YouSaid · the spoken record

Frazier

lines on the record: 593
first: 2020-01-13
most recent: 2023-12-22
sittings or episodes: 103
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 welcome the decision of the Central African Republic’s authorities to acknowledge the refugee status of the Sudanese entering the country, and we commend their endeavours to safeguard and assist the most vulnerable. We reiterate our call for all parties to adopt and swiftly implement actions to end and prevent grave violations against children. Turning to political and security matters, we have taken note of the promulgation of the new Constitution and the accompanying tense political climate that marked the referendum process. We strongly encourage a renewed focus on the peace process, which should include efforts to address the deep grievances within the country, encompassing political and socioeconomic exclusion and State investment in essential services and the rule of law.”
2023-10-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9454 (2023) · source
“I too thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Rugwabiza for her comprehensive briefing and welcome the presence at today’s meeting of the Central African Republic’s Foreign Minister and the representative of Angola. We would first like to address the humanitarian situation in the country. The Central African Republic is grappling with significant challenges, including a dire socioeconomic crisis, escalating commodity prices, internal displacement and mounting difficulties for humanitarian workers in accessing certain areas, partly due to an increased use of explosive devices. With the situation being further compounded by a substantial influx of returnees and refugees from the Sudan and Chad, the risks of further destabilizing effects become real.”
2023-10-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9454 (2023) · source
“While we welcome the current efforts to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza through Rafah and commend all partners involved, we note that the current volume of aid is utterly inadequate when assessed against the population’s actual needs. The crisis is also gripped by a growing risk of regional spillover, which demands our undivided attention. We must mitigate those risks by urging all the parties to exercise restraint, de-escalate and respect the norms of international law. It is for that reason that the E10 will be working on a new draft proposal in the coming days. As elected members of the Council, we also represent the rest of the international community, and we have a duty and an obligation to act. There is no time to waste.”
2023-10-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9453 (2023) · source
“We cannot add to their suffering through our inability to find an agreement on a draft resolution that is desperately needed. The parties involved must allow aid in, according to their obligation under international law. We must promote every and all mechanisms that can contribute to ensuring that assistance reaches all who are in need throughout Gaza. Possible options include a humanitarian ceasefire, humanitarian pauses and humanitarian corridors. We must ensure the provision of essential goods and services at scale and in a sustained manner, including water, fuel, food, electricity and medical supplies. We also want to remind everyone that civilians are protected under international law, and we call for their safe movement and the protection of civilian objects that are indispensable for the civilian population.”
2023-10-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9453 (2023) · source
“I have the honour to speak on behalf of the 10 elected members of the Security Council (E10). We regret that once again the Council has not been able to exercise its mandate. Confronted as we are by escalating conflict, a dire humanitarian situation and the loss of civilian lives, our responsibilities remain clear and present. The Council is obliged to maintain international peace and security and to do its utmost to safeguard the lives of civilians. We also call for the immediate and unconditional release of all the remaining hostages. The E10 remains firm in its belief that we must urgently and genuinely address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, whose population is on the brink of calamity. Hundreds of thousands of civilians, including children, have been displaced. Thousands have been killed and injured.”
2023-10-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9453 (2023) · source
“The mandates we authorize must monitor and respond to those risks and reprisals. As a member of the women and peace and security shared commitment holders, Malta is committed to amplifying women’s voices and following up on the recommendations of civil society, including as we develop our second national action plan. In conclusion, I wish to quote Ms. Yasmeen Al-Eryani, who briefed the Council in May, about the unprecedented rollback of Yemeni women’s hard-won rights and freedoms. She stated: “[t]hose basic rights must not be used as a tool to garner influence, and they must never be bargained away.” (S/PV.9323, p.5)”
2023-10-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9452 (2023) · source
“The Sudan is an example of that where women and girls on the move are being terrorized by sexual and gender-based violence. I wish to highlight three calls for action. First, disarmament and arms control is at the heart of the women and peace and security agenda, yet global military spending is at its highest. By stopping the illicit transfer of weapons and ammunition, we can weaken the links between militarization and gender- based violence. Secondly, through long-term and flexible funding to local women’s rights and women-led humanitarian organizations, we can reverse the funding deficit for gender equality in crisis situations. Thirdly, the United Nations system must ensure that the risks facing women human rights defenders are never used as an excuse to exclude them.”
2023-10-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9452 (2023) · source
“While all forms of gender-based violence are increasing, progress on women’s participation in peace processes is regressing. In 2022, women’s representation in United Nations-supported peace processes dropped from 23 per cent to just 16 per cent. The United Nations must not only lead by example, but it must also deliver on its commitments. In Mali, with the support of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali, the African Women Leaders Network played a crucial role in advancing the 30 per cent gender quota. We strongly urge the transitional Government to further support those advances. Moreover, preventing conflict-related sexual violence and improving protection requires survivor- centred approaches. That is especially crucial when health services are attacked.”
2023-10-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9452 (2023) · source
“United Nations human rights experts warn that the escalating, grave human rights violations directed at women and girls in Afghanistan may amount to gender persecution, a crime against humanity and could further be characterized as gender apartheid. The United Nations adherence to core humanitarian and human rights principles are also being tested in Yemen, making it more challenging for women to meaningfully contribute to change in their societies. Restrictions on women’s freedom of movement and expression and bans on women working for the United Nations and in non-governmental organizations violate women’s basic human rights. Those restrictions require more than bureaucratic workarounds. They must also be addressed as policies that institutionalize systematic gender discrimination.”
2023-10-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9452 (2023) · source
“Backlash against women’s rights is clearly visible in the nearly 200 armed conflicts and organized violence taking place around the world. Our responses to the challenges will be crucial in ensuring women’s full, equal, meaningful and safe participation in all aspects of peace and security. Since taking power two years ago, the Taliban have, in both policy and practice, institutionalized the systematic persecution and discrimination of Afghan women and girls. Those are flagrant breaches of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the Convention on the Political Rights of Women, by which Afghanistan is bound.”
2023-10-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9452 (2023) · source
“I thank you, Mr. President, for convening this debate. I also thank the briefers for their insightful analyses and recommendations. I begin by reiterating Malta’s full support to the women and peace and security agenda. The Council’s role in ensuring the participation of women in peace and security is crucial. Within the current climate, Malta is of the conviction that the Security Council can unite on the principle of protecting all civilians in Israel and Gaza. The devastating impacts that conflict has on women and girls must be central to our deliberations. Ensuring that women participate meaningfully in the leadership of political and peace processes throughout the broader region, including Libya, Iraq and Syria, is a necessary precondition for achieving sustainable peace.”
2023-10-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9452 (2023) · source
“In conclusion, Malta reaffirms its support for UNMIK in its efforts to engage all communities in Kosovo, as well as regional and international actors, proactively and constructively. We urge Kosovo and Serbia to prioritize dialogue over confrontation and augur that the coming period will be marked with meaningful progress in the efforts to normalize relations.”
2023-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9450 (2023) · source
“Malta also acknowledges the importance of the role of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) in promoting security, stability and the preservation and promotion of human rights, gender equality and the empowerment of women and young people in Kosovo. The normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia will not only foster peace in the area but also lead to economic and social prosperity in the Western Balkans. Therefore, we stress the importance of both parties respecting the agreement on the path to the normalization between Kosovo and Serbia, which was agreed by both parties earlier this year, and we urge them to fulfil their respective obligations under it.”
2023-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9450 (2023) · source
“Hate speech, the vilification of women in politics and physical and verbal attacks on journalists are unacceptable and deplorable. I take this opportunity to reiterate Malta’s full support for the European Union (EU) accession aspirations of Serbia and Kosovo. The path to membership for both parties runs through the EU- facilitated dialogue. It is crucial that both sides be committed to, and engage constructively in, realizing that goal. In that regard, we take full note of the progress achieved so far by Kosovo in its reform path and stress the importance of undertaking the process with the full participation of various stakeholders from within civil society, including vulnerable and marginalized communities.”
2023-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9450 (2023) · source
“We welcome the fact that the number of troops has since been reduced and call on Serbia to cooperate fully in the ongoing investigation. Moving forward, we urge both sides to focus all efforts on de-escalating tensions and to refrain from any unilateral action or divisive rhetoric that could undermine the diplomatic efforts made during the past months. Dialogue is key in resolving outstanding issues, and collaboration is the only way to ensure peace and stability in the region. Positive steps to create an atmosphere conducive to reconciliation, good-neighbourly relations and further dialogue are of the utmost importance at this juncture. The holding of local elections in the northern municipalities of Kosovo will be crucial, and we call on the full and unconditional participation of all players in the electoral process.”
2023-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9450 (2023) · source
“I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Ziadeh for her comprehensive briefing and welcome the participation of President Osmani-Sadriu and Prime Minister Brnabíc in today’s meeting. Malta is deeply concerned about the recent developments in the north of Kosovo following last month’s incidents. We condemn the terrorist attack against the Kosovo police that took place on 24 September and call for those responsible to be swiftly brought to justice and held accountable. Such acts of violence serve only to destabilize the situation and reverse the hard-earned progress achieved on the path towards the normalization of relations between both sides. Malta is also concerned about the deployment of Serbian military forces at the border with Kosovo, which constitutes a further escalation of the situation.”
2023-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9450 (2023) · source
“Ending that abuse and supporting Haiti’s young people must be a priority. In conclusion, we look forward to seeing progress towards the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti. We hope that that will begin to turn the tide of violence and instability and allow for the holding of democratic elections and the establishment of the peaceful prosperous future that Haiti deserves.”
2023-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9449 (2023) · source
“We call on the international community to scale up funding for Haiti’s humanitarian response plan, which remains critically underfunded. Human rights abuses perpetrated by gangs have reached alarming levels. As we heard, women and girls are increasingly exposed to sexual and gender-based violence perpetrated by armed gangs. We welcome the establishment of three networks of women mediators and peacebuilders and the efforts to put in place a national action plan for the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000), on women and peace and security. Children continue to face horrific abuse, including extreme violence. The recruitment of children by criminal gangs is another critical concern, as gangs exploit the desperate situations faced by young people with no access to food, protection, schooling or economic and social opportunities.”
2023-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9449 (2023) · source
“We hope that the Security Council can better utilize that tool by updating the sanctions list of the individuals and entities that are responsible for Haiti’s instability and are profiting from it. Member States must also make sure that sanctions are fully implemented, particularly in stopping the illicit flow of arms. The humanitarian situation remains dire. Gang violence continues to fuel displacement. More than 200,000 people have been forced to flee their homes, and many are living in deplorable conditions. Humanitarian access remains constrained. Restrictions to the freedom of movement of the population prevent many people from accessing essential goods and services. Food insecurity is widespread and alarming, with 4.3 million people facing levels of acute need.”
2023-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9449 (2023) · source
“A broad political agreement for the restoration of democratic institutions through credible, participatory and inclusive elections is indispensable to advancing stability, good governance and the rule of law in Haiti. We call on Haitian stakeholders to set aside their differences. They need to commit to meaningful dialogue to broaden a political consensus aimed at re-establishing democratic institutions. We condemn the kidnapping of the Secretary- General of the High Transitional Council and call for his immediate and unconditional release. Stabilizing the security situation in Haiti will require significant international support, not only for the National Police but also in the areas of corrections, the justice system, customs control and border management. We are pleased by the recent renewal of the Haiti sanctions regime.”
2023-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9449 (2023) · source
“The adoption of resolution 2699 (2023) to authorize the Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti in support of the Haitian National Police must be a lifeline for Haiti in halting the escalating violence. We commend all Member States that have pledged their support to the Mission. We also echo the Secretary- General in saying that the Mission must act with the highest standards of conduct and discipline, based on clear human rights protocols, and incorporate effective oversight mechanisms, as the resolution requires. Stabilizing the security conditions is a crucial step towards addressing Haiti’s multidimensional crisis.”
2023-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9449 (2023) · source
“I too thank Special Representative Salvador, Executive Director Russell, Executive Director Waly and Ms. Manigat for their briefings. We also welcome the participation of the representatives of Haiti, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic in today’s discussion. As we have heard from the briefers, over the past three months reports have pointed to an increase in indiscriminate killings, kidnappings, rapes and attacks on several neighbourhoods that were previously considered safe. Major crimes are surging at unprecedented rates, primarily in the Ouest and Artibonite departments. Nearly 3,500 people have been killed and 1,800 kidnapped this year alone, and they include large numbers of women and children.”
2023-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9449 (2023) · source
“We also attach great importance to arbitration and judicial settlement. International and regional courts and tribunals are indispensable in maintaining peace and security. The Council could make better use of that tool by promoting the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice and ensuring compliance with its decisions, for example. In conclusion, I want to emphasize our belief that cooperation through effective multilateralism remains the best way to advance our collective efforts. Malta remains deeply committed to an effective multilateral system that acts to address contemporary challenges and prevent future ones.”
2023-10-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9448 (2023) · source
“The United Nations — and more specifically the Security Council — must use all means and measures provided for in the Charter to prioritize the peaceful settlement of disputes and advance conflict prevention and resolution efforts. We reiterate how essential it is to enhance the capacity of the United Nations to act as a mediator and implement effective United Nations-led mediation. The New Agenda for Peace puts a strong focus on prevention and on further strengthening mediation capacities. The use of the good offices of the Secretary-General remains crucial to promoting the peaceful resolution of disputes. To further operationalize those efforts at various levels, Malta welcomes the increased exchanges between United Nations Special Envoys and Special Representatives and their regional, subregional and national equivalents.”
2023-10-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9448 (2023) · source
“The AU is also acting on key issues such as the women and peace and security agenda, the youth, peace and security agenda and children and armed conflict. Partnerships between international and regional organizations are also worth investing in. The trilateral United Nations-AU-EU cooperation on peace and security is an example. It is also fundamental to ensure that actions taken at the global level, including those agreed by the Security Council, are supported by action at the regional level. Mirroring Malta’s commitment to diplomacy and multilateralism, our belief in the peaceful resolution of disputes remains intact. The war in Ukraine, the conflicts in Africa and the Middle East and instability in other parts of the world highlight the challenges we continue to face.”
2023-10-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9448 (2023) · source
“Nevertheless, political will and sustained efforts aimed at building trust, facilitating trade and promoting solidarity among nations has led to tangible and lasting results. Furthermore, the existing comprehensive United Nations-EU approach to crisis management, mediation and peace operations, including support in various regions, has helped several countries navigate the difficult path from conflict to peace. The efforts of the African Union (AU) are also remarkable and commendable. It is actively contributing to sustainable peace and security in Africa. The notion of the indivisibility of peace and security has led to the establishment of AU-led peace support operations such as the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia.”
2023-10-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9448 (2023) · source
“We must explore innovative and creative ways to use them to their full potential and more effectively. Regional and subregional organizations are an integral part of the multilateral system. Their in-depth knowledge of their region is an invaluable and indispensable asset that can greatly help them in facilitating progress towards peace. Since its establishment, the European Union (EU) has played a fundamental role in ensuring peace and stability in Europe. Born from the ashes of the devastation of the Second World War, the EU is a living example of how multilateralism and regional integration bring peace, stability, prosperity and growth. The road has been a long and gradual one.”
2023-10-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9448 (2023) · source
“The pushback on human rights and, in particular, women’s rights, is evident across the world. The importance of human rights and an inclusive approach to civil society is key, especially in view of the shrinking space for civic participation. If left unaddressed, all those situations will have far-reaching negative effects. The fact that conflicts are more likely to spill over to the region and beyond adds to the gravity and urgency of the situation. It further underlines the relevance of multilateralism and the United Nations in the contemporary world and the need to invest more in prevention. Over the years, we have developed a wide array of mechanisms that can play a key role in the resolution of disputes. Now, more than ever, we must maximize the resources and tools at our disposal.”
2023-10-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9448 (2023) · source
“I too thank Assistant Secretary-General Khiari, Ms. Bachelet, Mr. Mbeki and Ms. Echavarría Álvarez for enriching today’s discussion with their thoughts and insights. I begin by thanking Brazil for organizing today’s open debate on this important topic. It is an increasingly interdependent, interconnected and rapidly changing world, and we now find ourselves at a critical juncture. Violations of the Charter of the United Nations and international law are increasing distrust among nations. Such actions are jeopardizing, perhaps irreparably, the multilateral system on which we all depend. At the same time, the international community must also tackle new and evolving existential threats, such as climate change, terrorism, disinformation and misinformation and cybercrime.”
2023-10-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9448 (2023) · source
“The international community must heed this warning and act now by scaling up humanitarian action to Somalia, particularly with regards to the delivery of essential food assistance. In conclusion, Malta is deeply committed to peace, stability and security in Somalia. As we look forward to the renewal of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia, we continue to support the tireless efforts of the Mission and Special Representative of the Secretary-General Laing, who, in partnership with the Federal Government of Somalia, has ensured that sustainable peace lies at the core of their mandate.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“Malta is concerned about the stark increase in grave violations committed against children across the country, in particular the abduction of 263 children for forced recruitment and use. We call on all parties to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law. In that context, we welcome the Federal Government’s endorsement of the age-verification checklist and encourage it to continue its engagement to end and prevent all grave violations against children. As Somalia grapples with climate shocks, such as the projected above-average rainfall, which will further exacerbate humanitarian needs, we are concerned that up to 3.7 million people face acute food insecurity, with 1.5 million children expected to suffer acute malnutrition.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“It is in that vein that the European Union (EU) contributes both to ATMIS and to the Somali National Army to ensure that ATMIS fulfils its mandate and that Somalia takes responsibility and prevents a vacuum in liberated areas. The EU has allocated €85 million for the military component of ATMIS in 2023 and an additional €33 million for its civilian and police components for 2023 and 2024, which brings the EU’s total support since the formation of ATMIS to more than €2.5 billion. Malta urges efforts towards a lasting and meaningful conflict resolution in Laascaanood. As we call for accountability, we continue to support the good offices of the United Nations to complement Somali-owned national dialogue efforts, including by clan elders.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“Meanwhile, we welcome efforts to strengthen the capacity of rule-of-law actors. A rules-based order generates trust within communities, and it is an opportunity to restore peace. Malta welcomes the intensified efforts by Somalia to root out Al-Shabaab and conveys our gratitude to the courage displayed by Somalis in that regard. We condemn, in the strongest terms, all offensives carried out by Al-Shabaab, and we place our trust in a Somali- led concerted effort, with the support of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), to maintain recovered areas while reforming Somalia’s security sector. Both of those exercises are interlinked and should run in parallel.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“We take this opportunity to reiterate our call for the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women in political, electoral and constitutional processes. We are disappointed at the limited political participation of women in decision-making and commend the efforts of women civil society organizations to ensure that the voices of women are not only heard, but also included. We continue to support their call for including women’s issues in the National Consultative Council, including gender-responsive legislation and special measures to ensure that the 30 per cent quota is attained. It is also crucial that a civic space is maintained and that all Somalis, including civil society actors and communities, can freely engage on key issues of national interest and concern.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Laing and African Union Special Representative El-Amine Souef for their briefings. We also welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Somalia in this meeting. Malta welcomes the intensified efforts to advance political dialogue on key national priorities and commends the Federal Government of Somalia’s leadership in that regard. While we are encouraged by recent agreements on the constitutional review process and electoral preparations at the federal level, we remain concerned that Puntland is disengaged from that crucial exercise. We call for broad consultations with all federal member states in order to ensure a holistic and inclusive State-building process.”
2023-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9446 (2023) · source
“We remain firm in our belief that that can only be achieved through a just and comprehensive resolution, based on a two-State solution, along the pre-1967 borders, addressing the legitimate aspirations of both sides, with Jerusalem as the future capital of the two States, living side by side in peace and security, in line with the relevant Security Council resolutions and the internationally agreed parameters. That is crucial for the Israeli and Palestinian peoples and for our shared humanity.”
2023-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9443 (2023) · source
“It is critical that we prevent a regional spillover, which would destabilize the entire region. We are concerned about the upsurge of violence in the West Bank, where over 60 Palestinians, including 16 children, have also been killed since 7 October. Dangerous skirmishes along the Blue Line between Lebanon and Israel are also deeply worrisome and must cease immediately. We call for all parties to exercise the utmost restraint and commit to a full de-escalation to avoid further human suffering and devastation. In the midst of this dark period, it is our responsibility to remain determined in ensuring that a just and comprehensive resolution to the Middle East conflict encapsulates all our efforts moving forward.”
2023-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9443 (2023) · source
“We are distressed to learn that, since 7 October, several aid workers have lost their lives to this war. We call for the establishment of an effective humanitarian notification system in Gaza to protect civilians and aid workers alike. We cannot fail to underline the heroic work being undertaken by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The Agency operates in highly dangerous situations, going over and above their operational capacity. Malta condemns the deadly attack on an UNRWA school in Al-Maghazi, which also took place yesterday. Malta will be doubling its contribution to UNRWA, and we call for donors to step up their contributions, as many have done already. Malta is gravely alarmed at the growing risks of regional escalation due to this unprecedented war.”
2023-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9443 (2023) · source
“It is the international community’s responsibility to make sure that those rules, which are enshrined in international law, guide our way forward. We stress that those with influence over the parties must underline the importance of respecting international humanitarian law. In that regard, Malta urgently calls for an immediate humanitarian pause to take place. There is also a desperate need for humanitarian corridors to be established to ensure that millions of civilians in Gaza have their core necessities, including water, food and medicine, met. It is an obligation of all parties to conflict to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance. The parties must ensure that United Nations, International Committee of the Red Cross and humanitarian personnel are afforded full protection in their priceless work.”
2023-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9443 (2023) · source
“While we recall the terror perpetrated by Hamas, as we speak, countless civilians in Gaza have been deprived of basic amenities such as running water and electricity. Given the collapse of water and sanitation services, the possibility of dehydration and water-borne diseases is a growing concern. People are turning to the schools and hospitals run by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East throughout the area, seeking safety. It is imperative for safety to be assured. Safe zones must be immediately established and respected by all parties. The scale of the tragedy unfolding is a direct result of the chaos and devastation that permeates a conflict when international rules and norms are trampled on.”
2023-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9443 (2023) · source
“I thank you, Mr. President, for convening this emergency meeting. I also thank Special Coordinator Wennesland and Under-Secretary- General Griffiths for their sobering briefings. All words fall short when it comes to describing the horror that befell the Al Ahli Hospital and the people of Gaza yesterday. One missile strike ended the lives of hundreds of people, all of whom were already acutely vulnerable, and Malta condemns that action in the harshest terms. It is a tragic illustration of the fact that there are no safe zones in Gaza. The population has nowhere to go. Many women and children, believing hospitals to be sanctuaries, have sought refuge within their confines, trusting in their status as protected spaces.”
2023-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9443 (2023) · source
“Malta also stresses the crucial importance that there be rapid and unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza and urges the immediate establishment of humanitarian corridors in that regard. At this juncture, the importance of preventing a regional spillover is critical. It is therefore imperative for all parties to exercise maximum restraint and fully comply with the norms of international law. Our efforts, moving forward, must be steadfast in aligning with a just and comprehensive resolution of the Middle East conflict.”
2023-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9442 (2023) · source
“Such actions are deplorable. They are a blunt breach of international law, which categorically prohibits endangering civilians, medical staff and humanitarian establishments. This is the inevitable result of the military operations that are being conducted in Gaza, one of the most densely populated places on Earth. Decisions to cut off electricity, water supply and refuse supplies of aid and fuel are also deeply concerning and are leading to catastrophic results. The evacuation order, which displaced over 1 million people to south Gaza, has had serious humanitarian consequences. Such decisions are inconsistent with international humanitarian law and must be rescinded.”
2023-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9442 (2023) · source
“Within that context, Malta unequivocally condemns in the strongest possible terms the barbaric terrorist acts perpetrated by Hamas on Israeli soil and against the people of Israel. Malta emphasizes that Israel has the right to self-defence in the face of such violence and indiscriminate attacks. It has the right and obligation to protect its territory and its people in line with humanitarian and international law and the principles of distinction and proportionality. We also reiterate our call on Hamas to unconditionally and safely release the hostages immediately. We deeply regret that the casualties of this war have already included numerous medical, humanitarian and United Nations staff. Hundreds were killed in yesterday’s horrific strike on the Al Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza, which was sheltering thousands of displaced.”
2023-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9442 (2023) · source
“Malta voted in favour of draft resolution S/2023/773, submitted by Brazil. Malta has also abstained on the two amendments proposed by the Russian Federation, contained in documents S/2023/775 and S/2023/776. Although we have no issue with the substance, we saw no reason to alter a well-crafted resolution that rests on a delicate balance and that sought Council unity on this critical matter. We deeply regret that the draft resolution was not adopted and remain gravely concerned about the highly volatile situation in Israel and Gaza. Notwithstanding that decision, the Council must critically remain seized with the matter and strive to work towards constructive steps that prioritize the protection of civilians and prevent any potential regional conflagration.”
2023-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9442 (2023) · source
“With complete understanding of the urgency of the issue, Malta remains determined to engage in a constructive manner on the way forward. We stress the need for the Council to take action on the situation, which is of grave concern.”
2023-10-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9439 (2023) · source
“Malta abstained in the voting on the draft resolution (S/2023/772). The text proposed by the Russian Federation left out important elements that also need to be recognized and addressed by the Council. While fully cognizant of the dire need for humanitarian relief to reach the people of Gaza without further delay, Malta notes that the text excludes crucial elements that are currently having an impact on the situation on the ground. We believe that those also need to be addressed. We reiterate our condemnation in the strongest possible terms of the terrorist acts perpetrated by Hamas on Israel. We understand that Israel has the right to live in peace and security. It has the right to self-defence, but always in line with humanitarian and international law and in accordance with the principles of distinction and proportionality.”
2023-10-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9439 (2023) · source
“We believe that the assets freeze is meant to exist for the benefit of Libya and its people and that Libyan funds held abroad must be declared and frozen for eventual repatriation. I conclude by reiterating Malta’s support for a unified Libya that is able to provide an inclusive, peaceful, stable and prosperous present and future for all Libyans.”
2023-10-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9438 (2023) · source
“We also regret to note the decreased space for civil society in Libya. We need to ensure that all Libyans can enjoy their fundamental human rights. We welcome and strongly support the efforts of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya to address that. The prolonged disruption to communication services in Benghazi is also worrisome. We remain concerned about the continued presence of foreign fighters, foreign forces and mercenaries, whose full withdrawal should be prioritized. Equally concerning is the proliferation of weapons under the control of various State and non-State actors. The continued work of the 5+5 Joint Military Commission and other initiatives that seek to stabilize the security situation require our full support.”
2023-10-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9438 (2023) · source
“That is the only pathway to advancing a Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process, under United Nations auspices, with the necessary political consensus and legal framework to conduct free, fair, transparent, inclusive and secure elections. Recent efforts to that effect will advance such a process only if they are truly consensus-based and implementable. The international community must remain guided by that overall goal. It must ensure that all political processes safeguard the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women. A by-product of the continued political uncertainty is the fragile security situation. This year, we have seen clashes in various parts of the country. We remind all parties of their obligations under international law to ensure the protection of civilians and to safeguard their human rights.”
2023-10-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9438 (2023) · source