YouSaid · the spoken record

Erna Solberg

lines on the record: 95
first: 2014-09-24
most recent: 2021-09-24
sittings or episodes: 7
sources: un-general-debate

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“The adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrated the unique value of the United Nations. We have agreed on a universal development agenda — a road map to the world we want. The SDGs are closely interlinked. Achieving Goal 16 on peace, the rule of law and strong institutions is crucial to ensuring that funds are not lost to corruption, and achieving the SDGs related to economic conditions will make funding available that can be used to make progress on other Goals. But we have no time to lose. Sustainable change cannot be brought about overnight. National ownership is critical, but civil society, the private sector, trade unions and the scientific community all have a catalytic role to play. Health is an area where it is easy to see that the SDGs apply to us all.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“Since the end of the Cold War, conflict mediation and resolution have been a cornerstone of our foreign policy. For more than 25 years, we have been engaged in efforts to resolve conflicts around the world — from the first Oslo Accord in 1993, to the ongoing work in Colombia and the Philippines, and back to the Middle East. We have learned an important lesson from our efforts. Negotiating a peace agreement is always difficult, but implementing the agreement is even harder. In fact, conflict recurrence is more common than the onset of new conflicts. That means that the best way to prevent conflict is to ensure that peace is sustainable. Norway remains committed in Colombia, the Philippines and elsewhere, just as we remain committed to helping to achieve a negotiated two-State solution between the Israelis and the Palestinians.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“We must bring individual perpetrators to justice and prevent impunity. Norway believes that those responsible for grave violations of international humanitarian law must be held accountable. We remain a staunch supporter of the International Criminal Court as an independent institution. At the same time, security is closely linked to sustainable development. We must boost trade and job creation, build capacity for generating domestic revenue, strengthen public service delivery and combat corruption. Corruption fuels inequality, crime, instability and violence. Conflict can reverse years of social and economic progress. Conflict prevention, peacekeeping and disarmament are all vital if we are to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. We should heed the Secretary-General’s call for a surge in peace diplomacy. Norway is doing its part.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“Violent extremism, conflict and instability lead to humanitarian crises and violations of human rights. Those in turn are some of the main drivers of both regular and irregular migration. Terrorism and violent extremism affect us all and are not limited to any single ideology, religion or belief. Norway is standing up against violent extremism and terrorism, not in response to individual incidents but as a long-term foreign policy commitment. We are one of 79 members of the Global Coalition against the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant. By working together, we have achieved significant results on the ground. Still, in the continued fight against violent extremism, we must apply a whole-of-society approach. We must address the root causes, in the Middle East and elsewhere, including in our own countries and on our own continents.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“The consequences of instability affect us all. Global security threats require global responses. The Security Council must be able to act, and so must we, as nations and as regional organizations. Areas of conflict and instability are breeding grounds for violent extremism and international terrorism. The conflict in Syria is but one example. Many different actors, State and non-State alike, are involved. Banned weapons of mass destruction have reappeared. Humanitarian access is obstructed. Respect for human rights and international law is undermined. On my own continent, Europe, fundamental rules and principles of international law are now in jeopardy. Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders must be restored.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“We cannot afford to let protectionism, discrimination and economic rivalry define our future. The World Trade Organization is essential for Norway and our interaction with the world. I believe that rules- based trade is just as important for our partners. Free trade creates winners. Protectionism does not. In order to benefit all, rights, rules and responsibilities must be modernized to fit our current global economy. That is vital if we are to build a world where people’s potential, creativity and hopes for the future can be realized through cooperation, the exchange of knowledge and trade. Increased protectionism forces us to reflect on what less international cooperation would entail. As we agreed in 1945, all nations must unite in a commitment to maintaining international peace and security.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“Together, we have achieved impressive results, because international cooperation works. Extreme poverty has been halved, people live longer, child mortality rates are falling and more girls attend school than ever before. Global political cooperation, global trade and international law have been crucial to that progress. We have to recognize that globalization has not been equally beneficial to all. That is a very real challenge. Exclusion can spur radicalization. It can undermine confidence in international institutions and cooperation. Eventually, it could weaken respect for international law, human rights and even our security architecture. To counter that, we must secure the future welfare of a rapidly growing population. That requires both the protection and reform of fundamental trade norms.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“The 17 Sustainable Development Goals recognize that global challenges are national challenges and that they are closely interlinked. The Goals require us to take both national and international action. We must deal with the challenges of globalization, while at the same time maximizing the benefits to our citizens. Our job as leaders is to deliver security, jobs, education and health care. Working together has enabled us all to do far more than we could have done alone. Norway has taken national and international action through our national policy to promote sustainable livelihoods, through our Nordic and European partnerships on economic and civic integration, and through global action to promote peace and security, the sound management of the oceans, fair and regulated trade, education for all and global health measures.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“In 1945, we established the United Nations. We pledged to save future generations from the scourge of war, to work together to promote economic and social advancement, and to uphold and respect human rights and fundamental freedoms for all. Our job is not done. Challenges remain, but progress can and must be made. Our common global interests are also national interests. We can achieve more when we act together. Both our prosperity and many of our challenges are the result of global trends. Trade conflicts, violent extremism, climate change and instability at the global level directly affect us at home, but so do also the benefits of world trade, the global fight against infectious diseases and the rule of law.”
2018-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 73 (2018)
“I would like to thank Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon for his hard work and success in a range of areas, including the adoption of the SDGs. The next Secretary-General must continue to defend and promote the multilateral world order and lead the process of change that will be needed in order to ensure global stability and sustainable development for all. Norway will support him or her in that endeavour.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“No Government can single-handedly deliver effective solutions to the challenges we face. This morning, Norway, together with Colombia, Ethiopia, Ghana, Indonesia, Jordan and Mexico, presented five recommendations intended for the new Secretary-General, aimed at promoting an independent and credible United Nations that can play a uniting and leading role. The United Nations has a unique place in the multilateral world order. It is our shared responsibility to defend a world order in which solutions are found through negotiation and respect for international law. The validity of the United Nations mandate remains strong, but the Organization will also have to reform itself if it is to address the challenges ahead.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“That resource must be developed further, so as to meet the growing demand for clean and renewable energy. In short, the oceans hold great promise for the future. We have seen only the very beginning of the blue economy. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea strikes a delicate balance between competing interests and needs, enabling us to realize the potential of marine resources, protect marine biodiversity and prevent conflicts in the maritime domain. The adoption of the SDGs and the Paris Agreement shows what can be achieved when countries come together to find compromises and take action. In our globalized and interdependent world, effective international cooperation is essential if we are to address poverty, conflicts, climate change, migration and terrorism.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“We now need effective and concerted action in order to bring down emissions and meet the ambitious objectives that we have set ourselves. Our ambition is to do all of that while still providing decent work and economic growth for all. That will require investment in innovation, and we have no time to lose. In the decades ahead, the oceans will play a bigger role in the global economy. Today, 17 per cent of all of the animal protein consumed globally comes from the sea. In order to meet growing demands, the share of our food that we obtain from the oceans will have to increase substantially. Since growth from capture fisheries is limited, we need more sustainable aquaculture. As world trade continues to grow, the need for marine transport will increase. The oceans are also already a major source of energy.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“That important goal requires effective partnerships across national borders and across every sector of society, along with the mobilization of both domestic and private-sector resources. Antibiotic medicines have saved millions of lives, but antimicrobial resistance is making them increasingly ineffective. If we do not act, we could reach a stage where common infections are once again deadly. Our grandchildren could die from illnesses that our grandparents survived. New global health challenges require increased international cooperation. I am therefore pleased that we managed to put the issue high on the agenda this week. We know what needs to be done, and now it is time do the work back home. The Climate Conference in Paris late last year marked a turning point in the fight to save our planet.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“The Commission makes a strong case for why it is so vital to ensure that the world invests in education as a key driver of economic growth. I could not agree more. We must avoid a global learning crisis, and the consequences of inaction will be severe. Together, we must invest more to ensure that no one is left behind. Each and every one of us should have the same learning opportunities, and the education of girls is especially important. When girls go to school and get an education, it not only represents the exercise of a fundamental right, it is also good for the economy. Global education will continue to be a top priority of Norway’s development policy. Another priority for Norway is strengthening epidemic preparedness and global health security by developing new vaccines that can prevent new outbreaks.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“I would like to highlight the role played by those who promote the rights of others — of women, minorities and members of marginalized communities. Human rights defenders are an important corrective in any society, and only weak leaders fear correction. The SDGs are all about building inclusive societies. Inclusive societies perform better. The right to education and health is crucial in that regard. Today there are 263 million children and young people who are not in school, and the number is growing. Last year, together with the Presidents of Chile, Indonesia and Malawi and the Director-General of UNESCO, I initiated the establishment of the International Commission on Financing Global Education Opportunity. On Sunday, the Commission submitted a report entitled “The Learning Generation” with recommendations to the Secretary-General.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“I am proud that, together with Cuba, Norway facilitated the peace process. It will be a great and historic step forward for the region, and Norway will continue to provide diplomatic and practical support to the Colombian peace process in its crucial implementation phase. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are ground-breaking. They provide us with a road map for the future we want, and we have agreed to leave no one behind. That means that we must address inequality and social injustice and safeguard the rule of law. It also means that we must empower women and men alike. We must strengthen the human rights pillar of the United Nations, both financially and politically. That should be seen as an important investment in the future.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“We need zero tolerance and resolute action by the United Nations. United Nations peacekeepers, development workers and humanitarian workers from a large number of countries are making a real difference in numerous countries, including Mali and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They must be equipped with the tools and resources they need. I would like to assure the Assembly that Norway will continue to provide substantial humanitarian and development assistance and support the reform of United Nations peace operations. However, we cannot prevent or resolve conflicts by addressing the consequences alone. We must also address the underlying causes. Thankfully, in some places, our efforts are producing tangible results. After more than five decades of conflict, peace is now within reach in Colombia.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“Norway will continue to provide record levels of humanitarian assistance — to Syria, to South Sudan and elsewhere. Together we need to intensify our efforts to promote peace and stability in a wide range of fragile and conflict-affected States. We need to strengthen the capacity of the United Nations to help countries emerging from conflict. We have a clear responsibility to fight terrorism and step up our efforts to prevent violent extremism. In order to do so, we need to work closely with civil society, women, young people, faith leaders and local communities. We need to translate the women and peace and security agenda into more effective action on the ground. We need to ensure that peace operations deliver on their mandates to protect civilians. Sexual exploitation and abuse must stop.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“The humanitarian situation in Syria simply cannot be tolerated. Global and regional Powers must take action to secure an enduring ceasefire and ensure humanitarian access — right now. The world expects the Security Council and the International Syria Support Group to deliver. And it is not just Syria that we need to focus on. Conflict and suffering continue elsewhere, and more needs to be done to find common solutions to common challenges. In that context, let me send a message to President Abbas and Prime Minister Netanyahu, who are speaking before and after me today. I strongly urge the parties to address the imminent threats to the two-State solution by implementing the recommendations in the Quartet report. We must intensify our efforts to tackle the humanitarian consequences of today’s crises.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“We cannot move away from a rules-based system that guards against confrontation and unpredictability. We — the international community — must rally around the multilateral system with renewed strength. Let me assure the Assembly that Norway will work hard to promote respect for international law and to find common solutions. My own continent, Europe, has enjoyed a unique era of peace, democracy and trade. Now, however, we are facing a complex security situation. Unfortunately, some States have chosen not to abide by international law and are simply pursuing national interests at the expense of others. Instability in the Middle East and North Africa is causing widespread human suffering and leading to violent extremism in Europe. The response should not be to isolate ourselves; instead, we must cooperate and find solutions.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“This year’s session of the General Assembly comes at a critical time. Over the past few years we have witnessed grave violations of the very principles on which the United Nations is based — violations that have caused widespread human suffering and insecurity. Syria, Yemen, Ukraine and South Sudan are some examples, but the list goes on. Yet at the same time, the world has moved forward, countries have come together, found compromises and taken joint action, as, for example, when we reached the Paris Agreement and adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development — the road map for our future coexistence and cooperation. Therefore, where do we go from here? We cannot let fear guide our actions. We cannot return to a world of zero-sum games, narrow national interests and protectionism.”
2016-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 71 (2016)
“With the Charter of the United Nations as our starting point, we must adapt our global norms to address new challenges. The forces of disorder, discrimination, violence and disruption must be stopped. The United Nations is a crucial arena for developing shared measures to address shared threats. We must use it to the full if we are to meet the threats we are facing today, from climate change to terrorism. We can thus ensure that the United Nations continues to serve humanity well for the next 70 years. Its Member States can still be, in Truman’s words, the architects of a better world.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“And it should be used to the full in order to help to decrease tensions, prevent conflict and find peaceful solutions. Secondly, climate change is a fact. The Climate Summit to be held in Paris later this year is our opportunity to shoulder our responsibilities and take action. We, the Member States, must grasp that opportunity for the sake of our future as nations and as a global community. We can be the generation that defeats extreme poverty. We can be the generation that prevents political crises from becoming humanitarian crises. We are already the first generation to experience human- made climate change. Let us also be the generation that halts climate change. And we can be the generation that finally realizes the right to education for all.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Norway will double its investment in education for the period from 2014 to 2017. But sustainable development is not possible without respect for human rights. It is therefore vital to ensure that the human rights pillar of the United Nations is strong and assertive. If we do not provide adequate funding for human rights efforts, we will not be able to achieve the results we want and need. The United Nations should not be seen as a costly burden; it provides win-win solutions for all Member States. I would like to highlight two areas where that is particularly clear. First, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea has been called the constitution of the oceans. It provides a clear framework for all activities in oceans and seas. It regulates the rights and duties of various States.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“We also welcome the Secretary-General’s initiative in developing a new United Nations plan of action for this issue, and I would like to highlight the importance of including girls and women in the planning and implementation of efforts to counter violent extremism. The recently adopted Sustainable Development Goals are another example of the important role the United Nations continues to play. We know that health and education are fundamental to inclusive growth and jobs. Ebola was a wake-up call for us all. Education is also crucial in resolving conflicts and rebuilding societies. However, we need to address the considerable financial gap in the field of education. A first step is the International Commission on the Financing of Global Education Opportunities, announced at the recent Oslo Summit on Education for Development.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“We must intensify the implementation of the Security Council resolutions on women and peace and security. Seventy years ago, we set out to eradicate extremism. The fight against extremism must be maintained, also in our countries. Extremism is once again raising its head in different shapes and forms. The ideology of disorder, discrimination, violence and disruption dominates the ideologies of ISIL, Al-Qaida and their various affiliates. International cooperation at all levels is essential. In June, Norway hosted a European conference on countering violent extremism, where a European youth network was launched. The United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy will remain a cornerstone of our efforts.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“We have already doubled our humanitarian aid to Syria and the region this year and we will increase our aid further. We will be hosting a donor conference in cooperation with Germany and the United Nations. When leaders fail to shoulder their most basic responsibilities, the international community must make use of the tools the United Nations has at its disposal. The United Nations has established many global standards. Fifteen years ago, the Security Council adopted resolution 1325 (2000) on women and peace and security. It is a landmark resolution, but its implementation is taking too long. In several war- ravaged towns in Syria, groups of women are calling for a ceasefire and evacuation. They do this at great 42/54 15-29562 30/09/2015 A/70/PV.19 personal risk. Their bravery should inspire us.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“The conflict in Syria has also allowed extremist terror groups like the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) to gain a foothold. Now, both the Government and non-State groups such as ISIL and the Al-Nusra Front are committing monstrous atrocities. The spread of these extremist groups needs to be stopped. Norway will adhere to global norms in its response to the crisis. We are receiving refugees at our borders in line with the United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees of 1951 and our international human rights obligations. We have agreed to take in a high number of refugees from Syria’s neighbouring countries for resettlement under United Nations quotas. We are taking part in the rescue efforts in the Mediterranean.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“At the Oslo Conference on Safe Schools, we endorsed the Guidelines for Protecting Schools and Universities from Military Use during Armed Conflict. Some 49 countries have already endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration. They have committed themselves to protecting education from attack in conflict situations. We urge other countries to come on board. We see progress in Iraq, and we have hope for South Sudan. Norway is committed to supporting the transitional arrangements to help South Sudan out of its self-destructive conflict. The crisis in Syria started with peaceful protests calling for freedom. These were met with a violent crackdown. Upholding human rights is one of the fundamental obligations of any Government. The exodus from Syria today is a direct consequence of the violence unleashed by the Government.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Norway urges all States to join the proposed code of conduct to enable the Security Council to act decisively against mass atrocities. We support the French initiative to suspend the use of veto in such situations. We will also step up our efforts to support United Nations peacekeeping and the capacity of the United Nations to prevent conflict. The flow of arms to conflict areas and the lack of protection for civilians further increase human suffering. The Arms Trade Treaty, with its humanitarian goals, gives us an important tool for addressing these problems. The Secretary-General has called on all parties to conflict to refrain from using explosive weapons with wide-area effects in populated areas. We support his call.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“When State authorities ignore the rule of law or fail to live up to their human rights obligations, the result is often conflict and chaos. The regional and global consequences of these crises are far-reaching. During the course of 2015, the United Nations has been carrying out three important reviews of peace operations, of the peacebuilding architecture and of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000). These reviews will be important tools for improving our work on peace, security, human rights, mediation and conflict prevention. We must ensure that the United Nations has the funding and the political backing to prevent political exclusion and poor governance. Then we will be better able to prevent armed conflict and the resulting humanitarian crises. The permanent members of the Security Council have a particular responsibility.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“One of the consequences is the massive refugee crisis that we are seeing, with 60 million refugees and displaced people. All States benefit from a global legal order where right prevails over might. One of the most important rules of the new world order created in 1945 is respect for internationally recognized borders. This basic principle has been blatantly violated in Europe during the last couple of years, and Europe’s security landscape has been changed. We must return to a situation where all States abide by their obligations under international law. The four most serious humanitarian crises in the world are, in fact, political crises. Power hungry politicians, armed groups and military leaders have ignored the plight of their peoples in the countries concerned: South Sudan, Yemen, Syria and Iraq.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“The United Nations is now 70 years old. At the start of the meeting in San Francisco where the United Nations Charter was drafted, President Truman said “You members of this conference are to be architects of the better world. In your hands rests our future.” And he was right. The United Nations Charter has served humanity well for 70 years. Despite many challenges, there have been important milestones: decolonization, the establishment of the universal human rights system, the Millennium Development Goals, and a reduction in the number of inter-State wars. 15-29562 41/54 A/70/PV.19 30/09/2015 Unfortunately, as we celebrate these 70 years, the forces of disorder, discrimination, violence and disruption are on the rise again. International law, universal norms and human rights are being violated by States and non-State actors alike.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Good, democratic governance, with respect for the rule of law and human rights, will be crucial for achieving sustainable development for us all. And all that means, quite simply, is to be doing the right things right.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Discrimination is widespread, particularly against minorities, such as indigenous people and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons. The rule of law and civil liberties are also fundamental to the development of the private sector and attracting investment. Moreover, we know that enabling women to fully enjoy their social and economic rights unleashes tremendous economic growth. We must stay focused on accelerating progress towards the MDGs during the remaining 462 days. We must let ourselves be inspired by those who serve at the front line of those efforts, like Ms. Sellu and other doctors and nurses who are risking their lives to treat patients with Ebola. As we set our future development agenda beyond 2015, we must also make some adjustments. Peace and stability must be included. Climate issues must be addressed.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Norway endorses the Secretary- General’s “Human Rights Up Front” initiative, which places the protection of human rights at the heart of United Nations strategies and operational activities. The United Nations needs a strong and assertive human rights pillar. Only if we fund the human rights pillar properly can we achieve the results that we need and want from our world Organization. The promotion and protection of human rights is first and foremost the responsibility of States. We are, however, facing large implementation gaps. Attacks, threats, intimidation and reprisals against human rights defenders are increasingly being reported. New laws restricting freedom of expression and the work of civil society are being adopted.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Efforts to promote respect for human rights can help prevent armed conflict and mass atrocities. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi, herself a leading human rights defender, stated in her Nobel lecture that: “[i]f the twenty-first century wishes to free itself from the cycle of violence, acts of terror and war, there is no other way except by understanding and putting into practice every human right for all mankind, irrespective of race, gender, faith, nationality or social status.” I agree with that. Human rights is one of the three pillars of the United Nations, based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the Assembly on 10 December 1948.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Earlier this year, Norway hosted a humanitarian donor conference for South Sudan, and we will shortly co-host a donor conference to address the aftermath of the conflict in Gaza. Donor conferences are important, but we need to look beyond the emergencies. We need to build on and improve the current system, when we meet for the World Humanitarian Summit in 2016. We must make sure that humanitarian aid supports not only short-term recovery, but also long-term development. Besides, long-term development cooperation should help countries prevent, prepare for, withstand and recover from humanitarian crises in the future. International peace, national security, social development and individual prosperity can best be fostered under a system of good democratic governance and human rights.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Russia bears a particular responsibility in that regard. The Security Council is mandated to maintain peace and security, but has failed to address the situation in Syria and Ukraine effectively. We know why. Some of the big Powers still believe in outdated ideas of zero- sum games and spheres of influence. We are hopeful that the Council will continue to stand united against the threat of the terrorist group known as the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). We support the United States initiative and sponsored Security Council resolution 2178 (2014) on foreign terrorist fighters. We encourage the countries of the region to take a leading role in fighting ISIL. Armed conflict and civil war have created man- made humanitarian disasters in Syria, Iraq, South Sudan, the Central African Republic and Somalia.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“From the Security Council Chamber to the modest homes in the Swat Valley in Pakistan, we can all help to end poverty by promoting peace, but all those different efforts at the global, regional, national and local levels must work in concert. It has been 70 years since a group of leaders met in Washington, D. C., to discuss the creation of the United Nations. One of the most fundamental tenets of the new world order created in 1945 was respect for internationally recognized borders. Norway condemns Russia’s violations of international law and its continuing destabilization of eastern Ukraine. Any settlement of the conflict must uphold international law and respect the territorial integrity of Ukraine. The ceasefire agreed on 5 September must be respected and the provisions of the agreement implemented on the ground.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“If one schoolgirl can take on the Taliban, then surely the world community can defeat extremism and terrorism. Terrorists and extremists are trying to stop us from educating children. Peace is vital for achieving universal primary education. The same can be said for the other MDGs, not least the goal on reducing poverty. That is why we must focus on conflict-affected countries. A girl growing up in Syria today cannot look forward to going to school, because there is no school to go to. A pregnant teenage girl in South Sudan will not get the maternal health services she needs because it is too risky for health workers to travel.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“Sellu, the deputy nurse matron at a Government hospital in Sierra Leone, lost 15 of her nurses to Ebola. Nevertheless, she never stopped working in that death trap. She is a true fighter for the MDGs. Education, particularly for girls, is the superhighway to ending poverty. Poverty, discrimination and the use of force often prevent girls from getting the education they are entitled to. Sexual violence, abductions and deadly attacks are the most despicable ways in which girls’ right to education is being violated. I condemn the abductions of schoolgirls by Boko Haram in the strongest possible terms. In the face of terrorists threatening to deprive children of their right to education, we should be inspired by Malala Yousafzai. Malala brought to light the plight of the millions of children around the world who are denied an education.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“As co-chair of Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s MDG Advocacy Group, I will use every opportunity to help build that foundation over the remaining 462 days until the deadline. We must accelerate our efforts, and to do so we need to enter into broad partnerships that include the private sector, civil society and Governments. We need to make use of the best possible innovative solutions and technologies. Governments and national political leaders must take the lead and ensure local ownership. At the same time, we must support the remarkable work that many people are doing to implement the MDGs in practice. The frightening Ebola epidemic in West Africa reminds us of the fragility of our progress and development. We must build health-care systems that can support courageous and determined individuals like Josephine Finda Sellu. Ms.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)
“The leaders who gathered at the United Nations Climate Summit have taken important steps to mobilize action and ambition on climate change. Now we need to make sure that the positive results are followed through and expanded as we prepare for an agreement in Paris next year. When we meet at the General Assembly next year, we will adopt the new set of global goals for our common future — the sustainable development goals (SDGs). They must build on the success of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). They must be realistic and ambitious. Like the MDGs, the SDGs should be few in number, concrete and measurable. Meanwhile, achieving the eight Millennium Development Goals will create a solid foundation for sustainable development.”
2014-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 69 (2014)