“Surely we have a responsibility to leave for future generations a planet that is healthy and habitable by all species.” – David Attenborough
One of the key challenges which the world faces today is sustainable development. For hundreds of years, humans have exploited the riches of mother nature to advance themselves. In the wake of this advancement, all we can see is the destruction of our only home in this universe.
What is sustainable development?
Sustainable development is the organizing principle for meeting human development goals while at the same time sustaining the ability of natural systems to provide the natural resources and ecosystem services upon which the economy and society depends.
In simpler terms, sustainable development talks about development of society in such a manner that we can continue the same level of development without adversely harming nature by focusing on conservation of natural resources for the future generations of our species.
Why do we need to focus on sustainable development?
The natural resources which our planet provides are limited in quantity. These natural resources are essential for the sustenance of human society.
A species primary goal is surviving and thriving (Note: Not just surviving). To do so, it is essential that we are mindful of the future. This quote will put things into perspective
“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.” – Chief Seattle
The agenda for the United Nations General Assembly in SYNCHRONISMUN 2019 is
Promotion of Sustained Economic Growth and development in accordance with the previous UN resolutions.
First time delegates are advised to keep in mind the following research methodology while preparing for the committee agenda. (It is just a guideline)
- Tier 1: Government, International Organizations (UN, IMF, World Bank, Interpol etc.)
- Tier 2: Recognized non-governmental institutions such as Amnesty International, Human Rights watch etc.
- Tier 3: Media houses like British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), National Geographic, Reuters, Al Jazeera (Not for Middle-eastern issues) etc.
- Tier 4: Other sources. Media houses like Republic TV, Times Now etc. fall in this category.
- Tier 5: Wikipedia
Which previous resolutions should you consider for this agenda? A few examples are mentioned below
- Paris Agreement
- Future We Want
- Transforming our world: the 2030 agenda for sustainable development
Why this agenda?
The primary issue with the resolutions has been enforcement of the same. Since UN resolutions are not binding on member states, the latter may not be compelled to follow the resolution except out of their own conscience.
It has become imperative that a resolution has brought up which will ensure that the provisions of the previous resolutions are enforced. Otherwise, the lack of enforcement will harm nature and the future of our species.
What should the UNGA come up with in the resolution?
Delegates are requested to keep in mind that these are just guidelines and are not to be taken as ‘hard and fast rules‘
- Close and stringent monitoring of the performance of countries.
- An enforcement Agency for enforcing the provisions.
- Appropriate actions for addressing non-compliant countries.
- Designating roles between developed and developing countries. (Common but differentiated responsibilities)
I hope this has allowed you to gain a perspective on the agenda to help you prepare for it. The study guide (yet to be released) will contain in-depth research on the agenda. This is just a primer to get you started.
If you have any queries regarding the agenda, please send an email to themusingin@gmail.com
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