TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Letter from the Secretary-General​ 3

Letter from the Director​ 4
Letter from the Director​ 5
Letter from the Director​ 6
Introduction to the Committee​ 7
Introduction to the Topic​ 7
Key Terms​ 9
History of the Topic​ 11
Origins of Dictatorship in Ancient Rome​ 11
Evolution into Modern Dictatorships​ 11
International Responses to Dictatorship and Repression​ 13
Current Situation​ 14
Contemporary Examples of Dictatorships and Repression Mechanisms​ 14
International Responses to Modern Dictatorships​ 16
Case Studies​ 16
Bloc Positions​ 19
QARMAs (Questions A Resolution Must Answer)​ 21
Position Paper Guidelines​ 22
Bibliography​ 23

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 Letter from the Secretary-General
Dear Delegates and Faculty Advisors,

My name is María José Lama Verástegui, but you can call me Majo. I am the
Secretary-General of Recoleta Debate Team (RDT) for 2025, and it is an honor to
welcome you to RecoMUN’s fourth edition.

I am 17 years old and a student of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at

Colegio SS.CC Recoleta, an amazing community I have been part of my whole life. When I
am not studying, you can find me spending my time on my hobbies, such as writing,
singing, dancing, and practicing martial arts. I love outdoor activities with my friends and
going to the beach— there’s just something very soothing about the sound of the waves.
I would describe myself as a passionate person who enjoys having a good laugh and
building close connections with those around me.

How did I end up here? It all began in 2021, when a random letter arrived at my school
email inviting me to join RDT. At the time, I had no clue about MUN, but I thought, “Why
not? Let’s try it out!” Fast-forward five years, and I think I transformed into a completely
different person thanks to Model United Nations.

Indeed, MUN is beneficial to developing soft skills and an array of abilities that can
propel you toward your goals. Personally, it has enhanced my confidence, diplomacy, and
leadership abilities in teamwork. Nevertheless, these were not the most valuable
learnings. The experience of competition taught me much more. I became a more
resilient individual as I navigated the challenges that arose. The most difficult aspect of
MUN is not the debate itself, but having to accept the ups and downs that come with it.
Emotional intelligence, often overlooked as a crucial trait for a MUNer, should not be
underestimated. In any endeavor, resilience is vital for success.

In this conference, I encourage you to give your all as competitors, while also embracing
the opportunity to bounce back from challenges and emerge even stronger. Let go of
fear and frustration, because you have the skills to succeed. Rely on your team —your
family— who will be your most trusted support throughout this journey. Ultimately, what
matters more than the award, is how you grow in the process. I’m excited to meet you in
April! 25th, 26th and 27th!

Best wishes,
María José Lama Verástegui
Secretary General

3
 Letter from the Director
Hello!

My name is Jorge Medina and I am currently a tenth semester Biomedical Engineering

student at Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP) and Universidad Peruana
Cayetano Heredia (UPCH). In this opportunity I will have the honour and pleasure to
serve as your director in the Special Political and Decolonization Committee for this
edition of Recoleta Model United Nations. To know more about me, I am a huge football
fan (Visca Barça) and a truly passionate person regarding action and science fiction
films. In my free time I enjoy watching Dragon Ball and Naruto while procrastinating when
the minimum opportunity is presented. My MUN experience started eight years ago
when I attended LiMUN 2017 and since then I have taken part in more than 50
conferences playing the role of delegate, Head Delegate, Faculty Advisor and Director. As
a result, I have been awarded several times but the most pleasant recognition was the
Book Award obtained in the North American Model United Nations (NAIMUN) 2019
where, alongside United Schools of Peru (USP), I had the opportunity to travel to the
United States and attend one of the most competitive conferences in the country.

Regarding the topic in discussion, it is crucial to develop comprehensive strategies to

combat dictatorship and repression, as these systems continue to suppress
fundamental freedoms through various mechanisms such as censorship, political
imprisonment, and state violence. One personal advice I could give is to analyze past
cases of successful democratic transitions, such as the fall of apartheid in South Africa
or the end of military rule in Latin America, to understand the key elements that led to
change. By doing so, delegates can propose realistic solutions that respect national
sovereignty while ensuring that human rights are upheld, regardless of a country’s
political, religious, or cultural background.

One message I would like to give to you is that remember that MUN is an activity to
debate and grow as a person, always taking into consideration diplomacy and
maintaining a balance between soft-skills and your level of content. My ideal delegate is
the one who knows how to maintain an adequate proportion between their abilities and
their content quality, being both aspects at the same level. Having said that, I hope to
see you in April for a dynamic and interesting committee. If you have any doubts or
questions or simply you would like to introduce yourselves do not hesitate to send me
an e-mail!

Greetings!

Jorge Medina Céliz

Committee Director
jmedina28abril@gmail.com

4
 Letter from the Director
Hi delegates! My name is Mariana Castillo and I am thrilled to evaluate you in this
SPECPOL committee. To tell you a bit about myself, I am 18 and starting my second year
in Law, at Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú. Regarding my hobbies, I love sports
with my life, especially volleyball and going to the gym (if I could do it all day I would). I
am also keen on watching series such as Gossip Girl, and being a compulsive buyer of
make up every time I have the chance. My MUN career started during the pandemic, in
Maria Reina’s scholar team. Nowadays, I am still participating in the college circuit with
Peruvian Debate Society (PDS). Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in Harvard
National Model United Nations (HNMUN), and it was one of the most stressful and
challenging experiences of my life, but it was still one that I will never forget.

Regarding the topic of this committee, I would say that it is really interesting due to it
being a current issue in the international relations world. I am personally really keen on
investigating this topic in my free time, in cases such as Venezuela and, recently, the
situation in Central America, which is a new current debate on which governments are
and aren’t dictatorships. My best advice for you guys to find solutions that could apply
in multiple cases is to look for past case studies and find which have been the common
actions, what has the international community done, and the reaction of countries
regarding their own ability to protect their sovereignty. I highly encourage you guys to try
innovative solutions, but still remember that this committee has limited power over what
each government can or can’t do over their territory.

Finally, as a message for you, I recommend you to risk yourself and speak as much as
you can. I still remember my first conference and how I only spoke once. Now, I am happy
to say that fear is gone, partly because of MUN. If this happens to you too, this
conference could be the opportunity to get over those fears of speaking in public or
participating in places with a big quantity of people. Those are abilities that will help you
in the future. Do not forget to listen to the points of view of the rest of the people in the
room. Regarding your participation in the committee, I expect you to correctly argue the
points of your statements, not just mention them without any sustain. Utilize your
research to create arguments that can work in your speeches. Moreover, it is
fundamental to counterargument others respectfully, adding alternatives that could be
used instead. Do not forget to move the debate forward and be constant in your
participation; please discuss the points mentioned in the QARMA’s. If you have any
doubts, feel free to ask through email.

I am thrilled to see you debate this controversial topic!

Mariana Castillo
Committee Director
mariana.castillo@pucp.edu.pe

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 Letter from the Director
Hello there!

I am Bryam Arrieta and I am so thankful to be your AD for this SPECPOL committee. I am

a bachelor in international business from Universidad de Lima, and I am working as an
administrative assistant in Ediciones Corefo. In the past, I was an intern in Comunidad
Andina, focusing in the area of Market Access and free competency; also I was a
delegate for Peruvian Universities for two years, debating in HNMUN-LA 2023 and 2024,
were I had the honour to be the head delegate of the team that won Best Large
Delegation. It’s nostalgic to be here again at Recoleta, because I studied all my school
here and I also was part of RecoMUN team debating in several conferences as a high
school student and now its a total pleasure to be here as AD, hoping to lead you through
this debate and teach you not only skills related to MUN but skills that would last for
your life and be useful in your university and professional life.

Talking about the topic, I think it's clear why we are debating around it; not only because
history has taught us the consequences of dictatorship throughout examples like Hitler,
Stalin, Mussolini, etc; but mostly because if we want a society that truly follows the
principles of the democracy like liberty, equality and dignity, there is no room for hostile
leaders that only serve their own whims and beliefs as they punish the ones that not
follow them.

MUN it's a beautiful space, not only as a competition but mostly as a classroom, a safe
space where you can cross the frontiers of your limits and learn how to express yourself,
lead teams, negotiate, work diplomatic solutions and in a few words, improve your social
and human skills. Personally, I will be seeking for the best delegate to be the leader the
world needs, but this is not a leader that makes others listen to him, but the leader that
listens to all the committee and unites all the delegates to work through a diplomatic
solution that truly captures the essence of every solution that was proposed. Hope you
have fun and learn all the most you can, be brave and it will be rewarded.

Bryam Arrieta
Committee Director
barrieta@corefo.com

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Introduction to the Committee
The United Nations (UN) General Assembly (GA) was founded in 1945 under the UN
Charter and serves as the primary deliberative, policymaking, and representative body
of the organization. It facilitates multilateral negotiations on a wide range of international
matters. Comprising all 193 UN member states, each with equal voting rights and no veto
power, the GA also includes observer entities such as the Vatican, which can engage in
discussions but lack voting privileges. The GA’s key responsibilities include reviewing
reports from the UN Security Council (SC) and the Economic and Social Council
(ECOSOC), promoting international cooperation through recommendations, and
facilitating peacemaking efforts in conflict situations. Additionally, it plays a role in
appointing the UN Secretary-General, judges of the International Court of Justice, and
members of the UNSC and ECOSOC.

The General Assembly is structured into six main committees: Disarmament and
International Security (DISEC); Economic and Financial; Social, Cultural, and
Humanitarian; Special Political and Decolonization (SPECPOL); Administrative and
Budgetary; and Legal. Beyond these, the GA oversees various subsidiary organs,
including boards like the Board of Auditors, commissions such as the Disarmament
Commission, committees like the Investments Committee, as well as councils, panels,
and working groups.

While the resolutions adopted by the GA are non-binding, meaning they do not carry
the force of law, they often have a profound and lasting impact on global issues. Notable
examples include the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which established a
foundational framework for human rights standards, and the Millennium Development
Declaration, which set ambitious goals for addressing poverty, illiteracy, health, and
environmental challenges by 2015.

SPECPOL, the Fourth Committee of the GA, is responsible for addressing specialized
political matters that fall outside the scope of DISEC, as well as issues related to
decolonization. Its mandate includes topics such as human rights, peacekeeping
operations, mine action, outer space, public information, atomic radiation, and the
University for Peace. In recent years, SPECPOL has focused on subjects including the
effects of atomic radiation, the peaceful use of outer space, peacekeeping in various
contexts, and the status of non-self-governing territories.

Introduction to the Topic

Throughout history, dictatorship and repression have plagued societies, leading to
widespread human rights violations, suppression of political opposition, and the

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deterioration of civil liberties. Dictatorship, broadly defined as a system of governance
where power is centralized in the hands of an individual or a small group, often operates
through mechanisms of repression, including censorship, political imprisonment, and
violent crackdowns on dissent. These regimes maintain control by silencing opposition,
restricting freedom of speech, and utilizing state apparatuses such as law enforcement
and intelligence agencies to intimidate and subdue critics. In today’s geopolitical
landscape, combating dictatorship and its associated repression mechanisms remains a
pressing global challenge, requiring coordinated international efforts to uphold
democratic principles, ensure human rights protection, and foster political transitions.

Several historical and contemporary examples highlight the severe consequences of

dictatorship and repression. One of the most infamous cases is Nazi Germany
(1933-1945), where Adolf Hitler established an authoritarian regime that relied on
propaganda, mass surveillance, and systematic elimination of opposition groups. The
Nazi regime’s use of repression mechanisms, such as the Gestapo (secret police) and
concentration camps, resulted in the persecution and genocide of millions,
demonstrating the dangers of unchecked autocratic power.

Another case study is Chile under Augusto Pinochet (1973-1990), where a military
dictatorship imposed strict control over society through forced disappearances, torture,
and censorship. Despite economic stability, the regime’s repressive measures led to the
deaths and suffering of thousands. The transition to democracy in Chile serves as an
example of how international pressure and domestic movements can contribute to
dismantling authoritarian structures.

A more recent example is North Korea, one of the world’s most isolated and repressive
states. The Kim dynasty has ruled the country for decades, employing extreme
censorship, forced labor camps, and an extensive surveillance network to control the
population. The lack of political freedoms and human rights abuses in North Korea
remain a concern for the international community, with organizations like the United
Nations repeatedly condemning the regime’s actions.

In addition, the next macro issues surrounds dictatorship and repression can be
summarized as following:
1.​ Human Rights Violations: Dictatorships frequently engage in widespread human
rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and suppression of
free speech. Organizations such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty
International continuously report on the atrocities committed by authoritarian
governments, highlighting the urgent need for international intervention and
justice mechanisms.
2.​ The Role of Technology in Repression: In the 21st century, dictatorships have
adapted to modern technology to reinforce control. Governments in countries

8
 like China and Iran utilize artificial intelligence, mass surveillance, and internet
censorship to monitor citizens and suppress dissent. The Great Firewall of China,
for example, restricts access to independent news sources and social media
platforms, preventing political mobilization and free expression.
3.​ The Challenge of Sovereignty vs. Intervention: One of the primary obstacles in
combating dictatorship is the principle of national sovereignty. Many
authoritarian regimes argue that international criticism of their governance
constitutes an infringement on their domestic affairs. The balance between
respecting sovereignty and protecting human rights is a contentious issue within
the United Nations and other international bodies, often hindering decisive action
against oppressive governments.

Key Terms
●​ Dictatorship: form of government in which one person or a small group
possesses absolute power without effective constitutional limitations.
●​ Repression Mechanisms: process by which the dominant hegemonic order
attempts to maintain power by destroying, rendering harmless or appeasing
those organizations, people, groups, or ideologies that potentially threaten their
position of power or privilege.
●​ Censorship: the changing or the suppression or prohibition of speech or writing
that is deemed subversive of the common good. It occurs in all manifestations of
authority to some degree, but in modern times it has been of special importance
in its relation to government and the rule of law.
●​ Political Prisoner: a person who is imprisoned because that person’s actions or
beliefs are contrary to those of his or her government. This is the most general
sense of a term that can be difficult to define. In practice, political prisoners
often cannot be distinguished from other types of prisoners.
●​ Human Rights Violations: Acts committed by governments or authorities that
infringe upon fundamental human rights, such as freedom of expression,
assembly, and protection from torture.
●​ Sovereignty: The principle that a state has full control over its own affairs
without external interference, often cited by authoritarian regimes to justify
oppressive policies.
●​ Democratic Transition: critical phase in the history of democracy when a
country introduces competitive elections with mass suffrage for key political
positions, marking a shift towards democratic governance.
●​ Peacekeeping Operations: Missions conducted by the United Nations or
international coalitions to maintain peace, prevent conflicts, and protect civilians
in regions affected by dictatorship and repression

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 ●​ Surveillance State: A political system where the government extensively
monitors its citizens through technology, intelligence agencies, and data
collection, often limiting privacy and political freedoms.
●​ International Sanctions: Economic, political, or diplomatic restrictions imposed
by other nations or international bodies to pressure authoritarian governments
into compliance with human rights standards.

Regarding relevant treaties, conventions and laws for the topic, the following documents
should be taken into consideration:

●​ Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) (1948): A landmark UN

document that sets out fundamental human rights, including political freedoms
and protections against repression.
●​ International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) (1966): Legally
binding treaty ensuring rights such as freedom of speech, fair trials, and
protection from torture, often violated by dictatorships.
●​ Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading
Treatment or Punishment (1984): Prohibits torture and repression tactics
commonly used by authoritarian regimes.
●​ Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (1998): Establishes the ICC,
which prosecutes crimes against humanity, including state-led repression and
persecution.
●​ Responsibility to Protect (R2P) Doctrine (2005): A UN framework affirming that
the international community has a duty to intervene when a state fails to protect
its citizens from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against
humanity.
●​ Geneva Conventions (1949) and Additional Protocols: Set international
standards for the humane treatment of individuals, often violated under
dictatorial regimes.
●​ European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) (1950): A regional treaty that
protects political freedoms and human rights, allowing citizens to challenge
repressive laws in the European Court of Human Rights.
●​ Inter-American Democratic Charter (2001): Adopted by the Organization of
American States (OAS), this document commits member states to democratic
governance and condemns unconstitutional changes in government.
●​ UN General Assembly Resolutions on the Promotion of Democracy: A series of
non-binding resolutions that encourage states to uphold democratic principles
and oppose repression.
●​ Global Magnitsky Act (2016, USA): Allows for sanctions against individuals and
entities involved in human rights abuses, often used to target officials in
dictatorial regimes.

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History of the Topic
Understanding the historical evolution of dictatorship and the international responses to
repression provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of power and the global
efforts to combat authoritarianism.

Origins of Dictatorship in Ancient Rome

The term "dictator" originates from ancient Rome, where it referred to a magistrate
appointed during emergencies. In the Roman Republic, a dictator was granted
extraordinary powers for a limited period, typically six months, to address specific crises
such as wars or internal conflicts. This temporary position was designed to enable swift
decision-making in times of need.

A notable example is Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus, appointed dictator in 458 BCE to

rescue a besieged Roman army. According to legend, Cincinnatus left his farm to assume
command, successfully resolved the crisis in 15 days, and promptly resigned his powers
to return to his agricultural life, embodying Roman virtues of duty and humility.

Evolution into Modern Dictatorships

While the Roman dictatorship was originally intended as a temporary solution for crises,
history has shown how absolute power can evolve into oppressive regimes. The 20th
and 21st centuries have witnessed various dictators who not only seized power but also
maintained control through violence, propaganda, and suppression of political
opposition. Below are five significant examples:

Adolf Hitler (Germany, 1933–1945)

Rise to Power: Appointed Chancellor in 1933, Hitler quickly consolidated power,
establishing the Third Reich through legal manipulations and violent suppression of
opposition.

Repression Mechanisms:
●​ Banned political parties and trade unions.
●​ Established the Gestapo (secret police) to eliminate dissent.
●​ Used state-controlled propaganda, particularly through Joseph Goebbels'
Ministry of Public Enlightenment.
●​ Sent political opponents, Jews, and other marginalized groups to concentration
camps, leading to the Holocaust.

Impact: Led to World War II and the deaths of millions, showing how unchecked power
and repression can escalate into global catastrophe.

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 Iósif Stalin (Soviet Union, 1927–1953)
Rise to Power: Became the undisputed leader of the Soviet Union after the death of
Vladimir Lenin, transforming the country into a totalitarian state.

Repression Mechanisms:
●​ Used the NKVD (secret police) to conduct mass arrests, forced confessions, and
executions.
●​ Orchestrated the Great Purge (1936–1938), where millions of perceived enemies
were executed or sent to the Gulag labor camps.
●​ Imposed strict censorship on literature, art, and media to control public
perception.

Impact: Millions died due to purges, forced labor, and famine caused by Stalin’s policies,
solidifying him as one of history’s most oppressive dictators.

Francisco Franco (Spain, 1939–1975)

Rise to Power: After winning the Spanish Civil War, Franco ruled Spain as a dictator for
nearly four decades.

Repression Mechanisms:
●​ Executed and imprisoned thousands of political opponents, particularly
members of left-wing and separatist movements.
●​ Enforced strict censorship and banned political parties.
●​ Established a secret police force to monitor citizens and suppress opposition.
●​ Promoted a cult of personality, portraying himself as Spain’s savior.

Impact: While Spain eventually transitioned to democracy after Franco’s death, his rule
demonstrated how repression could sustain a dictatorship for decades.

Augusto Pinochet (Chile, 1973–1990)

Rise to Power: Seized power through a military coup, overthrowing democratically
elected President Salvador Allende.

Repression Mechanisms:
●​ Implemented Operation Condor, a campaign to eliminate left-wing dissidents in
Chile and other Latin American countries.
●​ Thousands were forcibly disappeared, tortured, or killed.
●​ Established military tribunals to prosecute political opposition without fair trials.

Impact: Though Chile transitioned to democracy in 1990, Pinochet’s brutal rule left deep
scars, and he was later charged with human rights violations.

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 Kim Dynasty (North Korea, 1948–Present)
Rise to Power: North Korea has been ruled by the Kim family since 1948, first under Kim
Il-Sung, then his son Kim Jong-Il, and currently Kim Jong-Un.

Repression Mechanisms:
●​ Total control of information: All media is state-run, and the internet is strictly
censored.
●​ Political prison camps (kwanliso): Dissidents and their families are sent to forced
labor camps, where conditions are inhumane.
●​ Extreme surveillance: The regime spies on its citizens through informants, making
dissent nearly impossible.
●​ State propaganda and personality cult: Citizens are required to worship the ruling
family, with severe punishments for disrespect.

Impact: North Korea remains one of the most oppressive regimes today, with
widespread human rights abuses and an isolated population.

International Responses to Dictatorship and Repression

International responses to dictatorship and repression have evolved over time,
encompassing a range of strategies aimed at promoting democracy, safeguarding
human rights, and holding oppressive regimes accountable. These responses include the
formation of international bodies, the establishment of legal frameworks, the imposition
of sanctions, support for civil society, implementation of transitional justice
mechanisms, and expressions of international solidarity.

Formation of International Bodies

United Nations (UN): Established in 1945, the UN serves as a global platform to promote
peace, protect human rights, and address issues related to dictatorship and repression.
Its various organs, such as the Human Rights Council, investigate and report on human
rights violations, applying diplomatic pressure on authoritarian regimes.

Legal Frameworks and Declarations

Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948): This foundational document outlines
fundamental human rights to be universally protected, providing a benchmark against
which repressive actions are measured.

International Criminal Court (ICC): Established in 2002, the ICC prosecutes individuals
for crimes like genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes, serving as a deterrent
against oppressive actions by state leaders.

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 International Sanctions and Diplomatic Pressure
Economic and Political Sanctions: The international community often imposes sanctions
on regimes that violate human rights, aiming to pressure them into compliance with
international norms. For instance, following allegations of electoral fraud and repression
in Belarus, Western leaders rejected the election results and threatened further
sanctions against President Alexander Lukashenko's regime.
AP NEWS.

Diplomatic Isolation: Authoritarian regimes may face suspension from international

organizations, restricting their influence and signaling global disapproval of their actions.

Support for Civil Society and Democratic Movements

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): International NGOs play a crucial role in
supporting local civil society groups, providing resources, training, and platforms to
amplify their voices against repression.

Election Monitoring: Organizations like the Organization for Security and Co-operation in
Europe (OSCE) monitor elections to ensure they are free and fair, promoting democratic
processes in countries transitioning from authoritarian rule.

Transitional Justice Mechanisms

Truth and Reconciliation Commissions: Post-dictatorship societies often establish these
bodies to investigate past human rights abuses, promote healing, and recommend
reforms.

Special Courts: Regional bodies have established courts to address crimes committed
under dictatorial regimes. For example, the discovery of the "Archives of Terror" in
Paraguay revealed extensive documentation of human rights abuses under Operation
Condor, leading to prosecutions of former military officers involved in the repression.

Current Situation
In recent years, various nations have experienced a resurgence of authoritarian
practices, with governments employing sophisticated mechanisms to suppress dissent
and maintain control. This chapter examines contemporary examples of such regimes
and the international community's responses to these challenges.

Contemporary Examples of Dictatorships and Repression

Mechanisms
Nicaragua under President Daniel Ortega

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Since returning to power in 2007, President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Rosario Murillo,
have systematically dismantled democratic institutions in Nicaragua. They have
consolidated control over the judiciary and legislature, expanded state dominance over
media outlets, and suppressed opposition through violent means. The violent crackdown
on anti-government protests in 2018 resulted in over 350 deaths and forced tens of
thousands into exile. Recent constitutional reforms have further eroded checks and
balances, allowing the appointment of multiple vice presidents, potentially paving the
way for their children to assume power.

Venezuela under President Nicolás Maduro

President Nicolás Maduro's administration has been characterized by increasing
authoritarianism. The government has shut down numerous media outlets, imprisoned
political opponents, and employed security forces to suppress protests. Extrajudicial
killings have been reported, with estimates suggesting over 20,000 such incidents. The
judiciary's independence has been compromised, leading to due process violations and
the use of torture to extract confessions. These actions have contributed to a
humanitarian crisis, prompting millions of Venezuelans to flee the country.

Russia under President Vladimir Putin

Under President Vladimir Putin, Russia has exhibited authoritarian tendencies, including
the suppression of political opposition, control over media, and the use of security
services to intimidate dissenters. The government has been implicated in transnational
repression, targeting critics abroad through surveillance, harassment, and even
assassination attempts. High-profile cases include the poisoning of former intelligence
officer Alexander Litvinenko in the UK and the attempted assassination of opposition
leader Alexei Navalny.

China under the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)

The CCP has implemented extensive surveillance measures, including internet
censorship, camera monitoring, and other forms of mass surveillance. These practices
involve technologies such as AI, facial recognition, fingerprint identification, voice and iris
recognition, big data analysis, and DNA testing, closely linked to the Social Credit
System. Domestic technology companies like Hikvision, Sensetime, Huawei, and ZTE are
involved in these large-scale surveillance programs.

Equatorial Guinea under President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo

Equatorial Guinea's government, led by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, has
been criticized for stifling independent journalism and limiting the flow of uncensored
information. Censorship manifests through legal frameworks, intimidation of journalists,
and surveillance of communication channels. Freedom of expression is severely
curtailed, affecting political speech, civil society, and information dissemination both
domestically and internationally. The country consistently ranks among the lowest

15
globally in terms of media freedom, fostering a culture of self-censorship and fear
among citizens and journalists.

International Responses to Modern Dictatorships

The international community has employed various strategies to address contemporary
authoritarian regimes:

United Nations Investigations: UN experts have called for international action in

response to alleged human rights violations by Nicaragua's government under President
Daniel Ortega, highlighting the need for global attention to such issues.

Economic Sanctions: Countries like the United States and members of the European
Union have imposed economic sanctions on regimes such as Venezuela and Russia,
targeting individuals and entities responsible for human rights abuses and corruption.

Support for Civil Society: International organizations and NGOs provide support to local
civil society groups in authoritarian countries, offering resources and platforms to
amplify their voices against repression.

Legal Actions: International bodies and national courts have pursued legal actions
against officials from repressive regimes, aiming to hold them accountable for crimes
against humanity and other violations.

These responses underscore the global commitment to promoting democratic

governance and protecting human rights in the face of modern authoritarianism.

Case Studies
To give you a little more insight on the current and past global situations, here are two
case studies regarding Repression mechanisms, which are usually used by dictators in
order to keep the population under their control, while maintaining them disconnected
from the world. It is crucial to understand that there are several definitions
internationally on what dictatorship is, and what are their characteristics. In order to take
this into account, we will give you examples on dictatorship mechanisms that are almost
always qualified with this term. Moreover, at point 6.3., you can find differences between
both case studies, and we suggest you also analyze the repression mechanisms
mentioned in both dictatorships, since both have different responses according to the
scale of harm of citizens.

a.​ Nazi Germany (1933–1945)

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Under the leadership of Adolf Hitler, Nazi Germany became one of the most infamous
totalitarian regimes in history. The Nazi Party implemented an extreme form of
dictatorship based on racial ideology, militarism, and authoritarian control. Hitler's
regime turned Germany into a police state and pursued aggressive expansionist policies,
leading to World War II and the Holocaust.

Characteristics of the dictatorship:

●​ Centralized Power in One Leader: Hitler, as the leader of the Nazi Party,
effectively established a one-party state. Though there were formal democratic
institutions (such as the Reichstag), Hitler consolidated power and manipulated
these institutions to serve his personal agenda. After the Reichstag Fire in 1933,
he used emergency powers to suspend civil liberties and dismantle the
democratic system.
●​ Absolute Control Over the State: Hitler had absolute control over the
government, military, and police forces. His regime became a totalitarian
dictatorship, meaning he controlled all aspects of German life—from the media
and education to law enforcement and the military.
●​ Suppression of Political Opposition: Political parties and independent
organizations were banned. The regime targeted communists, socialists, liberals,
and anyone opposed to Nazi ideology. The Gestapo (secret police) suppressed
dissent, and political opponents were either imprisoned, tortured, or executed.
●​ Cult of Personality: Hitler was portrayed as an infallible leader, and his
personality was central to the Nazi regime. His authority was absolute, and
decisions were often made unilaterally without democratic processes or checks
and balances.

What did the international community do about it?

●​ Hitler’s aggressive invasion of Poland in 1939 marked the beginning of World War II
and forced the international community, particularly Britain and France, to
declare war on Germany.
●​ Nazi Germany's defeat and the ensuing trials showed a significant shift in the
international community's attitude towards human rights and state-sponsored
violence, marking the beginning of a more proactive stance against genocidal
regimes.
●​ After the defeat of Nazi Germany, the Nuremberg Trials (1945–1946) were held to
prosecute Nazi war criminals for crimes against humanity, war crimes, and
genocide. This was a landmark moment for international law, establishing
precedents for the prosecution of individuals responsible for such atrocities.
●​ The Holocaust also led to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 and
the foundation of the United Nations in 1945 to prevent future genocides and
establish global human rights standards.

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 b.​ North Korea (The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea)
Dictatorial Leadership: North Korea is one of the most extreme examples of a
dictatorship in the world today. The regime is led by Kim Jong-un, who holds absolute
power as the supreme leader. The country has been under the control of the Kim family
for over 70 years, beginning with Kim Il-sung (the grandfather of the current leader),
followed by Kim Jong-il, and now Kim Jong-un.

Characteristics of the dictatorship:

●​ Totalitarian Control: The North Korean government exerts total control over
almost all aspects of life, from the economy to the media, education, and even
personal behavior. All citizens are subject to intense surveillance and are required
to show loyalty to the ruling family.
●​ Political Prison Camps: North Korea operates a network of concentration camps
(also called "kwan-li-so") where political prisoners and their families are
imprisoned. Many people are detained for perceived disloyalty, including
defectors, critics, or anyone suspected of being opposed to the regime. Torture,
forced labor, and executions are common in these camps.
●​ Cult of Personality: The regime enforces a cult of personality surrounding the Kim
family, with Kim Jong-un depicted as a god-like leader. The government controls
all media and uses it to glorify the leadership, while censoring all outside
information that could challenge the regime’s narrative.
●​ Surveillance and Control: Every aspect of North Korean society is under constant
surveillance, with the regime employing spies and informants to monitor citizens
for signs of dissent. Even ordinary citizens live in fear of being denounced by their
neighbors or family members. The North Korean government severely restricts
citizens' movement within the country and abroad. Access to the internet is
limited, and communication with outsiders is heavily monitored, ensuring that the
populace remains isolated from the outside world.

What did the International Community do about it?

●​ The United Nations and countries like the United States have consistently
condemned North Korea’s human rights violations, including the use of political
prison camps, repression of freedom of expression, and widespread
state-sponsored violence. However, the international community has been
limited in how much it can pressure the North Korean regime due to the regime’s
isolation and the strategic importance of the country in the context of East Asian
geopolitics.
●​ Sanctions have been imposed on North Korea for its nuclear weapons program,
missile tests, and human rights abuses. The UN Security Council has passed
multiple resolutions to impose economic sanctions aimed at restricting North
Korea’s access to resources that could fund its nuclear ambitions. Despite these

18
 sanctions, North Korea has continued its weapons programs, and its economy
has remained highly isolated.
●​ Diplomacy with North Korea has been attempted over the years, but with limited
success. Major powers like the U.S., China, and South Korea have engaged in
dialogues with North Korea at various points, aiming to bring it to the negotiating
table for denuclearization and to address its human rights abuses.
●​ The Six-Party Talks (involving North and South Korea, the U.S., China, Russia, and
Japan) were held from 2003 to 2009, but these talks broke down after North
Korea resumed its nuclear tests.

Key differences regarding case studies

●​ Unlike Nazi Germany, where the international community could mobilize for
military intervention in World War II, North Korea’s situation is more complex. Any
military intervention is seen as highly risky due to the potential for escalation with
China, South Korea, and the threat of nuclear war. This makes international
intervention difficult, as no country wants to risk a broader regional conflict.
●​ China has been a key ally and economic partner of North Korea, complicating any
global efforts to intervene. China has historically shielded North Korea from
harsher international sanctions or efforts to bring about regime change.
●​ North Korea has not faced a similarly decisive international response, due to its
nuclear weapons, strategic importance, and the difficulty of engaging China in
efforts to influence the regime. The international community has focused on
sanctions and diplomatic efforts, but the regime has largely remained resistant to
external pressure.

Bloc Positions
Western Democracies
(e.g., United States, European Union, Canada, Australia)
●​ Human Rights and Democracy Promotion: Western democracies are generally
strong advocates for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. They will
emphasize the importance of free elections, political freedoms, and civil liberties
as the foundation for combating dictatorship and repression.
●​ Sanctions: These countries often support the use of economic sanctions against
authoritarian regimes that engage in repression. This can include trade
embargoes, travel bans, and asset freezes on government officials or entities
linked to repressive actions.
●​ Diplomatic Pressure and Isolation: Western democracies typically support
diplomatic efforts to isolate dictatorial regimes on the international stage, limiting
their ability to form alliances or engage in trade. They may push for the

19
 suspension of regimes from international organizations like the United Nations or
regional groups like the African Union or ASEAN. At the same time, they often
fund civil society organizations, NGOs, and democracy-building programs in
repressive states, seeking to empower opposition groups and promote
grassroots resistance to dictatorial control.
●​ Military Intervention as a Last Resort: While military intervention is typically a last
resort, Western countries may justify it under the doctrine of Responsibility to
Protect (R2P), particularly in extreme cases of genocide or crimes against
humanity, as seen with interventions in Libya or Kosovo.

Authoritarian and Autocratic Regimes

(e.g., Russia, China, Iran)
●​ Sovereignty and Non-Intervention: Authoritarian countries often position
themselves as staunch defenders of national sovereignty and argue that foreign
powers should not intervene in the internal affairs of sovereign states. They
typically oppose sanctions, diplomatic isolation, or any form of external pressure
on governments labeled as dictatorships.
●​ Support for the Status Quo: These countries will generally support dictatorial
regimes that align with their interests, viewing these governments as stable
partners for regional or global cooperation. They may provide economic, political,
and military support to authoritarian regimes facing international condemnation
(e.g., supporting Bashar al-Assad in Syria, or Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela).
●​ Anti-Western Narratives: Authoritarian states often argue that the West uses
human rights as a pretext for regime change and will accuse Western nations of
hypocrisy, pointing to their own domestic issues or historical actions as evidence
of double standards.
●​ Economic and Military Assistance to Dictatorships: These countries may provide
military aid, economic assistance, or political cover at international forums to
help authoritarian regimes maintain control and resist external pressure.

Developing Countries/Global South

(e.g., India, South Africa, Brazil)
●​ Balanced Approach: Countries in the Global South often adopt a more nuanced
approach, advocating for both the preservation of sovereignty and the promotion
of human rights, but with an emphasis on dialogue and peaceful resolution. They
may not fully support unilateral sanctions or military interventions but encourage
a constructive dialogue on governance and human rights.
●​ Focus on Economic Development: These countries may prioritize economic
development and argue that authoritarian regimes in some regions, while
repressive, can still play a role in maintaining stability and promoting economic
growth. They might argue that external interventions often undermine
development or worsen instability.

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 ●​ Multilateralism: Many Global South countries support multilateral efforts through
international organizations like the United Nations, arguing that any actions to
combat dictatorship should be undertaken through consensus-building and
international cooperation, not unilateral actions by individual states.
●​ Anti-Imperialism: These nations often view Western interventions as a form of
neo-imperialism and may express solidarity with governments resisting foreign
pressure, particularly if they are targeted by powerful Western nations.

Regional Groupings
(e.g., African Union, ASEAN, Arab League)
●​ Regional Solidarity and Stability: Regional organizations tend to take a position
that balances solidarity with member states and the need for regional stability.
They often prefer to address issues of repression internally, as they may not want
to destabilize a member country or damage regional cohesion.
●​ Emphasis on Peaceful Mediation: These groupings tend to favor dialogue,
mediation, and diplomacy over confrontation. They often call for regional bodies
to mediate between authoritarian governments and opposition forces,
advocating for peaceful solutions.
●​ Non-Interventionist Policies: Much like authoritarian regimes, regional groups may
support the principle of non-intervention in the internal affairs of states, arguing
that outside interference could worsen the situation. They may, however, engage
in diplomatic pressure behind the scenes.
●​ Support for Autonomy: Many regional organizations, particularly in Africa and the
Middle East, may also have a history of supporting dictatorships due to historical
alliances, economic interests, or shared ideological goals (e.g., Arab League's
support for Bashar al-Assad in Syria or the African Union’s hesitation to intervene
in Sudan).

QARMAs (Questions A Resolution Must Answer)

1.​ What concrete measures can the international community implement to prevent
and respond to emerging dictatorships and repressive regimes without affecting
each country's sovereignty?

2.​ What mechanisms should be in place to support democratic transitions and

protect political dissidents in authoritarian states?

3.​ How can SPECPOL set standard criteria to determine when a government can be
cataloged as a dictatorship? And what mechanisms can be implemented to
report and track incidents of transnational repression within member states?

21
 4.​ How can SPECPOL support and empower non-governmental organizations and
grassroots movements that promote democratic values and human rights within
repressive regimes? And how can we ensure protection from the risk of
transnational repression for them?

5.​ What measures can be implemented to prevent the misuse of technology by

dictatorships to surveil, censor, and suppress political dissent?

6.​ How can the international community balance efforts to prevent repression with
the promotion of national reconciliation and the reintegration of political
dissidents, especially in post-conflict or transitioning states that may have
experienced authoritarian rule?

Position Paper Guidelines

For every committee in RecoMUN 2025, delegates must send their Position Paper.

Position Papers contain the following structure:

●​ The first paragraph has the purpose of introducing how your country regards the
topic. It is advisable to start with a catchy phrase. You may include statistics or
data that are not mentioned in the Study Guide. Answer the question: why is my
country relevant and committed to the topic?
●​ The second paragraph addresses past UN actions in which your country has
participated in. Discuss whether they need to improve according to your
country’s perspective.
●​ The last paragraph is the opportunity to propose your own country’s solutions.
Try to come up with innovative ideas related to the topic. Sum up a little bit of
what you want to do, how you want to do, who will be in charge of that, when and
where is going to be held. Don’t forget to add a creative name to make your
proposals shine.

Heading: Provide the following relevant information: delegate’s full name, name of your
school delegation, name of your country, name of the committee and topic.
Font: Times New Roman
Size: 11
Line Spacing: 1.0
Margins: 2.50 cm each side
Text Alignment: Justified
Page Limit: 1
Citation format: APA 7th edition (in a second page)

22
All Position Papers must be sent to recomun.specpol@recoleta.edu.pe in PDF format by
Sunday 20th, April 23:59 pm.

Please, make sure to cite every source that you use in your Position Paper, if not, it will be
considered plagiarism. You can use an extra page for your bibliography only.

All delegates who do not submit a Position Paper by the indicated date will not be
eligible for awards. Be sure you submit your Position Paper with the subject: Your
Country - Position Paper.

Bibliography
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“The General Assembly”United Nations Foundation. , n.d., online, Internet, 21 May 2017. ,
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“General Assembly of the United Nations,” n.d., online, Internet, 21 May 2017. , Available:
http://www.un.org/en/ga/about/subsidiary/.

“The General Assembly.” vi “The United Nations and Decolonization,” n.d., online, Internet,
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"Defining Political Repression," n.d., online, Internet, Available:

https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/abs/political-repression-in-bahrain/defin
ing-political-repression/711C2AB8A47F87C5F942B0F581B567BD.

"Dictatorship," n.d., online, Internet, Available:

https://www.britannica.com/topic/dictatorship.

"Censorship," n.d., online, Internet, Available:

https://www.britannica.com/topic/censorship.

"Political Prisoner," n.d., online, Internet, Available:

https://www.britannica.com/topic/political-prisoner.

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"What is a Human Rights Violation?" n.d., online, Internet, Available:
https://www.cilvektiesibugids.lv/en/themes/what-are-human-rights/what-is-a-h
uman-rights-violation.

"Sovereignty," n.d., online, Internet, Available:

https://www.britannica.com/topic/sovereignty.

"Democratic Transition," n.d., online, Internet, Available:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/social-sciences/democratic-transition.

"Peacekeeping Terminology," n.d., online, Internet, Available:

https://peacekeeping.un.org/en/terminology.

"Defining the Surveillance State," n.d., online, Internet, Available:

http://privacyinternational.org/blog/1513/defining-surveillance-state.

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es.aspx.

"Universal Declaration of Human Rights," n.d., online, Internet, Available:

https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights.

"International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights," n.d., online, Internet, Available:
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ovenant-civil-and-political-rights.

"Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or

Punishment," n.d., online, Internet, Available:
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inst-torture-and-other-cruel-inhuman-or-degrading.

"Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court," n.d., online, Internet, Available:
https://www.icc-cpi.int/sites/default/files/2024-05/Rome-Statute-eng.pdf.

"Responsibility to Protect – 2005 World Summit Outcome Document," n.d., online,

Internet, Available:
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=2005%20World%20Summit%20Outcome%20Document,-Paragraphs%20on%2
0the&text=Each%20individual%20State%20has%20the,through%20appropriate%
20and%20necessary%20means.

24
"The Geneva Conventions and Their Commentaries," n.d., online, Internet, Available:
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"European Convention on Human Rights," n.d., online, Internet, Available:

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"The Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act," n.d., online, Internet, Available:
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023.

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