Study Guide

UNDP (United Nations Development Programme)

TOPIC 1: NILE RIVER DISPUTE AND DEVELOPMENT OF NORTH EAST AFRICAN STATES

INTRODUCTION TO THE COMMITTEE

UNDP is a UN body that serves 170 countries and is an integral part of the UN.The UNDP's operations
are broadly divided into three areas: sustainable development, democratic governance, and
peacebuilding; and climate and disaster resilience.The UNDP's mandate is to promote cooperation
and development by fostering dialogue between countries in conflict.The UNDP is confronted with
the challenge of devising strategies for a post-conflict region while maintaining stakeholders'
engagement. A developmental strategy that balances political, social, and economic measures
against each other must be in place.Despite the fact that other UN agencies have a direct role in
resolving conflicts, the UNDP's belief is that development is essential for maintaining peace and
prosperity in conflict.

A GLIMPSE AT THE ISSUE

As climate change intensifies, the Nile dispute has become more complex, with competing states in
power vying for control of resources such as water, food, and energy.The relationship between
Ethiopia and Egypt has been further complicated by the construction of the Grand Ethiopian
Renaissance Dam (GERD), a non-consumptive hydropower project on the Nile that is currently being
run by Ethiopia.The conflict is not limited to material resources, but also encompasses the shared
identity of both countries. Cairo has argued that with the implementation of GERD in 2011, it could
jeopardize Egyptian and regional stability, particularly water security.In contrast, Ethiopia asserts that
the GERD is not concerned with security but with development.Despite the various claims, it is
evident that the Nile conflict is driven by the desire of both sides to maintain ontological stability and
to preserve the identity of their respective states.The GERD project risks jeopardizing Egypt's
constructed world that regards the Nile as an indefatigable entity that is intertwined with its history,
culture, and civilizational identity. As a result, the project's impact could prompt Egyptians to
reimagine their national character due to the influence of the River Nile.The issue was a concern for
Cairo, which opposed the project when Ethiopia announced it in 2011.Ethiopia's decision to divert
the river for dam construction in 2013 intensified tensions, with some Egyptian groups believing that
it may be a symbolic gesture by Ethiopia.Both material and non-material security are being
prioritized by Addis Ababa.Despite its physical infrastructure that generates electricity, the GERD is
also a symbol of solidarity in Ethiopia when faced with poverty and perceived isolation.The
sovereignty project is portrayed as comparable to the victory of Ethiopia over Italy at the battle of
Adwa in 1896, which is not a foreign aggression but overcoming an internal enemy with extreme
poverty.The Nile's status as a river that steals Ethiopia'S precious resources was altered by the GERD,
leading to its transformation into viewed as crucial for development.The river that was once a source
of division is now being utilized by the ruling elite to unite the population under 'the new Ethiopia'
socially constructed with the GERD at the center, and this identity conflict extends beyond Egypt and
Ethiopia.Ethiopia frames the dam as an African project, since the river is shared among 11 African
states and some believe the GERD helps with Africa's green transition.In contrast, Egypt interprets
the same developments as posing a risk to Ara b water security.The debate over the GERD is not
solely focused on the material aspects of resource

security.It is also a clash between Egypt's ancient Nile-centered identity and Ethiopia's developing
new one.
THE NILE RIVER BASIN - LIFELINE OF EGYPT
The Nile River Basin, which is the largest river basin in the world, accounts for roughly 10% of the
African continent's area.With its south-northern course, the Nile is both the longest and only major
river on Earth.It travels 6695 km through 11 East African countries and the highlands of Ethiopia,
crossing over equatorial lakes. The Nile basin is home to Lake Victoria, the second largest lake in the
world, and some areas can extend up to 30,000 kilometers due to the Sudd swamps in South Sudan
during the rain season.Burundi, Eritrea, Tanzania, DR Congo, Kenya, Egypt, Rwanda and South Sudan
have one of the oldest dams in the world, making it an area with cultural significance.The birthplace
of ancient civilization.The Egyptian civilization, Kush civilization in northern Sudan, Aksum civilization
near Ethiopia, and Buganda in Congo are among the oldest and most culturally rich civilizations in the
world.Moreover, the area is now ethnically, religiously and culturally diverse with many major world
religions (Christmas, Islam, Judaism) practicable here as well as other major languages and cultures
including English/Arabic/French or German/English speaking countries along with plenty of
indigenous cultures and languages.The cultural, ecological, and historically significant Nile Basin is
currently experiencing a variety of challenges and problems.It is one of the world's poorest countries,
with 9 out of 15 nations having a dense population. The current population is 280 million, but it is
expected to rise to 500 million by 2050 due to its dense settlement.It is also impacted by
vulnerability to climate change and landscape damage.Climate change leads to ongoing conflicts
both inside and outside that destroy everything.Ten of the eleven countries in the Nile basin have
been at war with some since 1994.Despite being the longest, the Nile's water flow is significantly
slower and less efficient than other major water systems due to ongoing conflict.With a volume of
only 2%, the Amazon river flows at 65 times its normal rate, which is equivalent to just 2 percent.In
the Nile Basin, there are 11 countries and 280 million people from the region.Based on colonial
treaties, which will be discussed in greater detail below, the division of Nile's 84 billion cubic meter
water currently held by Egypt and Sudan results in a 66% ownership share, while only 12% is lost due
to evaporation.Despite contributing to the Nile's flow in Aswan, Ethiopia has not participated in the
split.Egypt, despite having minimal rainfall and no water supply, utilizes a significant portion of Nile
water. This is unusual because lower-ranking countries tend to use more water and contribute less
than higher-ranked ones to its flow.No other shared water courses in the world have a comparable
situation.Sudan and South Sudan share a confluence of rivers that create Nile, with five of them
being of significance: the Blue Niles, White Nimes, Sobats, and Atbara.Despite being considered
equal tributaries, the Blue and White Nile are not.The equatorial lakes' White Nile makes up only
14% of the total flow, as 66% of it is lost in the Sudd.The Ethiopian plateau is the origin of the
majority of Nile's water, with the Blue, Sobat, and Atbara contributing 86%.The sudden flow triggers
frequent flooding in Sudan and transports sediments due to soil erosion in the Ethiopian highlands,
while addressing the issue of the Nile's distribution among basin nations.For instance, the Nile basin
is home to 96% of Egypt's population and contains 10% of its lands. In contrast, Uganda will have
only 8% of these same landes.In contrast, Sudan had 66% of the Nile basin and 85% of its population
lived in it, which is significantly higher than the current situation after the partition.The equitable
distribution of Nile water must consider the population and land distribution in their respective
basins.Sudan and other countries have a significant basin area, while Rwanda has 80% of the basin
and less than 1% of it.As depicted in the table below, the 11 riparians in this Nile basin have different
stakes and perspectives on water distribution, depending on

various geopolitical factors.Some regions, such as Kenya and Tanzania, have moderate stakes, while
others, like the riparians' interest in Nile, are further complicated by the region's colonial past.

HISTORICAL CONTEXT

The knots that were established during this era are now used as treaties, leading to countries
reaching a dead end when they attempt to resolve the complex legal questions.Therefore, treaties
serve as obstacles to achieving just solutions and collaboration among all parties. The Nile is unique
in having the most ancient and contentious treaty versions, none of which have been agreed upon by
all riparians.The basin countries are divided on each issue.Three are of utmost significance.1902,
1929 and 1959.In 1902 and 1929, Great Britain, as the colonial power, negotiated bilateral deals with
Egypt and Sudan to distribute Nile waters, which are now considered "colonial" treaties and all
current disputes on this issue are transferred to them.Great Britain's 1902 Treaty with Ethiopia
delineated the boundary between Sudan and Ethiopia, but it also gave Britain veto power over
projects related to Eastern Nile (Blue Niles).The absence of approval from Britain for Ethiopia's Nile
project means that Egypt denies its success in the treaty, while Ethiopia claims that the agreement
was not ratified by any of the organs and therefore is not valid.The GERD dispute is centered around
Egypt's defense of the 1902 agreement and its authorization to build a dam on the Blue Nile.On the
contrary, Ethiopia denies it as a colonial matter that was not ratified in the 1929 Agreement between
Great Britain and Egypt regarding the division of Nile waters between Egypt and Sudan.The 1902
treaty was upheld by Egypt, who acknowledged its natural and historical right over the Nile and
exercised veto power over projects in Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanganyika (now Tanzania).The
1902 and 1929 treaties between Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania are the main points of contention
regarding water distribution in the Nile basin, as they all reject it.These two treaties, specifically
GERD, are the root cause of all current disputes.In 1959, Egypt and Sudan entered into a bilateral
treaty, which was complicated.Sudan and Egypt signed a bilateral Treaty in 1959 to share the Nile
Waters flow at Aswan, with the exception of evaporation.Egypt and Sudan were to review the claims
of other Nile basin countries regarding their water resources and jointly decide on the allocation of
water to each country.A joint committee would oversee any amounts that are not more than the
amount that was agreed upon. Additionally, it was decided that any future additions to the Nile
waters from South Sudan's swamps would be divided between two states.The Nile basin's disputes
persisted despite the importance of colonial treaties, as evidenced by the following.Following the
1959 treaty, Egypt and Sudan asserted their natural right to the Nile waters. However, other basin
nations were not accepting these colonial documents that were unjust and contrary to international
law.The request was for a just distribution of Nile and their share in its waters.In the 1990s, the
situation changed when Nile basin nations came to an agreement on some amicable arrangements
for equal distribution of Niles water and established the NiLE Basin Initiative in 1991.The Para 411 to
417- contains the minutes of appreciation and requirements for utilizing Nile waters by all nations, as
well as acknowledging it as a shared resource.The emphasis is on the just use of Nile and the absence
of harm to others.A joint technical committee is recommended as it aligns with the UN convention
and international water law.The Ethiopia Egypt Framework for regional cooperation, which was
established in 1993, stipulates that the Nile waters should be consulted by experts and avoid
potential harm.In addition to highlighting the necessity for frequent consultation.Consequently,
there are significant similarities between the two agreements, where Egypt and Sudan for the first
time relinquished colonial and bilateral treaties on the use of Nile in an equitable manner. Although
these agreements are seldom debated, they did result in the establishment of the Niles Basin
Initiative.In Dar-essalaam, Tanzania, on February 22, 1999, the Nile Basin Initiative

(NBI) was officially launched with the signature of Ministers of Water Resources from Nine riparian
countries. The initiative aims to achieve sustainable socioeconomic development by utilizing and
benefiting from water resources.The primary aspect of the agreement was the recognition of all
states' rights on the Nile, which meant that it should have ceased the colonial treaties and the
control of Egypt and Sudan over the waters. The main objective of NBI was to finalize a
comprehensive treaty framework agreement.The institution was made up of the Nile Council of
Ministers, Niile Technical Advisory Committee, and NBI Secretariat (Nile-SEC). However, negotiations
on the framework agreement, known as The Niles Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement, began
in 1999 after ambitious goals.Egypt and Sudan requested references to existing rights and uses of
Nile water from the UN Convention, which had been discussed for ten years before finalization, and
included notification provisions.The year 2009 saw a deadlock on three key issues, which were the
current situation in relation to water security, the existing uses and rights of Egypt and Sudan, prior
notification of projects and planned measures, and the amendment to the CFA's draft decision.The
signing of CFA by Ethiopia took place in June 2013, and the same country followed with Tanzania's
endorsement in March 2015.No statement was made by the Democratic Republic of Congo.To enter
into effect, six countries must ratify CFA.It's not clear yet how.

GERD- TO BE OR NOT TO BE?

The CFA situation was at a standstill as Egypt and Sudan opposed its implementation and had
strained relationships with the participating nations. Ethiopia's ambitious construction of the Grand
Ethiopian Renaissance Dam GERD was subsequently announced.Yet, it initiated a new
disagreement.The distribution of Nile water was a point of pride and prosperity for Ethiopia, but no
consensus was reached on the matter.The dam was a symbol of its autonomy, as it owned its water,
land, and dam.What motivates Egypt to seek colonial treaties that prioritize the interests of its own
nation, while simultaneously using them to resist a potential invasion?As the situation intensified,
war broke out within minutes between the two countries. The United States joined in and held
discussions with both of their allies to resolve the issue.Despite delays, the construction of the dam
continued.On March 23, 2015, the Agreement on Declaration of Principle DOP regarding GERD was
one of the agreements that recognized Ethiopia's right to use water for development.The December
28, 2015, Khartoum Document further solidified it and is now in its final stages, with a completion
date set for sometime in 2023.The Nile basin and the dam are subject to numerous significant
inquiries.During the January 2011 revolution in Egypt, Ethiopia initiated the construction of GERD
when it was announced in March 2011.It was originally scheduled to be finished by 2017, but it has
since been rescheduled and is expected to become fully operational by 2023. This dam is the largest
in Africa, and the tenth largest globallyWith a height of 170 meters, it is situated only 20 km from
Sudanese borders.The lake's water volume measures 75 BCM in comparison to the Nile' 84 BC/y
flow.Given its vast water storage capacity, Egypt was concerned about the time required to fill the
dam. This situation highlights the importance of agreements that set a time limit for dam filling, as
Egypt prioritizes delaying the process and Ethiopia is focused on fill it early with the potential to
generate 6450 megawatts of electricity, which can be useful both domestically and internationally.A
total of 16 turbines, each with a capacity of 375 megawatts will cost an estimated $5 billion.Salini
company from Italy is being constructed, while the Chinese are constructing transmission lines and
the Europeans are providing mechanical equipment.The funding is sourced from Ethiopia's domestic
resources and public-funded bonds.Due to the difficulty of borrowing, Ethiopia has not relied on
it.The only means of survival were themselves and the public.The killing of Simegnew Bekele
triggered a public outcry, prompting Ethiopia to launch 'nation wide' drives for collecting money.He
became a national hero during

his campaign for the dam.This dam will not only supply Ethiopia with electricity, but also provide an
extra 2000 MW of electricity that can be exported to neighboring countries facing energy
shortages.Its objective is to create a commercial network in the surrounding areas that promotes
employment and boosts the economy.The project will involve the distribution of electricity generated
and the division of water resource stress.The 75 billion cubic meter capacity of GERD is evidently
significant for a system similar to Nile's water flow, which is 84 billion cubes per year. Furthermore,
how long does it need to be filled before it becomes problematic?How long will it take for the dam to
be filled and how will this process change during drought, given the 8 billion cubic meter of water
from the Nile?In addition, it needs to ensure that Nile flow continues during droughts and has a
preference for purchasing electricity from GERD. Ethiopia, on the other hand, wants to fill the dam
within three years to cater to the electricity demands of its population, who are currently dependent
on electricity.To earn 550 $ by vending 2000 MW of surplus energy generated by the GERD.The best
option for Egypt is to repay the money borrowed through bonds and enter a new phase of
prosperity.Therefore, the advantage of one person is equivalent to the disadvantage of another.There
are efforts underway to reach a consensus on resolving the issue.According to experts, the filling of
the dam is subject to certain conditions.

FIRST

SECOND

THIRD

FOURTH

FIFTH

GERD’S IMPACT ON EMPLOYMENT

The GERD may create employment opportunities for Ethiopians, but it has the potential to harm
Egyptian citizens as most of the country is dependent on agriculture.The GERD's storage of 74 billion
m3 and its hydroelectric power production capacity of approximately 6000 megawatts will be
extremely beneficial for Ethiopia.The significance of GERD in Ethiopia lies in its ability to create jobs,
as it will benefit low-skilled laborers who cannot work at the factory.Construction not only benefits
the workers, but also creates jobs for professional workers who contribute to the national
economy.Besides the Dam, hydroelectric power generation can also generate thousands of jobs in
Ethiopia through income

opportunities.Maintaining the power generation facilities is a continuous and ongoing process that
will require many workers.The transmission lines will be a source of income for the people living
there.Moreover, the creation of electricity would be crucial and transform Ethiopia's lifestyle.
Electricity could also boost the productivity of industries across all regions.By providing electricity to
rural areas, small-scale industries can expand and create opportunities for the youth.The Dam's
construction can also contribute to the country' monetary gains, as it will enhance road accessibility
for the local population. Furthermore, the most significant hydropower project in Africa is expected
to become a popular tourist destination due to its profound influence on the area.Hence, the arrival
of tourists and working professionals will bring financial benefits to the communities.The Dam will
offer amenities such as food and lodging to tourists, while also attracting foreign investment due to
the attraction of reliable power and clean water.The construction of GERD in Ethiopia will save
money on building new canals and waterways, as it will cater to the population's needs.Dr Seleshi
Bekele, Ethiopia's former Minister of Water, Irrigation and Energy, referred to GERD as a people're
project during the media briefing at the UN Security Council meeting in July 2021.He pointed out
that roughly one-third of Ethiopia's population was below 30 years old, and it is crucial to fulfill this
need.According to the Ethiopian official, this project is of great importance and crucial nature for the
people of Ethiopia.However, these benefits should not be viewed as the only outcome of this project
Egypt has serious objections to due to its negative impact on Egyptian employment.Although the
building of GERD will affect agriculture, since the Nile is Egypt's primary water source for farmers, the
Dam will also have an effect on other areas of life.Egypt's reliance on agriculture for raw materials
and export has resulted in the automatic loss of jobs in other economic sectors. The negative
consequences of constructing the Dam must be thoroughly examined to achieve sustainable
development and economic success in Africa.

GERD’S EFFECT ON AGRICULTURE

Agriculture is at risk due to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam's construction, which poses a
significant threat to both countries.Egypt's irrigation needs are mostly fueled by the Nile' water.The
representatives must discuss the risks associated with this Dam in detail to address the concerns of
all parties involved.Ethiopia's reservoir filling of the Dam poses a significant risk to Egypt, as it
directly impacts the water flow in Egypt. The dam impounding will have an adverse effect on
agriculture and irrigation systems, leading to fewer active storage tanks for Lake Nasser.The water in
this reservoir is essential for the well-being of Egypt.The conflict will involve both Egypt and Sudan in
the waters of Lake Nasser.The impounding of GERD at normal flow cases for six, three, and two years
will lead to a reduction in the storage level of Lake Nasser by 1329 and 3726 billion cubic meters per
year, as Ethiopia must address concerns about the imposition of the Dam.To avoid any negative
impact on Egypt's livelihood, it is essential to engage in consultation with the government and agree
on rules for filling the reservoir. This will also require a discussion about operating rules related to
GERD during drought conditions without resorting to capitulation.The Aswan High Dam's water flow
will be impacted by the construction of the Dam in Ethiopia.The world's largest embankment dam,
AHD, is essential to Egypt for several reasons. A HD provides water to approximately 33,600 km2 of
agricultural land.It also serves Sudan and Egypt, providing flood control, power generation, and
improved navigation across the Nile.Egypt will face difficulties if the construction of GERD results in a
decrease in the water flow into AHD.Egypt's water share must be kept below 15% as this would pose
a significant risk to its citizens. Additionally, the construction of GERD would result in an increase by
59% and affect the water quality and quantity downstream of the Dam due to increased
salinity.Egypt's water supply will be depleted due

to evaporation.GERD's impact on Egypt' agriculture will be the most significant, with its direct
consequences for millions of Egyptians who depend on agriculture for their livelihood.The creation of
GERD will intensify sedimentation, leading to decreased agricultural productivity and soil fertility for
farmers.The construction of GERD is expected to cause a decrease of roughly 2977% in Upper Egypt's
agricultural land and another 2303% in the Delta.Unless practical policy solutions are implemented,
farmers will experience significant income losses due to the reduction in fertile land.Egypt's Foreign
Minister declared that the project poses an "existential threat" to Egypt.Egypt will face severe food
insecurity as a result of the loss of agricultural land.Despite the potential benefits, the GERD can also
offer Ethiopia a significant chance to tackle economic and social issues that are already being
addressed in the employment section of the report.GERD has the potential to address various issues
in Egypt, including flood control and water storage.The Dam could be a win-win situation for all
parties involved, including Egypt, if meaningful consultations are conducted.The mentioned dangers
and outcomes demonstrate the severity of the issue, and the extent to which Ethiopia must address
the potential hazards to the livelihoods of Egyptians.GERD's significant socioeconomic value to
Ethiopians and their right to develop water resources infrastructure must be recognized by Egypt in
return.Only serious and comprehensive consultations can address the issues in the region.

GERD'S IMPACT ON INDUSTRY

Although industry and employment are interdependent, they do not always have equal impact.While
Ethiopia's industry may result in job creation and employment, it is not the case in Egypt.The Dam's
electricity generation capacity will result in the emergence of small and large industries in Ethiopia,
which will create jobs and generate income for the population.The industry in Egypt will suffer from
various factors.Egypt's agriculture is a crucial source of raw materials for various industries.The need
for imports in Egypt will result in higher production costs due to the insufficient demand for
agricultural products.Moreover, there will be an overestimation of reduction in the exports.Egypt's
fisheries will also be significantly impacted by the Dam.The Nile's significance in agriculture and
industrial water supply has led to the creation of indirect effects on Sudan's industry, which may be
impacted by the GERD.

GERD’S EFFECT ON FOREIGN TRADE

The impact of GERD on foreign trade is not limited to African nations in the region due to the Nile
River Dispute.The impact of the GERD on Egypt's agriculture and industry is not only harmful to the
country but also has global consequences.The Suez Canal's location makes Egypt a crucial player in
World Trade, as well the stability of the African region.The Silk Road includes the Suez Canal, which
links Europe and Asia.Egypt is responsible for the security and operation of the canal, which plays a
significant role in global trade by transporting oil from Arab markets to Europe and beyond.The world
will be severely impacted if Egypt experiences water scarcity, which could result in foreign trade
disruptions.This conflict between the African Nations, the West, and USA is a result of their impact on
foreign trade.Addressing Egypt's concerns could lead to an unsustainable and democratic resolution
of the dispute, which could result in a global conflict.A peaceful resolution to the conflict can only be
achieved through consensus-based dialogue and democratic means.

ENSURING SECURITY AND STABILITY

It is crucial to maintain security and stability for the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). The
construction of the dam on the Nile River has caused tensions to rise among Ethiopia, Egypt, and
Sudan,
resulting in unrest and instability for all African nations along the entire Niles Basin.Egypt's worries
about the Nile River were exposed in leaked information by WikiLeaks in August 2010.Egypt's initial
action was to resolve the water dispute with Ethiopia through diplomatic means. The Sudanese
President granted Egypt permission to build an airbase that could target Ethiopia's water facilities.It
was also declared, "In the event of a crisis, we will deploy armed forces to bomb the dam and return
within 24 hours."The dam can be obstructed/smashed by sending our special forces.The military
option is not our current choice.Sudanese troops were dispatched to the border between Sudan and
Eritrea in February 2018, following the sighting of Erritan and Egyptian soldiers.At the same time that
presidents from Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan met in Addis Ababa to settle the GERD dispute.The
GERD's chief project manager, Simegnew Bekele died in July 2018.Various conspiracy theories were
proposed, with some suggesting that his death may have been orchestrated by Egypt to hinder the
GERD's progress, while others speculated that he would reveal corruption in the construction of the
pyramid. This led to demonstrations by numerous Ethiopians demanding justice for the murder of
Simegnew Bekele [15].Mr Simegnew was found to have committed suicide after a police
investigation.To maintain stability in the region, it is essential to secure the GERD through
cooperation, mediation and arbitration tactics, and treaties.An example of past collaboration
between member states along the Nile Basin is illustrated by the Nbri (Nile Caste) Initiative (NBI)
1999.The NBI aimed to achieve sustainable socio-economic development by utilizing and benefiting
from the Nile Basin's water resources. A comparable method could be employed in other areas to
unite member states and promote interdependence.The direct influence of each state will prompt
them to exercise caution.Additionally, this will act as a transitional agreement until more concrete
and binding arrangements can be established.When disputes arise, the next step is to engage in
mediation and arbitration, which can be both formal and informal.The World Bank, the USA, EU,
Switzerland [17], and any other entity that can arbitrate with caution, neutrality, and reach bilateral
agreements are suggested.A novel approach is to create treaties or agreements that are obligatory
for member states.To ensure peace in their region, states must establish specific guidelines that
include clauses to prevent military or other forms of interference, including direct or indirect
intervention in the internal affairs of other states, and damage to contentious project sites.It is
crucial to hold trilateral negotiations that re-establish good relations between Ethiopia, Egypt, and
Sudan, as well as all countries in the Nile basin to prevent potential conflicts and escalation.

SECURING FINANCIAL RESOURCES FOR THE GERD PROJECT

Two important points to remember when preparing for the GERD.The first step is to examine the
methods Ethiopia has employed to finance this initiative and assess the consequences of those
measures. Moreover, it provides insight into Ethiopia's struggles to secure aid due to the tensions in
the ongoing discussions about the GERD.GERD project is estimated to cost around 5 billion US dollars
and represents about 7 percent of Ethiopia's GNP for 2016.GERD: Ethiopia's government will pay for
it.The Ethiopian government intends to fund GERD through internal fundraising by the Ethiopian
people, and they have implemented targeted measures to attract funding from the diaspora.As of
2018, Ethiopia had sold bonds worth 56 million US dollars from its citizens living outside the
country.2.Ethiopian workers have been urged to purchase bonds and contribute to the construction
of this dam, while Ethiopia's citizens are also being charged taxes.The construction expenses were
covered by $48 billion in local taxes, contributions, and government bonds.3.The Ethiopian Electric
Power Corporation's revenue has been backed by state-owned banks to support the construction of
the GERD project.GERD is entirely supported by
Ethiopians and represents the Ethiopia's renaissance, as stated in a tweet by Fitsum Arega, the
Ambassador to the United States.Through the use of the GERD, the Ethiopian people can achieve
national unity and hope by seeing it as their way out of poverty. They are willing to contribute to the
creation of this organization.Apart from providing internal funding, China has also aided the
GERD.Chinese taxpayers have financed the hydropower infrastructure by contributing 18 billion US
dollars for electrical equipment and turbines.The United States has opted to cut off 100 million US
dollars in aid to Ethiopia in 2020 due to the strained negotiations about the Greater Goodness
Development (GERD) and the increasing tensions between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan.These
remaining funds could have been used for deals related to regional or border security, political
competition and consensus-building, and nutrition.The United States reinstated foreign aid to
Ethiopia in February 2021, during the Joe Biden administration, reversing the policy that had
previously linked aid with progress and stance on GERD negotiations.Ethiopia must maintain funding
for the GERD to finish its construction and reap economic benefits from the money it has issued in
bonds. Furthermore, negotiating policy agreements with all Nile-bordering countries is necessary to
ensure peace and prosperity in the region.

NILE WATER MANAGEMENT

Nile Water Management Considering the limited availability of water to the Nile River and the
dependence of developing nations on it, not only poses a threat but also creates danger.A harmful
dependence on the Nile River will result in widespread unemployment, illness, and starvation.Egypt
must now consider ways to preserve and utilize its economy, which heavily relies on the Nile River, by
limiting the use of the water supply to ensure sustainable utilization.Several policies can be
implemented to tackle this issue.A study conducted in 22 Egyptian cities found that RWH could be a
viable solution to water scarcity and flooding issues, as well as the management of storm
water.Based on the findings, the annual amount of rainwater collected in the cities studied can go up
to 142 if all that falls on metropolitan areas is collected.5 MCM.Greater Egypt is promoting storm
water management through pamphlets, workshops, and a web portal that showcases methods for
reducing nonpoint source pollution in urbanized areas.The utilization of available resources can be
maximized through desalination, either by evaporating seawater or using a semipermeable
membrane for filtering.By burning crude oil, excess energy is required for desalination, which leads
to the creation of greenhouse gases and negative environmental impacts.By utilizing the vast amount
of untapped solar energy in Egypt, future desalination programs can be powered by renewable
energy.Water conservation can also be achieved through demand management and water loss
reduction.The implementation of economic incentives, such as cutting or eliminating water subsidies
that encourage excessive and reckless drinking water, can be replaced with bills that cover full
expenses and concessions on water conservation practices.Moreover, encouraging the
implementation of water-saving technologies at all levels, from humble homes to large industrial
structures can contribute to this.The aim of this is to enable consumers to consume less water while
still preserving their current lifestyle, as water losses can occur at any stage of the water cycle,
including extraction, treatment, distribution, and usage.By implementing policies that ensure timely
response to leaks, pipe breaks, and illegal water usage and metering faults in order to minimize
losses.The reduction of water demand can be achieved through education and awareness campaigns,
school-based water conservation initiatives, radio and television broadcasts, and mail, seminar, or
newspaper advertising.The method can be integrated seamlessly into any demand management
strategy.Therefore, it is necessary for all Nile riparian states to implement policies and programs that
aim to minimize, reuse, and conserve the scarce and unpredictable water supply of the Niles River.
WAR AND PEACE

The conflict has created difficulties for other riparian nations who must now choose to intervene and
act as mediators. It is crucial for the international community to gain a comprehensive understanding
of past escalations and discussions to devise an acceptable and sustainable solution for all parties
involved.An agreement was reached between Egyptian President Abdel Fatah Al Sisi, Ethiopian Prime
Minister Hailemariam Desalegn and Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir in March 2015 to safeguard
Egypt's interest in the Nile River as the construction of GERD continues.Egypt's new stance was that
the agreement should prioritize Ethiopia's electric and economic necessities over continuing previous
accords.The two states were still in disagreement about the duration of filling the reservoir, the
environmental impact and severity of droughts that would result from a spill, leading to ongoing
conflicts over the logistics of the GERD.China's interests in Egypt and Ethiopia make it difficult for
them to fully support the other side in the dispute.As a component of China's Belt and Road
Initiative, Egypt has received $20 billion in loans, investments, and development projects, as well as
commitments to redevelop the Suez Economic Zone, construction of solar power plants, light rail
transportation systems, etc.Ethiopia's power lines and infrastructure have been extended through
loans from China.In February 2019, China signed a $113 million contract with Voith Hydro Shanghai,
which includes electrical, mechanical, civil, and structural work to complete the construction of the
generating station and spillways. This step is part of an effort to maintain strong political and
economic relations with Egypt and Ethiopia.Thus, it is in favor of a rapid resolution to the dispute and
the prompt completion of the dam project.The Arab League's request for the UN Security Council to
begin negotiations regarding a conflict between Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia was rejected by Ethiopia
in June 2021.Both warned that peace and stability in Africa would be at risk unless there was an
agreement.In a statement, Ethiopia expressed regret for the politicization of the GERD talks by Egypt
and Sudan to create an Arab issue.Only through good faith negotiations and compromise can the
Ethiopian-Egyptian conflict and African issues be resolved.The United States' unwavering leadership
in Africa and the Middle East is paving the way for a new era of stability and economic development
by April 2021, as evidenced by the recently concluded normalization agreements between Israel and
various Arab nations.The Biden administration must motivate Ethiopia to engage in a reasonable
level of discussion regarding the GERD and avoid making unilateral decisions that have hurt the
interests of other riparian nations.It is necessary for the global society to examine past actions and
agreements, identify areas where they have failed, address current issues, and create solutions that
are both sustainable for each individual country and the region.

Ultimately, Ethiopia and GERD find themselves at the very center of a renaissance for the entirety of
North East Africa. It is now not only a matter of employment or electricity for the Ethiopians, but
rather the migration of the north east african states from the global south.

Topic 2: POST WAR RECONSTRUCTION OF THE MIDDLE EAST

Introduction to the committee:

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is one of the six principal organs of the United
Nations and the only one in which all member states have equal representation. The UNGA
is the main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the UN. It oversees the
budget of the UN, appoints the non-permanent members of the Security Council, elects and
appoints the Secretary-General and other heads of UN agencies, receives reports from other
parts of the UN, and initiates studies on matters of international concern. The UNGA also
serves as a forum for multilateral discussion and cooperation on a wide range of issues, such
as peace and security, disarmament, human rights, development, humanitarian affairs,
international law and decolonization.

The UNGA meets in regular sessions from September to December each year and may
resume or hold special or emergency sessions as needed. The UNGA operates through its six
main committees, which specialize in different areas of work and report to the plenary. The
UNGA also has several subsidiary organs, such as the Human Rights Council, the
International Court of Justice and the UN Peacebuilding Commission. The UNGA adopts
resolutions by a majority vote of those present and voting, except on important questions
such as peace and security, admission of new members and budgetary matters, which
require a two-thirds majority. The resolutions of the UNGA are not legally binding, but they
carry moral authority and reflect the opinion of the international community.

History of the topic:

The history of post-war reconstruction in the Middle East is a complex and multifaceted
topic that involves political, social, cultural and economic dimensions. The region has seen
several conflicts and wars that have resulted in significant destruction of cultural heritage,
urban fabric and infrastructure, as well as displacement, trauma and loss of livelihoods for
millions of people. The Middle East has a long and rich history of empires and civilizations
that have shaped its cultural and religious diversity, as well as its geopolitical significance.
Some of the most influential historical empires and civilizations in the region are:

● The ancient Mesopotamian civilizations (Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, Assyria), which

emerged in the fertile land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, and developed
writing, law, mathematics, astronomy, and literature.

● The ancient Egyptian civilization, which flourished along the Nile River, and built
monumental pyramids, temples, and tombs, as well as a sophisticated system of
administration, art, and religion.
● The Persian Empire, which ruled over a vast territory from India to Egypt, and
established a centralized bureaucracy, a tolerant policy towards different cultures
and religions, and a legacy of architecture, literature, and philosophy.
● The Greek and Roman civilizations, which expanded their influence on the eastern
Mediterranean and parts of the Middle East, and introduced concepts of democracy,
philosophy, science, art, and literature to the region.
 ● The Islamic civilization, which emerged in the seventh century CE with the revelation
of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad in Mecca and spread across the Middle East
and beyond through conquests, trade, and missionary activities. The Islamic
civilization produced achievements in fields such as law, theology, philosophy,
science, medicine, art, architecture, and literature.
● The Ottoman Empire, which originated in Anatolia in the thirteenth century CE and
reached its peak in the sixteenth century CE under Suleiman the Magnificent. The
Ottoman Empire controlled most of the Middle East, as well as parts of Europe and
Africa. It was known for its multiculturalism, tolerance, and patronage of arts,
culture, and education.
● The Safavid Empire, which ruled over Iran and parts of Iraq and Afghanistan from the
sixteenth to the eighteenth-century CE. It was founded by Shah Ismail I, who
established Shia Islam as the official religion of the state. It was known for its cultural
renaissance, artistic achievements, and military prowess.
The history of post war reconstruction in the Middle East can be traced back to
several historical events that have shaped the region’s modern boundaries,
identities, and conflicts. Some of these events are:

1. The Sykes-Picot Agreement (1916): A secret agreement between Britain and France to
divide the Ottoman territories in the Middle East into spheres of influence after World War I.
The agreement ignored the aspirations of the local populations and created artificial borders
that have been contested ever since.

2. The Balfour Declaration (1917): A letter from British Foreign Secretary Arthur Balfour
to Zionist leader Lord Rothschild that expressed Britain’s support for “the
establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people”. The declaration
contradicted Britain’s previous promises to Arab leaders and fueled the Arab-Israeli
conflict that persists today.
3. The UN Partition Plan for Palestine (1947): A resolution adopted by the United
Nations General Assembly that proposed to divide Palestine into two states: one
Jewish and one Arab with an international zone around Jerusalem. The plan was
accepted by the Jewish leadership but rejected by the Arab leadership and led to the

1948 Arab Israeli War and the creation of Israel and the displacement of hundreds of
thousands of Palestinians.
4. The Suez Crisis (1956): A military confrontation between Egypt on one side and
Britain, France, and Israel on the other side over the nationalization of the Suez Canal
by Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser. The crisis marked a turning point in the
decline of European colonialism and the rise of Arab nationalism in the region.
5. The Six-Day War (1967): A war between Israel and Egypt, Syria, Jordan, and Iraq that
resulted in Israel’s occupation of Sinai, the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, East Jerusalem,
and the Golan Heights. The war had lasting consequences for regional security,
diplomacy, and human rights.
 6. The Iranian Revolution (1979): A popular uprising that overthrew the monarchy of
Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and established the Islamic Republic of Iran under the
leadership of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. The revolution transformed Iran’s
political, social, and religious system and challenged the regional and global order.
7. The Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988): A war between Iran and Iraq that started with Iraq’s
invasion of Iran and ended with an UN-brokered ceasefire. The war was one of the
longest and deadliest in modern history, causing millions of casualties, massive
destruction, and environmental damage.
8. The Gulf War (1990-1991): A war between Iraq and a coalition of 35 countries led by
the United States that followed Iraq’s invasion and annexation of Kuwait. The war
liberated Kuwait and imposed sanctions and inspections on Iraq to eliminate its
weapons of mass destruction.
9. The US-led invasion of Iraq (2003): A military intervention by the United States and
its allies that aimed to overthrow the regime of Saddam Hussein and eliminate his
alleged weapons of mass destruction. The invasion triggered a sectarian civil war, a
violent insurgency, a humanitarian crisis, and regional instability that continues to
affect the country and the region.
10. The Arab Spring (2010-2011): A wave of popular protests and uprisings that erupted
in several Arab countries, demanding political and economic reforms, democracy,
and

human rights. The Arab Spring led to regime change in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, and Yemen but
also to civil war in Syria, repression in Bahrain, and stalemate in Algeria.

Current Issues:

The Middle East is a region that has been affected by multiple conflicts, disasters, and
humanitarian crises, resulting in the destruction of cultural heritage, displacement of
millions of people, and widespread poverty and insecurity. The UN Development Programme
(UNDP) plays a vital role in supporting the post-war reconstruction and recovery efforts in
the region, aiming to build resilience, social cohesion, and inclusive governance. The current
issues faced by some of the middle east nations are listed as follows:

Yemen:

Yemen is one of the poorest and most conflict-ridden countries in the Middle East, facing a
humanitarian and development crisis that has been exacerbated by seven years of civil war.
The war, which began in 2015, has pitted a Saudi-led coalition supporting the internationally
recognized government of President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi against the Houthi rebels,
who control the capital Sana'a and much of the north. The war has caused widespread
death, displacement, hunger, disease, and economic collapse, affecting over two-thirds of
Yemen's population.

The prospects for ending the war and achieving a sustainable peace in Yemen are uncertain,
despite renewed diplomatic efforts by the UN and regional actors. The UN Special Envoy for
Yemen, Hans Grundberg, has proposed a new initiative to expand the participation of
diverse Yemeni stakeholders in potential peace talks, building on the recommendations of
the 2013-14 National Dialogue Conference, which aimed to address the root causes of the
conflict and promote a political transition. However, the main parties to the conflict have
shown little willingness to compromise or adhere to previous agreements, such as the 2018
Stockholm Agreement, which called for a ceasefire and humanitarian measures in Hodeida,
a strategic port city.

The challenges for post-war reconstruction in Yemen are immense, requiring not only an end
to hostilities and a political settlement, but also a comprehensive approach to address the
humanitarian, economic, social, and security needs of the Yemeni people. Some of the key
issues that need to be addressed include:

- Restoring basic services and infrastructure, such as water, electricity, health, education, and
transportation, which have been severely damaged or destroyed by the war.

- Reviving the economy and creating livelihood opportunities for millions of Yemenis who
have lost their income sources or face extreme poverty. This would require stabilizing the
currency, ensuring food security, facilitating trade and investment, and supporting the
private sector.

- Rebuilding trust and social cohesion among different segments of Yemeni society, which
have been divided by political, regional, tribal, and sectarian affiliations. This would require
promoting dialogue, reconciliation, justice, and accountability for human rights violations
and war crimes.

- Strengthening governance and state institutions, which have been weakened or

fragmented by the war. This would require enhancing the legitimacy, inclusivity, and
effectiveness of political representation and decision-making at all levels, as well as
reforming the security sector and disarming militias.

- Addressing the regional and international dimensions of the conflict, which have fueled the
war and undermined peace efforts. This would require engaging constructively with

neighboring countries such as Saudi Arabia and Iran, as well as other key actors such as the
US and the EU, to ensure their support for Yemen's sovereignty, stability, and development.

- Syria:

The Syrian civil war, which started in 2011, has caused immense human suffering,
widespread displacement, and massive destruction of cultural heritage and infrastructure.
The conflict has also involved regional and international actors, such as Iran, Russia, Turkey,
and the US, who have supported different factions and pursued different interests. As the
war winds down, largely on the Assad regime's terms, the challenges of post-war
reconstruction and recovery are enormous and complex.
One of the main political problems facing Syria is the lack of a comprehensive, genuine, and
inclusive political transition that would address the root causes of the conflict and ensure
the participation and representation of all segments of Syrian society. The UN Security
Council Resolution 2254 and the Geneva Communique provide a framework for such a
transition, but they have not been implemented due to the lack of political will and trust
among the parties. The Assad regime, backed by Russia and Iran, has shown little interest in
engaging in meaningful dialogue or reforms, while the opposition remains fragmented and
weak. The role of external actors is also crucial, as they have influence over their respective
allies and can facilitate or obstruct the peace process.

Another political problem is the presence and role of various armed groups and militias in
different parts of Syria, some of whom have links to terrorist organizations or foreign
powers. These groups pose a threat to the security and stability of Syria, as well as to its
territorial integrity and sovereignty. They also complicate the delivery of humanitarian aid
and the provision of basic services to the population. Disarming, demobilizing, and
reintegrating these fighters into civilian life is a daunting task that requires coordination and
cooperation among all stakeholders.

A major geographical problem facing Syria is the fragmentation and division of its territory
along ethnic, sectarian, or political lines. The war has created de facto zones of control by
different actors, such as the regime, the opposition, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic
Forces (SDF), Turkey and its allied factions, and Israel. These zones have various levels of
governance, security, and service delivery, creating disparities and inequalities among
regions and communities. Moreover, some of these zones are contested or disputed by
other parties, leading to tensions and clashes that could reignite the conflict.

Another geographical problem is the environmental degradation and resource depletion

caused by the war. The conflict has resulted in widespread damage to water sources,
agricultural lands, forests, wildlife habitats, and historical sites. It has also increased
pollution, waste generation, and greenhouse gas emissions. These environmental impacts
have negative consequences for human health, food security, economic development, and

cultural identity. They also exacerbate existing vulnerabilities to climate change and natural
disasters.

To address these political and geographical problems, Syria needs a holistic and integrated
approach to reconstruction and recovery that considers the social, economic, cultural, and
environmental dimensions of the post-war situation. Such an approach should be based on
human rights, rule of law, accountability, transparency, participation, and ownership. It
should also be aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda
for Sustainable Development. Furthermore, it should involve coordination and collaboration
among all relevant actors at local, national, regional, and international levels

- Iraq:
Iraq is a country that has been devastated by decades of war, sanctions, occupation and
sectarian violence. The country faces multiple challenges in its efforts to rebuild its
infrastructure, institutions, economy and society. Some of the main political and
geographical problems that Iraq must deal with are:

- The lack of a stable and inclusive government that can represent the diverse interests and
needs of the Iraqi people. Iraq has a complex political system that is based on power-sharing
among different ethnic, religious and regional groups. However, this system has also been
plagued by corruption, patronage, mistrust and deadlock. The Iraqi parliament has often
failed to pass crucial laws and reforms, while the executive branch has struggled to
implement policies and deliver services. The political fragmentation and polarization have
also undermined the legitimacy and authority of the state, creating a vacuum that has been
exploited by armed groups and external actors.

- The ongoing security threats from various armed groups that challenge the sovereignty and
territorial integrity of Iraq. Iraq faces multiple sources of violence and instability, such as the
remnants of the Islamic State (IS) group, which still operates in some parts of the country;
the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG), which seeks greater autonomy and control over
disputed territories and oil resources; the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), which are a
coalition of mostly Shia militias that have fought against IS but also have their own agendas
and interests; and regional powers such as Iran, Turkey and Saudi Arabia, which have
competing influences and interests in Iraq.

- The environmental degradation and resource scarcity that affect the livelihoods and
well-being of the Iraqi people. Iraq suffers from severe water shortages, land degradation,
desertification, pollution and climate change. These environmental issues have been
exacerbated by the war, which has damaged or destroyed many water sources, irrigation
systems, agricultural lands and urban areas. The lack of water and food security has also
contributed to social unrest, displacement and migration. Moreover, Iraq relies heavily on oil
exports for its revenue, but the oil sector is also vulnerable to fluctuations in global prices,
corruption, mismanagement and sabotage.

Geopolitical problems:

The Middle East is a region of great geopolitical significance, as it lies at the crossroads of
Europe and Asia and contains vast reserves of oil and gas. It encompasses Western Asia,
parts of North Africa, and Turkey. It is home to diverse ethnic, religious, linguistic, and
cultural groups. The region has been shaped by historical events such as colonialism,
nationalism, wars, revolutions, and social movements, as well as by contemporary dynamics
such as globalization, regionalism, and interventionism. The region faces many challenges
and opportunities in the 21st century. The region has also been the site of many conflicts,
revolutions, and civil wars, which have reshaped its political landscape and power dynamics.
The main actors in the new geopolitics of the Middle East are six countries: Saudi Arabia,
Iran, Turkey, Israel, the United States, and Russia. Each of these countries has its own
strategic interests and goals in the region, and often competes or cooperates with others to
advance them. Saudi Arabia and Iran are the main rivals in the region, as they represent
different branches of Islam (Sunni and Shia) and vie for influence and leadership among their
co-religionists. The reason for the lack of development in the region also stems from the
inefficacy of old treaties, such as the treaty of Sevres, in demarcating the region according to
proper ethnic divisions

The political landscape of the Middle East is characterized by instability, conflict,

authoritarianism, and fragmentation. Some of the key political issues in the region are:

​ − The Arab Spring: A wave of popular uprisings that started in 2010 and 2011 in
several countries, demanding political and economic reforms, democracy, and
human rights. The outcomes of the Arab Spring varied from country to country,
ranging from regime change (Tunisia, Egypt), civil war (Syria, Libya, Yemen),
repression (Bahrain), or stalemate (Algeria). The Arab Spring also triggered regional
and international involvement andcompetition in the region’s affairs.
​ − The Israeli-Palestinian conflict: A long-standing dispute over land, sovereignty,
security, and identity between Israel and the Palestinians. The conflict has been
marked by violence, negotiations, failed peace initiatives, and international
mediation. The current situation is characterized by a lack of trust, political deadlock,
humanitarian crisis, and unilateral actions.
​ − The Iran-Saudi rivalry: A geopolitical competition between Iran and Saudi Arabia
for regional influence and leadership. The rivalry is driven by ideological, sectarian,
economic, and strategic factors. It has manifested in proxy wars (Syria, Yemen),
diplomatic crises (Qatar), cyberattacks (Aramco), and military escalation (Gulf). The
rivalry also involves other regional and global actors such as Turkey, Israel, the United
States, Russia, and China.
​ − The Kurdish question: A transnational issue that affects the Kurdish people who
live in Turkey, Iran, Iraq, and Syria. The Kurds are the largest ethnic group without a
state in the world. They have faced discrimination, oppression, and violence from the

central governments of these countries. They have also sought autonomy,

self-determination, or independence through various political and armed
movements. The Kurdish question has implications for regional security, stability, and
cooperation.
Economic conditions:
The economic situation of the Middle East is marked by inequality, vulnerability, and
uncertainty. Some of the key economic issues in the region are:
​ − The oil curse: The dependence on oil revenues as the main source of income for
many countries in the region. This has created a rentier state model that relies on
patronage, corruption, and repression to maintain power. It has also hindered
economic diversification, development, and democracy. The oil curse has exposed
 the region to external shocks such as fluctuations in oil prices, sanctions, and
conflicts.
​ − The youth bulge: The demographic phenomenon of having a large proportion of
young people in the population. This poses both challenges and opportunities for the
region. On one hand, it creates a potential for social change, innovation, and
entrepreneurship. On the other hand, it generates pressure for job creation,
education, and inclusion. The youth bulge also contributes to social unrest,
migration, and radicalization if not addressed properly.
​ − The climate crisis: The impact of global warming on the environment and
livelihoods of the region. The Middle East is one of the most vulnerable regions to
climate change due to its arid climate, water scarcity, and food insecurity. Climate
change threatens to worsen existing problems such as poverty, conflict, and
displacement in the region.
Geography:
The geography of the Middle East is diverse, strategic, and contested. Some of the
key geographic features of the region are:
The deserts: large areas of arid land that cover most of the region. They have shaped
the culture, lifestyle, and adaptation of the people who live there. They have also
served as barriers or bridges for trade, communication, and invasion throughout
history.
The rivers: Major sources of water that sustain life and civilization in the region. They
include the Nile, the Tigris, the Euphrates, and the Jordan rivers. They have been
sites of cultural exchange, agricultural development, and political conflict over their
management and allocation.
The seas: Bodies of water that surround or penetrate the region. They include the
Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, the Persian Gulf, and the Caspian
Sea. They have facilitated maritime trade, exploration, and interaction with other
regions. They have also been arenas of naval competition, cooperation, and
confrontation among regional and global powers.
Problems and solutions:
The Middle East faces many problems that require urgent and collective action from
the regional and international community. Some of the most pressing problems are:

1) The humanitarian crisis: The human suffering caused by wars, violence, displacement,
hunger, and disease in the region. According to the United Nations, the Middle East hosts
the largest number of refugees and internally displaced persons in the world. It also has

the highest rates of malnutrition, illiteracy, and child mortality in the world. The
humanitarian crisis requires more funding, access, and protection for the affected
populations and the aid workers who assist them.

​ 2) The security dilemma: The vicious cycle of mistrust, fear, and hostility that fuels
arms races, militarization, and interventionism in the region. The security dilemma is
 exacerbated by the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, non-state actors,
and cyber threats in the region. It also undermines the prospects for dialogue,
confidence- building, and cooperation among the regional actors. The security
dilemma requires a comprehensive and inclusive approach to address the root
causes and consequences of insecurity in the region.
​ 3) The governance deficit: The lack of effective, accountable, and representative
institutions and mechanisms that can address the needs and aspirations of the
people in the region. The governance deficit is manifested in the persistence of
authoritarianism, corruption, and repression in many countries in the region. It also
hampers the development of civil society, media, and political participation in the
region. The governance deficit requires a genuine and gradual process of political
reform and democratization that respects the diversity and sovereignty of each
country in the region.

Opportunities:

The Middle East also has many opportunities and potential that can be harnessed for a
better future for the region and its people. Some of the most promising opportunities are:

​ − The cultural heritage: The rich and diverse legacy of civilizations, religions,
languages, arts, and sciences that have originated or flourished in the region. The
cultural heritage is a source of pride, identity, and inspiration for the region's people.
It also offers a basis for dialogue, exchange, and cooperation with other regions and
cultures.
​ − The human capital: The young, educated, and talented population that constitutes
a valuable asset for the region. Human capital can drive innovation,
entrepreneurship, and social change in the region. It also can contribute to solving
global challenges such as poverty, disease, and climate change.
​ − Regional integration: The potential for enhancing economic, political, and social
ties among the countries of the region. Regional integration can foster trade,
investment, development, and stability in the region. It can also increase the
bargaining power and influence of the region in global affairs.
​

Past actions:

Post war reconstruction in the Middle East has involved various actors, approaches, and
challenges, depending on the context and scale of each case. Some of the examples of post
war reconstruction projects and past actions for the betterment of the middle eastern
society include:

1. The Marshall Plan for the Middle East: A proposal by US Secretary of State George C.
Marshall in 1948 to provide economic aid to the Middle East as part of a broader
plan to rebuild Europe after World War II. The plan was rejected by the Arab states
 due to their opposition to the creation of Israel and their alignment with the Soviet
Union.
2. The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA): An agency
established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1949 to provide humanitarian
assistance, education, health, and social services to Palestinian refugees in Jordan,
Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. UNRWA has been operating for
over 70 years and is one of the largest and longest-running humanitarian operations
in the world.
3. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC): A private foundation established by His
Highness the Aga Khan IV in 1988 to support cultural heritage preservation, urban
development, and community empowerment in Muslim societies. AKTC has
implemented several post war reconstruction projects in the Middle East, such as the
restoration of historic buildings and public spaces in Cairo, Aleppo, Kabul, Herat, and
Bam.
4. The World Bank’s Emergency Reconstruction Loan (ERL) for Lebanon: A loan
approved by the World Bank in 2007 to support Lebanon’s recovery from the 2006
war between Hezbollah and Israel. The loan aimed to finance the rehabilitation of
infrastructure, social services, and economic activities in the affected areas, and to
strengthen institutional capacity and governance.
5. UNESCO’s Revive the Spirit of Mosul Initiative: An initiative launched by UNESCO in
2018 in collaboration with the Government of Iraq to support the reconstruction and
recovery of Mosul after its liberation from ISIS. The initiative focuses on restoring
cultural heritage, reviving education, strengthening social cohesion, and empowering
youth and women.
6. The reconstruction of Timbuktu in Mali, where UNESCO has undertaken the
restoration of destroyed mausoleums, mosques and private libraries, as well as the
preservation of ancient manuscripts, after the city was occupied by armed groups in
2012-2013.
7. The recovery and reconstruction of the Ancient City of Aleppo in Syria, a World
Heritage site that has been very severely damaged by the ongoing civil war,
especially its historic Centre and its emblematic buildings that are invaluable
testimonies of the history of Islamic architecture. UNESCO has organized several

expert meetings and workshops to discuss the theoretical and practical frameworks,
as well as the socio-economic and

community aspects, of post-conflict reconstruction in Aleppo and in the Middle East context.

8. The rebuilding of heritage, culture and education in Beirut, Lebanon, following the
devastating twin explosions that occurred on 4 August 2020, which caused extensive
damage to the city's historic urban landscape, cultural institutions and educational facilities.
UNESCO is mobilizing leading organizations and experts from Lebanon and abroad to
coordinate emergency and longer-term measures to safeguard the city's heritage and
support its recovery.

These cases illustrate some of the fundamental issues and challenges that post-war
reconstruction faces in the Middle East, such as:

- The intentional destruction of cultural heritage as a strategy of war and a form of cultural
cleansing, which raises questions about the values, meanings and choices involved in
conservation, rehabilitation and reconstruction.
- The need for a holistic and integrated approach that addresses not only the physical
restoration of buildings and monuments, but also the socio-economic recovery and
resilience of communities, as well as their participation and empowerment in the
reconstruction process.

- The role of international organizations, such as UNESCO, UNDP and others, in supplying
technical aid, guidance and funding for post-war reconstruction projects, as well as easing
dialogue and coordination among different stakeholders, such as national and local
authorities, civil society groups, private sector actors and donors.
- The potential of post-war reconstruction to contribute to peacebuilding, reconciliation and
social cohesion, by fostering a sense of identity, belonging and pride among people who
have suffered from conflict and violence, as well as by promoting cultural diversity,
intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding.

Post-war reconstruction in the Middle East is therefore a crucial topic for UNDP's mandate to
support countries in achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs), especially SDG
(Sustainable Development Goals) 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 16 (Peace,
Justice and Strong Institutions) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has also been actively involved in the
post-war reconstruction of the Middle East since its start in 1966. The UNDP has supported
various initiatives and projects aimed at restoring peace, stability, and development in the
region, especially in countries affected by armed conflicts, such as Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Libya,
and Palestine. Some of the past actions taken by the UNDP include:

- Supplying humanitarian aid and basic services to millions of displaced people and refugees,
such as food, water, sanitation, health care, education, and protection.

- Supporting the recovery and rehabilitation of infrastructure and public institutions, such as
roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and government buildings.

- Promoting social cohesion and reconciliation among different communities and groups,
such as religious minorities, women, youth, and civil society organizations.
- Strengthening the abilities of national and local authorities to deliver effective and inclusive
governance, such as electoral aid, anti-corruption measures, human rights protection, and
rule of law.

- Enhancing the resilience and livelihoods of vulnerable populations to cope with the
impacts of climate change, environmental degradation, and economic shocks, such as
disaster risk reduction, natural resource management, job creation, and income generation.

Possible considerations for the future:

Some possible considerations for the future of post-war reconstruction of the Middle East
are:

- The need to adopt a holistic and integrated approach that addresses the socio-economic,
cultural, and environmental dimensions of reconstruction, as well as the physical rebuilding
of damaged heritage sites and urban fabric. - The need to involve local communities, civil
society, and private sector in the planning and implementation of reconstruction projects,
ensuring their participation, ownership, and empowerment.

- The need to respect the diversity and authenticity of the cultural heritage of the Middle
East, while also allowing for innovation and adaptation to new needs and challenges . - The
need to balance the urgency of immediate recovery with the long-term sustainability and
resilience of reconstruction outcomes, taking into account the risks of further conflict,
disaster, or intentional destruction . - The need to coordinate and harmonize the efforts of
different actors and stakeholders, including UNESCO, UNDP, national and local authorities,
international organizations, donors, and experts, to avoid duplication, fragmentation, or
contradiction of reconstruction initiatives.

Summary:

The Middle East region has been the scene of protracted and violent conflicts for decades,
resulting in widespread human suffering, displacement, instability and destruction of
cultural heritage. The reconstruction of war-torn cities and communities is a complex and
challenging task requiring physical rebuilding, social, economic and political recovery. The
reconstruction process involves multiple actors and stakeholders, such as national and local
authorities, civil society, international organizations, donors and the private sector. It also

involves multiple dimensions and sectors, such as security, humanitarian aid, development,
culture and environment. The reconstruction process

must be guided by the principles of ownership, participation, accountability, transparency

and sustainability. The reconstruction process must also address the root causes of conflicts,
such as poverty, inequality, injustice, discrimination and marginalization. The reconstruction
process must also foster social cohesion and reconciliation among distinct groups and
communities that have been affected by conflicts.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) plays a vital role in supporting
post-war reconstruction efforts in the Middle East, in coordination with other UN agencies,
national and local authorities, civil society and international partners. UNDP’s interventions
aim at restoring basic services and infrastructure, such as water, electricity, health and
education. UNDP’s interventions also aim at promoting good governance and rule of law,
such as strengthening public institutions, enhancing civic engagement and protecting human
rights. UNDP’s interventions also aim at fostering social cohesion and reconciliation, such as
supporting dialogue, mediation and peacebuilding initiatives. UNDP’s interventions also aim
at enhancing livelihoods and resilience, such as creating employment opportunities,
supporting small businesses and empowering women and youth. UNDP’s interventions also
aim at protecting and rehabilitating cultural heritage, suchas documenting, conserving and
restoring historic sites and monuments. Some of the countries where UNDP is actively
engaged in post-conflict reconstruction in the Middle East include Iraq, Syria, Yemen and
Libya.

Block Positions:

the block positions can be summarized as follows:

- The Arab League: This block consists of 22 Arab countries, many of which are directly
affected by the conflicts and instability in the region. They look to promote peace, security,
and development in the Middle East and protect their sovereignty and interests. They
support the reconstruction efforts led by the UNDP and other international actors, but also
demand more representation and participation in the decision-making process. They
advocate for addressing the root causes of the conflicts, such as poverty, inequality,
corruption, and human rights violations. They also call for a just and comprehensive solution
to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, based on the two-state solution and the Arab Peace
Initiative.

- The Western Bloc: This block includes the United States, the European Union, and other
Western countries that have been involved in the military interventions and political affairs
of the Middle East. They have strategic and economic interests in the region, as well as
humanitarian and security concerns. They support the reconstruction efforts to stabilize the
region and prevent further violence and extremism. They also aim to promote democracy,
human rights, and good governance in the Middle Eastern countries. However, they face

criticism and distrust from some of the local actors, who accuse them of interfering in their
internal affairs and violating their

sovereignty. They also have diverging views on some of the regional issues, such as the Iran
nuclear deal, the Syrian civil war, and the role of Turkey.

- The Non-Aligned Movement: This block consists of 120 developing countries that are not
formally aligned with or against any major power bloc. They look to uphold the principles of
sovereignty, non-intervention, and peaceful coexistence. They support the reconstruction
efforts to foster cooperation and solidarity among the developing countries and enhance
their role and voice in the international arena. They also emphasize the need for respecting
the diversity and specificity of each country's situation and needs. They oppose any form of
foreign interference or imposition of conditionalities on the reconstruction process. They
also advocate for a more balanced and fair global order that reflects the interests and
aspirations of all nations.

Questions a resolution must answer:

What are the main challenges and opportunities for post-war reconstruction in the Middle
East?

- How can the UNDP support the efforts of national and local authorities, civil society, and
other stakeholders in rebuilding infrastructure, restoring basic services, and promoting social
cohesion and reconciliation?

- What are the best practices and lessons learned from earlier post-war reconstruction
initiatives in the region and elsewhere?

- How can the UNDP coordinate with other UN agencies, regional organizations, donors, and
partners to ensure a comprehensive and integrated approach to post-war reconstruction in
the Middle East?

- How can the UNDP address the root causes of conflict and prevent relapse into violence in
the post-war context?

- How can the UNDP promote inclusive and participatory governance, human rights, gender
equality, and environmental sustainability in the post-war reconstruction process?

- How can the UNDP monitor and evaluate the impact and effectiveness of its post-war
reconstruction interventions in the Middle East?

Optional Reading Resource:

One of the most pressing challenges facing the Middle East today is how to rebuild cities
that have been devastated by war and violence. Post-conflict reconstruction is not only

about restoring physical infrastructure, but also about addressing the social, economic, and
cultural needs of the affected communities. Post-conflict reconstruction can also be an
opportunity to rethink the urban

design and planning of these cities, and to adopt new formats that are more inclusive,
resilient, and sustainable. Some of the factors that influence post-conflict reconstruction in
the Middle East are the role of cultural heritage, the access to housing for low-income and
displaced populations, and the involvement of local actors and civil society in the
decision-making process. This optional reading resource provides an overview of some of
the initiatives and projects that aim to address these issues in different contexts in the
region, such as Beirut, Mosul, Timbuktu, and Aleppo. It also draws on global perspectives
and comparative examples from other cities that have experienced different forms of
violence, such as Medellin and Belfast. The resource aims to inform and inspire students
who are interested in learning more about post-conflict reconstruction in the Middle East
and its implications for urban development.

Post-Conflict Reconstruction in the Middle East Context, and in the Old City of Aleppo in
particular by UNESCO World Heritage Centre

This resource reports on a meeting organized by World Heritage Centre with a group of
multidisciplinary experts to brainstorm on the issue of post-conflict reconstruction in the
Middle East context, and in the Ancient City of Aleppo in particular, at UNESCO’s
Headquarters in 2015. The meeting addressed theoretical and deontological approaches,
comparative historical overviews of post-war reconstruction since World War I, and several
case studies. The aim of the meeting was to initiate reflection on this topic and lay the
foundations for an elaborate approach to post-conflict reconstruction in the Middle East.

Post conflict reconstruction in the Middle East and North Africa region: A bidirectional
parametric urban design approach by A. Al-Sayed et al.

This resource is an academic paper that proposes a bidirectional parametric urban design
approach for post-conflict reconstruction in war-torn cities in the Middle East and North
Africa region. The paper argues that rather than being limited to re-establishing pre-conflict
conditions, new formats of urban settings may be adopted for the design and quality of
urban space and for the design and building process. The paper presents a case study of
Mosul, Iraq, where parametric urban design tools are used to generate alternative scenarios
for reconstruction.

The Post-Conflict Cities Lab Helps Architects and Planners Rebuild in the Middle East by Eve
Glasberg

This resource is a news article that introduces the Post-Conflict Cities Lab, a new initiative
launched by Columbia University's Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and
Preservation (GSAPP) in 2020. The lab aims to help architects and planners rebuild in the

Middle East by conducting research, developing projects, and engaging with local
stakeholders. The article discusses the plans for the new lab and what it's like to work in the
fraught region.

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