Fukushima Accident Reignites the Nuclear Energy Debate in SPECPOL

UNITED NATIONS — Crashing waves and nuclear fallout from seven years ago have sparked heated debate in the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (SPECPOL).

Nearly 100 dual delegates began unpacking the Fukushima tragedy, a Japanese nuclear plant malfunction that followed the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, leaving thousands harmed from nuclear radiation.

Focusing on the benefits of nuclear energy, the delegates from Australia said the alternative source is “dangerous only when approached without necessary safety precautions.”

The delegation of Chile echoed these sentiments.

"The tragic disaster could have easily been avoided with more regulations,” the delegation said. Along with these delegates and more, The People’s Republic of China outlined the framework of its Safe Emergency Action (SEA) proposal.

This plan — the first proposed in committee — urged member nations to acknowledge the magnitude of power that nuclear energy can provide.

“It would be absurd to ignore shrinking fossil fuel supplies and the rise in energy needs in a nation like our own,” a delegate from China said, citing a study conducted the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Over ten delegates have aligned themselves in favor with China’s plans, including those from Australia, Chile, Kazakhstan and the United Arab Emirates.

In opposition, European delegates including Italy, Germany and Ireland touted the accident as a clear example of the dangers it poses. Italy explained its experience with the issue at hand, noting that it is currently phasing out nuclear reactors.

“Right now, 27% of our energy comes from the nuclear sector. We want that number by 0 in 2020,” delegates from the country said. Ireland noted the shift in public opinion following the incident.

“The costs outweigh the benefits. Human lives are at stake.”

In coalition with other delegates from Argentina and the Czech Republic, they formed the Before During After plan. According to the delegates from Argentina, this plan will improve infrastructure and inspection processes within power plants while installing proper care services in place for those who might still be affected.

“This is a multifaceted approach that will tackle all of the problems while phasing out nuclear power worldwide.”

As debate continues, a delegate from the Czech Republic spoke about the committee's goals for this session.

“We need to reach a solution," the Czech delegate said. "We cannot let the international community down again."