H-UNSC

The First Chechen War (1994–1996) emerged from the collapse of the Soviet Union and the subsequent struggle to redefine sovereignty within the Russian Federation. Chechnya’s declaration of independence challenged Moscow’s authority at a moment when Russia itself was undergoing political, economic, and institutional upheaval. The conflict quickly escalated into a brutal war marked by urban warfare, widespread civilian suffering, and allegations of severe human rights abuses.

Internationally, the war raised difficult questions about self-determination, territorial integrity, and the limits of international intervention in internal conflicts. The United Nations and global powers faced the dilemma of responding to humanitarian crises while navigating post–Cold War power dynamics. This historical Security Council examines the Chechen War as a defining moment in Russia’s post-Soviet trajectory and a critical case study in international responses to internal armed conflict.

Under Secretaries General: Aras Akkan, Saniyar Safari

AGENDA ITEM

The First Chechen War