Introduction
Hey guys! My name is Samantha Codd, I am a junior here at Mission, and I will be your head chair for this conference! I am very excited to meet you all and I wish you the best of luck during committee!
- Background of Topic
Fissionable materials can be defined as a division of a heavy atomic nucleus into two fragments of roughly equal mass accompanied by the release of a large amount of energy, the binding energy of the subatomic particles. The energy released in the fission of one uranium nucleus is about 50 million times greater than that released when a carbon atom combines with oxygen atoms in the burning of coal. The energy appears as kinetic energy of the fragments, which converts to thermal energy as the fragments collide in matter and slow down. Fission also releases two or three free neutrons. The free neutrons can bombard other nuclei, leading to a series of fissions called chain reactions. The energy released from nuclear fission is used to generate electricity, to propel ships and submarines, and is a source of the vast destructive power of nuclear weapons. Producing fissile materials still remains the critical obstacle in any new nuclear weapon program and for any country seeking a larger nuclear arsenal. For more than 50 years, this recognition has underpinned both the support for and opposition to the adoption of a binding international treaty banning the production of fissile materials for nuclear weapons. Since the end of the Cold War, it has been discovered that accounting for fissile materials has often been very loose in weapon states. An FMCT would require that at least in their civilian nuclear sectors nuclear weapon states meet internationally agreed standards for the control and accounting of fissile materials.
- United Nations Involvement
In December 1993, the U.N. General Assembly adopted a resolution calling for negotiation of a "nondiscriminatory, multilateral, and effectively verifiable treaty banning the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices." The resolution declared that the General Assembly was "convinced" that a treaty meeting these criteria "would be a significant contribution to nuclear nonproliferation in all its aspects." Delegates must discuss whether or not these fissile materials should be banned. Discuss how this could affect nations positively and negatively, and come up with a solution based on your country’s policies.
- Bloc Positions
Western Bloc:
Most western nations have already become aware of the specific problems associated with the security of Fissionable Materials and the effects that follow. Countries such as the United States and France are currently searching for new and improved ways to combat this crisis
Middle Eastern Bloc:
There are many countries that have not yet industrialized to their potential within this bloc. Therefore, many of the possible nuclear power initiatives have not been taken.
Latin American Bloc:
Many Latin American nations such as Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Mexico have caught on to the nuclear power trend and have installed nuclear reactors within each nation. However, other nations such as Peru do not have any nuclear reactors, and others don’t even host nuclear research centers.
Asian Bloc:
Many nations in the Asian block, particularly the eastern section, have been worried about Japan’s nuclear meltdown. Therefore, many countries within this bloc are expected to cooperate with Japan, and have been assessing the security of their own nuclear waste programs.
African Bloc:
Nations belonging to this regional bloc are under the same circumstances as the Middle Eastern bloc; there are a few very industrialized countries in the midst of nuclear-absent nations.
- Possible Solutions
Explore the possibility of a nuclear control regime that would require that all fissile materials be securely held. Also look into the spreading of awareness through projects or campaigns. Come up with resolutions that are sound and viable, but also penetrate the issue on whether or not your country agrees with banning the production of these materials or if your country believes the UN should allow it for economical or any other reasons.
- Guiding Questions
Has your country dealt with Fissionable Materials in the past?
What are your countries policies on security of Fissionable Materials?