GU MUN (GERMANY)

What sort of government does your country have?

Germany is a federal parliamentary republic. It has a multi-party
system, and its government operates on the principles of
democracy, rule of law, and social justice. The Chancellor,
currently Olaf Scholz (as of 2024), is the head of government,
while the President (Frank-Walter Steinmeier) holds a largely
ceremonial role as head of state.
What types of ideologies (political, religious, or
other) influence your country’s government?
Germany’s government is influenced by a range of political
ideologies, predominantly social democracy, conservatism,
liberalism, and environmentalism. The main political parties
include the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), the
Christian Democratic Union (CDU), the Green Party (Die Grünen),
and the Free Democratic Party (FDP). Secularism is prominent,
although the Christian Democrats have historically been
influenced by Christian values. The rise of environmental
concerns, especially from the Green Party, also reflects
Germany’s growing commitment to sustainability.
Which domestic issues might influence your
country’s foreign policy?
Germany's foreign policy is shaped by several domestic issues:
- Energy transition and climate change, particularly as Germany
phases out nuclear and coal energy and transitions to
renewables.
- Immigration and integration of refugees, especially from conflict
zones like Syria and Ukraine.
- Economic stability, especially given Germany's status as
Europe's largest economy, influencing trade policy and relations
within the European Union.
- Relations with Russia and China, both of which are important
economic partners but also sources of political tension.
What are some major events in your country’s
history? Why are they important?
- Unification of Germany (1871): This event marked the
consolidation of German states into a single nation.
- World War I and II (1914-1918; 1939-1945): Germany played
central roles in both wars, with World War II leading to the division
of the country into East and West Germany.
- The Fall of the Berlin Wall (1989): This symbolized the end of the
Cold War and led to German reunification in 1990, profoundly
influencing the country’s role in global politics.
- Establishment of the European Union (EU): As a founding
member, Germany plays a leading role in EU affairs, shaping
Europe’s political and economic integration.
Which ethnicities, religions, and languages can be
found in your country?
Germany is ethnically diverse, with a majority of ethnic Germans.
Significant minority groups include people of Turkish, Polish, and
Middle Eastern descent. The primary religion is Christianity
(Catholic and Protestant), but there is a growing Muslim
population due to immigration. Other religions, including Judaism
and Buddhism, are also present. The official language is German,
though English is widely spoken as a second language.
Where is your country located and how does its
geography affect its political relationships?
Germany is located in central Europe, bordered by nine countries,
making it a key player in European geopolitics. Its central location
facilitates trade and diplomatic relations within Europe. Its access
to the North and Baltic Seas also makes it strategically significant
in terms of maritime trade and security.
Which countries share a border with your country?
Germany shares borders with Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic,
Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the
Netherlands.
Which countries are considered allies of your
country?
Germany is allied with many nations, particularly within NATO and
the EU. The United States, France, and the United Kingdom are
close allies. Germany also has strong partnerships with many EU
members and countries like Japan and South Korea.
Which countries are considered adversaries of your
country?
While Germany does not have outright adversaries, its relations
with countries like Russia and China can be tense, especially
regarding issues such as human rights, cybersecurity, and
territorial disputes. Russia's actions in Ukraine have strained
relations considerably, and Germany supports EU and NATO
sanctions against Russia.
What are the characteristics of your country’s
economy?
Germany has a highly developed social market economy, known
for its robust manufacturing sector, especially in automotive,
machinery, and chemicals. It is the largest economy in Europe
and one of the world’s leading exporters. The country is also a
leader in renewable energy technology and the green economy.
How has your country contributed to the UN?
Germany is a major contributor to the United Nations, both
financially and through participation in peacekeeping missions
and humanitarian efforts. It is an advocate for multilateralism and
human rights and has held a non-permanent seat on the UN
Security Council multiple times.

Middle East Crisis

Israel-Palestine, Saudi-Iran proxies, Yemen,
Syria, Lebanon

Addressing Barriers to Humanitarian Aid in the Middle East

Today, we confront an urgent humanitarian crisis in the Middle East, where

countless lives hang in the balance due to barriers obstructing aid delivery in
conflict zones. As we are all aware, over 12 million people in Syria and nearly 20
million in Yemen require urgent assistance, yet, even as we gather here to discuss
solutions, there are formidable barriers that prevent the most basic assistance from
reaching those who need it most.

First, let us address the security constraints. Ongoing hostilities and shifting
frontlines hinder humanitarian workers from reaching those in desperate need. In
Syria, for instance, humanitarian access is often denied, particularly in the
northwest, where millions remain cut off from essential supplies.

Second, we must acknowledge the political and administrative obstacles that

politicize humanitarian aid. In Gaza, restrictions on movement and trade limit the
flow of necessities to civilians, further exacerbating suffering. The humanitarian
imperative must transcend political interests; it is vital that we ensure unimpeded
access to aid.

Finally, we face funding gaps that hinder effective operations. In 2023, the UN's
appeals for aid in the Middle East fell short, with funding at only 60-70% of what
is needed. Germany has contributed over €1 billion annually to humanitarian
efforts, yet we must collectively increase our commitments.

Let us come together as an international community to dismantle these barriers and

reaffirm our commitment to the dignity and well-being of every individual affected
by these crises.

Thank you.

Confronting the Scourge of Human Trafficking and Exploitation in

Middle Eastern Conflict Zones
I bring to the forefront a horrific and underreported crisis: the rise of human
trafficking and exploitation in the conflict-ravaged zones of the Middle East. In the
midst of ongoing wars and humanitarian disasters, traffickers thrive, exploiting the
most vulnerable—those who have already lost everything.

In Syria alone, over 6.5 million people are internally displaced. Many of these
individuals, especially women and children, are targeted by traffickers who exploit
their desperation for survival. It is estimated that 80% of women in conflict zones
are at risk of trafficking—whether for forced labor, sexual exploitation, or
recruitment into armed groups. In Syria’s neighboring countries, where millions of
refugees seek asylum, the risk of trafficking is even greater due to inadequate
protection mechanisms.

In Yemen, the numbers are staggering. Over 24 million people, or 80% of the
population, need humanitarian aid, and many, including children, fall victim to
traffickers exploiting the chaos for profit. Migrants crossing Yemen’s war-torn
borders endure forced labor and detention, trapped in the cruel hands of trafficking
networks.
We must also turn our attention to Gaza, while trafficking is not as widely reported
as in some other conflict zones, the ongoing blockade where 2 million
Palestinians live, high unemployment (70% youth), and economic desperation
make Palestinians susceptible to forced labor, sexual exploitation, and other forms
of trafficking.

Germany is a key advocate in combating human trafficking, contributing over €1

billion annually to humanitarian aid and collaborating with international
organizations to enhance protections. However, more coordinated global efforts are
needed, including increased funding, stronger law enforcement, and addressing the
root causes of vulnerability. Trafficking is not just a crime but a moral atrocity, and
those responsible must be held accountable.

Together, we must dismantle these networks and bring hope and safety to those
who need it most.

Thank you.

Discussing the Role of Foreign Intervention in Middle East Conflicts

We must critically examine the role of foreign intervention in the enduring
conflicts of the Middle East. Over decades, foreign powers have inserted
themselves into regional disputes, often exacerbating tensions rather than resolving
them. The result? Increased instability, immense human suffering, and shattered
hopes for peace.

Foreign intervention has worsened humanitarian crises and prolonged instability

across the Middle East, escalating violence and thwarting peace. In Syria, foreign-
backed factions, bolstered by Russia’s support of Assad, have turned the conflict
into a devastating proxy war. This support has included tens of thousands of
Russian airstrikes, contributing to 500,000 lives lost, with 6.5 million Syrians
internally displaced and 5.7 million forced to flee as refugees. Such actions have
brought tragedy and deepened the poverty crisis, leaving 90% of Syrians below
the poverty line and 80% of children dependent on aid.

In Yemen, intervention by the Saudi-led coalition has intensified the humanitarian

disaster, resulting in 377,000 deaths and leaving 80% of Yemen’s population—
about 24 million people—in dire need of assistance. Tragically, 2.2 million
children suffer from malnutrition in a war that rages with outside backing.
Similarly, in Libya, foreign powers have prolonged division and instability since
2011 by supporting rival factions, with over 1,200 Russian mercenaries actively
fueling conflict.

Such interventions are often driven by geopolitical or economic interests rather

than the well-being of the people in the region. Arms sales to the Middle East—
nearly 50% of global arms imports between 2016 and 2020—fuel conflicts
rather than help resolve them. Foreign powers have often used the region as a
chessboard, disregarding the consequences for local populations.

Germany strongly advocates for diplomacy over military solutions. We believe that
inclusive political processes, supported by the international community, offer the
only path to sustainable peace. Foreign interventions should focus on supporting
conflict resolution, respecting sovereignty, and addressing the root causes of
instability—poverty, governance, and economic disparity.

The lessons of the past are clear. It is time to reimagine the role of external powers
in the Middle East, shifting from destructive military involvement to constructive
dialogue, development, and genuine humanitarian support. Thank you.

Highlighting the shortage of financial and

material support for relief initiatives.
We stand united here today to acknowledge a critical barrier to peace and stability
in the Middle East: the significant shortage of financial and material support for
humanitarian relief initiatives. The human cost of these funding gaps is staggering,
with millions of men, women, and children facing unimaginable hardships without
the resources they need to survive.

In Syria, where 90% of the population lives below the poverty line, recent UN
funding appeals received less than 42% of what was needed. This funding gap has
left hospitals struggling, with 50% of healthcare facilities damaged or closed and
medical supply chains disrupted. Lebanon, too, faces a humanitarian shortfall of
grave proportions. Amid economic collapse and regional instability, UN reports
show 1.5 million Syrian refugees now reside in Lebanon, placing severe strain on
public services, with only 35% of required international support currently
funded.

In Gaza, where conflict has created extreme vulnerability, families face daily
challenges accessing clean water, medical supplies, and basic shelter. Shockingly,
only 40% of necessary aid reaches the region, leaving essential relief initiatives
critically under-resourced.

Germany remains one of the leading donors in the region, dedicating substantial
resources to address these shortages. However, we cannot meet the scale of need
alone. We call on all nations to respond to this crisis with greater financial
commitment, logistical support, and diplomatic cooperation to ensure aid reaches
every corner in need.

Let us not allow funding limitations to stand in the way of humanitarian progress.
Together, we have the resources to make a difference; it is our duty to do so.

Thank you.

Addressing the rights of refugees and their right to return.

The rights of refugees and the principle of their right to return stand as pillars of
international humanitarian law and our shared human values. Yet, these principles
face challenges in a region marked by prolonged conflicts, where millions are
displaced and often left in limbo. In Syria, where conflict has scattered over 5.7
million people beyond its borders, refugees endure life with uncertain futures in
temporary shelters across neighboring countries. Host nations like Lebanon, which
now sees 1.5 million Syrians within its borders, grapple with resource shortages
and mounting social pressures as they try to accommodate these populations.

Palestinians face a particularly complex situation, with 5.6 million registered

Palestinian refugees seeking long-term solutions and paths to return that remain
elusive. For them, displacement spans generations, creating a legacy of separation
and hardship that is compounded by a lack of meaningful progress toward
resolution.
While host countries have made tremendous sacrifices, these populations are often
subject to discrimination, economic hardship, and restrictions that compromise
their rights and well-being. Without a comprehensive approach, we risk denying
these individuals not only their right to return but also their right to a safe and
fulfilling life.
International frameworks that protect these rights require renewed global
commitment. Germany, through its dedicated contributions of over €500 million
annually toward refugee aid and resettlement programs, underscores its support
for these frameworks. Yet, the global community must go beyond financial
assistance alone. Priorities should include creating secure pathways for voluntary
return, supporting host nations, and addressing the root causes of forced migration
to prevent future displacement.
Recognition of the right to return is not merely symbolic; it is central to the pursuit
of long-term stability and reconciliation. Refugees must be able to rebuild their
lives with dignity and security, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure these
rights are upheld.