What happens if UN personnel commit a crime?

To get familiar with the issue of criminal accountability and immunity of UN personnel, it's probably a good idea to look at some of the sources of controversy in recent times. This press release outlines examples of criminal activity or human rights violations committed by UN personnel while working in developing nations. One of the difficulties with finding a workable framework for dealing with the situation is that there is a lack of communication between the UN and the local authorities; in addition, many of these nations lack an effective justice system. As delegates in the Legal committee, you'll have to work to find a way to reconcile the need for accountability with the current shortcomings of the system.

So, what has the UN's response been to allegations of abuse and criminal activity on the part of its personnel? This United Nations report assesses the situation and identifies many of the issues that have prevented many developing nations and human rights groups from ensuring that personnel are held accountable. Included in the report are recommendations of the most effective way for the UN to respond to the situation, which should give you an idea of the direction of your working papers for this topic.

Enjoy your winter breaks! Don't be too upset when the holidays are over, because it only means we'll be 2 weeks closer to HSMUN 2012.