YouSaid · the spoken record

Chanda

lines on the record: 114
first: 2023-02-09
most recent: 2023-12-18
sittings or episodes: 23
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

“They must be able to participate in complete safety, free from harassment, intimidation or impediments on their freedom of movement and fundamental rights. With regard to sanctions, they must be implemented effectively, in compliance with Security Council decisions. Strengthening fair procedures in sanctions regimes is also important. Switzerland welcomes the work of the Ombudsperson to the Security Council Committee pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999), 1989 (2011) and 2253 (2015) concerning Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (Da’esh), Al-Qaida and associated individuals, groups, undertakings and entities in promoting the application of the rule of law in United Nations sanctions. In that respect, we underscore the relevance of that review mechanism for delisting requests for other sanctions regimes similar to that one.”
2023-08-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9402 (2023) · source
“Excessive control and bureaucratic restrictions imposed by security actors continue to increase. Switzerland supports the Secretary-General’s call for those measures to be lifted, in particular law no. 19 of 2001. That law restricts the rights of expression, association and peaceful assembly of all individuals, including members of civil society, in clear contradiction with Libya’s obligations under international human rights law. Switzerland is concerned in particular about the violations and abuses suffered by women and girls, whether they be Libyan or foreign. Sexual and gender- based assaults, including in places of detention, must be stopped, prevented and punished. The inclusion of women in political processes, such as elections and the national reconciliation process, is also essential.”
2023-08-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9402 (2023) · source
“Since security is also a precondition for ensuring an environment that facilitates the holding of elections, Switzerland is concerned about the extremely tense security situation, illustrated by the clashes that took place in Tripoli last week. Secondly, with regard to the human rights situation, one of the lessons that Switzerland has drawn from its role as co-Chair of the Working Group on International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights within the Berlin Process is that it is crucial to give a voice to those who are dealing with the deteriorating situation on a daily basis. As Ms. Al Jerbi told us earlier, Libyans are letting us know about one of their major concerns, which is that the space for civil society is constantly shrinking, as the latest report of the Secretary- General confirms (S/2023/589).”
2023-08-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9402 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Chanda (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I thank Special Representative Abdoulaye Bathily and Ms. Noura Al Jerbi for their briefings. I would like to discuss the following three points. First, with regard to the political process, Switzerland remains convinced of the importance of holding elections, especially in view of the fact that it is the Libyans themselves who are calling for elections. We take note of the work done by the 6+6 committee to reach agreement on draft electoral laws. It will be crucial to ensure that the unresolved issues are addressed. An inclusive pre-electoral agreement is essential to creating an environment conducive to fair and equitable elections. We support a process under the auspices of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya and call on Libyan stakeholders to engage constructively in that regard.”
2023-08-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9402 (2023) · source
“In that respect, we are concerned about the continuing deterioration of the humanitarian situation, particularly in the Gaza Strip. The financial difficulties of the World Food Programme and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) are worrisome and must be addressed as soon as possible. We hope that the ministerial meeting on UNRWA to be held in New York in September will help to stabilize the Agency’s financial situation.”
2023-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9400 (2023) · source
“In that context, the displacement of communities — such as the recent displacement of 89 Palestinians, including 39 children, in Ras Al-Tin following violence by settlers and coercive measures by Israel — could constitute forced transfers, which are likely to further inflame tensions. We remind Israel of its responsibility to protect the occupied population. Switzerland encourages the continuation of discussions between the Palestinian parties aimed at restoring their political unity. Combined with other measures, such as the holding of elections at all levels, such a process would help to reverse the continuing weakening of the Palestinian Authority, the loss of legitimacy of its institutions and the erosion of the provision of essential services to the population.”
2023-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9400 (2023) · source
“With that in mind, we call on all parties to respect international law and refrain from any unilateral measures, acts of provocation or inflammatory language that could fuel the conflict and constitute an obstacle to peace. Such obstacles include the acceleration of settlement development in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem. We recall that settlements are illegal under international law, and Israel must refrain from taking measures that would introduce permanent changes, in particular demographic and administrative changes, in the occupied territory.”
2023-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9400 (2023) · source
“At the same time, 24 Israeli civilians lost their lives as a result of acts of violence perpetrated by Palestinians. Switzerland condemns all acts of violence against civilians. It must be acknowledged that the Council’s unanimous adoption of presidential statement S/PRST/2023/1 in February has not yet borne fruit. The commitments subsequently made by the parties must be followed urgently by action. Switzerland calls on the Israeli and Palestinian leaders to make an unequivocal commitment to de-escalation, address the root causes of the conflict and restore a political horizon with a view to achieving a negotiated two-State solution.”
2023-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9400 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Chanda (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I would like to thank the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Mr Tor Wennesland, for his briefing. In the light of his presentation, the Security Council must firmly reiterate its calls for de-escalation and the protection of the civilian population in the Middle East conflict. The year 2022 was the deadliest year for Palestinian civilians in the West Bank since the United Nations began recording cases in the conflict, yet that tragic record has already been broken this month. According to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, twice as many Palestinian civilians died in the West Bank in the first seven months of 2023 than in the same period last year, either during operations carried out by Israeli security forces or due to violence committed by settlers.”
2023-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9400 (2023) · source
“It is essential that those responsible for serious violations of international humanitarian law are held accountable for their actions, in order to render justice to the victims and prevent the recurrence of such violations in future. We recognize the indispensable work of humanitarian actors who provide aid in extremely difficult circumstances. Switzerland welcomes the diplomatic efforts being made to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine, in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter. We are ready to play an active part in achieving this goal. If a diplomatic solution is to be achieved, we call on Russia — once again — to de-escalate the situation, cease all combat operations and withdraw its troops from Ukrainian territory.”
2023-08-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9399 (2023) · source
“We recall that international humanitarian law protects the wounded and medical missions, as well as humanitarian personnel and their activities. The list of atrocities suffered by the Ukrainian people continues to grow. Switzerland disputes the allegations that Ukraine and its partners are responsible for the worsening of the current situation. Our position remains unchanged: we condemn Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine, which constitutes a serious violation of international law. Like all States, Ukraine has the right to defend its territorial integrity and ensure its security. Switzerland calls for strict compliance with international humanitarian law. The principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution must be respected in the conduct of hostilities.”
2023-08-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9399 (2023) · source
“Since the beginning of this month alone, we have received many reports of the destruction of homes, restaurants, shops and other civilian infrastructure in every region of the country. Waves of attacks are affecting dozens of civilians, including children, and are tearing whole families apart. Strikes against Ukrainian port facilities continue to increase the risks to global food security. In addition, people helping the victims, including medical personnel and humanitarian aid workers, have been affected. Sometimes the same target is hit twice within the space of minutes, endangering rescue workers. Places where representatives of humanitarian organizations are staying have also been targeted. The means deployed to help the victims of the conflict are therefore jeopardized.”
2023-08-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9399 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Chanda (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I would like to thank the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Mrs. Izumi Nakamitsu, for her statement. I have taken note of Mr. Danny Haiphong’s remarks. Since the last meeting on Ukraine (see S/PV.9390), Russia has continued its relentless attacks on its neighbouring country. We have expressed our concerns about the impact of the Russian military aggression on civilians in Ukraine on numerous occasions, and we reiterate them today. Civilians are protected by international humanitarian law and must not be targeted. However, our appeals have not been heeded. To the contrary, according to the United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine, the number of indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure has reached “unimaginable levels”.”
2023-08-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9399 (2023) · source
“If a political solution is to be found, the Council needs to break its silence. Its call for dialogue should be articulated around a united position. We encourage all members to seek consensus. Switzerland will support all efforts to achieve that unity.”
2023-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9376 (2023) · source
“Thirdly, the Council and the United Nations as a whole have an important role to play in encouraging dialogue, de-escalation and the search for diplomatic solutions. There is a willingness to conduct and support dialogue with the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. We welcome the call for the Secretary-General’s good offices and encourage the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to engage constructively with the Council and the United Nations system. In two weeks’ time, we will commemorate the seventieth anniversary of the Korean Armistice Agreement. Switzerland, which has been involved in its implementation since 1953 through the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission in Korea, regrets that a more permanent solution has not yet been found on the Korean Peninsula.”
2023-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9376 (2023) · source
“Secondly, Switzerland stresses the importance of the efforts made by the Council to ensure that humanitarian aid remains possible and is not adversely affected by the sanctions. The unity of the Council that enabled the adoption of resolution 2664 (2022) is proof of our common objective in that respect. The heavy restrictions put in place by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea in connection with the coronavirus disease pandemic have seriously hampered international humanitarian aid since 2020. We hope that they will soon be lifted. The needs of the people of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea must not be forgotten, and their human rights must be respected, as the development of nuclear and military programmes only comes at the expense of serious human rights violations and leads to a precarious humanitarian situation.”
2023-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9376 (2023) · source
“First, those launches are in violation of legally binding Security Council resolutions and therefore of international law. It is therefore our collective duty to condemn the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s ballistic missile tests. Switzerland reiterates that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea is required to implement its obligations pursuant to Council resolutions and to take concrete steps to abandon its nuclear weapons, ballistic missiles and related programmes in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner. We recall that, while the obligations arising from the resolutions apply primarily to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, they also apply to all other States, which are required to implement Security Council sanctions effectively.”
2023-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9376 (2023) · source
“It takes place in a tense security situation, and Switzerland is concerned about the risk of escalation inherent in such an act, which is often accompanied by inflammatory rhetoric. We recall the catastrophic humanitarian consequences that would result from the use of nuclear weapons. Switzerland considers that the use of nuclear weapons can hardly be envisaged in compliance with the relevant rules of international law in general, and international humanitarian law in particular. We must step up our efforts in favour of non-proliferation, disarmament and maintenance of the nuclear taboo. Faced with these repeated challenges, we must not waver in our collective duty. That is why the Council must assume its responsibilities. I would like to highlight three aspects.”
2023-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9376 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Chanda (Switzerland) (spoke in French): We thank Assistant Secretary-General Khiari for his briefing and welcome the participation of the representatives of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea and the Republic of Korea in our deliberations. Once again, the Council is meeting because of a ballistic missile launch by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. The development and operationalization of increasingly dangerous nuclear delivery systems by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea represents, together with its nuclear programme, a threat to the entire international community. Switzerland condemns this fourth launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile this year.”
2023-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9376 (2023) · source
“Allow me to conclude with the words of a Sudanese victims’ representative: “We have been waiting for a long time to see perpetrators stand in court. We are following the progress of the Abd-Al-Rahman trial closely and trust that justice will be delivered”.”
2023-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9375 (2023) · source
“It calls on all States to redouble their efforts to ensure that the victims in Darfur receive the justice they have long awaited. At a time when the situation in the Sudan is deteriorating on a daily basis, the need for justice is central and requires renewed commitment and attention from everyone, including the Council. Switzerland would like to reaffirm its determination to fight impunity and its unconditional support for the Court as an independent judicial body responsible for investigating the most serious crimes of concern to the entire international community. It is a beacon of hope and deserves our full support. As the report says, this time, the law should provide protection to those who need it most.”
2023-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9375 (2023) · source
“Switzerland is closely following developments in the trial of Mr. Ali Abd-Al-Rahman and welcomes the speed of the proceedings and the central role given to victims and witnesses. Their voices must be heard. We also welcome the increased interaction with civil society organizations and affected communities, both inside and outside the Sudan. Thirdly, we would like to stress the importance of full cooperation with the International Criminal Court. We reiterate our call on the Sudanese authorities and all parties to the conflict to fulfil their obligation to cooperate with the Court under Security Council resolution 1593 (2005). Switzerland welcomes the close cooperation between the Office of the Prosecutor and third countries.”
2023-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9375 (2023) · source
“With that conviction in mind, I would like to highlight three points. First, we express our grave concern about the escalation of the conflict and the worsening humanitarian situation in the Sudan, including Darfur. Switzerland condemns the violations of international humanitarian law that may have been committed there. It is particularly concerned by the allegations of sexual and gender-based crimes, including those of mass rape and violence against children mentioned in the Prosecutor’s report. In that respect, his decision to investigate incidents in the context of the current hostilities is an important contribution to the fight against impunity. Secondly, we welcome the progress made by the Prosecutor since the presentation of his most recent report (see S/PV.9249), despite the difficult context.”
2023-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9375 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Chanda (Switzerland) (spoke in French): Switzerland would like to thank the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Mr. Karim Khan, for his detailed briefing on the situation in Darfur, and welcomes the participation of the representative of the Sudan in this meeting. In a few days’ time, we will be celebrating the twenty-fifth anniversary of the adoption of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, which marked a crucial milestone in the international community’s commitment to the fight against impunity. By referring the situation in Darfur to the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, the Security Council highlighted the intrinsic link between justice and sustainable peace. What was reaffirmed 25 years ago is still valid today: there can be no peace without justice.”
2023-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9375 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Chanda (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I took note of the briefings by Mr. Greene and Mr. Brodsky. As we have mentioned in the past, we are concerned about the alleged acts of sabotage against the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines, which led to worrisome gas leaks in September. I reiterate Switzerland’s condemnation of any acts of sabotage of critical infrastructure, including energy infrastructure, and the negative consequences they can have for countries’ energy supplies, economies and environment. We welcome the information provided in the joint letter of 10 July from Sweden, Germany and Denmark (S/2023/517). As indicated in the letter, those countries have continued to conduct their respective national investigations in order to shed light on the facts. We look forward to their conclusions.”
2023-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9373 (2023) · source
“In that regard, we welcome the formal cooperation between the OPCW and the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism to Assist in the Investigation and Prosecution of Persons Responsible for the Most Serious Crimes under International Law Committed in the Syrian Arab Republic since March 2011. It is an important step towards implementing resolution 2118 (2013), as well as ensuring compliance with relevant international law.”
2023-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9372 (2023) · source
“Syria should provide immediate and unimpeded access to OPCW personnel and respond to the 20 outstanding issues identified by the OPCW Technical Secretariat. The reports of the OPCW Investigation and Identification Team have concluded that there have been repeated instances of the use of chemical weapons in Syria, causing numerous casualties, including among children. The use of such weapons is prohibited in all circumstances, and in armed conflicts can constitute a war crime. It is essential that those crimes do not to go unpunished and that the people responsible are identified, prosecuted and punished.”
2023-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9372 (2023) · source
“We therefore look forward to receiving the report following the visit to Syria from 12 to 19 April by a small team from the Declaration Assessment Team, as well as the results of the analysis of samples currently under way in OPCW-designated laboratories. We welcome the meeting that took place between the OPCW and Syria on 22 and 23 June in Beirut. We also note the ongoing exchanges between the OPCW and Syria with a view to a possible resumption of consultations between the Declaration Assessment Team and the Syrian National Authority, and we hope those efforts will be successful in the very near future. The obstacles posed by Syria to the restoration of full cooperation with the OPCW represent a serious breach of the obligations contained in resolution 2118 (2013).”
2023-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9372 (2023) · source
“On the other hand, we regret that the OPCW Member States were unable to reach a consensus on an outcome document for the fifth Review Conference of the Convention in The Hague from 15 to 19 May. However, the Conference showed that there is consensus on many issues and that the vast majority of delegations believe that the issue of chemical weapons in Syria remains a central challenge to the Convention’s full implementation. In that connection, I want to once again reaffirm my country’s full confidence in the OPCW as the principal custodian of the Convention. There is no doubt about the integrity and professionalism of the OPCW and all its missions, including those of the Investigation and Identification Team.”
2023-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9372 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Chanda (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I would first like to thank Mr. Ebo, the Deputy to the High Representative of the United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, for his briefing. Switzerland considers the Chemical Weapons Convention to be an important pillar of our collective security. Ratified by nearly every State, including Syria in 2013, the Convention offers protection against the threats and devastating effects of chemical weapons. Switzerland was very pleased to learn of the announcement by the Director-General of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) that the last stockpiles of officially declared chemical weapons had been completely destroyed. That is a historic step for multilateralism and disarmament efforts.”
2023-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9372 (2023) · source
“With its globally oriented economy, Switzerland depends on maritime trade and its logistics chains and on the shipping industry’s compliance with international regulations. However, all the links in that chain must be firm in order to ensure safe, efficient and sustainable maritime logistics. Investment in port infrastructure is also essential. The States of the Gulf of Guinea bear the primary responsibility for ensuring maritime safety and combating piracy. In order for their efforts to have sustainable results, accelerating the implementation of the Yaoundé Code of Conduct in close collaboration with one another will be crucial.”
2023-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9355 (2023) · source
“It is also important to acknowledge the growing role of women in artisanal fishing, as highlighted in the Secretary-General’s report. Illegal fishing leads to substantial economic losses, with a disproportionate impact on women. Climate change and environmental degradation also weigh heavily on development and security. Thirdly, maritime space and trade require clear rules and structures. In that regard, I underscore the importance of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. All activities involving the sea and the oceans should be addressed within that legal framework. We therefore encourage all States of the region to adopt laws making piracy a crime. The maritime economy is at the heart of global value chains, as underscored by Switzerland’s first-ever maritime strategy, published a few weeks ago.”
2023-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9355 (2023) · source
“We encourage the countries of the region to continue expanding their collaboration, particularly in the areas of justice and information-sharing. Regional organizations such as ECOWAS, ECCAS and the Gulf of Guinea Commission play an essential role in ensuring the region’s maritime security. Their cooperation is key to making progress in that domain. The Regional Offices of the United Nations and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime can also provide support in that regard. Secondly, the development of a sustainable blue economy will be crucial to tackling the root causes of piracy and maritime crime and reducing the vulnerability of coastal populations. It involves providing young people with the economic opportunities that they deserve and that will lower their risk of being lured into illicit activities.”
2023-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9355 (2023) · source
“At the same time, we also take note of the most recent report of the United Nations Regional Office for Central Africa, which documents troubling incidents of piracy and armed robbery. With a view to building on some hard-won gains, I would like to underscore three points. First, the operationalization of the Yaoundé Code of Conduct Concerning the Repression of Piracy, Armed Robbery against Ships and Illicit Maritime Activity in West and Central Africa remains vital to strengthening maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. The tenth anniversary of the Yaoundé Architecture provides an opportunity to assess the progress made in the implementation of the Code of Conduct and to conduct an in-depth review.”
2023-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9355 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Chanda (Switzerland) (spoke in French): I thank the Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, the President of the Commission of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Executive Secretary of the Gulf of Guinea Commission for their briefings. We welcome the fact that the Secretary-General’s most recent report on the situation in the Gulf of Guinea (S/2022/818) notes a decline in incidents of piracy, thanks in particular to the significant commitment of the States of the region. We encourage them to pursue their joint actions and reaffirm our full support for the implementation of current initiatives and resolutions. We also welcome the Security Council’s role in addressing the issue, including through resolution 2634 (2022).”
2023-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9355 (2023) · source
“We also welcome the efforts made to preserve the Mechanism’s archives and premises, and to digitize the Arusha archives, thereby guaranteeing the right to the truth for victims and their families. There is no doubt about the Mechanism’s important contribution to transitional justice and, consequently, to the promotion of sustainable peace. On the occasion of this symbolic double anniversary for international criminal justice, let us demonstrate the same commitment to peace and combating impunity that inspired our predecessors.”
2023-06-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9344 (2023) · source
“That is why we are deeply concerned about the hate speech, glorification of war criminals, historical revisionism and disinformation that is spreading in the Western Balkans and elsewhere. That jeopardizes the reconciliation process and peaceful, multi-ethnic coexistence. In that regard, we welcome the efforts made by the Mechanism to help the affected communities to better understand the facts of the crimes committed and to address their suffering. Finally, we stress the importance of guaranteeing the protection of witnesses and victims while also planning for the future of the Mechanism and ensuring the continuity of its work. In that regard, Switzerland takes note of the Mechanism’s meticulous preparations for the future of its operations.”
2023-06-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9344 (2023) · source
“Secondly, we recall that all States are obliged to cooperate with the Mechanism, including in the arrest and surrender of fugitives. We therefore welcome the recent arrest of Mr. Kayishema, with the support of South Africa. On the other hand, the situation of the eight persons acquitted or released who have been resettled in the Niger remains worrying, despite the considerable work of the Mechanism. We encourage States to respect all the agreements concluded with the Mechanism and to step up their efforts to enforce sentences. Thirdly, the work of the Mechanism is essential to preventing the commission of new atrocities. Accountability is a crucial element in turning the page on the conflicts of the past and building a sustainable peace based on reconciliation and cooperation.”
2023-06-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9344 (2023) · source
“We welcome the fact that the Prosecutor v. Jovica Stanišić and Franko Simatović case has been brought to a successful conclusion. Switzerland joins the Secretary- General in recognizing the dedication of the judges and staff involved in that case. We also welcome the continuing efforts in the Prosecutor v. Félicien Kabuga case and commend the close collaboration between the Mechanism and the local authorities. That contributes to enshrining the principle of complementarity and national ownership of post-conflict accountability. Given the Mechanism’s downsizing and budgetary constraints, those various achievements are all the more impressive. It is essential for us to provide our full support to the Mechanism until its work is completed.”
2023-06-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9344 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Chanda (Switzerland) (spoke in French): Switzerland would like to thank President Gatti Santana and Prosecutor Brammertz for their detailed briefings. We also welcome the participation in this meeting of the representatives of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Rwanda and Serbia. Thirty years ago, the Security Council took the decision to establish the International Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia. Ten years ago, the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals began its work in The Hague. This double anniversary reminds us of the importance of international justice in the fight against impunity and of the Residual Mechanism in particular. With that conviction in mind, I would like to highlight four points. First, Switzerland commends the efforts made by the Mechanism to successfully carry out its mandate.”
2023-06-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9344 (2023) · source
“I would therefore like once again to thank Special Adviser Ritscher and his Team for their tireless work and to assure them of our continued support.”
2023-06-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9341 (2023) · source
“The wilful destruction of cultural heritage, particularly for the purpose of persecuting populations, reduces cultural diversity, fuels conflicts and compromises long-term security. It deprives future generations of an integral part of their identity. Switzerland encourages the mechanism to pursue its efforts to develop an expanded investigation plan in close collaboration with UNESCO, non-United Nations entities and the Iraqi authorities. Terrorism has inflicted, and continues to inflict, deep wounds on the societies affected in Iraq. Women are its first victims, which in no way prevents them from resolutely committing themselves to building lasting peace. We must do our utmost to ensure that those responsible for the crimes committed by Da’esh in Iraq are brought to justice.”
2023-06-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9341 (2023) · source
“Such crimes continue to profoundly affect not only the survivors, but also their families and, beyond that, entire communities. We therefore welcome the mechanism’s strategy to investigate crimes committed against the various communities in Iraq, including gender-based crimes and those committed against children. It is vital that the people affected by such crimes, especially children, be provided with adequate support. Their rights and protection and the prevention of such crimes must be at the heart of our collective efforts. Thirdly, Switzerland welcomes the expansion of UNITAD’s investigations into the destruction of cultural heritage with a view to identifying those allegedly responsible.”
2023-06-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9341 (2023) · source
“Switzerland is opposed to the death penalty in all circumstances, as it is incompatible with respect for human rights and dignity. Not only is the death penalty ineffective as a deterrent, but it also has no effect on preventing criminality, violent extremism or terrorism. Secondly, UNITAD’s approach must continue to include a gender perspective. Sexual and gender- based violence is particularly prevalent in terrorism and conflict situations. It continues to be used as a method of war by terrorists throughout the world. It is therefore imperative that strategies to prevent and combat terrorism go hand in hand with the fight against sexual and gender-based violence. Switzerland has been shocked by the many well-documented horrific sexual and gender-based crimes committed by Da’esh, particularly against the Yazidi community.”
2023-06-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9341 (2023) · source
“In that regard, Switzerland welcomes the increased cooperation between Iraq and UNITAD aimed at strengthening capacities to prosecute crimes committed by Da’esh, in accordance with international norms. Effective cooperation with the Iraqi Government, as well as with national partners, is a key element of the mechanism’s mandate and activities. We commend its innovative and technology-driven approach to evidence collection and analysis, which will be particularly useful in supporting future proceedings. Furthermore, we welcome UNITAD’s contribution, in close collaboration with Iraqi officials, to the establishment of a joint working group on the implementation of a national legal framework. We recall that the mechanism does not share evidence involved in judicial proceedings that could result in a death sentence.”
2023-06-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9341 (2023) · source
“Mrs. Chanda (Switzerland) (spoke in French): At the outset, let me begin by thanking Special Adviser Ritscher and his team for their report (S/2023/367) and his comprehensive briefing. Switzerland welcomes the progress made during the period under review by the United Nations Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da‘esh/ Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (UNITAD). I would like to underscore three elements that Switzerland believes to be critical to UNITAD’s work. First, accountability and justice are necessary pillars for preventing atrocities and achieving lasting peace. UNITAD contributes to achieving those goals by investigating and documenting the crimes committed by Da’esh in Iraq. Impunity for those crimes prevents justice for victims and survivors, which is unacceptable.”
2023-06-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9341 (2023) · source
“Switzerland stands ready to support efforts to achieve a lasting ceasefire and calls on all members of the Council to speak with one voice, as they did on 15 April, to promote a complete end to hostilities and a return to dialogue between the parties.”
2023-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9310 (2023) · source
“This significantly limits the ability of many organizations, both bilateral and multilateral, to support the Sudanese population in these difficult times. In conclusion, we welcome the ongoing diplomatic efforts of regional organizations, including the African Union (AU), IGAD and the League of Arab States, and of bilateral partners. In that regard, close coordination is essential, as underlined in the communiqué of the AU ministerial meeting of 20 April. That said, we must also highlight the tireless efforts of the Sudanese civilian actors who remain at the heart of a lasting solution and a peaceful future. The Security Council has an essential role to play in restoring peace and security in the Sudan.”
2023-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9310 (2023) · source
“Thirdly, both parties must ensure the security and protection of the civilian population and diplomatic missions and staff, United Nations and humanitarian and medical personnel, as well as humanitarian goods and services. To date, at least five humanitarian workers and an embassy employee have been killed, humanitarian property has been looted and attacks have been carried out against United Nations staff and property, non-governmental organizations and diplomatic missions. That must stop. Intentionally directing attacks against personnel, facilities or equipment employed in a humanitarian assistance mission could constitute a war crime. We regret that some of those personnel, including our own Embassy staff, had to be evacuated due to lack of security.”
2023-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9310 (2023) · source
“The only hospitals that are still operational are less and less able to help the many wounded. That is untenable and unacceptable. Switzerland urges both parties to assume their responsibility by allowing and facilitating rapid, sustainable and unhindered humanitarian access to civilians in need, and by allowing the evacuation of the wounded. Furthermore, we urge the parties to fully respect their obligations under international humanitarian law and human rights law. That includes taking special precautions to protect the most vulnerable, such as children, and not targeting areas where they might take refuge, including schools.”
2023-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9310 (2023) · source