YouSaid · the spoken record

Diani Jimesha Prince

lines on the record: 90
first: 2020-04-29
most recent: 2021-05-06
sittings or episodes: 20
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 underscore the importance of clarifying the gaps, inconsistencies and discrepancies in the initial declaration, and we recognize the continued efforts of both Syria and the Technical Secretariat in this regard, despite the global pandemic. We note that a new outstanding issue has been opened and will be discussed at the next round of consultations. It is our hope that the positive engagement and a continued commitment to dialogue will allow for a final resolution to all of the outstanding matters.”
2021-05-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/446 (2021) · source
“Saint Vincent and the Grenadines maintains the principled and well-established position that the use of chemical weapons anywhere, by anyone and under any circumstances constitutes an abominable violation of international law. Chemical-weapon atrocities cannot be ignored, and impunity cannot be encouraged. We have also taken note of the recent decision by the Conference of the States Parties related to Syria. Indeed, diverging views exist. However, we should prioritize pragmatic action that builds consensus, thwarts further polarization and fosters cooperation among States parties. We must work together to ultimately achieve the collective goal of a world free of chemical weapons.”
2021-05-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/446 (2021) · source
“Allegations of the use chemical weapons ought to be given immediate attention, and investigations should be comprehensive and in keeping with international best practices. The OPCW’s indispensable role in this regard dictates that all of its activities be characterized by impartiality, transparency and non-politicization. This is crucial to promote trust and cooperation and ensure accountability for acts committed in violation of the Convention. In support of the mandate of the organization, we encourage all efforts aimed at strengthening its capacity to ensure that the quality of its work remains of the highest possible standard. We note with concern the findings contained in the 12 April 2021 report of the Investigation and Identification Team.”
2021-05-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/446 (2021) · source
“I also thank the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Mrs. Nakamitsu, for her briefing. The development, production, stockpiling and use of weapons of mass destruction are fraught with serious consequences for international peace and security. Accordingly, complete disarmament must continue to be a priority for the international community, and it requires an enduring commitment to the fulfilment of obligations enshrined in core multilateral instruments, such as the Chemical Weapons Convention. Undoubtedly, the Convention remains an integral part of the global disarmament architecture, and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons is critical to its full and effective implementation, without which it would simply be reduced to ceremonial pieces of paper.”
2021-05-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/446 (2021) · source
“Interruptions cannot continue, as they leave hundreds of thousands without its supply each time it ceases to function. Water should not be weaponized, and objects indispensable to the survival of the civilian population must never be rendered useless. The international community must demonstrate respect for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. This obligates the withdrawal of unauthorized foreign forces present in the country and regard for the perspectives of the Syrian Government in all discussions. As this conflict rages on and the humanitarian situation deteriorates, lives are lost and are irreparably damaged. With over 13 million Syrians now in need of humanitarian assistance — almost half of whom are children — there is desperate need for a political resolution to this conflict.”
2021-04-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/418 (2021) · source
“Those persons forcibly displaced by 10 years of war and who now reside in overcrowded IDP camps are especially at risk of contracting the virus. The efficient and equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines is therefore of critical importance. We welcome the impending vaccine roll-out. Persons who live and work in IDP camps must be afforded protection, dignity and access to humanitarian aid. To this end, we remind authorities that activities aimed at maintaining security in camps such as Al-Hol, where the security situation is worsening, must never result in a suspension of humanitarian access or violations of the rights of residents. We urge parties to work together to achieve a sustainable solution to the issues surrounding the Allouk water station.”
2021-04-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/418 (2021) · source
“At the same time, the continued application of unilateral coercive measures has served only to intensify and prolong the anguish of the Syrian people. For this reason, we appeal again for the lifting of all unilateral coercive measures to assist Syria in facing these seemingly insurmountable challenges. The cross-border mechanism remains a lifeline for millions of Syrians in need of humanitarian aid. The Secretary-General’s most recent report (S/2021/390) reinforces this reality and emphasizes the need to preserve and scale up both the mechanism and the cross-line modality. This will optimize the humanitarian response and provide timely, safe, sustained and unimpeded humanitarian assistance for the benefit of the Syrian people. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has further complicated the humanitarian crisis.”
2021-04-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/418 (2021) · source
“These conditions naturally include the reconstruction of Syria’s devastated critical infrastructure so as to enable access to essential services and reduce vulnerabilities. We once again appeal for the international community’s assistance in this regard. We remain supportive of the Special Envoy’s determined efforts to facilitate the wider political process. We appeal to parties to engage constructively and in a spirit of compromise on the matter of the Constitutional Committee. We also reiterate that the meaningful participation of women in the negotiation process is imperative to ensure fair and balanced outcomes for all. Syria’s moribund economy has exacerbated the country’s dire humanitarian emergency and remains a cause for concern.”
2021-04-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/418 (2021) · source
“We implore parties to exercise maximum restraint and to commit to a complete cessation of hostilities to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure and to ensure a sustained humanitarian response. On this point, we underscore that all acts committed contrary to international law, including in the conduct of counter-terrorism operations, must be condemned by the international community. Accountability must remain a high priority. Confidence-building measures are vital to the success of the wider political process. Consequently, the issue of missing and detained persons should be urgently addressed to foster goodwill. Further, conditions must be cultivated for the safe, dignified and voluntary return of refugees and internally displaced persons.”
2021-04-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/418 (2021) · source
“I too wish to thank Special Envoy Pedersen and Under Secretary-General Lowcock for their informative briefings. The restoration of peace and stability in Syria can only be achieved through a credible and inclusive political process that reflects the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people. The success of this process requires an environment conducive to cooperation and reconciliation. Accordingly, the country’s security situation is closely linked to the viability and advancement of the process. We are therefore deeply troubled by the reports of continued violence and escalating tensions, particularly in the north-west, despite the appeals for a nationwide ceasefire.”
2021-04-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/418 (2021) · source
“Undoubtedly, there are many diverging views on this file. However, we must seek to foster and preserve cooperation to ensure the full implementation of resolution 2118 (2013) and the Chemical Weapons Convention, thereby safeguarding the norm against chemical warfare. In this context, we ought to consider the perspectives of the Syrian Government, in respect for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Furthermore, OPCW member States should prioritize the pursuit of consensus-based decisions, to thwart polarization and divisiveness. In conclusion, we commend the OPCW for ensuring that the twenty-fifth session of the Conference of the States Parties continues notwithstanding the global pandemic. We look forward to a productive part 2, which is scheduled to begin on 20 April.”
2021-04-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/337 (2021) · source
“We recognize the continued engagement between the OPCW Technical Secretariat and Syria in this regard, despite the impediments created by the coronavirus disease pandemic. We continue to encourage dialogue and constructive engagement between the parties to make tangible progress on this particularly important matter. As we continue our deliberations on this file, the collective goal of achieving a world free of chemical weapons ought to remain at the forefront. As such, the Security Council and the OPCW Technical Secretariat ought not to overlook the notifications by the Syrian government concerning the preparations by armed groups to use and/ or fabricate incidents of the use of chemical weapons. This matter requires urgent attention, and we have an obligation to make an objective assessment.”
2021-04-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/337 (2021) · source
“Saint Vincent and the Grenadines therefore reaffirms our support for the mandate of the OPCW. We furthermore support all efforts aimed at strengthening the organization’s capacity to make certain that the quality of its work remains of the highest standard. It must always be characterized by impartiality, independence and non-politicization and be capable of withstanding rigorous scrutiny. Anything less serves to erode trust in the organization and thereby precludes it from being a well-functioning and effective multilateral body. We continue to stress the importance of resolving all the gaps, inconsistencies and discrepancies contained in the initial declaration of the Syrian Arab Republic.”
2021-04-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/337 (2021) · source
“I also thank the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Mrs. Nakamitsu, for her briefing. The weaponization of toxic chemicals remains one of the great threats to international peace and security. The use of chemical weapons anywhere, by anyone and under any circumstances constitutes a reprehensible violation of international law and necessitates condemnation by the international community. Chemical weapons do not discriminate between combatants and civilians, and their effects are horrifying. Perpetrators must not be allowed to operate with impunity; they must be held accountable. The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) remains a critical component in our quest to ensure that applied science and technology is utilized only for the peace, progress and prosperity of all humankind.”
2021-04-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/337 (2021) · source
“We also take this opportunity to encourage the Committee to continue its efforts in facilitating technical assistance to Member States to review and strengthen their mechanisms for safeguarding against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction as well as to strengthen dialogue and cooperation. To conclude, we reaffirm our commitment to contributing to the full implementation of resolution 1540 (2004), including the implementation of our obligations to enhance the security of nuclear materials and their means of delivery. We reiterate our support for the activities of the Committee and the Group of Experts, and we express our full support for the extension of the mandate of resolution 1540 (2004).”
2021-03-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/325 (2021) · source
“However, as mentioned by the Chair, its full and effective implementation is a long-term task that will require continuous efforts at all regional and international levels. In this regard, we are particularly pleased by the precautionary measures taken by the Committee during 2020 to maintain the coordination between the Committee and international, regional and subregional organizations, despite the many challenges posed by the coronavirus disease pandemic. The Committee must be commended for finalizing the review of 193 matrices and for publishing 190 updated matrices on its website. We also applaud the 184 Member States that submitted implementation reports on measures they have taken or plan to undertake in compliance with their obligations under resolution 1540, (2004) as encouraged by paragraph 5 of resolution 2325 (2016).”
2021-03-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/325 (2021) · source
“Saint Vincent and the Grenadines thanks Ambassador Juan Ramón de la Fuente Ramírez for his informative briefing, and we express our support for Mexico in its ongoing efforts as Chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1540 (2004). Resolution 1540 (2004) remains a vital element in the global architecture to prevent the proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons and their means of delivery and related materials to non-State actors. The threat of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction to and through non-State actors is constantly evolving. Therefore, it is imperative that perpetrators be held accountable, as the use of these weapons remains unacceptable. The significant progress that States have made since the adoption of resolution 1540 (2004) is quite encouraging.”
2021-03-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/325 (2021) · source
“This is indeed concerning, and we have an obligation to give this matter due attention to make an objective assessment. In our deliberations on this file, we should always keep the collective goal of achieving a world free of chemical weapons at the forefront and remain steadfast in preserving the norm against chemical warfare.”
2021-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/226 (2021) · source
“On this point, we take note of the deployment of the Declaration Assessment Team to conduct the twenty-fourth round of consultations. We look forward to receiving the results of this deployment as well as all other pending reports. Despite the many diverging views, cooperation must be fostered and sustained to make tangible progress in every aspect of this file and to ensure the full implementation of resolution 2118 (2013). In this context, we restate the importance of OPCW Member States pursuing consensus-based decisions to thwart further polarization. The Security Council and the OPCW Technical Secretariat ought not to overlook the many notifications by the Syrian Government regarding the preparations by armed groups to fabricate incidents of the use of chemical weapons.”
2021-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/226 (2021) · source
“All activities of the organization and its subsidiary bodies must therefore be characterized by transparency, impartiality and non-politicization for it to remain fit for purpose and an effective multilateral body. We remain supportive of its mandate and all efforts aimed at strengthening its capacity to make certain that the quality of its work remain of the highest standard. We continue to encourage dialogue between the OPCW Technical Secretariat and the Syrian National Authority to resolve the gaps, inconsistencies and discrepancies in the initial declaration. We recognize the efforts by both parties thus far, notwithstanding the impediments created by the global pandemic, and we urge them to maintain the constructive engagement.”
2021-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/226 (2021) · source
“I thank you, Madam President, and I also thank the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Mrs. Nakamitsu, for her briefing. I reaffirm Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ well-established, principled position that the use of chemical weapons anywhere, by anyone and under any circumstances constitutes a reprehensible violation of international law. Impunity for chemical-weapons atrocities should not be encouraged through inaction. Accordingly, allegations of the use of chemical weapons must never be dismissed, and investigations should always be comprehensive and capable of withstanding scrutiny. In this regard, the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) plays a critical role and bears the tremendous responsibility of ensuring the full and effective implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention.”
2021-03-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/226 (2021) · source
“Military objectives should never take precedence over the protection of civilians, and all activities must respect the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution. Impunity for violations of international law should not be tolerated. The political and humanitarian situations are undoubtedly interwoven and the only resolution to the conflict and protracted humanitarian crisis is through the full implementation of resolution 2254 (2015). Peace, prosperity and stability can return to Syria with the positive engagement and support of the entire international community.”
2021-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/206 (2021) · source
“Indeed, a sustained nationwide ceasefire will also cultivate the necessary conditions for much-needed reconstruction. In that regard, we continue to encourage the international community to contribute to the restoration of schools, medical facilities and other essential services in order to help alleviate the humanitarian situation by reducing vulnerabilities and promoting overall development. We are becoming increasingly concerned about the deteriorating security situation in displacement camps, particularly Al-Hol. Those residing and working in such camps must be afforded protection and access to basic necessities. We recognize that counter-terrorism operations are required to protect Syria’s people, sovereignty and territorial integrity. However, we remind parties of their obligation to comply with international law.”
2021-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/206 (2021) · source
“We note that Syria’s request to secure coronavirus disease vaccines from the Coronavirus Disease Vaccine Global Access Facility has been accepted. It is our hope that the vaccine roll-out will begin shortly and that they will be administered efficiently. We echo the appeal for the lifting of all unilateral coercive measures, which are incompatible with international law, thwart socioeconomic recovery and hinder the country’s efforts to combat the pandemic. The continuation of hostilities serves as yet another factor that intensifies the humanitarian crisis. It is crucial that the parties to the conflict exercise maximum restraint and immediately end the violence in order to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, prevent further displacement and allow humanitarian actors to effectively carry out their work.”
2021-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/206 (2021) · source
“I thank Under Secretary-General Lowcock and Ms. Khush for their briefings. After a decade of conflict, Syria’s humanitarian situation remains a cause for considerable alarm, as humanitarian needs are rising steeply across the country. Regrettably, the crisis has been exacerbated by severe weather conditions and the country’s continued economic downturn, which has left millions food insecure and facing malnutrition. Unquestionably, the provision of timely, safe, sustained and unimpeded humanitarian assistance, in line with humanitarian principles, must remain a top priority and should be scaled up, where possible, by utilizing all available modalities. The global pandemic has further compounded the country’s complex humanitarian emergency and necessitates urgent action.”
2021-02-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/206 (2021) · source
“The norm against this reprehensible form of warfare must be preserved. Only through committed partnership can we prevent the development, stockpiling, transfer and use of chemical weapons. The international community must find common ground to fulfil this enormous responsibility.”
2021-02-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/109 (2021) · source
“It is our hope that this collaboration will assist in making meaningful progress and assist in swiftly resolving all identified gaps and inconsistencies in the original declaration. We commend the OPCW for maintaining its readiness for deployments as soon as conditions allow and for continuing its important work remotely in as far as it is possible to do so. In this vein, we look forward to receiving all outstanding reports related to this dossier. There is no question that the use of chemical weapons anywhere, by anyone and under any circumstances violates international law. Allegations of the use of chemical weapons must therefore never be dismissed. They must always be thoroughly and promptly investigated, and findings must be able to withstand rigorous scrutiny to ensure accountability and prevent impunity.”
2021-02-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/109 (2021) · source
“However, this becomes severely strained where trust deficits exist. As such, the OPCW must continuously strive to ensure that its internal structure and all activities are characterized by integrity, transparency and non-politicization. Further, States parties to the Convention should engage constructively and pursue consensus-based decisions to thwart polarization and divisiveness. In all discussions political quarrels ought to be set aside and the collective vision of achieving a world free of chemical weapons must remain at the forefront. Although there has been slow movement on this file, we recognize the continued cooperation of the Syrian Arab Republic with the OPCW Technical Secretariat, despite the impediments presented by the global pandemic.”
2021-02-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/109 (2021) · source
“We congratulate the United Kingdom on assuming the presidency for this month. You can be assured of our full support. I thank High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Mrs. Nakamitsu, for her briefing. As the implementing body of the Chemical Weapons Convention, the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), plays a critical role in safeguarding international peace and security. The importance of the organization’s efforts aimed at eliminating and preventing the re-emergence of chemical weapons, as well as the promotion of the peaceful uses of chemistry, can never be overstated. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines therefore remains fully supportive of the OPCW’s mandate. Successful implementation of both the Convention and resolution 2118 (2013) requires sustained international cooperation.”
2021-02-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/109 (2021) · source
“We wish South Africa a well-deserved, quiet rest of its presidency. It was certainly an honour to work with everyone this year.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“We reiterate that the JCPOA remains the only viable path to ensuring a peaceful, comprehensive and long-term solution to the Iranian nuclear issue. The international community must therefore support it and all other multilateral instruments aimed at promoting the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, such as the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. For its part, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines reaffirms its commitment to achieving a nuclear-weapon free world. In conclusion, we say goodbye to Belgium and thank it for its dedicated work as Facilitator of the 2231 format. We also bid farewell to our colleagues from the Dominican Republic, Germany, Indonesia and South Africa. We congratulate South Africa on a well-organized and immensely successful presidency — even though there is still a week to go.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“As such, the procurement channel must continue to function to ensure that both the resolution and the JCPOA indeed confer the benefits of the relationship that they were envisaged to cultivate. Similarly, the sustained operation of the Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges is essential.It is only through commitment to dialogue and negotiation and the effective fulfilment of all obligations that current differences between JCPOA participant States can be resolved. Furthermore, we urge the entire international community to refrain from taking actions that could exacerbate tensions and deter positive engagement or the full implementation of the agreement. In that connection, we firmly condemn all targeted extrajudicial killings, which are a grave violation of international human rights law, for which perpetrators must be held accountable.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“However, we urge Iran to return to full compliance to fulfil the totality of its obligations and to assist in safeguarding the agreement. In that regard, we recognize Iran’s continued cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in its verification and monitoring activities. Our support for the mandate of the IAEA to promote the safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear technology is steadfast. Resolution 2231 (2015) and the JCPOA were not only conceived in order to guarantee that Iran’s nuclear programme would be used exclusively for peaceful purposes. They are also intended to nurture an environment that promotes and facilitates the development of normal trade and economic relations with the country.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“Furthermore, we appeal for the lifting all unilateral coercive measures, which not only contravene resolution 2231 (2015) and run counter to the objectives of the JCPOA, but also considerably debilitate the Islamic Republic of Iran’s ability to combat the coronavirus disease pandemic. In an interconnected global community, this public health emergency demands international cooperation to ensure that all States are able to effectively and efficiently respond to the challenges. Political disputes must therefore be set aside to foster solidarity and to save lives. We also regret Iran’s decision to cease performing several of its nuclear commitments under the JCPOA. We take note that Iran has indicated that those steps are reversible, having undertaken them subsequent to the withdrawal of the United States from the agreement.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“Regarding the August notification, we maintain the position, outlined in the 20 August 2020 joint letter by the members of the group made up of the three African members of the Security Council — the Niger, South Africa and Tunisia — and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, that: “having confirmed its withdrawal from the JCPOA and by not participating in any of the JCPOA structures or subsequent activities, the United States ceased to be a JCPOA participant and is, therefore, ineligible to submit a notification to the Security Council under the terms of resolution 2231 (2015).” We continue to urge the United States to rejoin the JCPOA.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“Its subsequent decisions and actions to reimpose sanctions, terminate waivers and issue a notification to the Security Council in August run counter to the requirements and goals of the resolution and the JCPOA.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“I would like to thank Under-Secretary-General DiCarlo, Ambassador Skoog and Ambassador Kridelka, in his capacity as Facilitator of the format under resolution 2231 (2015), for their briefings. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) remains a central pillar of the global nuclear non-proliferation architecture and multilateral diplomacy. It is fundamental to the maintenance of regional and international peace and security, and its preservation is therefore of critical importance. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines reaffirms its commitment to the full implementation of resolution 2231 (2015), and we remain strongly in support of the JCPOA. We deeply regret the May 2018 withdrawal of the United States from the agreement.”
2020-12-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1324 (2020) · source
“The international community has an obligation to render all the necessary support to Syria in the pursuit of that objective.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1257 (2020) · source
“The Committee is still a relevant and important component in the wider political process, and we continue to urge all parties to negotiate in good faith for the benefit of all Syrians. We also commend and support the Special Envoy’s continued efforts in that regard. Urgently addressing the outstanding issues of detainees and missing persons is another important step in the wider political process. Meaningful action on those matters is critical to confidence-building and national reconciliation, and they must be given the priority they merit. Discussions related to Syria must always place the Syrian people at the forefront. Geopolitical quarrels must therefore be set aside in favour of practical efforts towards peace and stability.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1257 (2020) · source
“Restoring the country’s infrastructure not only helps to cultivate conditions for the safe, voluntary, dignified and well-informed return of internally displaced persons and refugees, but it also assists in alleviating the overall humanitarian situation. We cannot discuss Syria’s humanitarian condition in isolation, as it is intimately intertwined with the country’s political situation. Lack of progress on one track leads to stagnation and decline on the other, and it is therefore necessary to discuss both, employing a holistic and pragmatic approach.Consequently, we are pleased to note the progress made during the recently concluded fourth session of the small body of the Constitutional Committee, and we welcome the agreement on the agenda and the date for the fifth session.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1257 (2020) · source
“The continuous interruptions leave thousands without its vital supply, including many in the overstretched and overcrowded Al-Hol camp. We appeal to all parties to work together to ensure the sustained flow to civilians in need, especially in consideration of the pandemic. We must also address the increasingly worrisome issue of children’s access to education. While the pandemic has obstructed that basic human right, efforts ought to be made, insofar as it is safely possible, to facilitate learning. In addition, we reiterate our appeal to the international community to contribute to Syria’s reconstruction.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1257 (2020) · source
“We recognize the threat posed by Security Council-designated terrorist entities to Syria’s security, sovereignty and territorial integrity. We remind parties, however, that counter-terrorism and other military activities must comply with international law, particularly the fundamental principles of armed conflict. In an effort to assist Syria’s rapidly deteriorating economy, we yet again echo our appeal for the lifting of all unilateral coercive measures imposed on the country. Those measures further burden an economy struggling under the weight of hyperinflation and undermine the country’s capacity to respond to the increasing humanitarian concerns. The need for a sustainable solution to the issues surrounding the Allouk water station remains.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1257 (2020) · source
“For that reason, the mechanism must be bolstered through the scaling- up and utilization of all available modalities to remedy access challenges and safeguard timely, safe, sustained and unimpeded humanitarian assistance, in line with humanitarian principles. Even an optimal humanitarian response is unable to withstand the effects of sustained conflict. Hostilities severely impede humanitarian aid deliveries, destroy infrastructure indispensable to the survival of the civilian population and injure and kill civilians. In that vein, we reiterate the Special Envoy’s call for an immediate nationwide cessation of hostilities, and we further appeal to parties to the conflict to exercise maximum restraint and fully respect the ceasefire in the north-west.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1257 (2020) · source
“I thank Under-Secretary-General Lowcock and Special Envoy Pedersen for their usual informative briefings. We remain alarmed by Syria’s dire humanitarian situation, which has been made worse by sporadic violence, the severe socioeconomic downturn, the challenges resulting from the coronavirus disease pandemic and the onset of the harsh winter months. Humanitarian aid through the cross-border mechanism therefore continues to be a vital lifeline for millions of Syrians, who are plagued by food insecurity and lack of access to health care and basic commodities. While the mechanism is undoubtedly life-saving, it is not enough on its own to bridge the substantial gaps that exist.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1257 (2020) · source
“The recognition, education and remembrance of painful periods in history are critical in preventing the re-emergence of hateful rhetoric and ensuring that such crimes are never repeated. The Mechanism continues to effectively fulfil its obligation to uphold the principles of international law, even in the face of a global health crisis. However, that is a shared responsibility, and we urge Member States to intensify their cooperation with the Mechanism. We must remain committed to the pursuit of international justice and the protection and strengthening of the rule of law.”
2020-12-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1236 (2020) · source
“On the point of witness relocation, there remains the unfortunately unresolved matter of those individuals who have been acquitted and released and are currently residing in Arusha, Tanzania. It is our hope that a sustainable solution will swiftly be found, and we welcome the Registrar’s proactive efforts in that regard. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines emphatically denounces all forms of genocide denial and the glorification of convicted war criminals. Genocide denial promotes dangerous ideologies, impedes the fight against impunity and hinders reconciliation. It further delegitimizes, and shows wanton disregard for the suffering of, the victims of such horrendous crimes, the facts of which have been incontrovertibly determined.”
2020-12-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1236 (2020) · source
“The Mechanism’s success is greatly dependent on the full cooperation of Member States, without which the Mechanism cannot achieve the Security Council’s vision of being a small, temporary and efficient structure. The arrest of Félicien Kabuga in May after 23 years as a fugitive is a testament to the effectiveness of international cooperation, which is the only path towards the tracking, apprehension and prosecution of the remaining six fugitives of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. International cooperation also enables the search for missing persons and the enforcement of judgments, as well as assisting with witness protection and relocation.”
2020-12-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1236 (2020) · source
“The Mechanism has also substantially developed jurisprudence and continues its effective and efficient work in other practical aspects, such as witness support and protection and multifaceted assistance to Member States. We continue to applaud the Mechanism’s commitment to maintaining operational continuity while ensuring the health and safety of staff, witnesses and persons in detention, despite the challenges resulting from the coronavirus disease pandemic. We are pleased to note that courtroom proceedings have resumed, with the implementation of special arrangements, and we commend the Mechanism’s use of virtual processes in its adjusted working methods.”
2020-12-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1236 (2020) · source
“I thank Judge Agius, President of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, and Prosecutor Brammertz for their comprehensive briefings. We congratulate Judge Agius and Prosecutor Brammertz on their reappointments. We also congratulate Mr. Abubacarr Tambadou on his appointment as the Mechanism’s new Registrar. As we approach the tenth anniversary of the adoption of resolution 1966 (2010), which established the Mechanism, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines reaffirms its unwavering support for that important pillar of the international criminal justice system. The critical role that the Mechanism continues to play in the fight against impunity for mass atrocity crimes and its contribution to reconciliation is irrefutable.”
2020-12-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1236 (2020) · source
“In conclusion, we reiterate our well-known, long-standing and principled position that the use of chemical weapons anywhere, by anyone and under any circumstances constitutes an abominable violation of international law. The development, stockpiling, transfer or use of chemical weapons must be prevented, and the norm against that reprehensible form of warfare must be preserved. Impunity for their use must not be encouraged through inaction, and the perpetrators of chemical weapons atrocities must be held accountable. Failure to do so will only embolden future actors.”
2020-12-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1202 (2020) · source