CRISP - Simulation game

Simulation game

MINUSMA – Peacekeeping Mission in Mali

The role of the UN Security Council in the climate-security nexus is central to this simulation game. To what extent are the effects of climate change driving forces for conflict, and what role should the UN Security Council play in addressing the issue?

Target-Group

Civil Society Actors, Professionals and Students, age 17 and above


Topics

Climate & Sustainable Development, Conflict Transformation


Level

Experienced, Expert


Duration

4-6 hours, > 6 hours


Number of participants

12-20, 20-30


Format

Onsite


Languages

English


Participants in the simulation game have the role of diplomatic representatives from current UN Security Council (UNSC) member states negotiating the terms of a possible extension of the peacekeeping mission in Mali. A special thematic focus is placed on the climate and security nexus, with the resolution debating whether the impact of climate change on the conflict situation in Mali and the wider Sahel region should be mentioned.

Scenario & Procedure

The simulation deals with the debate around the prolongation of the mandate for the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), which was requested by the government of Mali to support political processes and carry out security-related tasks. The aim of the mission is to support the stabilization of the country and the implementation of the 2015 Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation. Since its inception in 2013, the mandate has been prolonged on a yearly basis, with the current mandate ending soon. The participants will assume the role of diplomatic representatives of the current UN Security Council (UNSC) member states and negotiate the conditions for a possible prolongation of the peacekeeping mission in Mali. The structure of the debate will be largely made up by the delegates themselves. The game starts with a plenary session, and it will be up to the delegates to bring up motions to ask for moderated or unmoderated caucus, which will allow discussions in a less formal manner. At the end of the simulation game, a resolution should be adopted.

Objectives

Participants will gain an understanding of current debates concerning the relationship between climate change, conflicts, and security. They will improve their understanding as to how climate change impacts conflict dynamics and what strategies are being considered to contribute to effective conflict preventative measures. Participants will also understand about international negotiation processes and how to improve their negotiating skills in order to reach an agreement.

Learning Goals
  • Understanding current global developments in climate policies as they relate to national and international security.
  • Insights into the UN Security Council's decision-making processes
  • Learning how to deal with conflicting national interests in an international setting