCLOS), which applies only to open oceans, by allowing states to operate
within territorial waters and granting them significant leeway in the use of force under
the Security Council’s Chapter VII powers.

Subsequent Security Council resolutions have been built upon Resolution 1816.
Resolution 1838, adopted in October 2008, urged all nations with military capacity in the
area to actively combat piracy on the high seas off the Somali coast.

Resolution 1846, adopted in December 2008, authorized regional organizations to use

"all necessary means" to fight piracy off the Somali coast. Resolution 1851, adopted later
in December 2008, extended the authorization to include land-based operations in
Somalia to combat maritime piracy.
On November 22, 2011, the Security Council passed Resolution 2020, calling for a united
international effort to combat piracy and implement solutions to the underlying causes
linked to pirate activity. This resolution also requested that any country or organization
capable of doing so should send naval vessels and aircraft to seize any boats, vessels, or
weapons suspected of being used for pirate activities and to help strengthen the
governance of Somalia.

Despite the active involvement of the Security Council since 2008, most of these
actions have had limited success. The primary cause of piracy—continued instability in
Somalia—remains largely unaddressed. To truly eradicate piracy off the coast of Somalia,
further action by the international community is required, focusing on the root causes
within Somali society.

In addition to specific actions to address Somali piracy, there are broader international
legal issues that need attention. There is controversy surrounding the jurisdiction over
captured pirates. Customary international law and UNCLOS suggest that any country
may prosecute pirates, as pirates are considered "hostis humani generis," or enemies of
mankind. However, this raises several issues. First, a ship under pirate attack may be
flying multiple national flags, leading to questions about which country should prosecute
the captured pirates. Second, pirates are not sanctioned by their home countries and, if
tried, may not receive adequate legal defense, violating modern human rights standards.
Some states have developed procedures to address these issues. For example, France
and the United States have prosecuted captured pirates in their national courts. The
United Kingdom has signed an agreement to hand over captured pirates for trial in
Kenya. While these steps are positive, the international community needs a more robust
system to ensure that captured pirates are tried according to international legal
standards of justice.

Several international initiatives aim to improve maritime security and address piracy
more comprehensively. The Djibouti Code of Conduct, adopted in 2009, is a regional
maritime security agreement involving East African and Gulf states. It focuses on
information sharing, capacity building, and legal frameworks to combat piracy and armed
robbery against ships. The Code of Conduct has facilitated regional cooperation and led
to the establishment of the Regional Maritime Information Sharing Centre (RMISC) in
Sana’a, Yemen, and the Djibouti Regional Training Centre.
The Contact Group on Piracy off the Coast of Somalia (CGPCS), established in January
2009 pursuant to United Nations Security Council Resolution 1851, coordinates political,
military, and non-governmental efforts to combat piracy. The CGPCS includes over 60
countries and international organizations working together to enhance maritime security,
share information, and support regional capacity-building initiatives. The group has been
instrumental in facilitating dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders, contributing
to a more unified approach to addressing piracy.

The international community has also focused on enhancing the legal framework to
prosecute pirates. In 2010, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
launched the Counter-Piracy Programme to support states in prosecuting piracy cases.
The program provides legal and technical assistance to improve judicial processes, build
capacity, and ensure fair trials for suspected pirates. The program has facilitated the
transfer of piracy suspects for prosecution in regional states like Kenya, Seychelles, and
Mauritius.

In conclusion, while significant efforts have been made to combat piracy off the coast of
Somalia, challenges remain. The root causes of piracy, including political instability,
poverty, and lack of economic opportunities, must be addressed to achieve a long-term
solution. Strengthening governance in Somalia, promoting economic development, and
enhancing regional cooperation are essential steps toward reducing the appeal of piracy
and ensuring maritime security.

The UNGA committee must consider these multifaceted issues as they work towards
solutions for global maritime security. Addressing the underlying causes of piracy,
fostering collaboration among nations, and developing comprehensive legal frameworks
will be crucial in securing the world's maritime routes and safeguarding the global
economy.
 Bloc Positions on Maritime Piracy
China: In response to being a victim of pirate attacks, China has significantly enhanced
its naval capabilities in recent years. This increased capacity has allowed China to take a
more proactive stance in defending its vessels in the Gulf of Aden. When Chinese ships
have faced pirate attacks, China has been aggressive in rescuing the ships and any
hostages taken. Emphasizing the importance of international cooperation, China and the
United States conducted joint anti-piracy drills in September 2012 off the Horn of Africa.
This rare joint exercise highlights China's commitment to addressing the piracy problem
collaboratively.

Russia: Actively involved in anti-piracy efforts since 2008, Russia has joined international
missions in the Gulf of Aden and other piracy-prone waters. Russian warships have
successfully escorted hundreds of vessels from various countries through these
dangerous waters. Recently, Russia has advocated for the creation of a special UN
juridical body to prosecute captured pirates, aiming to streamline the legal process and
ensure justice is served.

United States: The United States has taken a leading role in combating global piracy,
particularly off the coast of Somalia. According to the State Department, the U.S. aims
to help Somalia "regain stability, eliminate terrorism, and respond to the humanitarian
needs of its people." The U.S. has participated in NATO and EU-led operations and has
been instrumental in crafting UN Security Council resolutions to address piracy. The U.S.
Navy’s presence and operational capabilities have been crucial in protecting
international shipping lanes and conducting rescue operations.

European Union: The EU has adopted a comprehensive approach to tackling global

maritime piracy, addressing both the symptoms and root causes of the problem. The EU
launched Operation Atalanta in December 2008 to protect vessels delivering aid to
Somalia and to deter and disrupt piracy. Additionally, in 2011, the EU established a
Strategic Framework for the Horn of Africa, emphasizing partnership with regional states
and organizations, particularly the African Union. The EU's multi-faceted strategy
includes naval patrols, legal support, and economic aid to address the underlying issues
contributing to piracy.
 Asia: Many Asian nations, including China, Japan, India, and South Korea, have
significantly increased their roles in international anti-piracy operations due to their
vulnerability to pirate attacks. These countries have coordinated with other states in the
Gulf of Aden, leveraging their growing economic ties with Africa. The rapid economic
expansion in Asia has made securing maritime routes a vital interest, prompting active
participation in global efforts to combat piracy.

Africa: Piracy remains a significant issue in Africa, particularly off the Horn of Africa and in
West Africa, especially in the Gulf of Guinea. Limited resources have hindered African
nations' ability to combat piracy effectively. Consequently, they have welcomed
international assistance in anti-piracy measures but still require increased support to
address the root causes of piracy, such as poverty, lack of governance, and economic
instability. Regional cooperation and capacity-building initiatives are critical to enhancing
Africa's ability to fight piracy independently.

Middle East: Proximity to pirate havens has made countries in the Middle East, including
Yemen, Lebanon, and the United Arab Emirates, frequent targets of piracy. These
nations have taken an active stance, with some trying captured pirates in their national
courts. However, jurisdictional, prosecutorial, and incarceration challenges have
complicated the region's response to piracy. Enhanced regional cooperation and
international legal frameworks are needed to address these complexities effectively.

Research Links
Proofs/Evidence In Council
While researching for the committee, keep in mind the credibility of the source you are
using. You can use all the sources for gaining information and studying different angles/
viewpoints, but non-credible sources won't be accepted by the Executive Board as a
proof and supporting document to your argument/ statement. (for eg: wikipedia,
chatgpt, AI)
Evidence/proof is acceptable from the following sources:

1. News Sources:
A. REUTERS - Any Reuters article which clearly makes mention of the fact or is in
contradiction of the fact being stated by a delegate in council.
([Link] )
B. STATE OPERATED NEWS AGENCIES - These reports can be used in support of or
against the state that owns that news agency. These reports, if credible or substantial
enough, can be used in support of or against any country as such but in that situation,
they can be denied by any other country in the council. Some examples are:
[Link] Novosti (Russia) [Link]
[Link] (Iran) [Link]
[Link] News Agency and CCTV (P.R. China) [Link]

2. Government Reports:
These reports can be used in a similar way as the state operated news agencies reports
can, in all circumstances, be denied by another country. However, a nuance is that a
report that is being denied by a certain country can still be accepted by the Executive
Board as credible information. Examples are -
a. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of various nations like India ([Link] ),
PRC ([Link] France ([Link] ),
Russian Federation ([Link] )
b. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Reports
([Link] (Click on any country to get to the website
of the Office of its Permanent Representative)
c. Multilateral Organisations like the NATO
([Link] ASEAN
([Link] OPEC ([Link] etc.

3. UN Reports:
All UN Reports are considered credible information or evidence for the Executive Board
of the Security Council.
a. UN Bodies: Like the SC (unsc), GA ([Link] HRC
([Link] etc.
b. UN Affiliated Bodies like the International Atomic Energy Agency
([Link] World Bank ([Link] International
Monetary Fund ([Link] , International
Committee of the Red Cross ([Link] etc.
c. Treaty Based Bodies like the Antarctic Treaty System
([Link] The International Criminal Court
([Link]
Under no Circumstances will sources like Wikipedia ([Link]
Amnesty International ([Link] Human Rights Watch
([Link] or Newspapers like The Guardian ([Link]
Time of India ([Link] etc. be accepted as PROOF but
may be used for better understanding of any issue and even be brought up in debate if
the information given in such sources is in line with the beliefs of a Government.

Other Research Links

1. [Link]
2. [Link]
term_Cluster_Evaluation_Report_GMCP.pdf
3. [Link]
recognize-the-important-role-of-wmu
4. [Link]
5. [Link]
6. [Link]
7. [Link]
8. [Link]
9. [Link]
10. [Link]
11. [Link]

Issues/Questions a Resolution Could

Address:
How can the international community address piracy off the coast of Somalia? The
root causes of piracy, including political instability, economic hardship, and lack of
effective governance, must be addressed to achieve lasting solutions.
Strengthening Somalia’s institutions and providing economic opportunities can help
reduce the allure of piracy.
 Would a new international maritime force authorized by the UN better combat
piracy off the Horn of Africa? A UN-sanctioned maritime force could provide a more
coordinated and effective response to piracy, leveraging international resources and
expertise. Such a force could operate under a clear mandate, enhancing legal and
operational coherence.
Can the UN sanction the use of lethal force against pirates? The UN could consider
authorizing the use of lethal force under strict conditions, ensuring that any such
actions comply with international law and human rights standards. This could serve
as a deterrent and enhance the effectiveness of anti-piracy operations.
How can the UN address the root causes of piracy? Addressing the underlying
issues requires a multi-faceted approach, including economic development, political
stabilization, and social interventions in affected regions. The UN could support
initiatives aimed at improving governance, creating jobs, and providing education to
reduce the incentive for individuals to engage in piracy.
How can the UN deal with the economic side effects of global piracy? The
economic impact of piracy includes increased shipping costs, higher insurance
premiums, and disruptions to global trade. The UN could facilitate international
cooperation to share intelligence, improve maritime security infrastructure, and
support affected industries.
How should the UN deal with the legal and jurisdictional questions regarding the
status of captured pirates? A standardized international legal framework is needed
to ensure that captured pirates are prosecuted fairly and effectively. The UN could
develop guidelines for jurisdictional claims, trial procedures, and incarceration
standards, promoting consistency and justice in anti-piracy efforts.

By addressing these questions, a comprehensive resolution could enhance global

maritime security, reduce the incidence of piracy, and mitigate its economic and social
impacts. The international community must work together to develop robust strategies
and implement effective measures to combat piracy and its underlying causes.