International Model United Nations on Trade for Peace



 Integration of Peace and Trade

 The genesis of the Trade for Peace (T4P) Programme can be traced back to the establishment of the G7+ WTO Accessions Group during the 11th WTO Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires in December 2017. Initially comprising nine least-developed countries (LDCs) aspiring to join the WTO, this group aimed to facilitate the integration of fragile and conflict-affected economies into the global trading system.

The overarching objective of the Trade for Peace Programme is to support nations in transitioning from fragility or conflict to stability and economic prosperity. It operates through four key pillars:

1.     Political Engagement and Partnerships

 Under this pillar, initiatives like Future Leaders aim to amplify youth engagement in trade and peace discussions, recognizing the pivotal role of young voices in shaping the future. Through dialogue and action channels, youth are provided platforms to voice their experiences and innovative ideas, fostering partnerships with organizations for on-the-ground implementation.

2.     Outreach and Public Dialogue

This pillar focuses on incorporating diverse perspectives into the discourse on trade for peace. Through public outreach events and platforms like the Trade for Peace Podcast, the programme invites input from all stakeholders interested in the intersection of trade and peace.

3.     Research

The T4P Programme prioritizes generating tangible outputs to deepen understanding of the trade-peace nexus. Initiatives such as the Research and Knowledge Hub and the Trade for Peace Index, developed in collaboration with institutions like the Institute for Economics and Peace, aim to provide insights into the relationship between trade and peace, informing policy and decision-making.

4.     Training and Capacity Building

 This pillar aims to equip practitioners in trade and peacebuilding with the necessary knowledge and skills to leverage trade and economic integration for inclusive and sustainable peace. By bringing together experts from various fields, the programme fosters a learning environment to harness trade as a tool for peace promotion.

Through strategic partnerships with international organizations, private sector entities, civil society organizations, and academic institutions, the Trade for Peace Programme seeks to leverage collective expertise and resources towards its overarching goal of fostering peace and prosperity through trade. By addressing the unique challenges faced by LDCs and fragile states, the programme endeavors to contribute to a more inclusive and resilient global trading system.

JSS Law College and Trade for Peace 

 In alignment with the themes of Trade for Peace and in the spirit of empowering youth voices, the JSS Law College (Autonomous), in collaboration with the Institute of Legal and Policy Research (Virtual NGO), proudly announces the successful organization of the first-ever virtual International Model United Nations Conference on Trade for Peace. With a focus on the agenda of "Integration of Trade and Peace in Conflict-Affected States," this conference served as a platform for students from diverse backgrounds to come together and engage in meaningful deliberations.

Amidst the backdrop of the Trade for Peace initiative initiated virtually by the WTO in November 2022, our conference took place on March 15, 2024, marking a significant step towards fostering dialogue and understanding on the crucial nexus between trade and peace in conflict-affected regions.

 The conference, held from 2 pm to 6 pm, brought together enthusiastic young minds from various institutions, echoing the ethos of the WTO Future Leaders initiative. It aimed to shed light on the challenges faced by youth living in fragile and conflict-affected states while providing them with a platform to voice their experiences and share innovative ideas. Simulating the structure and proceedings of the World Trade Organization, the conference delved into the multifaceted dynamics of trade and its potential role in peacebuilding and sustainable development. Participants engaged in rigorous debates, negotiations, and policy discussions, exploring the complexities and opportunities inherent in integrating trade mechanisms within conflict-affected contexts.

Throughout the conference, emphasis was placed on fostering constructive dialogue and collaboration, mirroring the principles of partnership and engagement championed by the Trade for Peace Programme. By harnessing the collective intellect and passion of young leaders, the conference aimed to generate actionable insights and recommendations to advance the goals of trade for peace. As we reflect on the outcomes of this historic event, we are filled with optimism for the future. The participation and commitment demonstrated by the delegates reaffirm the importance of youth engagement in shaping the trajectory of trade and peacebuilding efforts globally. Moving forward, we remain steadfast in our commitment to amplifying youth voices and driving positive change in conflict-affected regions through the transformative power of trade for peace.

 Background Guide 

In this millennium, a significant challenge for the WTO will be not just aiding the economic growth of impoverished nations but also supporting their transition from fragility to economic success. It's worth noting that more than two-thirds of WTO members are classified as developing or least developed countries (LDCs).[1] The multilateral trading system faces significant challenges due to fragility, instability, and weak economic systems. While the WTO can support economies by extending transition periods to fulfill commitments, it cannot bring peace to fragile states like Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria, and Sudan. In 2017, the WTO launched a program aimed at achieving its objectives through political engagement, public dialogue, research, and capacity building.[2]

The WTO has traditionally focused on the relationship between trade and peace, but most of its members have not actively engaged in its peace program. This Model UN conference assesses how trade and peace are integrated within the WTO's framework. Unlike preferential trade deals, which are not addressed here, the conference aims to highlight the opportunity costs of certain rules in terms of enforceable WTO law. In doing so, it seeks to analytically differentiate between the peace-oriented and trade-oriented approaches of multilateral trading systems. The WTO  must adopt a more direct approach to address the complex realities faced by conflict-affected states such as Afghanistan. This approach entails engaging with all relevant parties, including those not formally recognised by certain governments, in dialogues and negotiations. By involving all stakeholders, including conflicting parties, the WTO can play a crucial role in facilitating peace negotiations and fostering inclusive economic development.

Themes

The conference will focus on various aspects of trade in conflict-affected states, aiming to enhance economic stability and peacebuilding efforts. Discussions will revolve around reducing trade barriers and promoting free trade to stimulate economic growth. Humanitarian trade will be emphasised, ensuring the smooth flow of aid and essential goods in conflict zones, while preventing their misuse. The role of trade in reconciliation and confidence-building among conflicting parties will also be explored, highlighting its potential as a peacebuilding tool. Additionally, the conference will address transitional justice mechanisms, emphasising how trade can support these processes and address the economic grievances of conflict victims. Private sector engagement will be encouraged, with a focus on its role in post-conflict reconstruction and development through trade investments and partnerships.

Objectives

1.     Evaluate the effectiveness of WTO programs aimed at promoting economic development and peace in conflict-affected states.

2.     Discuss ways to enhance political engagement, outreach, dialogue, research, and capacity building to support peace-building efforts through trade.

3.     Explore the role of the WTO in facilitating peace negotiations and conflict resolution in fragile states.

4.     Examine the relationship between trade rules and peace-building efforts, particularly in the context of enforceable WTO law.

5.     Address challenges and opportunities for integrating trade and peace approaches in multilateral trading systems.

Expected Outcomes

1.     A comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for promoting peace through trade in conflict-affected states.

2.     Policy recommendations for the WTO and its member states to enhance the effectiveness of trade policies in supporting peace-building efforts.

3.     Increased awareness among WTO members of the importance of integrating trade and peace approaches in multilateral trading systems.

 Rules of Procedure

The committee will follow the standard rules of procedure of the WTO, including the use of parliamentary procedure, points of order, and the submission of formal proposals (resolutions) for debate and adoption.

 Additional Information

1.     The committee will have access to expert briefings and resources on trade, peace-building, and conflict resolution.

2.     Delegates are encouraged to conduct thorough research and engage in diplomatic negotiations to achieve consensus on proposed solutions.

This agenda aims to address the complex relationship between trade and peace in conflict-affected states, highlighting the role of the WTO in promoting economic development and stability through trade policies and programs.

 The Flow of Debate

In a Model UN conference, the procedure is crucial for the effective conduct of debates and decision-making. After roll call, delegates can submit motions, such as the Motion to Set the Agenda, which requires a 2/3 majority vote.  Once the agenda is set, delegates can propose the Motion to Open the Speakers’ List, typically approved unanimously, followed by setting the Speaker’s Time, usually between 60 and 90 seconds per delegate. The flow of debate in a traditional Model UN conference follows a structured process that allows for formal and informal discussions on various topics.

Roll Call

 The Chairperson calls out each country's name, and delegates respond with "present" or "present and voting" to indicate their presence.

General speaker list

Formal debate (Formal debate revolves around the speakers' list. Each speaker can speak maximum for 90 seconds)

"Delegates of India/ Brazil/ USA/UK/ Germany, wish to raise a motion for the establishment of a general speaker list."

 Moderated caucus, (Each speaker can speak maximum for 60 seconds)

Syntax

"Delegates of India/ Brazil/ USA/UK/ Germany, wish to suspend formal debates and propose a motion for moderated caucuses on the topic TRADE FOR PEACE IN THE CONFLICT AFFECTED STATES,’ for a time period of 20 minutes per speaker, with a total time of 60 seconds."

Unmoderated caucus, (In an unmoderated caucus, the delegates informally meet with other delegates for discussions) followed by passing the resolution

Closing debate

"Delegates of India/ Brazil/ USA/UK/ Germany, propose a motion to adjourn the meeting and move for voting."

Drafting Resolution   (with the requisite number of sponsors and signatories is submitted to the dais for approval and once approved becomes a draft resolution)

Friendly amendments: Friendly amendments are changes or revisions made to the draft resolution that is approved by all sponsors.

Unfriendly amendments: Unfriendly amendments are not supported by all sponsors and must be voted on by the committee.

Preambulatory clauses:

These clauses are substantive, begin a resolution and cannot be amended. Preambulatory clauses provide an overview of the problem and remind member states of past actions taken on the issue.

Operative clauses

These clauses contain the real content and action of a resolution and can be amended. 

How to Write a Resolution?

A resolution is the primary outcome of a committee's work in a Model UN conference, aiming to "resolve" the problem at hand. It serves as the UN's decision-making document, crafted collaboratively by Member States. Resolutions serve two main purposes: to determine the UN's actions regarding the issue and to recommend or request actions from individual Member States to address the problem. Resolutions adhere to a specific format, consisting of three main sections: the header, the preamble, and the operative section.

The Header

Committee: Identifies the committee you represent.

Topic: States the topic under discussion.

Sponsors: Lists the main authors who wrote the resolution.

Signatories: Includes delegates who want the resolution introduced for debate, though they may not support its content.

The Preamble

Sets the scene for the resolution, explaining why it's being written and the issue's significance.

Can reference past UN resolutions, treaties, and international actions related to the topic.

Begins each paragraph with "preambular phrases," italicised in the resolution and ending in a comma.

The Operatives:

Determine the UN's action on the issue, such as funding solutions or requesting actions from Member States. Start with italicised operative phrases, are numbered, and end in a semicolon, except the final operative, which ends in a period. If an operative is broken into sub-operatives, use a colon to introduce them, starting with lowercase letters.

Operative Phrases

Begin operative paragraphs, should be italicised, and include phrases like.

 Therefore, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the issues at hand, offering a bird's eye view of the challenges and opportunities related to the agenda. It is designed to help you understand the complexities of the topic and to serve as a starting point for your research. As you prepare for the conference, we encourage you to delve deeper into the themes and sub-themes raised in the guide, and to explore additional resources to enhance your understanding. We are confident that your dedication and hard work will contribute to meaningful discussions and the development of innovative solutions. We wish you all the best in your preparations and look forward to welcoming you to the conference.

Key Dignitaries:

Chief Patron

Prof. K.S Suresh

Chief Executive

JSS Law College, Autonomous

New Kantharaje Urs Road, Kuvempunagar,

Mysuru, Karnataka, India 570023.

Website: https://jsslawcollege.in

Email: suresh@jsslawcollege.in


Patron

Dr. S Nataraju

Principal

JSS Law College, Autonomous

New Kantharaje Urs Road, Kuvempunagar,

Mysuru, Karnataka, India 570023.

Website: https://jsslawcollege.in

Email: principal@jsslawcollege.in

 

Chief Guest

Shri. Venugopal Padavu

Associate Director, International Affairs,

 St. Joseph University, Bengaluru, India

Web: https://www.sju.edu.in/sjuoiacontactus

Former, esteemed Senior Director ICCR, Bangalore

Indian Council for Cultural Relations

Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India

https://www.iccr.gov.in/regionalcenter/bengaluru

 

Guest of Honour

Prof. Daniel Hamilton Fernandes de Lima

Professor of Law,

Faculdade Princesa do Oeste, Crateús, Ceará,

Rua Zacarias Carlos de Melo, 1000, São Vicente,

Crateús-CE, 63700-190- Brazil

Website: https://fpo.edu.br/

 

 Coordinator,

Mr. S.Q. Hashimy

CEO and Founder,

Institute of Legal and Policy Research,

 (Virtual NGO)

Website: www.ilpraf.org

Email: info@ilpraf.org


Ms. Madhura Mohan Nikalje

Secretary - General

Model United Nations Conference &

Advocate of Delhi High Court

Delhi, India

  

Judges

Mr. Jally Willy Mongo

Faculty of Law

Department of Public and Private Law

University Of Iringa, Tanzania

Website: https://www.uoi.ac.tz/

 

Mr. Jackson Simango Magoge

Advocate of the High Court of Tanzania &

Assistant Lecturer in Law,

National Institute of Transport – Tanzania

Web: https://www.nit.ac.tz/

 

Nyamwero Bwire Nyamwero

Advocate of the High Court of Tanzania &

Assistant Lecturer in Law

Mzumbe University

Web: https://site.mzumbe.ac.tz/


 

































End Notes 

[1] Daneil Bethlehem and others (eds), The Oxford Handbook of International Trade Law (First, Oxford University Press 2009) 482.

[2] ‘WTO | Accessions - Trade for Peace’ (World Trade Organisation) <https://www.wto.org/english/thewto_e/acc_e/tradeforpeace_e.htm> accessed 26 August 2023; ‘WTO | A Trade for Peace Perspective on Women’s Empowerment in Fragile and Conflict-Affected States’ <https://www.wto.org/english/thewto_e/acc_e/tfp_3103202313_e/tfp_3103202313_e.htm> accessed 26 August 2023.

Sources:

JSSLC & ILPR (2024) International Model United Nations on Harmonizing Trade for Peace [March 15]: Register by March 13, lawctopus.com. Available at: https://www.lawctopus.com/international-mun-harmonizing-trade-peace/  (Accessed: 16 March 2024).

JSSLC & ILPR (2024) International Model United Nations on Harmonizing Trade for Peace [March 15]: Register by March 13, latestlaws.com. Available at: https://www.latestlaws.com/fests-muns-and-other-competitions/international-model-united-nations-on-harmonizing-trade-for-peace-213251  (Accessed: 16 March 2024). 


 

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