MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRPERSON
Delegates,
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the United Nations General
Assembly. The agenda we’ll be deliberating upon- “Fostering Stability in
Conflict Zones: Addressing Regional Insecurity in the Red Sea, Yemen, and
the Horn of Africa” is not only complex and layered, but deeply relevant to
the current geopolitical landscape. The region’s significance extends far
beyond its borders, touching upon global security, humanitarian
accountability, economic stability, and the role of international
cooperation in conflict resolution.
As delegates, you will be expected to go beyond surface-level arguments
and understand the core motivations of your assigned countries. Use
facts, empathy, and diplomacy to craft your stance and challenge others-
always remembering that the purpose of this committee is to foster
dialogue that mirrors real-world decision-making. I encourage you to
research thoroughly, stay authentic to your nation’s foreign policy, and
contribute to a debate that is respectful, solution-oriented, and
intellectually enriching.
And to those of you who may be feeling a little nervous: breathe easy. We
all start somewhere, some of us couldn’t even pronounce “geopolitical” in
our first MUN. Today might be your beginning, but beginnings often have
brilliance tucked quietly beneath the chaos.
Looking forward to witnessing meaningful discussions, strong leadership,
and collaborative diplomacy in committee. Let’s work together to create a
space that’s driven by purpose and progress.
Anjali Sharma
Chairperson
MESSAGE FROM THE
VICE-CHAIRPERSON
Distinguished Delegates,
Welcome to this session of the United Nations General Assembly where
diplomacy meets action, empathy meets order and diligence meets hope.
As we gather to address the pressing agenda of “Peace in the Red Sea
and the Horn of Africa: Navigating the Yemen Conflict and Regional
Instability”, I advise you to be thorough in your research and debate with
rigor.
The ongoing conflict in Yemen has created the world’s worst
humanitarian crisis with millions in need of urgent assistance. The Red
Sea’s security is threatened by escalating violence which has disrupted
global trade and in turn has made the entire region a hotspot for conflicts.
It is our responsibility to address it with utmost care and reflect on the
values that make us truly human: be it empathy or collaboration.
In this session, there will be room for meaningful dialogue that will shape
your perspective and broaden your horizons in unimaginable ways. So,
keep an open mind and join us in envisioning solutions that uphold
international law, protect civilians and foster international peace. I look
forward to hearing your innovative proposals as we work towards
securing a more secure and just future for the region.
Sincerely,
Mirza Imaad
Vice-Chairperson
Fostering Stability in Conflict Zones:
Addressing Regional Insecurity in the Red Sea,
Yemen, and the Horn of Africa
UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
INTRODUCTION
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is one of the
six principal organs of the United Nations and functions as its
main deliberative, policymaking, and representative body.
Established in 1945 under the Charter of the United Nations,
the General Assembly is composed of all 193 Member States
of the UN, each with an equal vote. Its mandate is rooted in
fostering international peace and security, developing
friendly relations among nations, promoting social progress,
better living standards, and human rights.
The General Assembly meets annually in regular sessions
and may also convene special and emergency special
sessions as necessary. Unlike the Security Council, the
General Assembly does not have enforcement power;
however, its resolutions carry moral and political weight and
can catalyze action by other UN organs. Through discussion,
debate, and consensus-building, the Assembly addresses
pressing global issues ranging from disarmament to
humanitarian assistance, international law, and sustainable
development.
Given its universal membership and broad scope, the UNGA
serves as a unique forum for multilateral discussion. Its
working method emphasizes diplomacy, dialogue, and the
peaceful resolution of conflicts. It appoints the
Secretary-General, elects non-permanent members to the
Security Council, and supervises the budget of the
organization. In special circumstances, such as the absence
of Security Council unanimity, the UNGA can also
recommend collective action through the “Uniting for Peace”
resolution.
WORKING OF THE COMMITTEE
The General Assembly functions through plenary sessions
and six main committees, each focusing on specific thematic
areas:
• First Committee: Disarmament and International
Security
• Second Committee: Economic and Financial
• Third Committee: Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural
• Fourth Committee: Special Political and
Decolonization
• Fifth Committee: Administrative and Budgetary
• Sixth Committee: Legal
Each Member State has the right to speak and one vote.
Decision-making is typically by majority, though important
questions (such as peace and security, budgetary matters, or
admission of new members) require a two-thirds majority.
The Assembly relies heavily on consensus, encouraging
cooperative diplomacy. Draft resolutions can be proposed,
debated, amended, and adopted after discussions and
negotiations in both committee and plenary settings.
Note: Every delegate is required to speak thrice during the
session.
The Agenda “Fostering Stability in Conflict Zones: Addressing
Regional Insecurity in the Red Sea, Yemen, and the Horn of
Africa” falls primarily under the First Committee: Disarmament
and International Security, as it deals with regional security
threats, conflict-driven instability, and maritime tensions. The
First Committee is responsible for addressing matters of
international peace and security, including the regulation of
armed conflict and the promotion of disarmament. In the context
of this agenda, delegates are expected to explore diplomatic,
multilateral, and disarmament-focused solutions to address
ongoing instability in the region.
—
CONFLICT TIMELINES
YEMEN:
● 2011: Arab Spring protests erupt; President Ali Abdullah Saleh steps down.
● 2014: Houthi rebels seize Sanaa.
● 2015: Saudi-led coalition launches military intervention.
● 2018: UN-brokered Stockholm Agreement signed but partially implemented.
● 2020–2022: Escalation of Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and UAE.
● 2023–2024: Houthi-linked Red Sea maritime attacks begin amid Israel-Gaza war.
● 2024–2025: Fragile ceasefires observed, but violence continues in fragmented
pockets.
SUDAN:
● 2011: South Sudan gains independence; internal instability in Sudan worsens.
● 2019: President Omar al-Bashir ousted; transitional military-civilian government
formed.
● 2021: Military coup derails democratic transition.
● April 2023: Civil war erupts between SAF and RSF.
● 2023–2025: Ongoing humanitarian crisis; over 8 million displaced.
ETHIOPIA & TIGRAY:
● 2018: Abiy Ahmed becomes PM, wins Nobel Peace Prize for peace with Eritrea.
● 2020: Tigray conflict begins as tensions with federal government escalate.
● 2022: Cessation of Hostilities Agreement signed.
● 2023: Gradual restoration of services and aid access, but sporadic violence and
ethnic clashes continue in parts of Amhara and Oromia.
2024–2025: Humanitarian challenges persist; reintegration of Tigray remains
incomplete, and regional tensions flare intermittently.
SOMALIA:
● 1991: Civil war begins; central government collapses.
● 2004: Transitional Federal Government established with international backing.
2006–Present: Al-Shabaab insurgency persists.
● 2007–2012: Al-Shabaab emerges as dominant jihadist group.
2012: Federal Government of Somalia formed; new constitution adopted.
2020–2023: African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) engaged in security
transition.
● 2024–2025: Challenges in political reconciliation and state-building persist.
SOURCES
Evidence or proof for substantiating statements made during formal
debate is acceptable from the following sources:
United Nations: Documents and findings by the United Nations or any
related UN body is held as credible proof to support a claim or argument.
Multilateral Organizations: Documents from international organizations
like OIC, NAFTA, SAARC, BRICS, EU,ASEAN, the International Criminal Court,
etc. may also be preseented as credible sources of information.
Government Reports: These reports can be used in a similar way as the
State Operated News Agencies reports and can, in all circumstances, be
denied by another country.
Few sources that are permitted are:
1) International Committee of the Red Cross
2) Human Rights Watch
3) World Food Programme (WFP) & Food and Agriculture Organization
(FAO)
4) UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
5) UNSC Resolution
6) UNICEF
7) Red Crescent
8) Reuters
9) Amnesty International
10) State-operated News Agencies (Can be cited if deemed credible, may
be denied by any other country in the committee.)
Sources NOT allowed:
1) Conflict Tracker
2) Middle-East Eye
3) Non-State operated News Agencies
4) Under no circumstances will sources like Wikipedia, ChatGPT, or
newspapers like the Guardian, Times of India, etc. be accepted.
Recommended to rely on:
Neutral humanitarian organizations like the International Committee of
the Red Cross (ICRC), which maintains strict neutrality and impartiality.
● UN agencies such as OCHA, WHO, and WFP, which provide
coordinated humanitarian data and reports with mandates for
neutrality.
● Academic and policy research that uses rigorous methodologies
and triangulates multiple sources to minimize bias.
Introduction to the Red Sea and Horn of Africa Region
The Red Sea and Horn of Africa region hold strategic significance for
global trade, geopolitics, and regional security. Connecting the
Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea serves as a major
maritime route, while the Horn of Africa represents a gateway for
global trade and international shipping. The region, however, has
also been a hotspot for political instability, conflict, and
humanitarian crises. The countries bordering the Red Sea, including
Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Djibouti, have
experienced varying degrees of instability, often exacerbated by
regional rivalries, extremist groups, and external interventions.
In particular, the ongoing Yemen conflict, which has persisted since
2014, has significantly impacted the entire region, with humanitarian
disasters, mass displacement, and the rise of regional proxy wars.
The conflict has drawn in regional powers, including Saudi Arabia
and Iran, and has further strained relations between neighboring
countries. This agenda aims to explore the multifaceted dimensions
of the conflict and address the broader regional instability affecting
the Red Sea and Horn of Africa.
The Yemen Conflict: Origins and Developments
The Yemen conflict traces its origins to the Arab Spring of 2011, when
widespread protests led to the ousting of long-standing Yemeni
president Ali Abdullah Saleh. The subsequent transition process led
by Saleh’s successor, Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, failed to stabilize
the country, creating political rifts and economic turmoil. In 2014, the
Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, seized control of Yemen’s capital,
Sanaa, and forced Hadi to flee. This escalated into a full-scale civil
war between the Houthi rebels, loyalists of Hadi, and a Saudi-led
coalition supporting Hadi’s government.
The international community, including the United Nations, has
repeatedly called for a ceasefire and peace negotiations, yet the
conflict has persisted. With the involvement of foreign powers,
including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, the conflict has become
increasingly complex, marked by airstrikes, ground battles, and
violations of international humanitarian law. The humanitarian
situation in Yemen is dire, with millions of civilians facing starvation,
displacement, and disease. This has led to widespread calls for
urgent intervention and a long-term solution to the crisis.
Regional Dynamics and Stakeholder Interests
The Yemen conflict cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader
geopolitical dynamics of the region. Saudi Arabia and Iran have
emerged as key regional players, with both nations supporting
opposing factions in Yemen. Saudi Arabia views the Houthi rebels,
who are backed by Iran, as a direct threat to its security, particularly
given the Houthis’ proximity to the Saudi border. Iran, on the other
hand, has used its support of the Houthis as a means to expand its
influence in the region and challenge Saudi dominance.
Other regional powers, including the UAE, have also played a
significant role in the conflict. The UAE initially joined the Saudi-led
coalition but later pursued its own agenda, supporting southern
separatists and contributing to the fragmentation of Yemen’s
political landscape. The involvement of external powers has not only
prolonged the conflict but has also complicated efforts to reach a
diplomatic solution. The influence of global powers like the United
States and Russia further adds layers to the complex geopolitical
environment.
Humanitarian Impact and the Role of International
Actors
The humanitarian crisis in Yemen is one of the worst in the world,
with millions of civilians affected by food insecurity, malnutrition,
lack of access to healthcare, and the destruction of infrastructure.
The conflict has created one of the largest displacement crises, with
nearly 4 million people displaced within the country and many
seeking refuge in neighboring countries. The situation has also
exacerbated existing challenges in the Horn of Africa, particularly in
countries like Ethiopia and Sudan, where displaced Yemenis have
sought asylum.
International actors, including the United Nations, the World Health
Organization (WHO), and various non-governmental organizations
(NGOs), have been working to provide humanitarian aid to the
region. However, access to affected areas is often limited due to
ongoing conflict and political restrictions, making it difficult to
deliver the necessary assistance. In addition, the UN-brokered peace
talks between the Yemeni government and the Houthis have been
fraught with challenges, with both sides frequently accusing each
other of bad faith and violations of ceasefire agreements.
Broader Implications for the Red Sea and Horn of Africa
Beyond Yemen, the Red Sea and Horn of Africa region faces
numerous security challenges, including the presence of extremist
groups like Al-Shabaab in Somalia, piracy in the waters off the coast
of Somalia and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and territorial disputes in
the Red Sea. These challenges are further compounded by climate
change, which has led to droughts, food shortages, and resource
competition, particularly in countries like Ethiopia, Sudan, and
Djibouti.
The instability in the Horn of Africa also impacts the broader global
economy, given the strategic importance of the Bab el-Mandeb
Strait, which is a critical choke point for global shipping. The Red Sea
is vital for the transportation of oil, gas, and goods, and any
disruption in the region could have significant economic
consequences. Therefore, the security and stability of this region are
of utmost importance not only to the countries involved but also to
the global community.
Proposed Solutions and the Way Forward
Addressing the Yemen conflict and broader regional instability
requires a multi-faceted approach that includes diplomatic,
humanitarian, and security interventions. The UN and regional
organizations such as the Arab League and the African Union must
play a central role in facilitating dialogue between the conflicting
parties and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid. A sustainable
peace process must take into account the diverse political, social,
and economic realities of Yemen and the Horn of Africa.
Moreover, regional powers must be encouraged to de-escalate
tensions and focus on building trust through confidence-building
measures and cooperative security frameworks. The involvement of
external actors should be recalibrated to avoid further exacerbating
the conflict and to support a peaceful resolution. In addition to
addressing immediate humanitarian needs, long-term development
strategies must be prioritized to ensure stability and economic
recovery in the region.
The role of international law and norms must also be emphasized in
ensuring accountability for violations of human rights and
international humanitarian law. The international community must
hold all parties accountable for their actions and ensure that the
principles of justice and human dignity are upheld in the peace
process.
Conclusion
The conflict in Yemen and the broader instability in the Horn of
Africa represent one of the most pressing challenges to peace and
security in the 21st century. It requires a concerted effort from all
stakeholders—regional and international—to work together to find a
comprehensive and lasting solution. The road to peace is fraught
with obstacles, but through diplomatic engagement, humanitarian
assistance, and regional cooperation, there is hope for a more
stable and secure future for the people of Yemen and the Horn of
Africa.
Important Laws and Conventions
1)United Nations Charter (1945) – Emphasizes peaceful dispute
resolution, non-aggression, and international cooperation.
2)Geneva Conventions (1949) and Additional Protocols – Define
humanitarian standards in conflict.
3)United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS, 1982)
– Governs maritime disputes and freedom of navigation.
4)Arms Trade Treaty (2014) – Regulates international arms
transfers.
5)UN Security Council Resolutions on Yemen (e.g., UNSCR 2216,
2015) – Call for ceasefire and humanitarian access.
6)UN Reports on Sudan and the Horn of Africa – Human rights
violations and humanitarian appeals.
Yemen & External Actors
Saudi Arabia, while criticized for its airstrikes resulting in civilian
casualties and blockade-induced humanitarian crises, has also pushed
for ceasefire negotiations and funded reconstruction projects under
Vision 2030. Iran, accused of supplying missiles and drones to the
Houthis, maintains that its involvement is limited to political support.
The Houthis have established rudimentary governance in northern
Yemen, but have been accused of conscripting children, suppressing
dissent, and launching indiscriminate attacks. The UAE, initially part of
the Saudi-led coalition, now supports the separatist Southern
Transitional Council, drawing flak for prolonging fragmentation while
simultaneously investing in development zones. The U.S. and U.K. have
supplied arms to coalition forces, prompting criticism from human
rights groups, but have also supported UN diplomatic efforts and
humanitarian aid. Collectively, international actors are navigating a
difficult balance between strategic interests, regional rivalry, and
peacemaking.
The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF)
have both claimed to defend Sudan’s stability, yet are responsible for
widespread atrocities including attacks on civilians, hospitals, and aid
workers. The SAF claims legitimacy under constitutional frameworks,
but its role in past authoritarian governance undermines public trust.
The RSF, initially formed from the Janjaweed militias, has received
backing from foreign actors like the UAE and Wagner-linked entities,
but faces global condemnation for ethnic cleansing in Darfur.
Sudanese civil society and protest movements remain a beacon of
hope, advocating nonviolently for democracy. The African Union and
IGAD have made repeated but largely unsuccessful efforts at
brokering a ceasefire, while the UN reports that over 25 million people
now require aid. The conflict reflects both the fragility of transitional
processes and the failures of international preventive diplomacy.
Ethiopia under Abiy Ahmed initially won global praise for domestic
reforms and peace with Eritrea but drew criticism for the Tigray war,
where both federal and allied Eritrean forces were accused of war
crimes, including starvation as a weapon. While the 2022 peace deal
marked a diplomatic success, enforcement remains uneven, and
journalists, aid workers, and political opponents continue to face
restrictions. Eritrea’s involvement in the conflict has been especially
controversial; despite its denials, multiple UN and Amnesty
International reports cite evidence of Eritrean troops committing
atrocities in Tigray. On the positive side, Ethiopia continues to
participate in regional diplomatic forums and peacekeeping missions,
and its government is pursuing national dialogue to address internal
ethnic tensions. However, the ongoing militarization and lack of
accountability risk reigniting violence in other regions like Oromia.
Somalia continues to face significant governance and security
challenges. While the federal government has made progress in
building state institutions and reining in corruption, it remains weak,
and power struggles between the central government and federal
member states persist. Al-Shabaab maintains a stronghold in rural
areas, using taxation and terror tactics. Nevertheless, Somali National
Army operations, supported by ATMIS and Western partners, have
reclaimed territories in southern Somalia. The drawdown of African
Union forces has raised concerns over a security vacuum, though
international funding and capacity-building efforts continue.
Additionally, Somalia’s diplomatic outreach, including joining the East
African Community in 2023, suggests a commitment to regional
integration.
Red Sea Maritime Threats
The Red Sea, vital for global trade, is now a flashpoint due to Houthi
missile and drone attacks, allegedly supplied by Iran. These assaults
have disrupted international shipping, prompting military responses
like Operation Prosperity Guardian, led by the US and involving UK,
France, and regional partners. While the naval coalition has deterred
some attacks and reassured commercial vessels, critics argue it
militarizes the region and risks miscalculation. The Houthis claim they
target only ships linked to Israel, but collateral damage to global
shipping and economic consequences are considerable. Saudi Arabia
and Egypt have strengthened their naval postures, while Israel and the
UAE see the Red Sea as a strategic frontier. UN experts have warned of
a potential spillover into a wider regional war unless diplomatic efforts
escalate alongside military deterrence.
Why is it necessary to deliberate?
The conflict in Yemen and the wider instability in the Red Sea and
Horn of Africa are serious threats to global peace. This region has
become a stage for power struggles, especially between Saudi Arabia
and Iran, but also involving countries like the U.S., Russia, and the UAE.
Inside Yemen and nearby nations like Sudan and Somalia, weak
governments and ongoing violence allow extremist groups to grow,
creating danger beyond the region. The Red Sea is also one of the
world’s most important trade routes; nearly 10% of global trade passes
through it, including oil. Any disruption here, like fighting or piracy,
could raise oil prices, harm supply chains, and worsen global economic
problems. On top of that, the humanitarian crisis is severe. Yemen is
facing famine and a collapsed health system, while countries like
Ethiopia and Somalia are dealing with drought, conflict, and waves of
refugees. These issues are deeply connected and demand global
attention. If ignored, they could lead to more suffering, regional
collapse, and a breakdown of international rules. The complex web of
proxy wars, arms trafficking, and external military operations has not
only fueled violence but also eroded trust in international institutions.
The international community must prioritize multilateral diplomacy,
invest in humanitarian aid, and support inclusive governance
structures that empower local voices. Only a coordinated, sustained,
and human-centered approach can break the cycle of violence and
ensure that the Red Sea and Horn of Africa transform from zones of
crisis into regions of opportunity and resilience.
That’s why the world must act through forums like the UNGA to bring
peace, protect trade, and defend human dignity.
LINKS FOR FURTHER RESEARCH
Yemen Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2025 (January …
The Greater Horn of Africa: Humanitarian Key Messages (February …
Yemen - OCHA
Yemen - Annual Country Report | World Food Programme
Yemen, May 2025 Monthly Forecast - Security Council Report
UNSC REPORT
PressBriefings - International Maritime Organization
For further queries, contact us
Anjali Sharma (Chairperson)
+91 89798 59030
Mirza Imaad Ali Baig (Vice-Chairperson)
+91 95570 13848
