The Special Political and Decolonization Committee (SPECPOL) is the Fourth Committee of the United Nations General Assembly. It was formed in 1990 when the Decolonization Committee and the Special Political Committee were combined. The UN established the “International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism” from 1990 to 2000, marking an important time for the UN’s decolonization work. When the UN was founded, 750 million people lived under colonial rule. Since 1945, over 80 former colonies have gained independence, thanks in part to the work of the Fourth Committee. Today, fewer than two million people live in 17 non-self-governing territories, and SPECPOL holds hearings with petitioners, including civil society organizations and private individuals, from these areas. SPECPOL also covers issues related to Palestinian refugees as well as topics like the effects of atomic radiation, peacekeeping operations, space exploration, and international cooperation for peaceful uses of outer space.

Election monitoring plays a key role in making sure elections are fair, transparent, and trusted, especially in countries recovering from conflict. Observers help prevent fraud, document irregularities, and ensure that people can vote safely. Elections in post-conflict areas are not just about choosing leaders; they are also a major step towards peace and stability. However, elections do not always succeed. Poorly managed elections can increase tensions instead of reducing them. For example, in Georgia’s 2024 parliamentary elections, international observers reported concerns about pressure on voters. In Serbia’s 2024 municipal elections, observers noted problems like vote-buying and misuse of government resources. In Venezuela’s 2024 presidential elections, lack of transparency and repression led to a major political crisis. These cases have led to increasing proposals that election monitoring go beyond just observing. A growing number of experts argue it should also include capacity-building, voter registration, educating voters, and the development of inclusive political parties. As SPECPOL delegates, addressing election monitoring in post-conflict areas is crucial to prevent future conflict and promote long-term stability.

Peru is currently experiencing one of the most severe periods of political instability in modern history. Since 2016, Peru has had seven presidents, reflecting a persistent crisis of governance. Following December 2022, the crisis escalated when then-President Pedro Castillo attempted a self-coup by trying to dissolve Congress and rule by decree. He was then impeached and arrested while Vice President Dina Boluarte assumed the presidency. Her government was protested as illegitimate, with demonstrations erupting across the country. Political tensions intensified in October 2025 when Congress removed Boluarte on grounds of “moral incapacity,” leading to the appointment of José Jerí, whose presidency was short-lived. On February 17, 2026, Congress passed a vote of no confidence, removing Jerí from office. José María Balcázar was elected as president of Congress and, in turn, voted in as the President of Peru the following day. This move confirms the political instability and deep fractures in Peruvian politics. As Peru approaches anticipated 2026 elections, the country faces political fragmentation. Institutional distrust risks further deepening the crisis. Delegates in SPECPOL must therefore consider how international cooperation and institutional support can strengthen long-term stability in the country.