1. law, govt and politics
2. government

NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY
ORGANIZATION
Topic A: NATO in Afghanistan
Establishing Plans for the Future in Order to Ensure
Sustainable Growth in Afghanistan
Topic B: NATO in Ukraine
The Role of NATO in Democratic Reformation in Ukraine
and Relations with Russia
Chair: Grace Kilpatrick
Vice Chair: Sarah Nwia
Moderator: Megan Briggs
Glenbrook South Model United Nations
North Atlantic Treaty Organization
Chair: Grace Kilpatrick
April 25
Letter from Dias Staff
It is our pleasure to welcome you to the second annual Glenbrook South Model
United Nations Conference. Our names are Grace Kilpatrick (Chair), Sarah Nwia (Vice
Chair), and Megan Briggs (Moderator). We will be your dias staff for NATO. We are
juniors and seniors here at Glenbrook South and have all been in Model UN since our
freshman year. We are excited for the conference and hope that you will all grow and
take away valuable experiences from GBSMUN I. Our committee is one of the larger
bodies at the conference, allowing for enriching work with an amplitude of students. We
hope that each of you will take this opportunity to voice your opinions, delegate, bicker
and ultimately agree upon a resolution.
Grace Kilpatrick is a junior at Glenbrook South and is one of the publicity chairs of
our team. Grace has participated in many conferences including National High School
Model United Nations (2013), Vanderbuildt University Model United Nations, and
Model United Nations of the University of Chicago. Aside from Model UN, she leads
Stand for Peace, a club dedicated to promoting international peace and development. She
also serves as a tutor at the Titan Learning Center and a Student Council representative.
Grace aspires to attend medical school and pursue a career at Doctors Without Borders.
Megan Briggs is a junior as well and has participated in Model UN for two years.
She participated as delegate in the Economic and Financial Affairs Council at Model
United Nations of the University of Chicago and enjoys large conferences. Outside of
Model UN, Megan participates in a community service club, and Business Professionals
of America. Megan plays paddle for GBS and loves being outdoors in the fall and winter.
Sarah Nwia is a senior at GBS and has participated in Model UN for all 4 years of
her high school experience. She has competed in St. Ignatius Model United Nations and
Chicago International Model United Nations. Outside of Model UN, Sarah participates in
the GBS Marching Band where she is a drum major. She is also on the school dance team.
NATO is the National Atlantic Treaty Organization and currently has 28 countries
within its body. NATO membership is open to any other European state in a position to
further the principles of the established treaty and to contribute to the security of the
North Atlantic area. For our conference we will be focusing on two main topics. We will
be discussing 1) NATO in Afghanistan and 2) NATO in Ukraine. These two topics have
been, and continue to be pressing issues in today’s world. We are excited to see the
compromises you develop as a body. Please remember these few rules: 1) You must
submit a position paper to your chair via email ([email protected]) before the
conference begins to be eligible for an award. 2) No technology use is allowed in the
committee. 3) Prewritten or plagiarized resolutions will disqualify you from an award.
If you have any further questions, feel free to send us an email. Speaking in front of a
large body is a challenging thing to do, but we have confidence that you will all succeed
and will enjoy the conference.
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Can’wait to see you all at GBSMUN I!
Glenbrook South Model United Nations
North Atlantic Treaty Organization
Chair: Grace Kilpatrick
April 25
History of North Atlantic Treaty Organization
Popular conclusion states that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization was founded in
response to threat arranged by the Soviet Union. However, this stands only partially true. The
creation of the Alliance existed as part of a larger effort to deter Soviet expansion, forbid the
comeback of nationalist military in Europe by having a strong North American presence on the
continent, and encouraging European political integration.
After WWII, much of Europe was devastated. Approximately 36.5 million Europeans died in
the conflict and refugee camps and rationing predominated life. In addition to all of the disarray,
communists backed by the Soviet Union support were threatening elected governments across
Europe. The communist party of Czechoslovakia overthrew their democratic government. The
Soviets then blockaded Allied-controlled West Berlin in an effort to consolidate their hold on the
capital of Germany. The valor of the Berlin Aircraft provided future Allies with some comfort but
hardships remained an immense threat to freedom and stability. With the US turning its back on its
traditional policy of diplomatic isolationism, several Western European democracies came together to
put into action several projects for greater military cooperation and collective defense
(www.nato.int).
As a result, the Western European Union was formed, determining that only a precise
transatlantic security agreement would fend off Soviet aggression while simultaneously preventing
the revival of European militarism and laying the groundwork for political alliance. After much
discussion and debate, the Western European Union transformed to the North Atlantic Treaty
Organization, signing the agreement on April 4th 1949. The allies agreed that “an armed attack
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against one or more of them… shall be considered an attack against all.” After such an attack, each
Ally would take “such action as it deems necessary, including the use of armed force”. Today NATO
focuses on its defenses against weapons of mass destruction, terrorism and cyber attacks
(history.state.gov).
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Topic A: NATO in Afghanistan
Establishing Plans for the Future in Order to
Ensure Sustainable Growth in Afghanistan
Introduction:
The primary military presence in Afghanistan, known as the International Security Assistance
Force (ISAF), has been led by NATO since August 2003. Determined at the 2010 NATO Summit in
Lisbon, by the end of 2014, security responsibility should be transferred to the ISAF-trained Afghan
National Security Forces (ANSF), with the intention that assistance and training endure beyond the
2014 deadline. Currently, 87% of the Afghan population exists under the security of the Afghan
National Security Forces, indicating significant hedgeway in the process of transition. However, as is
applicable in any scenario, transition bears the potential for weakness. The discussion of this
committee should primarily revolve around outlining NATO’s goals in order to achieve the
previously established goals in Afghanistan, as well as determine the role of the NATO in the future
of Afghanistan.1 The end of 2014 is to bring a moment of significant change in not only Afghanistan,
but in the community of international relations as well. Students should harness their knowledge of
the committee’s past actions and relations with Afghanistan in order to create unique, effective ideas
of their own. Make sure to consider how the actions of NATO may impact Afghanistan’s relations
with other Middle East countries, and how this may impact the international community as a whole.
1 "Inteqal: Transition to Afghan Lead." NATO. North Atlantic Treaty Organization, 4 Sep. 2014. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
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On the right: A map
indicating deployment of
international NATO-ISAF
troops in the various
regions of the country.
History of the Problem
A long history of political and economic instability explains the current status of Afghanistan.
In the three-part saga of British-Afghan wars, the British attempted to annex Afghanistan in order to
protect their Indian empire from Russian overhaul. At the close of the final British-Afghan war and
the close of World War I, Afghanistan became an independent nation as a result of the Anglo-Afghan
Treaty of 1919.2 Amir Amanullah Khan transformed the Afghan government into a monarchy and
pursued a policy of secularized socioeconomic reform. Discontented with the works of this King, the
British government harnessed conservative religious groups and ignited a civil war in 1929, in which
King Amir Amanullah Khan was removed from the throne.
2 Admin. "A Historical Timeline of Afghanistan." PBS. PBS, 4 May 2011. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
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Following the King’s removal, a series of warlords
contended for power. Contention for power has drawn a
common thread throughout Afghan history. In 1933, Zahir
Shah became king. The rule of Zahir Shah brought 40 years
of stability to the country of Afghanistan, however under
total autocratic power. The nominal existence of councils
and assemblies generated no actual representation for the
people of Afghanistan. Lack of representation is not only a
great issue of Afghan history, but of the Afghan present as
well. While Zahir Shah attempted to modernize the country,
primarily modernizing the military, life under the king was
of an oppressive nature. Political parties were outlawed and protest by students resulted in death.
However, this heavy-handed regime would receive recognition as the legitimate government of
Afghanistan by the United States in 1934.3
It was also during this regime that Russia would begin to play a large role in the development
of the Afghan nation. General Mohammed Daoud Khan, prime minister in the year 1953, sought the
assistance of the Soviet Union in the realms of economics and military assistance. Soviet Premier
Nikita Khrushchev agreement to help Afghanistan gave birth to a longstanding alliance. This alliance
allowed for the formation of an underground Afghan communist party, lead by Babrak Karmal and
Nur Mohammad Taraki, who would assist in replacing Afghanistan’s last king, Mohammed Zahir
3 Ritscher, Adam. "A Brief History of Afghanistan." Afghanistan History. Students of the Students Against War Teach-In, n.d. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
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Shah with General Mohammed Daoud Khan in a military coup in 1973.2 However, between 1973 and
1978, the Peoples Democratic Party of Afghanistan (PDPA) and Daoud would contend for power,
resulting in a coup of the PDPA.
The Soviet Union was able to take advantage of the instable PDPA and invaded Afghanistan in
1979, giving power to Babrak Karmal. During this time of political uncertainty, radical Islamic
fundamentalist groups emerged waging guerilla warfare against the PDPA and forces of the Soviet
Union. The United States began to supply billions of dollars worth in weaponry to the Mujahadeen,
the aforementioned Islamic guerilla militants. The Mujahideen also found great support from the
Saudis, Persian Gulf Emirates, as well
as well-known terrorist Osama bin
Laden. The PDPA withdrew in 1989 as
a result of excessive pressure and
internal complications. After many
years of skirmishing and widespread
violence, the Mujahideen were able to
overthrow the Peoples Democratic
Party of Afghanistan. The period
between 1992 and 1996 primarily
consisted of Mujahideen warlords destructing the nation as they sought power, destroying
infrastructure that could potentially contribute to future security.3
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Following the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center, attributed to Osama Bin
Laden as investigated by the United States government. Unanswered demands for the overturn of
Osama bin Laden resulted in a year full of United States and British led airstrikes and direct combat
against the Taliban, an Islamic militia group formed in 1995. The Taliban surrendered their final
territory December 7, 2001 and three weeks later, Hamid Karzai was granted power of the interim
government of Afghanistan with the support of the United States. Under Hamid Karzai, the Loya
Jirga, the legislative body of the government, adopted a constitution with input from 500,000 Afghan
citizens in January of 2004. Fighting between the Taliban, al-Qaida, and the Afghan government
persists until the present day. It is during this period that NATO introduced itself as a central force in
providing military, political, and economic support to the newly established democratic government
of President Hamid Karzai.2
General Discussion of the Issue and Associated Problems:
In order to approach the current status of Afghanistan and the associated problems, the
situation must be studied as multi-faceted or of a political, economic and social fashion.
Politically, the current issue roots in the Government of Afghanistan’s refusal to sign the
Bilateral Security Agreement. This agreement permits the continued presence of US forces after 2014
to ensure security in the face of ethnic factions pressuring Afghan National Security Forces, especially
as ANSF gain responsibilities handed to them by the International Security Assistance Forces
beginning in 2014. The decision to reject the Bilateral Security Agreement was one of President
Hamid Karzai alone, as it was approved by his Loya Jirga , and was a decision greatly supported by
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the Taliban.4 Just this September, Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai was sworn in as the newly elected
president of Afghanistan and signed a security agreement providing for US troops within the country
to continue training following the close of the current international mission on December 31st.5
However, Karzai’s actions just before the end of his presidency represent the growing tension
between the Afghan president and the western world. The results of the recently held presidential
and provincial council elections hold the potential to either settle as legitimate with Afghan citizens,
or spark spiraling political resentment and factional rebellion.4 Delegates should consider the present
infrastructure of the Afghan government, actions taken by former President Hamid Karzai and
President Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai, as well as potential future political instability when discussing
the politics of the region.
Afghanistan’s current status can be
attributed to poor economic development as
well. The withdrawal of the International
Security Assistance Forces resulted in GDP
reduction from 14.4% in 2012 to 3.2% in
2014.4 Furthermore, as a result of historical
political insecurity, the nation finds it
difficult to secure long-standing
international investment. Inflation has
4 Felbab-Brown, Vanda. "Afghanistan's Deep Challenges and Transition Opportunities." The Brookings Institution. The Brooking Institution, Feb.
2014. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
5 "New Leader, New Chapter for U.S. in Afghanistan." CBS News. CBS News, 30 Sep. 2014. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
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increased from 6.4% in 2012 to 7.7% in 2013.6 The nation’s economy lacks independence, as more than
90% of the $17.1 billion national budget comes from foreign donations. As a result of the unbalanced
spread of this funding, the average Afghan income is only $528 per year. The national budget is
expected to incur a $7 billion deficit annually until 2021. Thus, in addressing the current situation in
Afghanistan, students should consider the necessity of independent national revenue in security.7
The social situation of Afghanistan, although greatly improved since the fall of the Taliban,
still requires much attention. Most prominent issues include poverty, ethnic conflict, female
inequality, and widespread crime in the nature of kidnapping and robbing. While the Law of
Elimination of Violence Against Women passed in 2009, inequality and physical assaults remain as
primary issue as a result of poor enforcement of the law. Social instability can also be attributed to the
increase in approximately 106,000 refugees present in the country between January and June 2013,
placing greater pressure on the already fragile social dynamics. 8 Furthermore, while the number of
Afghan people who lived within one hour walk of a health facility has increased from 9% to 57%
between 2002 and 2013, a large portion of the population still lacks efficient access to health care. 9
Similarly, education has evolved to include only 900,000 boys in 2002 to 8 million boys and girls in
2014, the education still requires much development and relies heavily upon international
organization.10 Thus, in regards to social issues, delegates should consider prominent crime, female
inequality, influx of refugees, health care, as well as education. While the NATO body does not
6 "Afghanistan Overview." The World Bank. The World Bank Group, 2014. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
7 Rubin, Alissa J. "World Bank Issues Alert on Afghanistan Economy." The New York Times. The New York Times, 22 Nov. 2011. Web. 11 Oct.
2014.
8 "World Report 2014: Afghanistan." Human Rights Watch. Human Rights Watch, 2014. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
9 "Afghanistan-Health." USAID-From the American People. USAID, 10 Sep. 2014. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
10 "Afghanistan Education." USAID-From the American People. USAID, 10 Sep. 2014. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
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primarily deal with issues of this nature, delegates should consider how political and militaristic
action would impact this imperative issues.
Past Actions NATO has Taken:
As aforementioned, a NATO-led International Security Assistance Forces has been present in
Afghanistan since August 2003. Their purpose is to execute security missions as well as training the
Afghan National Security Forces, who will eventually take completely military power at the close of
2014. In October 2003, the United Nations Security Council issued UNSCR 1510, authorizing the ISAF
to extend its mission beyond security within Kabul. The four phases of expansion would include
Assessment and Preparation, Geographic Expansion, Stabilization, and Transition/Redeployment.
As of October 17, 2006, ISAF was running 1,113 projects. As a result of road construction measures,
82% of the roads were open to traffic. The ISAF had constructed one district hospital, three basic
health centers and made healthcare services available to 200,000 people. The ISAF also opened 1,000
schools and trained a multitude of teachers. By 2008, measures conducted by the NATO were lead by
Provincial Reconstruction Teams, contributed to by over 40 nations.11
………In 2010, NATO and Afghanistan signed the Declaration of Enduring Partnership, ensuring the
security of the alliance. The cooperative measures detailed in the document include but are not
limited to; capacity building efforts, a Building Integrity program forthe purpose of combatting
corruption, the SILK-Afghanistan project for the purpose of providing technological assistance, civil
emergency measures planning, and public diplomacy. Furthermore at the 2010 NATO Summit in
Lisbon, it was decided that the Afghan forces would have full responsibility by the end of 2014. The
11 "International Security Assistance Force." GlobalSecurity.org. Global Security, 2014. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
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transition process was divided up between five tranches, establishing sets of Afghan provinces,
districts and cities to implement the transition process. The Summit also resulted in the composition
in a list of principles which would guide the transition between primarily ISAF/NATO security and
ANSF security. These guidelines included, “ensuring a better alignment of NATO/ISAF assistance
with Afghan national priority programmes, working through increasingly capable Afghan
institutions, adjusting ISAF’s troop profile and configuration by reinvesting some of the transition
dividend, where appropriate, to meet critical security, training, and mentoring needs; further
strengthening Afghan National Security Forces capacity and supporting the evolution of the
international civilian effort, including that of
the ISAF Provincial Reconstruction Teams
(PRTs) to enable greater Afghan capacity and
leadership”. 12
Current Status and Suggested Courses
of Action:
The current date is October 1, 2014.
The purpose of the present meeting
session of the North Atlantic Treaty
Organization is to define the body’s future role in Afghanistan, keeping in mind the jurisdiction of
this body. Delegates should also consider the ramifications of the 2014 troop withdrawal and how
NATO may assist in the development of Afghanistan at the close of this year.
12 "NATO and Afghanistan." North Atlantic Treaty Organization. NATO, 3 Sep. 2014. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
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Politically, NATO is aware of the potential instability as a result of the September 2014
elections and the impending troop withdrawal. Recognizing a history of corruption, factional
violence, and lack of transparency, NATO should consider measures that may assist in strengthening
the Afghan government before all troops are removed. Furthermore, NATO should consider the
safety of future elections, as electoral violence may result due to the lessened security forces.
Economically, NATO understands the recession of Afghanistan. As a body which has assisted
in providing much infrastructure and investment into the region, NATO should consider measures
which may be taken in order to encourage future economic growth. In composing economic
measures, delegates should keep in mind that NATO is a primarily militaristic body and should keep
suggested plans within the realm of NATO jurisdiction. Also, in considering economic development
delegates should consider the geographic, as well as demographic aspects of Afghanistan that may
influence potential economic growth.
Socially, NATO recognizes the existence of social inequality, inadequate healthcare and
education in Afghanistan. Members of NATO should work to building upon previously initiated
social projects in Afghanistan and seek to ensure the sustainability of these efforts following troop
withdrawal. Delegates should consider the effects political and economic measures may have on
proponing social equality in Afghan society. Delegates should consider Afghan legislation that may
restrict social equality and consider these documents when looking to establish social reform.
We understand that the date of GBSMUN II, is not in fact October 1, 2014. However, delegates
should take this opportunity to study the ramifications of those measures that have been outlined by
the “real” NATO to guide actions following 2014. Delegates should analyze the effectiveness, as well
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as non-effectiveness of these measures when outlining their own courses of action for NATO in
Afghanistan. All occurrences within Afghanistan following October 1, 2014 will not be considered in
this committee session.
All resolutions should take into account the multi-faceted nature of the current status of
Afghanistan. Resolutions should also consider how to original purpose of NATO may be altered to
accommodate its modern day purposes. We look forward to watching all delegates cooperate to
ensure the future safety of Afghanistan.
Bloc Positions:13
The twenty-eight members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization include Albania,
Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece,
Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,
Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom, and United States.
United States:
The United States has participated in greatly in Afghanistan following the September 2001
attacks on the World Trade Center. Being a leader of the western world, the United States finds it in
its best interest to ensure sustainable democracy in Afghanistan. Furthermore, the United States and
its allies generally support military presence in Afghanistan. in order to ensure the security of the
region.
13 based off of the Ivy League Model United Nations Conference, 2008, Special Political and Decolonization Committee
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United Kingdom:
The United Kingdom withholds a similar position to the United States. However, the United
Kingdom has historically found greater support of complete withdrawal from the region. This being
said, the United Kingdom also supports sustained democracy. Western European nations generally
share the opinion of the United Kingdom in this regard.
Russia and China:
Russia and China also have a complex history of involvement in Afghanistan. Neither nation
looks favorably upon great western involvement in the region, particularly American or British
involvement. Russia would favor a withdrawal of all NATO troops and the allowance of a regional
body to control actions taken by the international community in Afghanistan.
Arab Nations:
Arab nations, similar in fashion to Russia and China, Arab nations feel more favorable towards
a regional oriented approach to creating a sustainably peaceful Afghanistan. Arab Nations should
consider how measures detailed to be taken by NATO in Afghanistan may impact the involvement of
NATO within their own borders, in regards to the recent Arab Spring and the threat of ISIL.
Questions to Consider
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1) What factors contribute to poverty in Afghanistan?
2) Who are the primary military forces in the area?
3) What actions has NATO taken in Afghanistan? Past/Present?
4) How has NATO impacted the social status in Afghanistan?
Works Cited
Admin. "A Historical Timeline of Afghanistan." PBS. PBS, 4 May 2011. Web. 11 Oct.
2014
"Afghanistan Education." USAID-From the American People. USAID, 10 Sept. 2014.
Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
"Afghanistan-Health." USAID-From the American People. USAID, 10 Sept. 2014. Web.
11 Oct. 2014.
"Afghanistan Overview." The World Bank. The World Bank Group, 2014. Web. 11 Oct.
2014.
Felbab-Brown, Vanda. "Afghanistan's Deep Challenges and Transition Opportunities."
The Brookings Institution. The Brooking Institution, Feb. 2014. Web. 11 Oct.
2014.
"Inteqal: Transition to Afghan Lead." NATO. North Atlantic Treaty Organization, 4 Sept.
2014. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
"International Security Assistance Force." GlobalSecurity.org. Global Security, 2014.
Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
"New Leader, New Chapter for U.S. in Afghanistan." CBS News. CBS News, 30 Sept.
2014. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
"NATO and Afghanistan." North Atlantic Treaty Organization. NATO, 3 Sept. 2014.
Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
Ritscher, Adam. "A Brief History of Afghanistan." Afghanistan History. Students of the
Students Against War Teach-In, n.d. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
Rubin, Alissa J. "World Bank Issues Alert on Afghanistan Economy." The New York
Times. The New York Times, 22 Nov. 2011. Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
"World Report 2014: Afghanistan." Human Rights Watch. Human Rights Watch, 2014.
Web. 11 Oct. 2014.
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Topic B: NATO in Ukraine
The Role of NATO in Democratic Reformation
in Ukraine and Relations with Russia
Introduction
The sensitivity of the situation in Ukraine, enhanced due to recent developments in Crimea,
has turned the heads of nearly every nation in the international community. Recent statements made
by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization echo the 1997 Charter, which states, “a sovereign,
independent and stable Ukraine, firmly committed to democracy and the rule of law, is key to EuroAtlantic security.” Thus NATO has recently increased cooperative dialogue with representatives of
Ukraine, with the intention of assisting in democratic reforms and participating in the reformation of
Ukraine’s future in the eye of the people. The purpose of this topic is to determine how NATO should
play a role in the development of reformation in Ukraine, as well as consider what measures by the
international community may prompt militaristic action.
History of the Issue
The difference in Russia and Ukraine’s interests can be traced all the way back to when the
Mongol invasion of Rus had come to an end. Russia was able to conquer a majority of the northern
provinces of Rus, and became a powerful state. Ukraine on the other hand, fell under the rule of the
Duchy of Lithuania, and not long after, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The Cossack people
refused to identify as Polish, and rebelled against the Commonwealth, hoping to create a union
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between themselves and Russia with whom they shared a strong cultural and religious bond.
Eventually, their hopes were fulfilled through the Treaty of Pereyaslav in 1654. When the Cossack
hosts were forcibly removed from the empire, the February Revolution took place, and established
official relations between the Russian Provisional Government and the Ukrainian Central Rada.
After Soviet military aggression towards Ukraine in 1918, Ukraine declared its full
independence from the Russian Republic. The signing of the
Brest-Litovsk treaties with the Central Powers of World War I
calmed the military conflict between the two nations and peace
negotiations were initiated within the same year. However,
soon after the end of World War I, the Russian Civil War broke
out, and Ukraine became the main stage of the conflict. Both
Russians and Ukrainians fought in the war, choosing sides
based on their political beliefs. In 1922,
Ukraine and Russia signed a treaty that
made them both a part of the Union of
Soviet Socialists Republics. The treaty
lasted until December 1991, when the
USSR collapsed.14
……..When the Soviet Union fell, a series
14 Stebelsky, Ihor. "Parliamentary Democracy." Encyclopedia Britannica Online. Encyclopedia Britannica, n.d. Web. 29 Oct. 2014.
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of disputes developed between Russia and Ukraine. The first was the question of the Crimea.
Eventually, it was decided that Crimea would remain part of Ukraine, as long as it maintained its
status as an autonomous republic. Another problem that arose was regarding the city of Sevastopol,
as it served as an important base for the Russian Black Sea Fleet. 15After the Soviet State fell,
Sevastopol, as well as the rest of Ukraine, participated in a national referendum for the succession of
Sevastopol. The referendum decided in favor of Ukraine, as 58% of the population voted for the city
to be a part of Ukraine. However, the Supreme Soviet of Russia
voted to reclaim Sevastopol as a territory in 1993. Eventually, in 1997, negotiations took place
that decided that Ukraine would lease some of the naval bases in Sevastopol to Russia for twenty
years. A third problem that arose with the fall of the Soviet Union was the issue revolving around
energy supply. Many gas and oil pipelines that connected Russia and Western Europe ran through
Ukraine. Large business partnerships began between Russia and Ukraine in when the
Commonwealth of Independent States. Between one-third and one-half of Ukraine’s trade was with
the Russian Federation, a majority of which was energy related. Ukraine also relied heavily on Russia
for the exportation of Ukrainian products. Ukraine sent steel, electric machinery, food, and chemical
product to Russia. 16
Ukraine is split up into many regions, and different regions have historically different
opinions regarding Ukrainian-Russian relations. Eastern and Southern region of Ukraine, where
15 Bates, Theunes. "Ukraine's Fraught Relationship with Russia: A Brief History." The Week. The Week, 8 Mar. 2014. Web.
16 "About Commonwealth of Independent States." Interstate Statistical Committee of the Commonwealth States, n.d. Web.
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many Russians reside, has a closer relationship with Russia. Western regions of Ukraine, on the other
hand, show less of concern for the historic connection with Russia.
General Discussion of the Issue and Associated Problems
In November 2013, tens of thousands of protesters gathered in central Kiev in order to protest
Ukraine’s sudden decision to abandon plans to sign an association agreement with the European
Union. The protesters accused the government of succumbing to Russian pressure, as well as being
corrupt and unaccountable. A few months later, in February of the next year, security forces in Kiev
kill 77 protesters. 17President Yanukovich fled to Russian and Olexander Turchynov and Arseny
Yarseniuk established the interim government as president and prime minister, respectively. Russia
never recognized the takeover and helped separatists seize power in Crimea. They annexation of
Crimea has been considered the biggest East-West showdown since the Cold War. Pro-Russian
separatists in the city of Donestsk declared an independent republic and the interim Ukrainian
government launched an “anti-terrorist” operation in the eastern part of the nation. In May 2014,
voters in Donestsk and Luhansk call for independence through a poll that was deemed illegitimate
by the Ukrainian government, which had been recently passed into the hands of Petro Poroshenko.
Poroshenko signed a delayed association accord with the European Union in June 2014, effectively
pulling the nation out from Moscow’s sphere of influence. This past July, a Malaysian plane came
down in rebel territory and had been presumed to have been shot down. As a result, the United
17 McLaughlin, Lauren. "The Conflict in Ukraine: A Historical Perspective."The Russia-Ukraine Conflict: A Harvard Scholar Explains. Harvard Summer School,
12 Nov. 2014. Web.
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Nations Security Council called for inquiry.18 A month later, an unauthorized shipment of aid from
Russia to rebel-held areas prompted Ukraine to announce that it has been invaded. At that time,
NATO officially proclaimed that Russian forces were engaged in direct military operations inside of
Ukraine. Until the end of September 2014, one thousand Russian troops were still stationed in
Ukraine, and nearly 20,000 more were stationed just outside of Ukraine, along the Russian border.19
The recent developments in Ukraine have proven themselves to be pivotal in determining the
status of Euro-Atlantic security. Sensitive relations between Ukraine and Russia force delegates to
take into consideration the Russia-NATO relationship when making decisions regarding the
committee’s future. This topic also encourages delegates to consider the potential for a new member
of NATO, a complex topic that forces representatives to take into consideration the qualifications a
nation must meet in order to become a member.
Past Actions Taken
The first response by the global community to this crisis was the sanction that NATO imposed
on Russia over their alleged involvement in the uprisings in Ukraine, back in March 2014. Four
months later, in July, when Ukraine had signed the delayed association accord, the United States and
the European Union tightened the sanctions on Moscow. 20In August 2014, NATO Security-General
Anders Fogn Rasmussen says NATO will form a rapid reaction force in the case of a crisis similar to
the one in Ukraine occurring in NATO territory. At the NATO Summit in Wales, the NATO-Ukraine
18 "Ukraine Profile." BBC News. BBC News, 3 Sep. 2014. Web.
19 Smith-Spark, Laura, Andrew Carey in Kiev, and All Eshchenko in Moscow James Frater Also Contributed. "NATO: Russia Still Has 1,000 Troops in Ukraine,
20,000 More Along Border." CNN. Cable News Network, 01 Jan. 1970. Web.
20"Joint Statement of the NATO-Ukraine Commission." GOV.UK. N.p., 4 Sep. 2014. Web. 27 Sep. 2014.
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Chair: Grace Kilpatrick
April 25
Commission issued a joint-statement condemning Russia’s actions in the Ukraine and outlining the
extent of NATO’s aid.21 On September 5, 2014, during the second day of the NATO summit, a
ceasefire was negotiated between the Ukraine and the rebel forces, and NATO responded to this
delicate ceasefire with a fortification of the forces and supplies in western Ukraine as well as an
increase in navy vessels in the Black Sea. NATO also chooses to impose new sanctions against
Russia.22
Current Status
Recently, peace talks have been occurring between Ukraine and Russia. These talks have been
fruitful and have resulted in the Eastern region of Ukraine obtaining three years of limited self-rule
and the creation of a buffer zone that would serve the purpose of separating government troops and
21 Turbeville, Brandon. "Russia Negotiates Ceasefire In Ukraine: NATO Responds With Troops, Warships, and Sanctions." Global Research. Global Research, 5
Sep. 2014. Web.
22 Thuburn, Bryan McManus and Dario. "A Raft Of New Sanctions Are About To Slam Russia." Business Insider. Business Insider, Inc, 05 Sep. 2014. Web.
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Chair: Grace Kilpatrick
April 25
pro-Russian forces as well as removing foreign troops and heavy weapons from the eastern conflict
zone.
Block Positions
United States/Canada: The United States has released a series of statements condemning the actions of
Russia in Ukraine and has remained adamant about their position on the issue. As a consequence of
Russia’s actions, the United States has cut off all military cooperation with Russia and supported the
economic repercussions against Russia that have been proposed by NATO.
European Union: The European Union has taken a less severe approach to the crisis in the Ukraine.
The EU wants a quick and peaceful resolution to the crisis and is communicating its stance on the
issue through economic sanctions against Russia.
Questions to Consider
1) How has the 1997 Charter by NATO impacted Ukraine?
2) What events have occurred to cause NATO to take action in Ukraine?
3) What actions has NATO taken in Ukraine?
4) How does Ukraine’s Government feel about NATO’s intervening in the country?
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Chair: Grace Kilpatrick
April 25
Works Cited
"About Commonwealth of Independent States." Interstate Statistical Committee of the
Commonwealth States, n.d. Web. 29 Oct. 2014.
Bates, Theunes. "Ukraine's Fraught Relationship with Russia: A Brief History." The Week. The
Week, 8 Mar. 2014. Web. 23 Nov. 2014.
"Joint Statement of the NATO-Ukraine Commission." GOV.UK. N.p., 4 Sep. 2014.
Web. 27 Sep. 2014.
McLaughlin, Lauren. "The Conflict in Ukraine: A Historical Perspective."The Russia-Ukraine
Conflict: A Harvard Scholar Explains. Harvard Summer School, 12 Nov. 2014. Web.
16 Nov. 2014.
Thuburn, Bryan McManus and Dario. "A Raft Of New Sanctions Are About To Slam
Russia." Business Insider. Business Insider, Inc, 05 Sep. 2014. Web. 27 Sept.
2014.
Turbeville, Brandon. "Russia Negotiates Ceasefire In Ukraine: NATO Responds With
Troops, Warships, and Sanctions." Global Research. Global Research, 5 Sep. 2014. Web. 27
Sep. 2014.
Smith-Spark, Laura, Andrew Carey in Kiev, and All Eshchenko in Moscow James
Frater Also Contributed. "NATO: Russia Still Has 1,000 Troops in Ukraine,
20,000 More Along Border." CNN. Cable News Network, 01 Jan. 1970. Web. 27
Sep. 2014.
Stebelsky, Ihor. "Parliamentary Democracy." Encyclopedia Britannica Online. Encyclopedia
Britannica, n.d. Web. 29 Oct. 2014.
"Ukraine Profile." BBC News. BBC News, 3 Sep. 2014. Web. 25 Sep. 2014.
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