Study Guide: Model United Nations -
Myanmar
Committee: United Nations Global Security
Committee
Agenda: Protecting Civilians in Armed
Conflicts
I. Introduction to Myanmar
Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a diverse nation
located in Southeast Asia. Its rich cultural heritage and
complex history have shaped its current political and social
landscape. Myanmar shares borders with Bangladesh, India,
China, Laos, and Thailand, contributing to its strategic
geopolitical position in the region.
II. Historical Context
Colonial Legacy:Myanmar endured British colonial rule
until gaining independence in 1948, leaving lasting
impacts on its governance and societal structures.
Military Rule: Decades of military dictatorship
characterised by human rights violations, political
repression, and ethnic conflicts have significantly shaped
Myanmar's modern history.
Democratic Transition: In 2011, Myanmar began its
transition towards democracy, culminating in the historic
2015 general elections and the formation of a civilian-
led government under the National League for
Democracy (NLD).
III. Current Political Landscape
Government Structure:Myanmar operates under a
parliamentary system, with a President serving as the
head of state and a State Counsellor as the de facto
leader.
Ethnic Diversity: Myanmar is home to a diverse range of
ethnic groups, each with unique cultural identities and
historical grievances.
Challenges to Stability: Persistent ethnic tensions,
political instability, and socioeconomic disparities pose
significant challenges to Myanmar's democratic
transition and national reconciliation efforts.
IV. Myanmar's Role in Global Security
Regional Dynamics: Myanmar maintains diplomatic
relations with neighboring countries and actively
participates in regional organizations such as ASEAN to
address common security concerns.
International Engagement: Myanmar engages with the
international community through multilateral platforms
like the United Nations to promote peace, security, and
development.
Peacekeeping Contributions: Myanmar contributes
troops to UN peacekeeping missions, underscoring its
commitment to global security efforts and peacebuilding
initiatives.
V. Protecting Civilians in Armed Conflicts:
Challenges and Solutions
International Legal Framework: Explore key
international legal instruments, including the Geneva
Conventions and UN Security Council resolutions, that
govern the protection of civilians in armed conflicts.
Humanitarian Principles: Emphasise the principles of
humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence in
humanitarian action, guiding efforts to alleviate suffering
and protect vulnerable populations.
Challenges: Discuss the multifaceted challenges in
protecting civilians during armed conflicts, such as
indiscriminate violence, displacement, access to
humanitarian aid, and accountability for violations of
international humanitarian law.
Solutions: Propose comprehensive strategies for
enhancing the protection of civilians, including conflict
prevention, peacekeeping operations, humanitarian
assistance, and transitional justice mechanisms.
VI. Myanmar's Perspective and Policy
Recommendations
Ethnic Reconciliation: Myanmar's perspective on
addressing ethnic conflicts and promoting inclusive
dialogue and reconciliation processes to foster lasting
peace and stability.
Humanitarian Assistance: Highlight Myanmar's efforts
to provide humanitarian assistance to conflict-affected
communities, emphasizing the importance of
international cooperation and coordination in delivering
aid effectively.
Policy Recommendations: Offer concrete policy
recommendations and diplomatic initiatives to
strengthen the protection of civilians in armed conflicts,
both domestically and within the broader international
community.
VII. Conclusion
In conclusion, Myanmar's engagement in the United Nations
Global Security Committee presents a unique opportunity to
address the critical issue of protecting civilians in armed
conflicts. By understanding Myanmar's historical context,
current challenges, and policy priorities, delegates can work
collaboratively to develop holistic solutions that promote
peace, security, and human rights on a global scale.
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