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DISEC VMUN 2017 Background Guide 0


Dear Delegates, My name is Ashley Phord-Toy and I’m honoured to serve as your director for the Disarmament and International Security Committee (also known as DISEC) for VMUN 2017. I am currently a grade 11 student at Crofton House School, and this will be my fourth time attending VMUN! I’ve never directed a committee this large before, so I’m excited and nervous to see what the weekend will bring. Here’s a little bit about me! This if my fourth year participating in Model United Nations. After my very first MUN conference in grade 8, I’ve been drawn back to this engaging and fulfilling activity. In fact, I’ve attended over 10 conferences! Through Model United Nations, I’ve been able to learn more about global issues, improve my debating, and make lifelong friends. Throughout our weekend together, I hope that you experience Model United Nations as I did, and learn something new about global issues whilst challenging yourselves. The two topics I’ve chosen to debate are Combatting Global Piracy and The Conflict in Yemen. Both of these topics deal with pertinent issues that affect millions of lives around the world, and every nation has a diverse viewpoint. Thus, it is essential that every delegate contributes to ensure a successful resolution to these conflicts. As a committee, I am hopeful that, through teamwork and compromise, you will be able to craft effective and creative solutions to the problems proposed. I wish you luck in your research in preparation for the conference. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns at [email protected]. If you need any help with researching, feel free to contact me. I look forward to meeting you all! Sincerely, Ashley Director of DISEC – VMUN 2017

Alvin Tsuei Secretary-General

Chris Pang

Chief of Staff

Eva Zhang Director-General

Arjun Mehta

Director of Logistics

Graeme Brawn USG General Assemblies

Ryan Karimi

USG Specialized Agencies

Mary Dong USG Conference

Ken Hong

USG Delegate Affairs

Isabelle Cheng USG Delegate Affairs

Jason Qu

USG Finance

Jan Lim USG Marketing

VANCOUVER MODEL UNITED NATIONS the sixteenth annual conference | January 20-22, 2017


Disarmament and International Security Committee

Position Paper Policy What is a Position Paper? A position paper is a brief overview of a country’s stance on the topics being discussed by a particular committee. Though there is no specific format the position paper must follow, it should include a description of your positions your country holds on the issues on the agenda, relevant actions that your country has taken, and potential solutions that your country would support. At Vancouver Model United Nations, delegates should write a position paper for each of the committee’s topics. Each position paper should not exceed one page, and should all be combined into a single document per delegate. Formatting Position papers should: — Include the name of the delegate, his/her country, and the committee — Be in a standard font (e.g. Times New Roman) with a 12-point font size and 1-inch document margins — Not include illustrations, diagrams, decorations, national symbols, watermarks, or page borders — Include citations and a bibliography, in any format, giving due credit to the sources used in research (not included in the 1-page limit) Due Dates and Submission Procedure Position papers for this committee must be submitted by midnight on January 8th, 2017. Once your position paper is complete, please save the file as your last name, your first name and send it as an attachment in an email, to your committee’s email address, with the subject heading as your last name, your first name — Position Paper. Please do not add any other attachments to the email or write anything else in the body. Both your position papers should be combined into a single PDF or Word document file; position papers submitted in another format will not be accepted. Each position paper will be manually reviewed and considered for the Best Position Paper award. The email address for this committee is [email protected].


Table of Contents

Combatting Global Piracy ........................................................................................................... 4 Overview ................................................................................................................................................. 4 Timeline .................................................................................................................................................. 4 Historical Analysis ................................................................................................................................. 5 Current Situation: .................................................................................................................................. 6 Past UN/International Involvement ...................................................................................................... 9 Possible Solutions ................................................................................................................................. 10 Bloc Positions ....................................................................................................................................... 11

Coastal Developing Nations ............................................................................................................................ 11 North America, Australia, and Europe .......................................................................................................... 12 South America and the Caribbean ................................................................................................................. 12 Asia ..................................................................................................................................................................... 12 Africa and the Middle East .............................................................................................................................. 12

Discussion Questions ........................................................................................................................... 13 Citations ................................................................................................................................................ 13

The Conflict in Yemen ............................................................................................................... 16 Overview ............................................................................................................................................... 16 Timeline ................................................................................................................................................ 16 Historical Analysis ............................................................................................................................... 17 Current Situation ................................................................................................................................. 20 Past UN/International Involvement .................................................................................................... 22 Possible Solutions ................................................................................................................................. 23 Bloc Positions ....................................................................................................................................... 24

Sunni Middle Eastern Nations ........................................................................................................................ 24 Shia Middle Eastern Nations ........................................................................................................................... 24 Western Liberal Democracies ......................................................................................................................... 24 Asian and South American Nations ............................................................................................................... 24 African Nations ................................................................................................................................................. 25

Discussion Questions ........................................................................................................................... 25 Additional Sources/Citations ............................................................................................................... 25


Disarmament and International Security Committee Topic A

Combatting Global Piracy Overview Since the dawn of maritime commerce, pirates have sought to profit and plunder off of ships at sea. For centuries, piracy has posed a threat to the safety of seafarers, businesses, and coastal regions. Despite existing for hundreds of years, piracy is a global issue that requires immense discussion. The definition of piracy is the act of “attacking and/or stealing from ships at sea.” 1Contrary to the portrayal of pirates as savages that ransack towns or bury treasure, modern piracy has evolved to be sophisticated and smart. Piracy schemes are often run similarly to businesses, as highly organized criminal organizations with 21st century weaponry. Popular strategies of pirating include the hijacking of ships, holding passengers for hostage, and stealing resources from vessels. Due to the unique nature of maritime crime, pirates are able to fall outside the jurisdiction of any single state, but within the collective responsibility of all nations. Unfortunately, this means that many states are unable to properly catch pirates, for fear of breaching international borders. Although the exact economic loss is difficult to quantify, it is estimated that billions are lost every year due to the delays and detours, lost ships and cargo, ransom payments, insurance premiums and security costs of maritime piracy.2 To adequately combat global piracy, delegates will need to formulate resolutions that maintain security, whilst aligning with the national interests of the states involved. Timeline April 29th, 1958 The “Convention on the High Seas” treaty is signed in Geneva, Switzerland. This

convention codifies the rules of international law relating to the high seas.3

December 9th, 1982 The “United Nations Convention on the Laws of the Sea” is signed in Montego Bay, Jamaica. The convention defines the rights and responsibilities of nations, and establishes guidelines for businesses, the environment, and the management of marine natural resources.4

July 8th, 2005 The International Maritime Organization (IMO) agrees to the new amendments of the “Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation” (SUA) convention. The SUA convention is a treaty that nations sign to commit to the prohibition and punishment of any behaviour which may threaten the safety of maritime navigation. 5

June 2nd, 2008 The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) passes resolution 1816, in hopes of fighting piracy off the coast of Somalia. 6

1 Definition of Piracy http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/piracy 2 Sakhuja, Sea Piracy: India Boosts Countermeasures, 2003; Ellis, Piracy on the High Seas is on the Rise in South-East Asia, 2003. 3 Status of Treaties https://treaties.un.org/Pages/ViewDetails.aspx?src=TREATY&mtdsg_no=XXI-2&chapter=21&clang=_en 4 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea http://www.un.org/depts/los/convention_agreements/convention_overview_convention.htm 5 Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against the Safety of Maritime Navigation, Protocol for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against the Safety of Fixed Platforms Located on the Continental Shelf http://www.imo.org/en/About/Conventions/ListOfConventions/Pages/SUA-Treaties.aspx 6 United Nations Security Council Resolution 1816, Piracy near Somalia. http://www.cfr.org/piracy/united-nations-security-council-resolution-1816-piracy-near-somalia/p28519


November 15th, 2008 The MV Sirius Star is hijacked by Somali pirates in the Cape of Good Hope. The vessel was a large boat which transported crude oil for the oil company Saudi Aramco. It was the largest ship that was ever captured by pirates. The ship was later released, after the pirates received a 3 million dollar ransom. 7

January 29th, 2009 The Djibouti Code of Conduct was established. This code of conduct allows all nation states to pursue pirates into the territorial waters of other states. The current signatories are the following: Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Seychelles, Somalia, the United Republic of Tanzania, Yemen, Comoros, Egypt, Eritrea, Jordan, Mauritius, Mozambique, Oman, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Sudan and the United Arab Emirates. 8

April 9th, 2009 The Maersk Alabama, a hijacked ship off the coast of Somalia, is recovered by the US Navy. The Maersk Alabama was the first American ship to be successfully hijacked in over 150 years. It was the sixth ship to be hijacked in that week. 9

March 25th, 2013 The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) begins a project titled “Supporting Regional States in Prosecuting Piracy.” It seeks to enhance the institutional capacity of the criminal justice system in the Eastern African region. 10

January 1st, 2014 The “Maritime Crime Programme in the Horn Of Africa” is created by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC.) The assistance provided under this project focuses on delivering equipment and training/mentoring. 10

June 11th, 2015 The Orkim Harmony, an oil tanker with over $5 million worth of petrol, was hijacked off the coast of Malaysia. 11

Historical Analysis For centuries, pirates have occupied the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans. Though piracy has existed for hundreds of years, the “Golden Age” of piracy occurred from 1620-1720. This wave of piracy was sparked by the trade amongst European nations. Historically, pirates almost always served in merchant or naval ships prior to turning to a life of piracy. These sailors became pirates because life as a pirate was far more attractive than life as a sailor. Aboard pirate ships, there were often stricter regulations, rules, and punishments - ensuring fairer pay and equal work amongst the crew. These rules were strict, and breaking them could mean flogging or even death. If a pirate was found stealing from their comrades, taking more treasure than their share, or deserting during battle, they were marooned on a desert island. Despite these punishments, as a pirate, individuals could expect to make more than triple what they would receive as a legal sailor. 12 The main type of piracy during the “Golden Age” was piracy that targeted merchant ships transporting valuable goods. Ships were often targeted for their silks, jewels, spices, wine, brandy, linen, money or slaves. Once 7 Pirates Anchor Hijacked Supertanker Sirius Star off Somalia Coast. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2008/nov/18/somalia-oil 8 Djibouti Code of Conduct. http://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Security/PIU/Pages/DCoC.aspx 9 8,000 Miles, 96 Hours, 3 Dead Pirates: Inside a Navy SEAL Rescue.https://www.wired.com/2012/10/navy-seals-pirates/ 10 UNODC Maritime Crime Programme.https://www.unodc.org/easternafrica/en/piracy/index.html 11 Malacca Buccaneers. http://www.economist.com/news/asia/21656237-step-aside-somalia-south-east-asia-new-piracy-capital-world-malacca-buccaneers 12 The History of Piracy. http://newafricanmagazine.com/the-history-of-piracy/


valuables were stolen, pirates would add the captured ship to their fleet or sink the boat - destroying any evidence of their whereabouts. Any living seamen would be killed, ransomed, taken as slaves, or forced to joined the pirate crew. 12 At one point in history, state sponsored piracy was condoned and legalized. These pirates were known as privateers, and flourished until the early 19th century. Similar to a bounty hunter, privateers were meant to capture other pirate ships with their crew, and return pirate ships to shore, to be punished accordingly. Privateers were granted licenses by their government to attack the ships of other enemy governments, usually during times of war. However, it was not odd for privateers to turn on their home government, and become pirates themselves, after witnessing the wealth that pirates could accumulate. Ultimately, due to the unreliability of privateers and the Declaration of Paris (the Declaration of Paris banned letters of marque (a form of privateering licenses), and therefore outlawed privateering) states no longer hire privateers. 13 Current Situation: Methods of Piracy Within the 21st century, modern day piracy has evolved into an infinitely complex crime. It is no longer limited to a crime committed by a single crew, but can often involve highly sophisticated criminal organizations with technology that far surpasses local police forces. Instead of just hijacking small vessels, such as fishing boats, small coastal freighters, and U.N. food ships, pirates will also go after massive cargo ships, supertankers, and even passenger liners. Despite these large-scale crimes being possible, they are rare occurrences. The most common forms of pirating continue to be kidnapping passengers for ransom, stealing resources off of industrial ships, or hijacking vessels. Modern piracy most commonly takes place in the Malacca Strait, the South China Sea, the Gulf of Aden, the Gulf of Guinea, the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean, Benin, Nigeria, Somalia and Indonesia. 14

15

13 The Difference Between Pirates, Privateers and Buccaneers. http://www.marinersmuseum.org/blog/2012/10/the-difference-between-pirates-privateers-and-buccaneers-pt-2/ 14 10 Maritime Piracy Affected Areas around the World. http://www.marineinsight.com/marine-piracy-marine/10-maritime-piracy-affected-areas-around-the-world 15 Piracy on the Rise as Ship Hijackings Almost Double. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/transport/11345278/Mapped-Piracy-on-the-rise-as-ship-hijackings-near-double.html


A recent observation is that pirates are increasingly turning towards a form of pirating known as bunkering, which revolves around the theft of oil. Bunkering is a particularly dangerous form of piracy because it does not involve holding people as hostages, thus, the lives on board vessels are easily disregarded by pirates. Accessibility of Maritime Piracy As an easily accessible underground industry, piracy has become the occupation of choice for many people. Piracy is a relatively cheap endeavour to fund. Thus, impoverished individuals can easily become pirates for a little cost. The most basic expeditions can cost a few hundred dollars for simple supplies, because all that is necessary is a small, fast moving boat, and a ladder or rope to get on board a targeted ship. Bigger expeditions, involving several vessels, may cost $30,000 and require professional financing. According to The Economist, pirates can earn approximately $30,000-75,000 per raid (of a large vessel), with a bonus of up to $10,000 for the first man to board a ship, or for those bringing their own weapons or ladder. In fact, one raid alone can bring an average haul of 2.7 million from stolen resources, and ransom money. 16 Additionally, piracy is driven by political instability. For example, a modern piracy hotspot has been the Liberian coast. Liberia, located in West Africa, has lacked a practically functioning government for over a decade, and the effects of this instability have led to widespread poverty and a lack of social security. When so many impoverished communities reside next to a major sea route, this creates a breeding ground for piracy along the Liberian coast. 17 Pirates use this political instability to their advantage, and strategically pick areas with underfunded, weak police forces - because it is unlikely that police forces will be able to capture and prosecute them. Challenges Faced by Legal Bodies Although piracy does not always involve violence, most instances involve the kidnapping, torturing, and killing of passengers. Thus, for centuries, piracy has posed a threat to the safety of seafarers, businesses, and coastal regions. Unfortunately, commercial ships are rarely able to avoid pirate attacks, as these vessels are not able to travel rapidly with millions of tonnes of cargo. Additionally, pirates have developed many mechanisms to attack industrial ships. To slow down vessels for a successful hijacking, pirates will use high-speed skiffs (a flat-bottomed open boat with sharp bow and square stern) and fire rocket propelled grenades. Afterwards, pirates are able to commit large scale crimes through the use of hijacked merchant ships, which are used as home bases to carry out attacks. By using hijacked merchant ships, pirates can disguise themselves as fisherman or passengers, and effectively appear legitimate. 18 Some pirates will even repaint ships and produce forged documentation. Under most international law, government bodies are unable to search any industrial ships without a warning or permit beforehand. Thus, pirates are able to avoid law enforcement with relative ease and have the advantage in regards to mobility, disguise, and intimidation. Unfortunately, police corruption is a barrier in addressing maritime piracy. Although corruption within police forces is inevitable, it has been the goal of many nations over the past century to control the amount of corruption within its borders. Unfortunately, police officers and politicians will under report attacks in return for a fraction of any piracy profits. This link can be seen when analysing the Corruptions Perception Index (CPI.) The countries with some of the most maritime piracy are rarely scored well on the CPI. For example, Somalia, Egypt, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Benin have extremely high rates of maritime piracy - and all fall within

16 More Sophisticated than You Thought .http://www.economist.com/news/middle-east-and-africa/21588942-new-study-reveals-how-somali-piracy-financed-more-sophisticated-you 17 Modern Day Pirates: Countries With The Most Maritime Piracy Today. http://www.worldatlas.com/articles/modern-day-pirates-countries-with-the-most-maritime-piracy-today.html 18 Piracy. http://www.worldshipping.org/industry-issues/security/piracy


the bottom half of the Corruption Perceptions Index. 19 Financing of Piracy Piracy is funded through many different means, and pirates are often linked to drug and jihadist groups. Pirates will smuggle drugs and arms in return for money to fund piracy expeditions. For many of these jihadist groups, transport by sea is the most preferable method of transferring illegal goods - as sea borders are often less regulated than state borders. These pirate financiers invest their profits in setting up militias or gaining political influence. Many will also finance religious extremists. According to the economist, “Ciise Yulux, one of the most active pirate leaders who is reckoned to command up to 70 men, provided money and equipment to fighters linked to the Shabab and al-Qaeda in 2012.” 16 Blurred Territory Although countries are able to persecute pirates who fall within their territorial waters (regardless of nationality), there are still many regions of the high sea where no country has jurisdiction. These offences fall under a category called “Universal Jurisdiction.” Thus, pirates will often escape to these areas, and law enforcement will not search for them, as it is beyond their jurisdiction. 20 Furthermore, pirates will often escape into the waters of an enemy country, leaving naval police forces unable to follow. These forces are unable to follow, because if they do, they may be charged with infringing upon national sovereignty. Rather than allowing foreign forces to pursue pirates freely across borders, many states would rather leave their waters under-patrolled. As a result, pirates and sea robbers can easily flee away from law enforcement. Case Study: Somalia In the early 1990’s, Somali fisherman began attacking and hijacking commercial ships, turning the Gulf of Aden into one of the world's most dangerous waters. These fisherman proclaimed themselves as “authorized coast guards.” 21 Despite their criminal acts, some see these armed groups as a legitimate response to deter illegal fishing and illegal dumping (of toxic waste) in Somali waters. In 2008 alone, Somali pirates captured more than 40 large vessels in the Gulf of Aden. This Gulf is integral for trade, as it is a shortcut between Asia and Europe, and is vital to the global economy. 22 To provide an idea of how serious this issue was, here are a few shocking numbers. In 2008, piracy in Somalia resulted in 815 people being taken hostage. Of the 439 pirate attacks in 2011, 237 of these attacks occurred in the Gulf of Aden. In the Spring of 2012, there were over 51 attacks off the coast of Somalia, and over 158 seafarers taken as hostages. 18 Piracy in Somalia has provided income for many Somali citizens, that it is often considered Somalia’s most successful industry. In fact, in many pirating organizations, the leaders are able to earn over 2 million USD per year. 22

19 Corruption Perceptions Index 2015. http://www.transparency.org/cpi2015 20 Maritime Piracy in the Modern World. 21 Maritime Piracy in East Africa 22 10 Things You Didn't Know about Somali Pirates http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB124060718735454125


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Despite piracy being illegal, the government of Somalia is unable to enforce regulations and bring pirates to justice. Due to the lack of functional government, pirates in Somalia are practically in a lawless territory. Even in regions where there is law enforcement, police will often accept bribes in return for secrecy. Citizens will often take part in this bribery as well. In many instances, pirates will contribute a percentage of their ransom money to nearby communities, in exchange for their confidentiality. Citizens accept this money with open arms, and funds will often go towards public services, such as hospitals or schools. Unfortunately, the effects of pirating have hurt the Somali citizens most. Due to the lack of government infrastructure and the exploitation of resources, Somali citizens live in some of the worst conditions in the world. A vast majority of Somalis are malnourished and impoverished, and are unable to meet their basic necessities. Nearly half the population, 4 million citizens, depend on food donations for basic survival. 22 However, citizens do not always receive these food donations, which are often intercepted by Somali pirates who take over UN vessels. Ever since armed protection has been accompanying large vessels, piracy in Somalia has decreased. However, this is only a temporary solution. Although trends show that piracy in Somalia may come close to eradication, the majority of piracy remains underreported. Thus, government bodies are still unsure of how large the issue remains in the region. Currently, there are 12 ships that remain hijacked and more than 170 seafarers that are being held as hostages by Somali pirates. 16 Past UN/International Involvement INTERPOL Involvement The International Criminal Police Organization, also known as INTERPOL, is an intergovernmental organization devoted to combating transnational crime through police cooperation. Although not a committee within the United Nations, INTERPOL often works closely with United Nations bodies. To combat maritime piracy, three key strategies are currently employed by the organization. First, INTERPOL works to strengthen regional police forces through specialized training programs and by 23 The Ungoverned Seas.http://www.economist.com/news/middle-east-and-africa/21635049-waters-around-somalia-are-calmer-piracy-west-africa-rising


providing advanced policing equipment. Second, INTERPOL has focused its resources heavily on the improvement of data exchange. Through its police communication system, I-24/7, police are better able to share information on suspected pirates and piracy organizations. Finally, INTERPOL’s last area of focus is on improving evidence collection. The organization plans on achieving this through the creation of the “Global Database on Maritime Piracy.” Ideally, this will allow INTERPOL to better analyse and preserve evidence, and identify and arrest high-value individuals involved in acts of piracy. 24 UNODC Involvement The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, also known as UNODC, is a United Nations body which has been devoted to combatting piracy for over a decade. Currently, the UNODC has 4 main programs established to combat maritime piracy. The first is the UNODC Counter-Piracy Programme (CPP), established in May 2009 with the intent of regulating police, public prosecutors, and judiciary bodies, to ensure the arrest, and subsequent imprisonment of pirates. Second, is the EU Programme to Promote Regional Maritime Security. This project is a continuation of an initial EU Programme for the Eastern African region, and has operated primarily in Kenya, Seychelles, Mauritius, and Tanzania. Its primary goal is to aid regional bodies in the prosecution of pirates. Next, is the Piracy Prisoner Transfer Program, established in 2013, with the intentions of building capacity in Somalia to provide secure and humane imprisonment for convicted pirates from overseas, and to develop legal framework when prosecuting pirates. Finally, the last UNODC programme currently in effect is the Maritime Program in the Horn of Africa. This project aims to provide assistance to Somali forces, through providing equipment and mentoring, so Somali police can more easily patrol coastal regions. 25 Possible Solutions There are many factors to consider when addressing how to eradicate the issue of maritime piracy. The solutions expanded upon below all have pros and cons that must be carefully weighed. It is essential to note that there are many other potential solutions not listed below. Delegates should be careful to balance the many viewpoints. Naval Anti-Piracy Operations Anti-piracy operations by coastguard and naval forces are a potential solution to combat maritime piracy. This solution is already implemented in many vulnerable regions. For example, currently, many nations have sent warships to the Horn of Africa to deter and respond to pirate attacks. However, many locals despise foreign vessels within their countries borders. Recent research has suggested that international fishing vessels have been illegally exploiting ocean resources, creating citizen distrust in foreign bodies. Although special naval forces are theoretically a plausible solution, citizen backlash may render this solution impossible. Arming Boats Arming industrial boats with weaponry or hired armed soldiers is a potential strategy to addressing piracy. Specifically, ship owners and corporations have increasingly turned to the use of privately contracted armed security personnel (PCASP). The use of PCASP remains controversial, although successful off the coast of

24 Maritime Piracy. http://www.interpol.int/Crime-areas/Maritime-piracy/Maritime-piracy 25 Maritime Crime Programme - Ongoing Projects https://www.unodc.org/easternafrica/en/ongoing-projects/maritime-crime-programme.html


Somalia. 26Unfortunately, the laws are often blurred revolving PCASP’s, in many cases, they do not have legal immunity like national militaries. Additionally, ships have been increasingly employing razor wire, electric fences, high-pressure water hoses, and ‘sound guns’ to ward off pirates. However, this strategy is only short term and does not address the root of the problem, and is only a valid solution for rich corporations/governments. In most circumstances, armed guards/weaponry are extremely costly. Additionally, international law currently prohibits civilian vessels from carrying arms on board. Thus, this solution is only applicable to some industrial vessels - unless laws are rewritten. Targeting Corruption Another solution to combatting maritime piracy is to implement anti-corruption initiatives. Corruption can be targeted in many ways. One successful method is for nations to institute remedial steps, and formally investigate any bureaucratic irregularities. Another popular approach to targeting corruption is increased transparency. Several pieces of evidence suggest a correlation between providing access to information about politicians and political accountability which is known to positively affect the quality of government. By enforcing laws or creating conventions to promote transparency, citizens can better monitor police forces, which is already something that many people believe they are entitled to. Addressing Poverty For decades, it has been abundantly clear that the root of piracy often stems from poverty and social instability. Thus, addressing the root of the issue through poverty combating initiatives is a solution that should be looked into. However, many nations do not have an invested interest in helping other states get rid poverty, when poverty may be rampant within their own borders. More International Cooperation Another possible solution is to have more cross border cooperation and international data sharing. Through the sharing of data, nations will be able to better regulate and track pirates. Additionally, cross border cooperation will allow naval forces to pursue pirates in the waters of neighboring nations. However, a potential conflict may occur over the infringement of a state's sovereignty, and nations may use this as an excuse to enter the waters of another nation without adequate justification. This solution is especially flawed in regions such as the South China Sea - where territorial disputes are already running rampant between China, Japan, Indonesia, and other asian nations. Negotiations over Amnesty Another potential solution would be for states to offer amnesty to pirates who turn in their crewmates. This solution has the potential to grant immense data to government bodies, and allow them to capture large pirate vessels with relative ease. However this solution may create tension amongst pirate crews - allowing for less successful hijackings and attacks. Unfortunately, the amnesty provided to these pirates may enrage victims of piracy, as some pirates will be let off scot free. Bloc Positions Coastal Developing Nations Developing nations adjacent to bodies of water are most susceptible to maritime piracy. These nations include, 26 Private-Armed-Security Private Armed Security http://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Security/PiracyArmedRobbery/Pages/Private-Armed-Security.aspx


but are not limited to nations such as Indonesia, Egypt, Nigeria, Benin, Somalia, Peru, Bangladesh, Ghana, Cote D’Ivoire, India and Togo, which have all been facing large scale piracy for the past few years. These nations are extremely affected by maritime piracy, and have lost millions of dollars due to pirates. Coastal developing nations are the nation's most committed to decreasing maritime piracy. However, each nation has different mechanisms with which they wish to decrease piracy. Unfortunately, due to their developing status, many of these nations don’t have the political stability or economic capabilities to implement effective solutions. North America, Australia, and Europe North American nations, European nations, and Australia have all eradicated maritime piracy. Historically, these nations have implemented effective solutions to combat these issues within their own borders. Despite piracy not directly in their waters, these nations are still interested in combatting global piracy, as global piracy affects international trade and commerce. Most of these nations provide some form of security and resources for piracy prone nations, such as training for anti-piracy personnel and patrol forces. Ultimately, these developed nations promote the prosecution, trial, and punishment of pirates. Additionally, it is important to note that in most European nations, corporations are legally allowed to hire privately contracted armed security personnel (PCASP.) 27 South America and the Caribbean Nations in South America and the Caribbean are extremely susceptible to acts of piracy. Unfortunately, pirates strategically use the vast coastline and geography to their benefit. Piracy in this region is becoming increasingly violent, as South American pirates are gaining access to arms through the South American arms trade. In summary, these nations are invested in eradicating global piracy, as they are affected by many of its consequences. Asia Asia is home to some of the worst piracy hotspots around the world. A unique problem in Asia is that there are many territorial disputes, thus, regional cooperation is essential for eradicating piracy in this region. Many of these nations are in the process of upgrading their coastal guards and policing equipment. Within the past decade, Asian nations have taken drastic steps in combating piracy through capacity building, legal assistance, and modernization of its equipment and techniques. Most Asian nations remain open to regional and international cooperation. Africa and the Middle East Historically, nations within Africa and the Middle East have relied on international aid to combat piracy. For example, many African states have expanded their navies with aid from the United States, China, and Germany. However, the governments of African and Middle Eastern nations also wish to effectively respond to pirates, and reduce their dependency on the developed world. Unfortunately, these nations are often extremely corrupt, and funds are commonly misused.

27Responsibility For Human Rights Violations Arising From The Use Of Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel Against Piracy. Re-Emphasizing The Primary Role And Obligations Of Flag States http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2528502


Discussion Questions

1. Is it justified for nations to patrol each other's waters? 2. Should ransoms be paid to pirates? Do states have a responsibility to save their captured citizens

through ransoms, or is this outweighed by the effects of escalating piracy? 3. What methods can police forces use to identify disguised pirates? 4. What incentive structures can be implemented so that police officers are willing to be transparent? 5. When confronting armed pirates, is diplomacy possible? Or is violence the only solution? 6. How can balance be achieved between the protection of ships vs. a ship-owner's’ privacy?

Citations Axe, David. "8,000 Miles, 96 Hours, 3 Dead Pirates: Inside a Navy SEAL Rescue." WIRED. Conde Nast Digital, n.d. Web. 26 July 2016. https://www.wired.com/2012/10/navy-seals-pirates/ "Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against the Safety of Maritime Navigation, Protocol for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Against the Safety of Fixed Platforms Located on the Continental Shelf." SUA Treaties. 2016 International Maritime Organization (IMO), n.d. Web. 26 July 2016. http://www.imo.org/en/About/Conventions/ListOfConventions/Pages/SUA-Treaties.aspx "Corruption Perceptions Index 2015." Transparency International. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 July 2016. http://www.transparency.org/cpi2015 "Djibouti Code of Conduct." International Maritime Organization. International Maritime Organization, n.d. Web. 17 July 2016. http://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Security/PIU/Pages/DCoC.aspx "FAQs." International Criminal Police Organization. INTERPOL 2016, n.d. Web. 16 July 2016. http://www.interpol.int/FAQs "Illegal Overfishing and the Return of Somalia's Pirates." Al Jazeera English. Al Jazeera Media Network, n.d. Web. 20 July 2016. http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2015/10/illegal-overfishing-return-somalia-pirates-151006111159994.html "Malacca Buccaneers." The Economist. The Economist Newspaper, 2015. Web. 27 July 2016. http://www.economist.com/news/asia/21656237-step-aside-somalia-south-east-asia-new-piracy-capital-world-malacca-buccaneers "Maritime Crime Programme - Ongoing Projects." United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. UNODC 2016, n.d. Web. 16 July 2016. https://www.unodc.org/easternafrica/en/ongoing-projects/maritime-crime-programme.html "Maritime Piracy." International Criminal Police Organization. INTERPOL 2016, n.d. Web. 16 July 2016. http://www.interpol.int/Crime-areas/Maritime-piracy/Maritime-piracy "Modern Day Pirates: Countries With The Most Maritime Piracy Today." WorldAtlas. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 July 2016. http://www.worldatlas.com/articles/modern-day-pirates-countries-with-the-most-maritime-piracy-today.html


"More Sophisticated than You Thought." The Economist. The Economist Newspaper, 2013. Web. 26 July 2016. http://www.economist.com/news/middle-east-and-africa/21588942-new-study-reveals-how-somali-piracy-financed-more-sophisticated-you "Piracy." Merriam-Webster. Merriam-Webster, n.d. Web. 17 July 2016. http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/piracy "Piracy." World Shipping Council. 2016 World Shipping Council, n.d. Web. 26 July 2016. http://www.worldshipping.org/industry-issues/security/piracy "Private-Armed-Security Private Armed Security //." Private Armed Security. International Maritime Organization, n.d. Web. 31 July 2016. http://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Security/PiracyArmedRobbery/Pages/Private-Armed-Security.aspx Published. "United Nations Security Council Resolution 1816, Piracy near Somalia." Council on Foreign Relations. Council on Foreign Relations, 2008. Web. 17 July 2016. http://www.cfr.org/piracy/united-nations-security-council-resolution-1816-piracy-near-somalia/p28519 Rice, Xan, and Lee Glendinning. "Pirates Anchor Hijacked Supertanker Sirius Star off Somalia Coast." The Guardian. Guardian News and Media, 2008. Web. 17 July 2016. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2008/nov/18/somalia-oil Schechinger, Jessica. “Responsibility For Human Rights Violations Arising From The Use Of Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel Against Piracy. Re-Emphasizing The Primary Role And Obligations Of Flag States.” SHARES Research Paper 58 (Nov. 2014). Amsterdam Center for International Law 2014-30. Web. 17 July 2016. http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2528502. "Status of Treaties." United Nations Treaty Collection. UNITED NATIONS 2016, n.d. Web. 26 July 2016. https://treaties.un.org/Pages/ViewDetails.aspx?src=TREATY&mtdsg_no=XXI-2&chapter=21&clang=_en "The Difference Between Pirates, Privateers and Buccaneers." Museum Blogs. 1995 – 2015 The Mariners’ Museum and Park, 2012. Web. 26 July 2016. http://www.marinersmuseum.org/blog/2012/10/the-difference-between-pirates-privateers-and-buccaneers-pt-2/ "The History of Piracy." New African Magazine. N.p., 2013. Web. 26 July 2016. http://newafricanmagazine.com/the-history-of-piracy/ "The Ungoverned Seas." The Economist. The Economist Newspaper, 2014. Web. 20 July 2016. http://www.economist.com/news/middle-east-and-africa/21635049-waters-around-somalia-are-calmer-piracy-west-africa-rising Tovey, Alan. "Piracy on the Rise as Ship Hijackings Almost Double." The Telegraph. Telegraph Media Group, n.d. Web. 17 July 2016. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/transport/11345278/Mapped-Piracy-on-the-rise-as-ship-hijackings-near-double.html "United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea." United Nations. United Nations, n.d. Web. 19 July 2016. http://www.un.org/depts/los/convention_agreements/texts/unclos/unclos_e.pdf


"United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 10 December 1982." Oceans & Law of The Sea - United Nations. 2013 United Nations - Office of Legal Affairs, n.d. Web. 26 July 2016. http://www.un.org/depts/los/convention_agreements/convention_overview_convention.htm "UNODC Maritime Crime Programme." United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. UNODC 2016, n.d. Web. 16 July 2016. https://www.unodc.org/easternafrica/en/piracy/index.html "10 Maritime Piracy Affected Areas around the World." Marine Insight. N.p., 2011. Web. 27 July 2016. http://www.marineinsight.com/marine-piracy-marine/10-maritime-piracy-affected-areas-around-the-world / "10 Things You Didn't Know about Somali Pirates." Wall Street Journal. 2016 Dow Jones & Company, Inc., n.d. Web. 19 July 2016. http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB124060718735454125 BOOKS Kraska, James & Wilson, Brian, Maritime Piracy in East Africa, 2009 p. 58. Jarvis, Robert M., Maritime Piracy in the Modern World, Spring 2006. Sakhuja, Sea Piracy: India Boosts Countermeasures, 2003; Ellis, Piracy on the High Seas is on the Rise in South-East Asia, 2003.


Disarmament and International Security Committee Topic B

The Conflict in Yemen Overview Within the past few years, the nation of Yemen has spiraled into conflict and chaos. A raging civil war has developed, with rebels controlling the capital city, armed insurgencies overtaking territory, and neighboring nations attacking the state. The conflict has divided the nation by drawing ethnic, religious, and social barriers between fractured groups and communities. However, Yemen was not always such a conflict ridden state. The civil war manifested to its current point due to four main groups: the Yemeni government, rebel groups, terrorist organizations, and external governments. Following the Yemeni civil war of 1994, poverty, corruption, and social instability ran rampant throughout the nation. These conditions created the perfect backdrop for rebels to take over cities. In 2014, the government of Yemen lost its centralized control when Houthi rebels congregated together and seized the capital of Yemen - Sanaa. To this day, they continue to attack and take over cities. Although the international community continues to condemn the Houthi attacks, they continue to operate through means of violence and intimidation. In response to the Houthi attacks, the Yemeni President is currently directing military campaigns against these rebel forces. This turning point was the beginning of the current Yemeni civil war. However, the conflict continues to develop, due to frequent attacks from terrorist organizations and neighboring nations. As a result of this conflict, at least 83% of Yemenis rely on humanitarian assistance in order to survive. 28 Timeline

May 22nd, 1990 The Yemeni Arab Republic and the People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen unite to form a singular nation: The Republic of Yemen. The president of the united nation is Ali Abdullah Saleh.29

May-July, 1994 The Yemeni Civil War takes place. This war was between the government and opposing rebel groups. The government came out victorious.

September 23rd, 1999 Yemen has its first direct Presidential election. Sitting President Ali Abdullah Saleh wins with an overwhelming majority of 96.3% of the vote.30

April 24th, 2014 The Yemeni military launches an operation against Al Qaeda, to drive the terrorist organization out of its borders.31

September 18th, 2014 The capital of Yemen, Sana’a, is taken over by Houthi rebels.4

October 14th, 2014 Houthi rebels capture the city of Hudeida. This is a strategic move, as Hudeida is home to Yemen's second largest port, which carries supplies to the country's capital.4

28 Yemen: The Forgotten War. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2015/09/yemen-the-forgotten-war/ 29 Yemen Profile - Timeline. BBC News. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Sept. 2016.http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-14704951 30 Yemen, Elections, and Parliament. http://www.medea.be/en/countries/yemen/yemen-elections-and-parliament/ 31 Timeline: The Rise of Yemen's Houthi Rebels. .http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/interactive/2015/03/timeline-yemen-houthis-150326163406556.html


January 2015 Houthi rebels have control over the capital. Additionally, they are in control of the Presidential palace.

January 19th, 2015 The Prime Minister and his cabinet are held under house arrest by the Houthi fighters.32

January 22nd, 2015 President Hadi resigns.4

February 7th, 2015 The Houthi rebels announce that a five member council will replace President Hadi.4

March 16th, 2015 The Prime Minister and his cabinet are released from house arrest. The Houthi fighters released the Prime Minister as “Goodwill” to the United Nations.5

March 20th, 2015 The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (commonly known as ISIL or ISIS) conducts two suicide bombings targeting Shia mosques. This is the first of many major attacks that ISIL commits against Yemen.4

March 25th, 2015 Saudi Arabia leads a military coalition against the Houthi rebels.1

April 2nd, 2015 A terrorist organization, Al-Qaeda, takes over a prison and frees hundreds of inmates. One of the Al-Qaeda leaders is released.4

April 22nd, 2015 The Saudi Arabia led coalition stops its airstrikes. However, a new operation aimed at protecting Yemeni citizens and preventing Houthi rebel from operating has begun.4

Historical Analysis Yemen Following Unification Prior to 1990, the nation of Yemen was divided into two distinct nations. The south was controlled by the USSR-backed “People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen.” To the North, the U.S. and Saudi’s supported the “Yemeni Arab Republic.” On May 22nd, 1990, the two Yemen’s united to form one nation: the Republic of Yemen. The military officer Ali Abdullah Saleh assumed leadership over the newly created nation and ruled for over two decades. Prior to his presidency, he had already ruled the Yemeni Arab Republic (Northern Yemen) since 1978. Despite his lengthy reign, President Saleh was not supported by most Yemeni citizens. However, he managed to secure his power by turning various factions against each other.33 Instead of focusing his efforts on improving the social and ethnic divides within Yemen, President Saleh often focused on consolidating his power and political capital. The Yemeni Civil War of 1994 Following unification, many citizens were unhappy with the central government. Yemeni people felt that the government had become too corrupt and autocratic causing most people to feel marginalized. This discontent was especially evident in Southern Yemen, where citizens felt that the North was trying to control the South

32 Houthis Lift House Arrest of Yemen Prime Minister .http://www.thenational.ae/world/middle-east/houthis-lift-house-arrest-of-yemen-prime-minister 33 Yemen in Crisis. http://www.cfr.org/yemen/yemen-crisis/p36488


through exploitation of Southern resources and land. All of this built up unrest was the catalyst for the creation of Al-Hirak, a movement in Southern Yemen that fought for greater autonomy in the South - if not secession. Eventually, Al-Hirak violently rebelled in 1994, which started a civil war.6 However, the civil war only lasted for three months, as the opposing groups in the South had either negotiated with the government or were silenced by government military operations.34 By 1999, Yemen was in a state of relative peace, and the first direct Presidential elections were held. Once again, President Ali Abdullah Saleh was instated in power, after winning the election with an overwhelming (and surprising) 96.3% of the vote.3 The Rise of Insurgencies Following the civil war, poverty, corruption, and social instability continued to run rampant in Yemen. In the early 1990’s, this instability became the backdrop for al-Qaeda to enter the country. Al-Qaeda is a terrorist organization that is made up of Islamic extremists and Salafist jihadists. Although they claim to have religious backing behind their actions, they are a dangerously radical military organization that has committed numerous war crimes without religious justification.2 The international community and the Yemeni government took notice of al-Qaeda in Yemen following their takeover of Southern territory and their bombing attack off of one of Yemen’s harbours. Extra attention was placed on al-Qaeda due to its close affiliation with the terrorist organization Ansar al-Sharia, which was also present in Yemen. Similarly to al-Qaeda, Ansar al-Sharia took over many cities in Southern Yemen. The combined forces of these terrorist organizations eventually prompted the international community and Yemeni government to take action. Specifically, the United States and Yemen government worked closely on joint counterterrorism operations, which they continue to fund to this day (as terrorist insurgencies continue to occupy Yemen.)6 The Houthi (The Ansar Allah) Between 2004-2010, there were six attempts to overthrow the Yemeni government by a rebel group known as the Houthi. Officially named the Ansar Allah, but commonly known as the Houthi, this group was outraged by the Yemeni government, which they believed was serving US interests over the interest of Yemeni citizens.35 The group originated from Northern Yemen in the 1980’s, as a religious group that practiced Zaydism, a branch of Shia Islam. Zaydis make up approximately one-third of Yemen’s population, and ruled North Yemen for almost 1,000 years, until 1962.36 The Houthi was created because many Zaydi’s believed that their religious and cultural traditions were becoming marginalized due to the growth of government funded Salafi institutes in predominately Zaydi areas. These Salafi institutes were created to promote the ideals of the Salafi people, who believe that Islam needs to be reformed to its original ways. However, this enraged many Zaydi’s, who felt politically oppressed and excluded. Eventually, many citizens who practiced Zaydism became so frustrated with the government that they became politicized under Hussein Badreddin al-Houthi. The group is named after this former leader.8 Although the Houthi originally began as a theological movement that preached peace and open mindedness, overtime, they eventually evolved into an armed rebel group.37 In 2004, when the Houthi were protesting in Sanaa (the capital city of Yemen), President Ali Abdullah Saleh saw this as a challenge to his rule. He believes that this protest damaged his image and reputation, so he created measures to silence the Houthi. President Saleh orchestrated the arrest of many Houthi’s, including the Houthi leader Hussein Badreddin al-Houthi. Despite these disruptions, the Houthi continued to protest, and eventually turned towards violence. In 2004, Hussein al-Houthi, the Houthi leader, was killed by President Saleh’s 34 A Brief History of Yemen: Rich Past, Impoverished Present. http://content.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,2028740,00.html 35 Who Are Yemen's Houthis? http://www.cfr.org/yemen/yemens-houthis/p36178 36Yemen Crisis: Who Is Fighting Whom? http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-29319423 37 Timeline: The Rise of Yemen's Houthi Rebels. http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/interactive/2015/03/timeline-yemen-houthis-150326163406556.html


government forces.10 Despite this setback, one of Hussein al-Houthi’s brothers took over the movement, allowing it to flourish. From 2004 -2010, another five rebellions took place against the Yemeni government, before a ceasefire was signed with the government in 2010.9 Arab Spring Protests In 2011, a revolutionary wave of demonstrations and protests, now known as the Arab Spring,m occurred in the Middle East and North Africa. A buildup of nationwide problems led to the citizens of many nations to fight back against their authoritarian governments. Arab Spring protests occurred in over 10 nations, including Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. In Yemen, protests were widespread, and hundreds were killed in a government ordered crackdown against protesters. Eventually, the protests became too extreme, and President Saleh resigned. Mr. Saleh was replaced by President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi (who ran unopposed on the ballot). However, Hadi’s government forces continued to commit human rights violations and did not improve the social wellbeing for Yemeni citizens. In fact, there were even recorded instances of government supported killings and enforced disappearances. Once again, the new government failed to represent the Houthi. Thus, the Houthi armed group in the north reactivated.38 The Start of the Civil War In 2014, Houthi rebels congregated together and seized the capital of Yemen - Sanaa. They decided to place the internationally recognised President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi under house arrest. The Houthi rebels took these drastic measures because they viewed the Yemeni government as corrupt and discriminatory. Many Houthi’s were angry, as they felt their religion was being marginalized and their people were being killed. However, President Hadi managed to escape, and he fled to neighboring Saudi Arabia. Within six months, the Houthi rebels managed to overtake Western Yemen. Due to government instability, al-Qaeda managed to overtake most of Eastern Yemen - leaving the region without law and order.39

12

38 Yemen: The Forgotten War. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2015/09/yemen-the-forgotten-war/ 39 No End in Sight to War in Yemen. http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-35889636


Current Situation The situation in Yemen has become convoluted and partisan. Here are some of the most important facts to know. The conflict is between many groups, however, there are two main “sides” that are fueling the conflict: the Houthis, and those that are loyal to the reigning government. The conflict has essentially become religious in nature. On one side are the Houthis, who believe in Zaydism - a branch of Shia Islam. On the opposing side, the Sunni Islamic population is loyal to the Sunni President, President al-Hadi. Although the Houthi’s compose only a small demographic of Yemen's population, they are in the process of taking over Western Yemen with the help of former President Ali Abdullah Saleh. Although the Houthi and ex-President Saleh were originally enemies, they are modern day allies, who are working together to wreck sitting President Hadi. The Houthi and ex-President Saleh do not care much for each other, but they have united because they have a common enemy. This has proven to be an extremely effective partnership for both sides. The Houthi have strength in their unity and support, and although Saleh was ousted from power, he was able to retain the loyalty of many army and security forces, which comes in handy when taking over a government. As a result of this coalition, the Houthis have gained control over the capital city and many government buildings. The political ambitions of the Houthi remain dynamic and ambiguous. At a basic level, their organization fights to protect themselves from what they view as the government that has marginalized and abused them in the past. However, it is unclear how much of the nation they wish to overtake or what they want to do if they gain full government power. Effects of the Houthi Takeover The Houthi armed group and their allied forces have endangered the lives of thousands of Yemeni’s. Not only are they using violence to overtake cities, but their presence has blocked access to humanitarian aid for some of the nation's most vulnerable citizens. Crucial medical supplies and food have been blocked from entering many Southern cities. As a result, many hospitals have shut down, and the few that remain open will likely close down soon due to lack of supplies.1 The Houthi have been able to obtain so many victories against the Hadi government in large part because the government is very weak. Even before President Hadi took power, Yemen was already poor and corrupt, and decades of dictatorships had weakened government institutions, not to mention faith in government.40 In fact, there are many Yemeni citizens who have joined the Houthi movement out of anger towards the government, despite not practicing Zaydism. International Perspectives These religious differences have attracted international attention, specifically from Iran and Saudi Arabia, who view themselves as defenders of Shia and Sunni Islam, respectively. These two nations have opposed each other for decades and have been using Yemen as a tool to gain regional hegemony over the Middle East.41 Yemen's military forces have split loyalties, with some demographics backing President Hadi, and others supporting Mr Hadi's Presidential predecessor Ali Abdullah Saleh, who has remained politically influential in the nation.9 But in the eyes of the international community, President Hadi remains the leader of the nation, who rightfully deserves his Presidency. Iran’s Actions For years, it has been suspected that the Iranian government is backing Houthi rebels in Yemen. It is very likely that the government has given the Houthi monetary aid, military weapons, and political support. However, this aid has never been officially confirmed. The Iranian government does not overtly aid the Houthis as it might ruin its image in the international community. It would be disastrous for the nation to be known as the state 40 Yemen's Rapidly Escalating War: A Simple Explanation. http://www.vox.com/2015/3/26/8296021/yemen-war 41 Ten Maps That Explain Iran's Power Play in the Middle East .http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/irans-middle-east-power-play/article23845609/


that supplies military aid to rebel groups. Nevertheless, it is clear that the Iranian government supports the Houthis on an ideological capacity, and likely on a monetary capacity as well. Similarly, the Houthi support the ideology of the Iranian government, as both have an anti-West sentiment. Saudi Arabia’s Actions On March 25th, 2015, a coalition led by Saudi Arabia announced the beginning of an anti-Houthi military intervention, exacerbating the civil war. Saudi Arabia created this coalition for two main reasons. Primarily, Saudi Arabia fears the rising power of Iran. The Saudi Arabian government is convinced that Iran aims to install a proxy military in Yemen through the Houthi. Recently, Iran has become closer with a global superpower, the United States. Within the past few years, Iran and the United States have been surprisingly diplomatic, despite their tense and rivaled history. This partnership has created unrest within the Saudi government, which fears the growing power of its rival. Secondly, the Saudi coalition was created because Saudi Arabia wanted to protect the Hadi administration from the security threat that the Houthi presented, after President Hadi publicly plead for international help. It’s important to note that Saudi Arabia is an extremely close ally with the United States, and in extension, other Western nations. Within the past few years, the United States has provided the Saudi government with millions of dollars worth of monetary aid, forensic intelligence, and military equipment. This coalition consists of Jordan, Egypt, Morocco, Sudan, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, and of course, Saudi Arabia. For the past year, the coalition has been launching airstrikes and has had boots on the ground to fight the Houthi. However, there have been many reported instances of illegal civilian casualties by these airstrikes. To make matters worse, the coalition has been using cluster munitions, which are lethal explosives banned under international law. When launched, cluster bombs release over a dozen small “bomblets”, which often lie unexploded and can cause horrific injuries long after conflict has ended.1 As a result of these unethical military practices, Yemeni citizens and many nations are furious at Saudi Arabia and the nations involved in its coalition. Citizens are so angry that thousands of them protest in the streets against Saudi Arabia. Yet, Saudi Arabia claims that it takes great care in protecting citizens from airstrikes and that its soldiers are abiding by international law. However, numerous documents have been revealed, proving unnecessary civilian casualties. In fact, it is estimated that over 3,200 civilians have been killed and 5,700 have been wounded in Saudi attacks.42 Due to these deaths, there is extreme opposition to the airstrikes from European governments. A few months ago, the European parliament voted to create an arms embargo against Saudi Arabia.12 An Arms Embargo is a type of ban on trade, that is used to pressure nations to improve unimpressive behaviour.43 The European Union and United Nations are heavily opposed to this coalition. However, the Arab League and United States support it.

42 Bombing Businesses. https://www.hrw.org/report/2016/07/10/bombing-businesses/saudi-coalition-airstrikes-yemens-civilian-economic-structures 43 Arms Embargoes. https://www.sipri.org/databases/embargoes


Map of the airstrikes.

Despite strong evidence of the human rights violations committed by the Saudi coalition, many nations continue to sell weapons to Saudi Arabia for use in the conflict. In fact, in 2015, the UK, USA, France, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain reported licenses and sales to Saudi Arabia worth more than $25 billion in drones, bombs, torpedoes, rockets and missiles.1 Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) To further complicate the already divided conflict, the terrorist organization al-Qaeda has been extremely active in Yemen. According to the BBC, it has staged numerous attacks from its strongholds in the south and southeast, with intentions to kill. Al-Qaeda has committed attacks against both Sunni and Shia Muslims, and both groups oppose the terrorist organization. Western nations seem to consider AQAP the most dangerous branch of al-Qaeda because of its technical expertise and global capacity. Thus, the US has been carrying out operations, including drone strikes, against AQAP.9 When President Hadi was in power, these airstrikes were relatively successful due to the partnership the United States had with the Yemeni government. However, ever since the Houthi have come into power, these airstrikes have been less fruitful, due to the lack of international cooperation by the Houthi. Additionally, AQAP has had the ability to flourish because although they are despised by the Houthi rebels, the rebels focus more effort on fighting the government. Similarly, President Hadi devotes more of Yemen’s resources and military capabilities to obliterating the Houthis.13 However, it is important to note that the Houthi have had several victories over al-Qaeda where the government has not. Past UN/International Involvement Amnesty International According to Amnesty International, all parties involved in this conflict have violated the human rights charter and have broken international law. In fact, the organization has even claimed that many groups have committed war crimes. The organization has documented more than 30 Saudi air strikes that appear to have violated international humanitarian law. Amnesty has reported that the Saudi Coalition has killed 366 civilians (more than half of whom were women and children) and injured 272 civilians. The organization has repeatedly pointed out that the coalition appears to have deliberately targeted civilians and public spaces. For example, within the past year, many hospitals, schools, markets and mosques have been targeted, which may amount to


war crimes.1 United Nations Security Council (UNSC) In September of 2016, the UNSC created the UN Verification and Inspection Mechanism (commonly known as UNVIM) to monitor commercial shipping to Yemen. The program was created because Yemeni citizens do not have enough access to food. Prior to the civil war, 90% of Yemen’s food came from foreign imports. However, due to the war, commercial shipping has been hindered. Additionally, the UNSC continues to place sanctions and arms embargos on the Houthi.44 United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) The UNDP has focused its efforts in Yemen on addressing developmental challenges through programs to reduce poverty and create jobs. For example, in 2012, the Youth Economic Empowerment Project (YEEP) was created. The program aims to empower disadvantaged youth and women so they can better their social and economic status. The program teaches market oriented technical, entrepreneurial and managerial skills, confidence building and empowering skills which are necessary to improve their income. Additionally, the UNDP is working to build resilience in Yemen through the Yemen Resilience Program. This program works to improve community infrastructure, restore and expand social services, aid in the development of enterprises and business, enhance community security, and clear mines in residential areas and agricultural lands.45 Possible Solutions Before diving into possible solutions, it is important to analyse the nuances of every group involved in this conflict. Although in an ideal world, there would be one perfect solution, there is no one size fits all that will stop this conflict. Delegates are encouraged to propose other solutions not explained below, as the list is not exhaustive. Foreign Intervention Although dangerous and potentially devastating, foreign intervention is the most forceful measure that can be taken. Foreign intervention typically involves peacekeeping troops, an interim government, and an internationally monitored transition. A coalition of nation states could potentially invade Yemen and instate a new government. Although a successful foreign intervention has its benefits, the drawbacks to such a violent solution must be considered. Foreign intervention has the potential to create long term instability if not done successfully. Additionally, an intervention is likely to create animosity from the Yemeni people, who already despise the intervening nature of Western nations. With foreign intervention, it must be done cautiously, or else people may seek to rebel against the West, potentially through a terrorist organization. Arms Trade Ban The conflict in Yemen is exacerbated by the flow of arms into the nation. For example, the heavily militarized Saudi coalition has exacerbated the civil war with its ability to gain access to military arms. A potential solution could be to ban the trade of arms to Saudi Arabia, to ensure that Saudi Arabia cannot supply weapons directly or indirectly to any party in the country. In extension, an arms trade ban could be placed on nations such as the United States or France, who currently supply arms to Saudi Arabia. However, an arms trade ban will 44 "Yemen Publications : Security Council Report." Yemen Publications : Security Council Report. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Sept. 2016. http://www.securitycouncilreport.org/yemen/ 45 "Youth Economic Empowerment Project." UNDP in Yemen. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Oct. 2016. http://www.ye.undp.org/content/yemen/en/home/operations/projects/poverty_reduction/youth-economic-empowerment/


indefinitely anger Saudi Arabia, which is likely to cause backlash against the international community. International Pressure through Sanctions and/or Embargos International pressure, the calmest approach out of any possible solution, is another possible step that can be taken. The international community can place pressure on the Houthi government to step out of power, however, it is unlikely to be an all encompassing solution (considering past failed attempts at international pressure). Governments can refuse to trade with the Houthi government, and sanction off its resources. Additionally, embargos can be placed on various Yemeni industries, cutting the Yemeni economy off from the global economy. Negotiations with Houthi government Finally, the international community could attempt to negotiate with the Houthi government to establish a Houthi-Hadi compromise or to establish new terms of power. This solution could allow Houthi leaders to be content by giving them some power over the nation. However, this solution runs into problems because it requires the Houthi and President Hadi to compromise - something both groups are opposed to. However, with a cohesive resolution, this solution could be a potential. Bloc Positions Sunni Middle Eastern Nations Sunni Middle Eastern nations, such as Saudi Arabia, Jordan, or Egypt, are nations with a majority Sunni populace. Generally, these nations are governed by a predominantly Sunni government as well. These nations heavily support the Saudi Arabia led coalition, and wish to see the Houthi removed from power as soon as possible. Despite the brute force of the coalition, these nations wish to re-instate the President Hadi (a devoted Sunni), or have another Sunni government in power. Shia Middle Eastern Nations Shia Middle Eastern nations, such as Iran and Iraq, are nations with a majority Shia populace, and in extension, a majority Shia government. These nations oppose the coalition, and believe the human rights violations have been atrocious. Secretly, many of these nations support the Houthi government, and are glad that the Sunni government has lost its power. Although the Shia wish to see an end to this conflict, they do not wish to see President Hadi re-instated into power. Western Liberal Democracies Generally, Western Liberal Democracies are against the Houthi government. As nations that (generally) uphold international law and human rights, these nations believe it was illegitimate and illegal for the Houthi to take over the Yemeni government. They support President Hadi, because he was the democratically elected leader. These nations support the principles behind the Saudi Arabia coalition, however, they do not support all of the military action being carried out by the coalition. The loss of so many civilian lives is atrocious to these nations, and they wish for the Saudi coalition to turn to diplomatic measures rather than any further intervention. These nations support a peaceful solution and are providing foreign aid to the nation (however, not military aid.)13 The exceptions are the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, which have been sending military support to President Hadi, and actively supporting the military strikes made my Saudi Arabia. Asian and South American Nations


Generally, Asian and South American nations wish to end conflict in Yemen as soon as possible. Along with the Western Liberal Democracies, these nations condemn the Houthi government and wish to see a peaceful solution to this conflict. They are opposed to the Saudi led coalition and have provided humanitarian aid to help the Yemeni people. Specifically, China and Russia have been strong advocates for a peaceful solution. African Nations African nations are quite split on this conflict. There are a few nations who support the Saudi Arabia led coalition (such as Eritrea, Sudan, and Somalia), and many who do not. Generally, African Nations wish to see the conflict in Yemen end quickly. There have been many instances where African nations have provided humanitarian aid to Yemen. Discussion Questions

1. When many regional actors have committed atrocious human rights violations, how can the international community choose which groups to support?

2. How can citizens and civilian infrastructure be better protected? 3. What can be done to eradicate terrorist organizations? Is violence the only solution against these

irrational organizations? 4. Do the Houthi deserve political representation? If so, how can the Houthi gain political representation? 5. What can be done to prevent further human rights violations caused by the Saudi Coalition? 6. How can the flow of arms into Yemen be reduced? 7. Is there potential for a two-state solution? How could international community facilitate this process if

so? Additional Sources/Citations "Arms Embargoes." STOCKHOLM INTERNATIONAL PEACE RESEARCH INSTITUTE. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Sept. 2016. https://www.sipri.org/databases/embargoes Beauchamp, Zack. "Yemen's Rapidly Escalating War: A Simple Explanation." Vox. N.p., 2015. Web. 25 Sept. 2016. http://www.vox.com/2015/3/26/8296021/yemen-war "Bombing Businesses." Human Rights Watch. N.p., 2016. Web. 10 Oct. 2016. https://www.hrw.org/report/2016/07/10/bombing-businesses/saudi-coalition-airstrikes-yemens-civilian-economic-structures Gardner, Frank. "No End in Sight to War in Yemen." BBC News. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Sept. 2016. http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-35889636 "Houthis Lift House Arrest of Yemen Prime Minister." The National. N.p., 2015. Web. 07 Sept. 2016. http://www.thenational.ae/world/middle-east/houthis-lift-house-arrest-of-yemen-prime-minister Laub, Zachary. "Who Are Yemen's Houthis?" Council on Foreign Relations. Council on Foreign Relations, 2015. Web. 09 Sept. 2016. http://www.cfr.org/yemen/yemens-houthis/p36178


Mendelsohn, Barak. "Islamic State in Yemen: Why IS Is Seeking to Expand." BBC News. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Sept. 2016. http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-31998682 News, BBC. "Yemen Profile - Timeline." BBC News. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Sept. 2016. http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-14704951 News, BBC. "Yemen Crisis: Who Is Fighting Whom?" BBC News. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Sept. 2016. http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-29319423 "Populations at Risk: Current Crisis - Yemen." Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect. Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect, n.d. Web. 07 Sept. 2016. http://www.globalr2p.org/regions/yemen "Responding to the Crisis in Yemen." UNDP. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Oct. 2016. http://www.undp.org/content/undp/en/home/ourwork/our-projects-and-initiatives/YemenResponse.html stratfor. "The Houthis' Grip Over Sanaa Is as Strong as Ever." Stratfor. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Sept. 2016. https://www.stratfor.com/analysis/houthis-grip-over-sanaa-strong-ever "Ten Maps That Explain Iran's Power Play in the Middle East." The Globe and Mail. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Sept. 2016. http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/irans-middle-east-power-play/article23845609/ Tharoor, Ishaan. "A Brief History of Yemen: Rich Past, Impoverished Present." Time. 2016 Time Inc., 2010. Web. 08 Sept. 2016. http://content.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,2028740,00.html "Timeline: The Rise of Yemen's Houthi Rebels." Al Jazeera English. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Sept. 2016. http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/interactive/2015/03/timeline-yemen-houthis-150326163406556.html Torpey, Paul, Pablo Gutiérrez, Glenn Swann, and Cath Levett. "What Is Happening in Yemen and How Saudi Arabia's Airstrikes Are Affecting Civilians - Explainer." The Guardian. Guardian News and Media, n.d. Web. 01 Oct. 2016. https://www.theguardian.com/world/ng-interactive/2016/sep/16/how-saudi-arabias-airstrikes-have-hit-civilian-life-in-yemen "Who Are the Houthis in Yemen?" Aljazeera News. 2016 Al Jazeera Media Network, n.d. Web. 09 Sept. 2016. http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/08/yemen-houthis-hadi-protests-201482132719818986.html "Yemen, Elections, and Parliament." European Institute for Research on Mediterranean and Euro-Arab Cooperation. MEDEA INSTITUTE, n.d. Web. 8 Sept. 2016. http://www.medea.be/en/countries/yemen/yemen-elections-and-parliament/ "Yemen in Crisis, a Timeline." The National. Abu Dhabi Media, 2016. Web. 07 Sept. 2016. http://www.thenational.ae/yemen-in-crisis-a-timeline "Yemen in Crisis." Council on Foreign Relations. Council on Foreign Relations, n.d. Web. 07 Sept. 2016. http://www.cfr.org/yemen/yemen-crisis/p36488


"Yemen Publications : Security Council Report." Yemen Publications : Security Council Report. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Sept. 2016. http://www.securitycouncilreport.org/yemen/ "Yemen: The Forgotten War." Amnesty International. 2016 AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL, n.d. Web. 07 Sept. 2016. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2015/09/yemen-the-forgotten-war/ "Youth Economic Empowerment Project." UNDP in Yemen. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Oct. 2016. http://www.ye.undp.org/content/yemen/en/home/operations/projects/poverty_reduction/youth-economic-empowerment/

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