2nd ICON Security Council Session [IC/Closed/ICON Only]

[Sombreland]

“Since there are no objections,” said Prince de Hulfe, “”I take it there is nothing against the formation of an investigation commission to look into Roman military affairs regarding the alkeged massacre of prisoners in Roman territory on the dates in question. Since this is the first such issue before the tribunal, it is proposed that Count Teramon himself, as First Tribune, will lead the commission.”

[Anagonia]

Ambassador Max Gill:

I concur with Prince du Hulfe. I second the proposal that Count Teramon lead the investigation. I further recommend that the Security Council, upon delegation of the investigation to the Council of Tribunes, leaves the investigation and its result unto the Tribunes to be completed by report to the Security Council. Whatever they may recommend, it should be our duty to act on such recommendation.

[Darlingtown]

SACHI furrowed her brow, scowling slightly at Prince de Hulfe.

- SACHI -

---

"Forgive me if I am mistaken, but I do not believe the roles of Tribune are differentiated in such a way that there is a 'First' Tribune. All Tribunes are coequals and there is no hierarchy currently in place for the Tribunal. Of course, if this is indeed the case, I would very much love to see where in the Charter such a designation is found or who has been given the authority to hand out such a distinction.

Regardless, it would be wise to delegate the actual leading of the investigation to another party so that the Tribunal can remain as spotless and unbiased as possible, should its judgement be required. For this reason I will suggest that the Overseer of Humanitarian Affairs be the one to lead such an investigation, seeing as how this falls potentially under their purview. Let it not be forgotten that the Tribunal is merely a judiciary, and that it is not within its jurisdiction to execute an actual investigation itself. That would be what an executive office is for."

[Anagonia]

Max felt his face flush with a mixture of frustration, embarrassment, and a bit of a hurt pride. Ambassador SACHI's words hit deep. He cleared his throat.

Ambassador Max Gill:

Of course. All Tribunes are equals to my understanding. As you noted, Ambassador SACHI, it is my duty as an executive body to start such a process. Do you have any recommendations for an independent panel?

[Darlingtown]

- SACHI -

---

"It's fine, there has been no damage done here. Mistakes and miscommunications happen, and I'd be a fool to not recognize that. I'm just grateful there was an opportunity to clarify this now, rather than in a place and time where it might of incidentally caused more damage. If anything, Ambassador Gill, I thank you and Prince de Hulfe for voicing this now.

As for a recommendation, as I said earlier I believe it would be a good idea to let the Overseer of Humanitarian Affairs take the executive lead of this investigation. That said, as Tribune I will render whatever assistance I am able to, and I am sure my fellow Tribunes will do the same."

[Sombreland]

Prince de Hulfe raised his eyebrows. "The Director of Humanitarian Affairs? For what purpose? No activity has been even undertaken yet by that office. And If we are going to have the Director proposed, then I would like to hear what qualifications the Director has for such activity. The Tribune Count Teramon, by contrast, is one of the most highly qualified jurists in the Kingdom of Sombreland. He is not going to be distracted by other duties. The Kingdom of Sombreland's government wishes, very strongly, to have him put in charge of the investigation commission. Unless very good reasons are presented for someone else to take his place, then I will stand by that policy."

[Darlingtown]

- SACHI -

---

"If no other action is currently underway by the Overseer of Humanitarian Affairs, then wouldn't they also not be distracted from the assignment? More so than Count Teramon, as he would de facto be involved in more than just leading the investigation by also being Tribune for this case. Furthermore, while I do not doubt that Count Teramon's credentials are immaculate, it is simply not the jurisdiction for the Tribune to execute such an investigation. Indeed, if there needs to be an investigation on possible crimes committed against the civil population in Rome it would most definitely fall under the jurisdiction of the Office of Humanitarian Affairs, no? Would their office not be most qualified to conduct such an investigation?

And as I have pointed out earlier, keeping the Tribune separate from the investigation itself will help prevent any potential accusations from being levied against the Tribunal, which will or will not happen regardless of Count Teramon's pedigree in Sombreland. Which, might I add, the credentials you have presented on his behalf are as a jurist and not as a criminal investigator. So his appointment to lead the investigation seems to be one where such an argument simply does not make sense. It makes far more sense to delegate this matter to an executive office, for both the Tribunal's sake and also for the sake of jurisdictional integrity.

It may be Sombreland's wish to see Count Teramon expand his jurisdiction into the offices of others, but that will not be acceptable in this organization. There are jurisdictional lines in place with executive function being separated from the judiciary, and I doubt Sombreland would stand for such an overstep in the other direction, should one suggest the Overseer of Humanitarian Affairs should act as judge in this matter.

Now, is that 'very good reason' enough to satisfy the Sombrelandian delegation, or shall I continue to expound on why such an appointment makes no sense and would be a step backwards for this prestigious organization? I can provide more argumentation if you desire, whether that's because you remain unconvinced or you have simply become enamored by the sound of my voice."

[Sombreland]

Prince de Hulfe considered carefully before he replied, and said, after a moment, "A couple of considerations I would like to present. First, I must admit that one of the things that prompts my views on this matter is that there is a strict demarcation between the courtly caste and the military caste in Sombreland. This is not, however, a mere matter of tradition. And I must emphasize all due respect to those nations which, like Anagonia," he nodded to the Secretary-General, "Do not have such a demarcation, and may even prefer military officials for their dedication and proven service to their country. All our national governments are somewhat different, and in some cases greatly different.

"There is, however, a reason why this influences my views beyond simple love of tradition. The responsibilities of the Overseer of Humanitarian Affairs involve peacekeeping and dealing with humanitarian crises. So that makes the officials in question excellent for supporting this mission. However, from my government's perspective, this is not merely an investigation into a military incident, but into government policy and whether or not it led to that military incident. Therefore, it's not just a matter of procedure. It is about whether or not Romanic's government policy led to the massacre of 50,000 prisoners, and how that affects their involvement in ICON.

"On that basis, Count Teramon is most highly qualified to investigate. And I do not believe that this should be a matter of military precedent alone. I believe that this investigation must be conducted in such a way as to step aside from any concerns about military traditions or expectations, and go to the very root of the matter. For this, I believe, the Tribuneship is most important."

[Europe a Nation]

Marie-Rose
de Talleyrand-Périgord

"Your highness, this Security Council meeting was initiated by a report from the Overseer of Humanitarian Affairs, Claire Graf, on potential war crimes and the deteriorating situation in the Roman Empire. I'm not sure what led you to conclude that this department isn't doing its job or isn't qualified to do so, but I find it very dishonest. Regarding your proposal, I understand you are claiming that we are not simply conducting a humanitarian investigation but also political and military investigation. That is correct, but I do not think a nation with a caste system is the most suitable to investigate crimes against humanity.

Therefore I am requesting that specifically the investigation of war crimes and crimes against humanity to be delegated to the Department of Humanitarian Affairs."

[Sombreland]

There was a moment of one delegate staring at another, then, with a loud scrape of his chair, Prince de Hulfe stood up. “Is the European delegation making an accusation against my country? Either make it very clear that you want to stand by an insult to my country, or withdraw that remark.”

[Darlingtown]

SACHI sat still in her seat, her hands crossed before her and a stern glare on her face.

- SACHI -

---

"Ambassador Talleyrand, there had neither been an accusation levied that the Department of Humanitarian Affairs is not qualified for this assignment nor an intention to say it has been willfully idle with its duties. Furthermore it would be appreciated if such accusations are not levied against the Tribunal. The majority has elected Sombreland to fill one of three Tribunal positions and so this organization's judgement has found the internal affairs of the Kingdom of Sombreland to be a non-issue. And while I may disagree with the Sombrelandian delegation's request, such an accusation is uncalled for.

Prince de Hulfe, despite my agreement in the matter that such an accusation should not have been brought here, I suggest you keep your own emotions in check at this time. This is the Security Council, not some high school cafeteria, and if we cannot count on you to keep a level head I will submit a request to your government to have you replaced. There is absolutely no need to escalate this situation, and such an escalation here will not be tolerated.

I expect the both of you to dismiss your biases while at this table. We are not here to debate the honor of Sombreland or the competency of Europe. This is a question of jurisdiction and nothing else. I will ask you not to derail this Council with petty bickering or chest-puffing again.

If that is now behind us, I will say that the Department of Humanitarian Affairs is not simply military in its scope. And regardless, it would still fall upon an executive office to carry out this investigation. Not the judiciary. So if it does not fall upon the Department of Humanitarian Affairs, it would then default to the Secretary-General and whomever he would have delegated to this role. It is not the place of a judge to conduct a criminal investigation, only to review what is brought before them and make a judgement. Is this not the manner in how such an investigation works?"

[Sombreland]

Prince de Hulfe shook his head.”My concerns still stand. They have not been addressed. At best, the area of influence of Humanitarian Affairs has not been sufficiently established, and, indee clarity has not been provided by you, Madame President. As for Madame de Talleyrand-Perigord, my response stands. I demand a retraction and an apology.”

[Europe a Nation]

Marie-Rose
de Talleyrand-Périgord

"Your highness, I am not accusing you. Your nations your traditions but if Kingdom of Sombreland wishes to to investigate human rights violation on behalf of ICON, we have reservations."

[Sombreland]

Prince de Hulfe eyed the woman. He smiled. “Madame, I have explained the qualifications of Count Teramon as a jurist, but I will explain in greater detail. As a jurist of Sombreland, he is dedicated to his duty to investigate matters related to high authority and speak with an unbiased approach to them. His appointment was very carefully thought out and weighed by the government of Her Majestic Higness. He is known to be wise, thoughtful, and impartial. As I have said, the Overseer would be vital in supporting the investigation, but it has not been demonstrated to me that it would be the proper function of that office. As for my country having a caste system but it being questionable whether officials from my government are suitable to investigate humanitarian matters, that brings me to another concern: the very question of humanitarianism itself. That has not been described by this organization to satisfactory standards in the view of my government. What is beyond question, though, is whether or not military combatant surrendering can do so without subsequently being killed without provocation. This is a matter of fact. And this is something the Tribunal should have as it’s responsibility: whether or not member states can be relied on to be straightforward and legal in their conduct.”

[Anagonia]

When Prince de Hulfe gave his reply - and mentioned Anagonia and its government systems - Max gave a polite nod of his head. It was a considerate and respectful comparison and one that didn't border on insulting. Anagonia did have its own unique ways, particularly because most of the adult population had at one point served or still presently serves the Military. It was, for the lack of a better description, a Stratocracy; every citizen served to earn the right to vote and thereby every citizen that voted that chose to, eventually made it into politics. By default, the majority of its serving politicians - both domestic and foreign affairs - were at one point or presently were serving in the military. No one, surprisingly, talked openly about this slightly concerning situation however. It was likely because the laws in place clearly defined the separation of Military and Government or perhaps because of constitutional understanding by its mostly patriotic populace.

Max felt a slight uneasiness in his stomach. Did this mean that his country was actually a Military Junta? No...no couldn't be. That wouldn't make sense.

....Right?

To the Secretary-Generals shame he found himself lost in the present debate happening before him. He saw Ambassador Talleyrand and Prince de Hulfe exchange heated words. He noted the President trying to calm the both - and be the voice of reason. He then focused on the counter-point provided by both. It was getting heated and would likely remain so without intervention. He quickly darted his gaze over to President SACHI, as if expressing his dissatisfaction with the conduct of the Security Council, before glaring back at the Ambassadors and Representatives. He banged his fist on the table to gain attention.

Ambassador Max Gill:

Order! I call order to this Council! The representatives thereof shall conduct themselves appropriately or be temporarily dismissed from the session.

Now....this entire debate is about who gets the privilege to conduct this investigation - to lead it. I have been earnest in my desire to open my decision making process to this Council, however I will state if this Council shall conduct itself inappropriately again, I will halt further debate and make a final decision. As Secretary-General, I have that right, and I will utilize that right. Ladies and Gentlemen, this session is intended to be open to you to help finalize my decision so I may fairly make it, not for me to become some sort of despot and impose it on you. But impose it I shall if you cannot control yourselves!

I admit that both parties have excellent points on who can lead this investigation. Let me remark, however, that the department dealing with humanitarian affairs would likely be the best to comprehend and react to the situation on the ground. The Tribunes would also be best to identify war crimes. I propose a compromise: Humanitarian Affairs and the Tribunes conduct a joint investigation.

Let us debate that. What say you, Council?

[Neo-Western East Korea]

Cirina Norikova

Slightly nonplussed by the slight argument (and the Sombrelanders smug comments on the rightful presence of the military in politics) finally decided to speak up.

“Neo-Korea is in favor of a compromise of some sort upon the manner, although it is equally in favor of handing the matter to the Department of Humanitarian Affairs”.

Reclining slightly back in her chair, Cirina took a sip of water, hoping this matter would be done with soon.

[Darlingtown]

SACHI closed her eyes and sighed, smiling to hear Major Gill jump in to assist in defusing the situation.

- SACHI -

---

"A compromise, as the Secretary-General has suggested, would be acceptable on Darlingtown's end. Frankly it's not a question of qualification at all for me, but rather the only concern of mine is jurisdiction. The leading of an investigation is very clearly an executive function. Now, whether the duty falls upon the Office of Humanitarian Affairs or if the Sombrelandian delegation would like to propose the creation of an office and likewise propose Count Teramon to be selected to that office is of no consequence to me, so long as the actual execution of the investigation falls under an executive department...or the Secretary-General himself, if he should so desire.

Any solution currently in the parameters of discussion, save for ones which bypass executive function, are equally acceptable to me."

[Sombreland]

Prince de Hulfe said, "President SACHI, you make a good point. Jurisdiction. Perhaps I am a bit slow on these matters, not being a military expert, but I have yet to hear a definition of the role of the Overseer of Humanitarian Affairs that explains why this matter falls under that official's jurisdiction. As I understand it, the jurisdiction of the Overseer of Humanitarian Affairs is to..." he picked up a paper and read from it, "Command peacekeepers and armed forces sent on humanitarian missions and deployments. I fail to see how that falls under the Overseer's jurisdiction. However," he looked at SACHI with a level gaze, "Perhaps, if you are accepting the secretary-general's proposed compromise, then please be so good as to either accept it or provide the definitions and explanations I have been asking for."

[Darlingtown]

SACHI raised her eyebrow.

- SACHI -

---

"Perhaps I was not heard correctly. If so, my apologies. I am not married to the idea of appointing the Overseer of Humanitarian Affairs to lead this investigation. As I have just said, I would be equally fine with it being assigned to a new department created to carry out such actions. Perhaps even one that Count Teramon could be appointed to.

My suggesting of the Office of Humanitarian Affairs was merely choosing the closest currently established executive office we have. I do not have a defense for its leadership because that is simply not the argument I am making. In the end, jurisdictionally the matter falls under the Secretary-General and whether he wishes to expand the Office of Humanitarian Affairs to cover this or if he would prefer to establish a new office. Beyond differentiating executive power from judicial, I have no argument nor concern."

[Sombreland]

"That is reasonable," said Prince de Hulfe calmly. "In which case, I recommend that it be directed by the Tribuneship, as I have said. However, you are right: I will bow to the Secretary-General. I would add to that: the government of the Regent has every confidence in the appointment of Major Gill, and in his decisions and leadership. I have made my arguments and position clear, but in the end, I will follow the directive of the Secretary-General."

He then sat back in his chair with a relaxed air.

[Anagonia]

Ambassador Max Gill:

Cooperation is a key component of ICON and how we work together. I proposed that two departments work in unison to solve this crisis. I stand by that proposal based on what I've heard. To that end, I will expand the Office of Humanitarian Affairs to include a "warcrimes division" and enable it the effective and proper way to investigate humanitarian events - such as, clearly, war crimes. In this event, however, we must allow the Tribunes and the Office of Humanitarian Affairs to work together. This is clearly an ICON affair. I state that this should be a precedent, that insofar as criminal actions of ICON members that in the case of war crimes, both the Office of Humanitarian Affairs and the Council of Tribunes shall work coequally on the cause to file justifiable and reasonable reports and charges.

Now I leave it up to both the Council of Tribunes and Humanitarian Affairs to elect their charges who shall work together on this situation.

[Europe a Nation]

Many would question whether such an escalation of the situation was necessary, but Marie-Rose was certain it was. She was told to keep an eye on Sombreland so was aware that Sombreland had own issues with human rights. When she heard that Sombreland wants to lead the investigation, it was absolutely alarming situation that required her immediate reaction.

The govenrnmen of EaN was afraid that the current investigation could set a precedent in favour of Sombreland, which is also being monitored by the Department of Humanitarian Affairs for their refugee crisis and human rights situation. EaN was dissatisfied with the approach they took to resolve the crisis, and they abandoned their efforts to assist Sombreland in this case. Marie-Rose was tasked by her government to prevent potential abuse of power to influence the investigation in favour of Sombreland.

The reaction of the Sombreland representative, on the other hand, caught her off guard. She was pleased with the SG's and President's reactions, but it was more by luck than judgement that she did not cause a diplomatic spat. The result was rather neutral but the least we could agree on and the best we could get, she thought.

Marie-Rose
de Talleyrand-Périgord

"Mr Secretary-General, Ms President, thank you for offering the compromise. The government of Europe a Nation agrees on your proposal. Thank you."

[Darlingtown]

- SACHI -

---

"Darlingtown will also accept and support this proposal. Thank you, Secretary-General, for helping us find a reasonable compromise so that we may begin the investigation both swiftly and properly."

[Anagonia]

Max nodded to both President SACHI and Ambassador Talleyrand. He had thankfully not taken note of any of the hidden issues between the European and Sombrelandians. Instead, he sat back, relaxing as he didn't reply verbally. It was a time for the representatives themselves to talk.

[Sombreland]

Prince de Hulfe said, "I am satisfied with this. Count Teramon is the recommendation for the government of Sombreland.

"I should also like to add: a concern was raised by the delegation from Europe. My government has the greatest respect for Europe in general, for I believe that the government record for their country speaks for itself. Added to that is their stellar work dealing with the tensions with Nifon, and I think that they have been, in that particular, what sports people would call "the most valuable player." Having said that, I would like to address Ms. Talleyrand-Perigord's concern.

"Sombreland does, indeed, have a refugee crisis at this time. However, Sombreland has not concealed this matter, nor failed to address it. On the contrary, Sombreland has been open to organizing immigration of Wenchuanese refugees, has admitted government and non-government organizations to provide assistance, and has even invited leaders to see the relocation camps. Sombreland has been an open book. If there are humanitarian concerns, I am open to discussing them on behalf of my government."