YouSaid · the spoken record

Baeriswyl

lines on the record: 694
first: 2013-06-24
most recent: 2023-12-22
sittings or episodes: 128
sources: un-security-council

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

“We should now use that enormous potential. By building on the achievements and experiences of the past decades, the New Agenda for Peace must serve as a key means for leveraging and building sustainable peace. In these seemingly bleak times, we owe it to all generations, everywhere in the world, to pool our efforts together and seize this opportunity.”
2023-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9250 (2023) · source
“To address them effectively, the Security Council must have up-to-date scientific information and data at its disposal, disaggregated according to relevant criteria, such as genre, and integrate them into its daily work. It must take into account and counter the threat to peace and security posed by disinformation. During the most recent review of the United Nations peacebuilding architecture, in 2020, eminent experts reminded us that “peacebuilding is the concrete manifestation of the commitment of the United Nations to save future generations from the scourge of war”. That responsibility to young men and women remains very important. With the women and peace and security and youth, peace and security agendas, the Council has relevant tools at its disposal and, above all, a copious pool of peacebuilders.”
2023-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9250 (2023) · source
“Switzerland welcomes the pioneering work of the Peacebuilding Commission in strengthening the role of national and local actors and encourages the Commission to intensify such efforts, in close collaboration with the Council. Sustainable peace also requires strong and accountable institutions that protect and promote the rights of the people who depend on them. If those rights are violated, the responsible parties must be held accountable so as to preserve trust in institutions. Thirdly, we must promote transparency and truth as a basis for concrete action. We face an unprecedented complexity of factors underlying conflict. That includes new threats to international security and risk multipliers, from climate change to the challenges of cyberspace.”
2023-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9250 (2023) · source
“To implement that nexus, we encourage the members of the Council to continue constructive discussions in order to strengthen the links between those elements, for example, in the field of transitional justice or in peacekeeping operations’ transitions. Secondly, we need to focus on local actors and inclusivity. That is how we can build an environment of trust. Switzerland, which is organized according to the principle of subsidiarity, speaks from its own federal experience. Local communities and authorities, in all their diversity, are always at the front lines in building sustainable peace and preventing a relapse into violence. We must build on their skills and capacities.”
2023-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9250 (2023) · source
“We welcome the participation of Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, Peacebuilding Commission Chair Muhammad Abdul Muhith and Ms. Diago Ndiaye in this debateandthankthemfortheirinformativecontributions. I would like to further illustrate the three elements mentioned — time, trust and transparency — in view of our urgent discussions in the coming months on the Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace. First, building sustainable peace is a long- term endeavour, as the various causes of conflict must be addressed through a holistic approach. The Council reaffirmed, in resolution 2558 (2020), that “development, peace and security, and human rights are interlinked and mutually reinforcing”.”
2023-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9250 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Baeriswyl (Switzerland) (spoke in French): “Peace never settles permanently. It must be nurtured every day, every moment, no matter if we are a great politician or a simple schoolboy.” These are the words of young Franco-Colombian peace activist Léa Narjoud, delivered at the Geneva Peace Talks, which have been held in Switzerland annually since 2013. Ms. Narjoud illustrates three key conditions for sustainable peace: long-term commitment, continuous investment in trust and frank and transparent discourse at all levels. Those three elements have also long guided Switzerland’s work. Sustainable peace is a priority for Switzerland in the Security Council, and I thank you, Mr. President, for having organized this open debate.”
2023-01-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9250 (2023) · source
“In that regard, we call on all Member States to comply with their obligations to cooperate, whether under the Rome Statute or pursuant to resolution 1593 (2005). We also invite the Sudanese authorities to support the ICC’s efforts by taking concrete steps. Combating impunity is a central element of Swiss foreign policy. It is also at the heart of the Juba Peace Agreement. Ensuring justice is not only a duty in terms of accountability but also an imperative for the future of the Sudan. In conclusion, let me underscore once again the essential role of the ICC as an institution of last resort to try the most serious international crimes, bring justice to the victims and thereby contribute to a lasting peace. The ICC and the Office of the Prosecutor have our full support.”
2023-01-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9249 (2023) · source
“We also thank the many witnesses who testified before the Court for their courage and determination, and we commend civil society for its tireless efforts to support those proceedings. We also commend the various third-party States and international organizations for their assistance, which played a key role as well. That trial gives a voice to the victims and survivors. It underscores once again the preventive and reconciliatory role played by the ICC. The Court is a vehicle for peace and security and therefore the spirit of both its mandate and that of the Council are the same. In order for the ICC to carry out its mandate effectively, independently and impartially, it depends on the assistance of all of us.”
2023-01-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9249 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Baeriswyl (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I would like to thank the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Mr. Karim Khan, for his valuable briefing, and to underline Switzerland’s unwavering support for the ICC. We have taken note of the Prosecutor’s thirty-sixth report on the situation in Darfur, and we appreciate his efforts to present the activities of the Court and his Office in a transparent manner. Switzerland is pleased with the significant progress that has been achieved this year in the trial of Mr. Abd-Al-Rahman. That trial is essential for the victims and the affected communities, who have been waiting for more than 17 years for justice. It is also a historic trial because it is the first ever resulting from a Security Council referral. We commend the victim-centred approach taken by the Prosecutor.”
2023-01-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9249 (2023) · source
“Switzerland joins the appeals of the Special Envoy and the families and commends the efforts of the Secretary-General to shed light on the fate of those persons. We call on all parties to put an end to the practices of arbitrary detention and enforced disappearances in Syria. Allowing the access of specialized humanitarian organizations to all places of detention would be an essential step in that direction. Experience shows that trust cannot be restored in a society until the families of the missing get answers about the fate of their loved ones. Women and tens of thousands of orphans across the country are waiting to hear from a husband, a parent or a brother in order to regain control of their lives. They have the right to know.”
2023-01-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9248 (2023) · source
“We have great hopes that the work of the Constitutional Committee will soon resume under the aegis of the Office of the Special Envoy. The Security Council, through resolution 2254 (2015), calls for the voice and expectations of the Syrian people to be taken into account. Switzerland supports Syrian civil society organizations, in particular through the Civil Society Support Room in Geneva. Civil society organizations are involved in identifying an appropriate and sustainable political solution. Across all regions, they are building social cohesion and preserving the country’s territorial integrity. Finally, Switzerland would like the Security Council to remain seized of the issue of detained or missing persons. Resolutions 2254 (2015) and 2474 (2019) underline the importance of this issue in any peace process.”
2023-01-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9248 (2023) · source
“That is why Switzerland supports the efforts of the United Nations and its Special Envoy, Geir Pedersen, based on the mandate given to him by resolution 2254 (2015), which was unanimously adopted by the Security Council. We commend him for his recent consultations with key regional and international actors at the highest level. Those efforts are crucial to building confidence among the parties and maintaining the momentum for a political solution at a time when the already fragile humanitarian, security and economic situation in Syria is worsening dangerously. In order to fulfil its commitment to the implementation of the Council’s resolutions, Switzerland offers the best possible guarantees for the continuation of the peace process in Geneva, the main headquarters of the United Nations in Europe.”
2023-01-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9248 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Baeriswyl (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I make this statement on the political situation in Syria in my national capacity. With regard to the humanitarian situation, I align myself with the statement made by my Brazilian colleague on behalf of both our countries. I would also like to thank Special Envoy Pedersen and Deputy Director Mudawi for their sombre but very important briefings. The Syrian civilian population continues to be subjected to severe hardship. Switzerland is concerned about the continuing violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law throughout the country. We call on all parties to the conflict to respect their obligations under international law. The way out of the conflict in Syria is clear and we heard that today; it can be achieved only through a political solution.”
2023-01-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9248 (2023) · source
“It is also committed to improving the coordination of the response to the many existing needs. We hope that the international community will continue to maintain a presence in Haiti. Switzerland stands ready to support all efforts in this regard.”
2023-01-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9247 (2023) · source
“We are working with authorities at all levels and with local organizations to strengthen social protections and food security and to reduce disaster risks, which are often exacerbated by climate change, while improving access to water and local governance. We note with concern that access to humanitarian assistance and the safety of humanitarian personnel are severely compromised by gang violence, reducing the impact of our efforts and those of our partners. The Security Council has been united in its commitment to Haiti and must support improvement of the situation on the ground. Switzerland is committed to working with the Haitian people to strengthen good governance at all levels, the rule of law, security, stability and the protection of human rights.”
2023-01-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9247 (2023) · source
“These measures can contribute to the stabilization of the country, respect for the rule of law and especially to the fight against impunity and corruption. They must be implemented effectively. To this end, we hope that the panel of experts will be able to begin its work on the ground quickly. The Council has recognized the need for fair and clear procedures and expressed its intention to authorize the Ombudsperson for this purpose. Thirdly, more than half of the Haitian population lives below the poverty line, and an estimated 4.7 million people are acutely food insecure. As a donor, Switzerland supports the World Food Programme and the Peacebuilding Fund. It also contributes directly to organizations in the southern provinces.”
2023-01-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9247 (2023) · source
“Switzerland would like to reiterate the importance of documenting cases, as Haitian human rights organizations, the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights are doing. Perpetrators of violence must be held accountable, and medical and psychological support for survivors must be reinforced. In the coming months, Switzerland will increase its support to local and international organizations that provide psychosocial services in certain gang- controlled neighbourhoods. Secondly, Switzerland welcomes the unity shown by the Security Council in establishing a sanctions regime as well as the momentum that has recently developed as a result of its implementation.”
2023-01-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9247 (2023) · source
“Switzerland has been present in Haiti for a long time. It has remained there through every crisis and will continue to support efforts aimed at improving the situation. We also support a national inter-Haitian dialogue that is as inclusive and consensual as possible. Let me highlight the following three points. First, the security situation in Haiti is alarming because of the steady increase in gang activity that translates into violence against the population. Rapes, sexual violence, murders, robberies, armed attacks and kidnappings are committed on a daily basis. We condemn the brutality of this violence, including against children. Furthermore, we condemn the abduction and recruitment of children by criminal gangs. As the report of the Secretary-General (S/2023/41) points out, prevention and protection measures are insufficient.”
2023-01-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9247 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Baeriswyl (Switzerland) (spoke in French): Let me first join others in expressing our deepest condolences to our dear colleague the Ambassador and to the people and the Government of Gabon on the sad passing of their Foreign Minister. I thank Special Representative Helen La Lime for her briefing. Her words illustrate the very difficult situation experienced by Haitians. Following the expiration on 9 January 2023 of the terms of the last 10 senators in office, as was mentioned by others, the country no longer has any elected officials. The political, socioeconomic, humanitarian and security crises are mutually reinforcing. In addition, there has been a resurgence of cholera and lack of access to basic services. We would like to express our solidarity with the Haitian people, whose youth are deprived of prospects.”
2023-01-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9247 (2023) · source
“We encourage the parties to address the root causes of the conflict and to restore a political horizon for a negotiated two- State solution in accordance with international law and internationally agreed parameters, including the relevant Security Council resolutions. Switzerland stands ready to facilitate the resumption of a credible dialogue to that end.”
2023-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9246 (2023) · source
“In that regard, we recall that the measures adopted by the General Assembly reflect the will of the international community and must not be subject to retaliatory measures. My country also reiterates its call for elections to be held throughout the Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, which would contribute to the legitimacy of institutions and restore the political unity that is critical to achieving a two-State solution. Switzerland calls on the leaders of all parties to refrain from unilateral measures or inflammatory language that could fuel the conflict, provoke further violence and undermine peace efforts.”
2023-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9246 (2023) · source
“In that regard, Switzerland would like to reaffirm, as did all members of the Security Council at its emergency meeting held on 5 January (see S/PV.9236), that respect for the status quo on the Al-Haram Al-Sharif/Temple Mount is a key element of achieving peace and stability in the region. My country is also concerned about the growing number of attacks against Christians, such as the desecration of the Protestant cemetery on Mount Zion, which was founded by Swiss-born Samuel Gobat. We call for concrete measures to support the peaceful coexistence of all communities in Jerusalem. Switzerland is concerned about the weakening of the Palestinian Authority, particularly as a result of the withholding of the taxes owed to it and the prolonged absence of elections.”
2023-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9246 (2023) · source
“Furthermore, we encourage the Israeli Government to pursue constructive economic measures, in particular by granting more construction permits in Area C and more work permits in Israel in order to improve conditions for Palestinians. Meanwhile, Switzerland is concerned about the newly elected Israeli Government’s publicly announced intention to expand settlements, including through investment in infrastructure. As the Security Council has already made clear, settlements, including outposts such as Homesh, are a violation of international law. They also represent an obstacle to peace and jeopardize the achievement of the two-State solution.”
2023-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9246 (2023) · source
“Given the high number of violent incidents committed by settlers, Switzerland also calls on Israel to respect its obligations under international humanitarian law towards the occupied population. Furthermore, Switzerland is appalled by the number of children among the victims of violence and violations of international law. We welcome the dialogue launched in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict. We call on all parties to pursue that dialogue and take the necessary measures to protect children. My country welcomes the willingness of the newly elected Israeli Government to pursue normalization agreements with Arab States. We would also like to see the Palestinians being able to benefit from that new dynamic.”
2023-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9246 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Baeriswyl (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I thank you, Sir, for convening this open debate and thank Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland for his comprehensive briefing. As others have mentioned, 2022 was the deadliest year for Palestinian civilians in the West Bank since the United Nations began keeping track of incidents in the conflict. Deadly attacks in Israel have also exacerbated the tense environment, and the risk of escalation is real. Switzerland expects all parties to take the necessary measures to protect civilians and non-combatants. It calls for investigations into the allegations of the disproportionate use of force by the Israeli security forces.”
2023-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9246 (2023) · source
“We oppose the spread and dissemination of hate speech and all other forms and manifestations of defamation and discrimination based on religion. We call on religious institutions and leaders to exercise their influence and responsibility for de-escalation, humanity and the promotion of peace. The Council must assume its responsibility for international peace and security and devote its full attention to achieving a just peace in accordance with international law. Russia’s actions are in serious violation of international law, including the principle of the non-use of force, and of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. Such actions can never be justified. We call on Russia once again to de-escalate the situation and withdraw its troops without further delay.”
2023-01-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9245 (2023) · source
“The principles of proportionality and precaution must also be respected. Switzerland also remains concerned about the serious human rights violations and abuses committed in Ukraine during the war. According to a statement made by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on 7 December, those violations and abuses include summary executions, arbitrary detentions and enforced disappearances, torture and ill-treatment, as well as conflict-related sexual violence. With regard to the freedom of religion and belief, Switzerland upholds the principle that freedom of religion protects the individual, not religions or religious communities. We remind all States parties of their obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.”
2023-01-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9245 (2023) · source
“In Dnipro, a residential building was largely destroyed. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims, the injured and those who work tirelessly, day and night, as part of the rescue efforts. We are also dismayed by the bombing of the city of Kherson, during which a Ukrainian Red Cross building, among others, was damaged. That was an attack not only against a humanitarian actor but also against the right of those affected by conflict to receive assistance and protection. Switzerland condemns those attacks. We recall that, under international humanitarian law, making a distinction between military targets and civilians, as well as between military targets and civilian objects, is an obligation. Intentionally directing attacks against civilians or civilian objects constitutes a war crime.”
2023-01-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9245 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Baeriswyl (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I thank the Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, Ms. Ilze Brands Kehris, for her briefing. We fully support the work of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and look forward to working with it during our term on the Security Council. The information made available by the Office is essential for the work of the Council. I have also taken note of the remarks by Metropolitan Anthony, Chairman of the Department of External Church Relations of the Patriarchate of Moscow. Last week, Switzerland, along with many others around this table, called on Russia for an immediate cessation of hostilities (see S/PV.9243). Less than 24 hours later, a new wave of Russian attacks hit Ukraine, in which residential areas and energy infrastructure were affected.”
2023-01-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9245 (2023) · source
“Finally, with regard to the FSO SAFER oil tanker, Switzerland calls for a rapid implementation of the first phase of the salvage plan. Efforts to avoid an ecological disaster in the Red Sea must be redoubled. The Council has repeatedly reaffirmed that the truce must be formally restored and extended into a permanent ceasefire. That is an essential step towards a lasting peace in Yemen. Switzerland reiterates this message today.”
2023-01-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9244 (2023) · source
“Thirdly, we have an obligation to protect children, who are particularly affected by this conflict. Many of them are victims of explosive remnants of war, deprived of schooling or recruited for war efforts. We therefore urge all parties to the conflict to protect the welfare of children, to release them immediately from their ranks and to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law. We call on them to implement signed action plans and commitments on children in armed conflict. Furthermore, given the prevalence of threats related to mines and explosive remnants of war, we stress the importance of allowing essential equipment for humanitarian demining to be imported, and we call on the international community to mobilize to fill the funding gap.”
2023-01-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9244 (2023) · source
“It is important that all those dialogues are aligned with the efforts of the United Nations Special Envoy, whom we fully support. Secondly, humanitarian assistance must be guided by the needs of the affected population and be independent of any political considerations. Currently, the operating environment for humanitarian actors is becoming increasingly restrictive. Rapid and unhindered humanitarian access must be guaranteed throughout the country and by all parties to the conflict. All humanitarian personnel, both women and men, must be allowed free movement in order to distribute goods or services for the benefit of the most affected population. We also reiterate the need to minimize bureaucratic restrictions such as delays in approving visas or work permits, as these impede an effective response in line with humanitarian principles.”
2023-01-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9244 (2023) · source
“We echo the calls of the Secretary- General and the High Commissioner for Human Rights for the parties to the conflict to re-establish a formal truce and work towards a negotiated settlement of the conflict. In their words, it is time “to choose peace for good”. Switzerland believes that the following elements should be part of this choice for peace. First, we welcome the fact that a de facto truce continues to be largely respected. We call on the parties to continue the dialogue in good faith and to exercise restraint. The longer-term goal of an intra-Yemeni political settlement that involves all of society and includes the voices of women and marginalized groups must remain at the centre of peace efforts. We welcome the various dialogues under way and highlight the engagement of the Sultanate of Oman.”
2023-01-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9244 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Baeriswyl (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I thank Special Envoy Hans Grundberg and Under- Secretary-General Martin Griffiths for their briefings and, more importantly, for their efforts aimed at promoting peace and protecting civilians in Yemen. As the new year begins, Yemenis are once again suffering the effects of rampant inflation and high levels of food insecurity, compounded by increasingly harsh economic measures put in place by the parties to the conflict. People’s livelihoods have been destroyed by devastating drought and flooding, both of which have been exacerbated by climate change. In addition, Yemenis have limited access to basic services, which has increased their humanitarian needs and worsened the human rights situation in the country. The truce has provided a much-needed respite for the civilian population.”
2023-01-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9244 (2023) · source
“As members of the Security Council, we have the responsibility to do our utmost to ensure that this year is marked by a just peace, in accordance with international law, in Ukraine and elsewhere in the world”
2023-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9243 (2023) · source
“The burden of more expensive food, uncertain energy supply and the threat of a nuclear incident weighs on the whole world. We share the Secretary-General’s conviction: “This is not a time to sit on the sidelines; it is a time for resolve, determination, and — yes — even hope.” Switzerland supports the good offices of the Secretary-General and his unwavering commitment to peace, including as host State in Geneva. We will continue to provide humanitarian aid in Ukraine, for example by supplying mobile heating devices. We support justice for victims, including promoting the documentation and investigation of crimes committed against them. And we are committed to a participatory and transparent reconstruction process under Ukrainian leadership, as set out in the Lugano Principles. Last year, war returned to Europe with full force.”
2023-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9243 (2023) · source
“In addition, in recent months, there have been recurring Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Without electricity, the functioning of essential services such as hospitals and water supply systems has been hampered. In view of what I just mentioned, today I reiterate Switzerland’s call for a halt to all attacks on civilians and persons hors de combat, on civilian property and on essential infrastructure. We must take a step forward towards peaceful, just and lasting solutions. That includes a commitment to diplomatic solutions, making progress in the reconstruction process, actions for accountability and victims’ rights, and a redoubling of efforts for nuclear safety and security. We must not forget that this war has consequences far beyond the European continent.”
2023-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9243 (2023) · source
“In an armed conflict, civilians pay a high price. Their protection is a humanitarian imperative. Switzerland stresses that all parties must ensure the protection of the civilian population as well as of persons hors de combat, and respect international humanitarian law and human rights. Since February 2022, thousands of civilians in Ukraine have died or been injured. The Ukrainian population has been and is still being subjected to horrific situations, including acts that the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine has determined constitute war crimes and human rights violations. Millions of people have been forced to leave their homes, the vast majority of whom are women and children. They have often been exposed to high risks, such as human trafficking and sexual violence.”
2023-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9243 (2023) · source
“Russia’s large-scale military aggression against Ukraine is a serious violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. Switzerland strongly condemns this violation and fully supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. We call upon Russia to immediately de-escalate the situation, cease all combat operations and withdraw its troops from the entire territory of Ukraine, including the areas declared as annexed, without delay. As the occupying Power, Russia must respect its obligations under international humanitarian law and human rights law. Switzerland calls for rapid and unhindered access of humanitarian aid to the entire territory of Ukraine, including the areas occupied by Russia. We also condemn the involvement of Belarus in the Russian military aggression.”
2023-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9243 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Baeriswyl (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I would like to start by thanking Under-Secretary- General Rosemary DiCarlo for her sober assessment of the situation. I would also like to acknowledge the participation at this meeting of the Deputy Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and Poland, Her Excellency Ms. Emine Dzhaparova and His Excellency Mr. Wojciech Gerwel, respectively, as well as that of the representatives of the other delegations. For the people of Kyiv and many other regions of Ukraine, this year began as the last one ended: with a large wave of Russian air attacks. At the same time, fierce fighting continues, especially in eastern Ukraine. Our thoughts are with the people suffering from this war, wherever they are in the world.”
2023-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9243 (2023) · source
“Colombia can serve as an example to other countries affected by conflict. Colombia’s continued engagement in the Peacebuilding Commission attests to that potential. Let me conclude with the words of Father Francisco de Roux Rengifo, former President of the Truth Commission, (spoke in Spanish) “We can no longer postpone the day when peace becomes a duty and a basic right. Colombia has become inured to peace means, and it will not give it up.” (spoke in English) Switzerland encourages the international community and the Council to redouble their efforts to support Colombia in achieving lasting peace and stands ready to promote and support all dialogue.”
2023-01-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9240 (2023) · source
“In that regard, my country welcomes the recent signing by Colombia of the Safe Schools Declaration, which is an imperative step towards the implementation of preventive measures to ensure the protection of the most vulnerable. Thirdly, in line with its commitment to peace and sustainable social development in Colombia, Switzerland has responded to the call of the parties to the conflict and will support the peace negotiations under way with the ELN. Having been chosen once again as one of the supporting States in the negotiations represents a great responsibility for us whose scope we fully realize. We particularly welcome the meaningful representation of women in the process. Colombia has successfully adopted a victim- centred approach for healing the wounds of decades of violence.”
2023-01-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9240 (2023) · source
“The achievement of the objectives set out will make it possible to work on the root causes of the armed conflict and the historical inequalities. While the Colombian Government’s recent efforts to combat criminal activity are commendable, we remain concerned about the level of violence faced by members of political parties, social leaders, human rights defenders, former combatants and indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities. As the report of the Secretary-General (S/2022/1004) notes, violence against women is an obstacle to their ultimate participation in the peace process. Ensuring the proper functioning of the National Commission on Security Guarantees is critical to their protection and must be a priority. Indigenous children are disproportionately affected by serious acts of violence.”
2023-01-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9240 (2023) · source
“The resumption of negotiations with the Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN) and the pursuit to continue the dialogue with the other armed groups, including in view of achieving a ceasefire, are most encouraging. The positive communication between the Colombian authorities and the Comunes party is also a meaningful gesture and a clear commitment to peace. We welcome the work of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia and its ability to adapt so as to be able to support Colombia on the path leading to peace. Secondly, Switzerland welcomes the unity of the Council shown by its unanimous adoption of resolution 2673 (2022), on broadening the Mission’s mandate to cover monitoring the implementation of the rural reform and the ethnic chapters in the peace agreement. Those chapters are vital.”
2023-01-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9240 (2023) · source
“In particular, Switzerland has supported the political participation component of the agreement. It has also committed itself to supporting the Comprehensive System for Truth, Justice, Reparations and Non-Repetition, together with the Colombian women and men who have spared no effort on behalf of the victims of the armed conflict. Our contribution has prioritized a holistic, victim-centred approach, based on respect for the law. Switzerland takes pleasure in pursuing its support for building a lasting peace, as a member of the Council. I would like to highlight three points in that regard. First, Switzerland welcomes the important efforts of the Colombian Government to advance the full and effective implementation of the peace agreement.”
2023-01-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9240 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Baeriswyl (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I welcome the participation of Her Excellency Ms. Francia Márquez Mina, Vice-President of Colombia. Her presence attests to Colombia’s commitment to achieving lasting peace and valued cooperation with the Security Council. It was with deep concern that we learned of the assassination attempt on her life yesterday. We express our sympathy to her and unequivocally condemn all acts of violence. Let me also thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Carlos Ruiz Massieu for his invaluable briefing. Our thanks also go to Mr. Wouriyu Valbuena for his informative briefing. Switzerland’s long-standing commitment in Colombia is aimed at contributing to the full implementation of the Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace.”
2023-01-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9240 (2023) · source
“Helping communities adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change must be an integral part of the response to the region’s challenges. In order to create local economic opportunities, Switzerland is making investments aimed at strengthening the resilience of the countries concerned and preserving their natural resources. The Secretary-General’s report is further evidence of the importance of UNOWAS in addressing the challenges in the region. As part of our role as co-penholder with Ghana, we will work with all the members of the Council to provide continued support to the work of the Office and the United Nations presence in the region. In conclusion, I echo my Ghanaian colleague in announcing negotiations for a presidential statement that we hope to submit for the Council’s consideration very soon.”
2023-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9238 (2023) · source
“Switzerland underscores the importance of inclusive dialogue in those contexts and calls on all stakeholders to respect the constitutional order and the rule of law. We are encouraged by the peaceful elections in Senegal, the progress towards social cohesion and reconciliation in Côte d’Ivoire and the advancement of transitional justice in the Gambia. At the same time, we regret the limited progress achieved in terms of women’s representation and participation in political and decision-making processes. We encourage UNOWAS to continue to advocate for the full, equal and meaningful representation of women in the electoral processes scheduled for this year. Finally, the Secretary-General’s report (S/2022/1019) illustrates the multiple effects of climate change on living conditions, food security and conflict in West Africa and the Sahel.”
2023-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9238 (2023) · source
“That is essential in order to address the persistent insecurity in the region, including the terrorist threat in central Sahel and the risk of spillover to coastal countries. Counter-terrorism measures must comply with international law, including human rights and international humanitarian law. We also wish to emphasize the importance of the inclusion of, and respect for, human rights in the prevention of violent extremism. Their key role has been repeatedly emphasized during the regional conversations that UNOWAS and Switzerland have been organizing since 2016, the next edition of which is scheduled for the end of February in Dakar. Secondly, on the political front, support for States in transition — in particular Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea — in collaboration with the Economic Community of West African States must remain a priority.”
2023-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9238 (2023) · source
“They bear the cumulative burden of climate change, armed conflict, food insecurity and energy prices. While that is a heavy burden for everyone, it is particularly so for the vulnerable: 40 million children in the Sahel do not attend school, an alarming figure in the Secretary-General’s report (S/2022/1019). The future of those children, especially that of girls, is at stake. We cannot delay in helping those populations, especially the youth, in order to develop their potential and that of their region. Let me mention three concrete ways to do that. First, it is essential to address the root causes of violent extremism and conflict in a holistic manner, as UNOWAS is doing and the Peacebuilding Commission recommends.”
2023-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9238 (2023) · source