YouSaid · the spoken record

Miro Cerar

lines on the record: 25
first: 2015-09-24
most recent: 2017-09-24
sittings or episodes: 2
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

“Duplication must be avoided, and the common goal must be getting tangible results. I would like to conclude by assuring the Assembly that Slovenia is committed to supporting the United Nations and is determined to work with all partners to deliver tangible, meaningful results that will advance peace, security, development and human rights for all.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“They pose a serious threat to peace and security in the region and beyond. We must intensify our efforts to sustain peace everywhere, but most immediately in a wide range of fragile and conflict- affected States. Conflicts cannot be prevented or resolved by addressing the symptoms alone; we must address the underlying causes. For that we have to think long term. The United Nations can help to defuse latent conflicts. Whenever possible, we should opt for diplomacy, mediation and conflict prevention. The emphasis must be on doing more in a collective, timely and effective manner. That can be achieved only by a strong, robust, adaptable, knowledgeable and responsible United Nations, which is why Slovenia strongly supports the Secretary-General’s reform efforts. The various parts of the United Nations system must be better coordinated.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“In that regard, Slovenia welcomed the reform of the United Nations counter-terrorism architecture, as well as resolution 71/291, designed to strengthen the ability of the United Nations system to assist Member States in implementing the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy. As a strong supporter of non-proliferation and disarmament in the area of weapons of mass destruction, Slovenia is committed to treaty-based nuclear disarmament and arms control. We firmly believe that we must work progressively to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons through full implementation of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. In that regard, we strongly condemn the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s violations of Security Council resolutions and its own international commitments.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“Years of horrific war in Syria, conflicts in Afghanistan, Yemen, Iraq, Libya and Mali and dire situations such as those in South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to name just a few, remain particular sources of concern. We call on all relevant parties to refrain from the use of force and engage in political dialogue. Violent extremism and the crimes committed by terrorist groups continue to plague the world. We must do all we can to prevent and stop such crimes, particularly by providing viable alternative opportunities for young people. The United Nations plays a key role in countering terrorism, including the prevention of violent extremism.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“The principles enshrined in the Charter attest to the natural partnership between the United Nations and the Court, and that relationship is expected to advance even further with the activation of the ICC’s jurisdiction over the crime of aggression, which is anticipated by the end of the year. We express our strong support for swift activation of the Kampala amendments on the crime of aggression. Needless to say, the primary responsibility to prosecute atrocity crimes still rests with States. Slovenia, together with other leading States, will continue to actively pursue the improvement of the international legal framework for mutual legal assistance and extradition for domestic prosecution of the most serious international crimes.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“Respect for the obligations arising from treaties and for other sources of international law is also embedded in the Charter of the United Nations, and is the very foundation of international peace and security. Moreover, it is an important guarantor of friendly relations and cooperation among States. Slovenia recognizes the essential role of the rule of law and international law and has therefore made it central to its foreign policy. In the context of the rule of law, ending impunity for the most serious international crimes continues to be an important goal for my Government. Slovenia is committed to promoting international criminal justice, especially as it is represented by the International Criminal Court (ICC).”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“There is still much to be done before we can ensure a life of dignity for all without discrimination. More must also be done to mitigate harm to civilians, especially in the context of armed conflicts, and to prevent all forms of sexual violence. It is particularly despicable when people deployed to protect civilians engage in abuse. We therefore underline the need for a zero-tolerance policy on all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse. Respect for international treaties, the decisions of international courts and tribunals and other sources of international law, as well as the ability to implement them, is indispensable to a functioning global community.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“Without respect for human rights, there can be no peace, freedom, security or development. The United Nations has been instrumental in promoting respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms worldwide. However, let us not forget that the primary responsibility for the fulfilment of human rights lies with States. Slovenia, as a current member of the Human Rights Council, is a strong supporter of human rights. In that spirit, we continue to advocate a progressive approach to human rights issues, enhancing protection norms and standards at all levels. Our main focus is on the rights of children, support for gender equality and the empowerment of women, as well as the rights of the elderly. In that context, we also focus on the importance of intergenerational collaboration.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“I would like to thank all of the States that have already expressed support for the initiative and encourage others to do so. Achieving sustainable development is only possible if the global community works together in a solid partnership between Governments, international organizations, civil society, academia and the private sector. The same is true for dealing with large global migrations and refugee flows. Shared responsibility and solidarity should be the guiding principles of our global approach. In that spirit, Slovenia is constructively engaged in the consultation process for the global compact for safe, orderly and regular migration and the global compact on refugees. We believe that the adoption in 2018 of both global compacts will be another major milestone in our path towards ensuring a life of dignity for all.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“That is demonstrated, among other things, by Slovenia’s high ranking in the SDG Index and Dashboards 2017 Report, which shows that we are in the top 10 of 157 measured countries in our achievements towards the Sustainable Development Goals. We are strongly engaged in protecting the environment and ensuring its sustainability, and we are determined to raise awareness about the key factors shaping our sustainable future. For example, we recognize the key role that bees and other pollinators play in preventing hunger, ensuring food security, improving human health and preserving the environment and its biodiversity. In that context, we are proposing that the General Assembly declare 20 May an international day of bees and proclaim it World Bee Day.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“I commend his determination to make the Organization stronger and more fit to serve as the bedrock of the international rules-based order. More than ever, we need a strong United Nations to be one of our key actors in providing security, stability and a life of dignity for all. Two years ago, we achieved a milestone by agreeing on our development road map. Together, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Change Agreement provide a framework and vision for a more sustainable planet in the future and prosperity for all. The true test now is their implementation. This is not the time to go back on our promises. Rather, we need to turn them into real progress that will benefit people around the globe. Slovenia has embarked on that path with a sense of urgency.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“The world continues to deal with challenges to international peace and security that are ever more complex and intertwined. Shocking images of human suffering are a daily reality, the consequences of the armed conflicts, environmental degradation, famine, lack of economic opportunity, grave breaches of human rights and terrorism that are just some of those global challenges. If we are to address them, effective international cooperation, with the United Nations at its core, is essential. We have the mandate and the responsibility to act. We must stand united to address global challenges together. Despite those threats, I am encouraged by a new dynamic in the United Nations and the strong push by the Secretary-General to strengthen multilateralism and the reform agenda.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“At the outset, I would like to express our sympathies to Mexico and its people as they grapple with the effects of the earthquake that has resulted in so many tragic victims and ruined homes. I would like to congratulate Mr. Miroslav Lajčák on his election to the presidency of the General Assembly at its seventy-second session and to wish him every success in discharging his duties. He can count on Slovenia’s full support. I would also like to to express my gratitude to the outgoing President, Mr. Peter Thomson, for his important contribution to the work of the General Assembly over the past year. Lastly, I would also like to congratulate Mr. António Guterres on his appointment as Secretary-General. I commend his determination to promote the United Nations and its values and goals, and his tireless efforts to strengthen the Organization.”
2017-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 72 (2017)
“I would like to conclude by underlining that Slovenia will continue with activities aimed at bringing the global community closer to achieving universal standards of human rights and a decent life for all. We will remain a strong supporter of an environment in which every human being can feel safe. We will continue to advocate for strong partnerships, inclusive dialogue and constructive cooperation. We are determined to work with all partners to ensure that the Organization delivers tangible, meaningful results that can advance peace, security and human rights for all. Slovenia will do its share in shouldering its responsibility to act.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“The recent historic agreement on the Iranian nuclear issue proves that even the most complex issues can be resolved peacefully. Considering that positive outcome, we hope that the Middle East peace talks will also resume soon, with a view to bringing stability and security to this tormented region. With regard to disarmament and arms control, I would like to welcome the early entry into force, last December, of the Arms Trade Treaty and to call for its full implementation. That will enable us to regulate the international arms trade effectively, and thus make a substantial contribution to international peace and security. My country also remains committed to the goal of a world without nuclear weapons.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Refugees and migrants are fleeing their homes in massive waves, and hundreds are dying in their quest for a better life. The magnitude of the current humanitarian crisis requires a determined and immediate response on the part of the entire international community, based on the common principles of solidarity, humanity and shared responsibility. We should help these people in need. We should increase assistance to countries that are hosting large numbers of refugees. We should also act more decisively in refugees’ countries of origin by pushing for sustainable political solutions to ongoing conflicts and by countering the spread of radical ideologies. Slovenia is committed to conflict prevention and peaceful conflict resolution. Wherever possible and applicable, we should opt for diplomacy, mediation and conflict prevention.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“We call on the Security Council, and its permanent members in particular, to overcome their divisions and find a way to deal more effectively with the deteriorating situation, in line with the Council’s primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. Nor has Europe as a continent been spared. The conflict in Ukraine goes on and its sovereignty and territorial integrity remain under threat. We therefore call for the full and timely implementation of the Minsk agreements. 28/33 15-29568 30/09/2015 A/70/PV.20 These wars and conflicts have dramatically increased the displacement of people on a large scale, reaching levels unprecedented in recent history. We are faced with immense humanitarian challenges.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Slovenia is actively engaged in efforts to ensure mutual legal assistance and extradition agreements between States for crimes against humanity, war crimes and genocide, through the initiative in that regard. Time and again, no matter how often we insist that mass atrocities and systematic violations of human rights should not be repeated, we still witness events that shock the conscience. In the past few years we have witnessed war in Syria and raging conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, Gaza, Yemen, South Sudan, the Central African Republic and elsewhere, with spillover effects in their immediate neighbourhoods and consequences felt around the world. Such situations have been worsened by the escalating violent extremism and crimes committed by Daesh and other terrorist groups and organizations. This must be stopped.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Slovenia believes firmly in the paramount importance of international treaties. It is through them that we can enhance universality, ensure reliability and provide accountability. Every society should make justice, truth and reconciliation a major focus and strive to attain them by every possible means, including international courts and tribunals. We continue our strong support to the International Criminal Court, which plays an important role in affirming the rule of law. Slovenia will continue to advocate for a strong and independent Court as well as for the universality of the Rome Statute and the Kampala amendments, and we call on States to cooperate fully and promptly with the Court. But the primary responsibility for prosecuting international crimes rests with States.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Just a few days ago we participated in the event commemorating it and reaffirmed our commitment to gender equality, human rights and the empowerment of women. And in October we will mark the fifteenth anniversary of the adoption of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000), the first resolution to stress the role of women in peace and security. But while we acknowledge the progress that has been achieved, our quest for gender equality must continue. Respect for the rule of law and international law is an essential condition for nations’ development and peaceful coexistence. One of the aims of the United Nations, enshrined in its Charter, is that of working to establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Almost a quarter of a century ago, when Slovenia gained independence, respect for human rights was a pivotal founding principle of our newly formed State. Since then, our commitment to promoting human rights, especially by protecting the most vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, has intensified and represents one of the core elements of our foreign policy. Slovenia will continue to advocate a progressive approach to human rights issues and strive to enhance international norms and standards. We are confident that we can also successfully contribute to that goal by serving as a member of the Human Rights Council from 2016 to 2018. This year is particularly significant for women, since it marks the twentieth anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Based on our extensive experience with beekeeping, and in view of multiple threats to bee populations, we wish to raise awareness of the critical importance of bees for sustainable food production and biodiversity. The Slovenian Government therefore decided to propose the proclamation of “World Bee Day”, for which we will seek the endorsement of the United Nations. There can be no security or economic and social development without respect for human rights, and vice versa. I wish to express our support for the excellent work of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mr. Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, and to encourage him to continue to exercise his leadership in the field of human rights.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“We have the mandate and responsibility to act, based on global solidarity and the vision of a fairer and more secure international community. We welcome the adoption of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda and of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (resolution 70/1). However, by the end of 15-29568 27/33 A/70/PV.20 30/09/2015 the year, at the twenty-first session of the Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference, in Paris, we will need to adopt an ambitious, durable, universal and legally binding climate agreement that addresses mitigation, adaptation, financing and technology development in a balanced and cost-effective manner. Slovenia remains strongly engaged in protecting the environment and in ensuring its sustainability, both in national and international contexts.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“Ten years ago, leaders met here in New York with a vision to increase and promote international security and advance human rights and development with a bold plan known as the 2005 World Summit Outcome Document, which led to the establishment of the Human Rights Council and Peacebuilding Commission. We collectively endorsed the concept of the responsibility to protect human beings from mass atrocities and systematic violations of human rights. We have also committed to reform the Security Council, as well to revitalize the General Assembly, as part of a comprehensive, overall reform of the Organization. The United Nations has to continue to adapt to new challenges, and it would therefore be important to make progress in that respect.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)
“We are at a historic junction for the United Nations, which will turn 70 next month. This occasion is an opportunity for stocktaking of the Organization’s past achievements, missed opportunities and challenges ahead. The United Nations has been making outstanding efforts in paving the road ahead for peace, security and human rights. At the same time, profound changes have taken place in these seven decades. The United Nations has been successful in adapting to some, whereas it lacked creativity, political will and flexibility to effectively face others.”
2015-09-24 · UN General Assembly · General Debate, Session 70 (2015)