YouSaid · the spoken record

Hoxha

lines on the record: 1,795
first: 2014-02-19
most recent: 2023-12-29
sittings or episodes: 264
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

“The Taliban continue to betray the Afghan people, who seek and deserve respect, dignity and justice. They continue to slide backwards, while the country and its people need the opposite. That is as regrettable as it is intolerable. We must continue to speak out firmly and strongly, just as 11 members of the Council, signatories of the Statement of Shared Commitments for the principles of Women, Peace and Security, did in a joint statement issued before today’s meeting. We cannot contemplate unparalleled, despicable and unacceptable gender discrimination policies. We need to call them by their name: yes, it is gender apartheid. The word is strong, but it is the right word. It reflects the horrible reality. And we concur with Ms. Bennoune — we cannot only repeat our statements and condemnation here and elsewhere; we must do more.”
2023-09-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9423 (2023) · source
“To date, there is no indication that the general population is profiting from economic gains. We are still witnessing massive poverty, suffering and destitution, with close to two thirds of the population relying on life-saving aid to survive. The continued presence and activities of terrorist elements remain a serious concern. Once a haven for terrorists, Afghanistan is turning into fertile ground for radicalization, especially among the betrayed youth. I will conclude with a core issue that everyone mentioned — the unacceptable situation of women and girls in Afghanistan. The de facto authorities in Afghanistan continue to violate every rule and principle that form the foundation of the international human rights system, as all our briefers and many colleagues highlighted.”
2023-09-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9423 (2023) · source
“We remain alarmed by reports of ongoing extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests and detention, and torture and ill-treatment of former Government officials and members of the former Afghan National Defence and Security Forces. Once again, the Taliban are showing that they are unwilling to honour and uphold the commitment made in their general amnesty and their obligations under international human rights law. Continuous accusations and detentions of journalists, writers and critics of Taliban rule have further reduced the freedom of expression, shutting down those few courageous voices of truth and reason still left in the country. That is simply unacceptable. The Taliban are trying to present themselves as promoters of economic health and guarantors of security. It would be wonderful were it not only a façade.”
2023-09-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9423 (2023) · source
“There is no better example to illustrate the destructive and abusive approach of the Taliban towards humanitarian assistance than the absurd restrictions they have imposed on United Nations Afghan female personnel, which constrains the work of the Organization. Unfortunately and regrettably, the Taliban have made a choice. Instead of engaging to find long-term sustainable solutions, increase humanitarian assistance, ensure and strengthen economic stability and resume development aid, they prefer to impose their medieval, retrograde, draconian rules, knowing what it means for the country, even if it means leaving people without food, plunging them into hunger and starvation.”
2023-09-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9423 (2023) · source
“I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Albania. Two years after the Taliban takeover, the overall situation remains dire in every aspect and respect, with the Taliban’s draconian restrictions on freedom and liberties becoming worse, particularly for Afghan women and girls. Under such circumstances, the international community continues to struggle to find a balance between providing desperately needed aid to millions and engaging with the de facto authorities but not rewarding them and their hard-line, retrograde policies. Despite the best efforts, as we heard, the humanitarian response in Afghanistan simply cannot keep pace with the country’s worsening conditions.”
2023-09-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9423 (2023) · source
“I thank Ms. Bennoune for her briefing. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.”
2023-09-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9423 (2023) · source
“I wish to draw the attention of Council members to document S/2023/678, which contains the report of the Secretary-General on the situation in Afghanistan and its implications for international peace and security. I now give the floor to Ms. Otunbayeva.”
2023-09-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9423 (2023) · source
“In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representatives of Afghanistan, India, the Islamic Republic of Iran and Pakistan to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting: Ms. Roza Otunbayeva, Special Representative of the Secretary- General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan; Ms. Sima Sami Bahous, Executive Director of UN-Women; and Ms. Karima Bennoune, civil society representative. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda.”
2023-09-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9423 (2023) · source
“Let me conclude by reaffirming our unwavering support for the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in the Sudan. We commend the Mission’s tireless efforts during such an alarming crisis in the Sudan. We will continue to stand with the Sudanese people and their aspirations for peace and justice in their quest to re-establish a civilian Government. I now resume my functions as President of the Council. There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. I invite now Council members to informal consultations to continue our discussion on the matter. The meeting rose at 12.05 p.m.”
2023-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9417 (2023) · source
“As we heard from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the crisis has already generated a humanitarian catastrophe of epic proportions. Urgent need is required, and urgent need must be provided. We, the international community and the United Nations, in particular, cannot fail the Sudanese people — because their leaders have let them down. Thirdly, Albania remains committed to supporting coordinated regional and international efforts, and we commend the initiatives led by the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the League of Arab States to reach an immediate ceasefire and bring the parties to talks on restoring a meaningful and inclusive political process. That is the only way to end this nightmare and get out of the quagmire.”
2023-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9417 (2023) · source
“We remind them of their obligation to protect civilians throughout the country, with a particular focus on women and children. We call on the Government of the Sudan to expedite visa applications for United Nations staff and partners assisting with humanitarian aid delivery. These people are not going on vacation; they are rushing to go in order to assist the needy and to save lives. Secondly, violence in the Sudan is having ripple effects throughout the region. More than 200,000 refugees have returned to South Sudan and approximately 700,000 Sudanese have sought refuge in neighbouring countries, particularly in Chad. We commend all bordering countries for their ongoing support in welcoming refugees.”
2023-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9417 (2023) · source
“Just prior to this meeting, 11 members of the Council, signatories to the shared commitments on women and peace and security, issued a strong call for protection of civilians and accountability for perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence in the Sudan. We regret and condemn the use of heavy artillery, artillery fire and aerial bombardments, destroying civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities in major cities, particularly in Khartoum. Heavy armed clashes are preventing civilians from fleeing the conflicts or using humanitarian corridors. Violence has spared no one, including United Nations staff members trying to provide humanitarian assistance. We therefore urge the warring parties and all armed militias to cease hostilities.”
2023-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9417 (2023) · source
“In Darfur, racially motivated attacks on civilians, targeting non-Arab communities, have led to force, displacement and killings, as the Special Representative of the Secretary-General mentioned. The longer this conflict goes on, the more it becomes clear that there can be no military solution. Unfortunately, in the meantime, the country is being destroyed, and the civilian population continues to endure massive human rights violations and breaches of international humanitarian law. Albania remains deeply concerned about reports on civilians being deprived of food supplies, water and electricity and falling victim to theft, looting and widespread sexual assault. As Ms. Adil highlighted, there have been numerous confirmed cases of rape, sexual slavery, torture and religion- and gender-based violence.”
2023-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9417 (2023) · source
“Even though hearing her account was painful, we commend her for giving a voice to all Sudanese women, especially the victims of this senseless war, and we encourage her to continue her civic commitment to helping to overcome the tragic events her country is going through. I would like to highlight three points. First, as we have heard, the prolonged, intense and deadly conflict between the rival forces, spanning six months, has plunged the Sudan into a catastrophic humanitarian crisis of unprecedented proportions. That totally avoidable conflict, a power struggle between ambitions at the top, is claiming close to 30 victims a day, including civilians. It has increased ethnically based violence and fuelled intercommunal clashes and, as we heard, risks degenerating into a full-scale civil war.”
2023-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9417 (2023) · source
“I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Albania. I thank Special Representative of the Secretary- General Perthes, Director Wosornu and Ambassador Agyeman for their briefings. I want to express Albania’s profound appreciation for Mr. Perthes’s work and tireless efforts, in particularly challenging circumstances, to help the Sudan and its people in their quest for a future of peace. His briefing today reflects his continued professional engagement in the Sudan, and I thank him for the accurate report and for calling a spade a spade. We are grateful for his service. We also thank Ms. Mayada Adil for her sobering remarks. We are very pleased that she could be here.”
2023-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9417 (2023) · source
“I thank Ms. Adil for her briefing. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.”
2023-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9417 (2023) · source
“In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting: Mr. Volker Perthes, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Sudan and Head of the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in the Sudan; Ms. Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations and Advocacy, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs; and Ms. Mayada Adil, civil society representative. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I wish to draw the attention of Council members to document S/2023/644, which contains the report of the Secretary-General on the situation in the Sudan and the activities of the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in the Sudan. I now give the floor to Mr. Perthes.”
2023-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9417 (2023) · source
“In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of the Sudan to participate in this meeting. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. At this meeting, the Council will hear a briefing by Ambassador Harold Adlai Agyeman, Permanent Representative of Ghana to the United Nations, in his capacity as Chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1591 (2005), concerning the Sudan. I now give the floor to Ambassador Agyeman.”
2023-09-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9416 (2023) · source
“The presidency, in full respect of the provisional rules of procedure, presidential note S/2017/507 and its past practices, and in prior consultation with the members of the Council, has accepted the request for non-members of the Council to participate in this meeting. I now resume my functions as President of the Council. I give the floor to the representative of Ukraine.”
2023-09-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9414 (2023) · source
“The International Court of Justice was asked whether the declaration of independence of the Republic of Kosova was in line with the international law — and it responded. I wish that Russia confirmed the Court’s rulings in the very same way. There was one issued in March 2022 ordering Russia to stop the war, which, we hope, Russia will abide by. I have said it so many times, and I will be brief in repeating it: it is important that Kosova and Serbia do not fight. They meet, they talk and are bound by a process of dialogue — not an easy one, but a real and substantial one — to solve pending issues and march towards their common future in peace and cooperation. As to the comments regarding rule 37, I want to assure our Russian colleagues that the presidency is committed to maintaining the orderly conduct of business of the Council.”
2023-09-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9414 (2023) · source
“I shall now make a further statement in my capacity as the representative of Albania. I started my statement in my national capacity earlier today by mentioning the discrepancy between the Russian narrative and reality. We heard more of the same today. The Russian delegation tried to draw a parallel between what happened in the Republic of Kosova and what is happening in parts of the territories in Ukraine. Nothing could be less accurate and farther from the truth. Kosova cannot and will not be used as a fig leaf or camouflage for Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine and its attempts at annexation. Everyone knows that Kosova became independent after a bloody war and a long international peace process and talks, which Russia was also part of.”
2023-09-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9414 (2023) · source
“We know now that the war in Ukraine is not confined to only Ukraine. It already has had global implications for energy, food supplies, multilateralism and international institutions, including the Council, which is becoming more and more ineffective. We reiterate our call on Russia to stop the war, engage in dialogue to find a solution through negotiations, not by force, return to the grain deal and stop using food security as a weapon. The sooner the Kremlin accepts that this war is a dangerous dead end, the better it will be for all — for Ukraine and its people, for the Europe and its security, for the developing world and for the millions in need, as well as for Russians and their future. I resume my functions as President of the Council. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.”
2023-09-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9414 (2023) · source
“The legislation and the institutions of the Russian Federation have no legal effect, validity or business within the international recognized borders of Ukraine Donetsk, Luhansk Kherson, Zaporizhzhya and Crimea are part of the Ukraine, and Russia’s illegal actions will not be able to change it. All persons involved in the organization of the so-called elections are committing illegal actions and, one day, they will be held accountable. Russia may hope that, with time, its fait accompli policy will end up being accepted in silence by a fatigued international community. They are wrong. Its illegal actions are null and void, and its territory grab will not be accepted. The war in Ukraine is a defining moment and cannot become the new normal. It must be ended because its end means ending imperial ambitions.”
2023-09-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9414 (2023) · source
“The answers to those questions are crucial, as they will determine not only what will happen in Ukraine but also in Europe and the world we live in. If we accept that international law can be broken at will, if what we have built for 78 years can be easily undone by anyone, the world of tomorrow will not be under the rule of law, but the law of the jungle. We do not want a world where countries commit acts of bygone eras or acts that should never be committed. No one wants to live in a neighbourhood with a bully that assaults your home, harms your family and steals your belongings.”
2023-09-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9414 (2023) · source
“Now Russia is planning to conduct illegal local elections in those four regions of Ukraine. We have some simple questions that call for straightforward answers. Under which part of international law has Russia attacked and occupied parts of the territory of another country, its neighbour Ukraine? Under which article of the Charter of the United Nations has Russia annexed part of the territory of the same country, Ukraine? How does the position of a permanent member of the Security Council, which is entrusted by the United Nations membership with the noble duty of upholding the Charter and ensuring peace and security, cope with the behaviour of a rogue State that is breaking the law, killing civilians and committing crimes?”
2023-09-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9414 (2023) · source
“As to the protection of civilians, it could not even qualify as a bad joke. Around 10,000 Ukrainians have lost their lives. Millions have been displaced, within and outside the country. And thousands of children have been forcefully deported to Russia. As was mentioned, just two days ago 17 people, including one child, were killed by a missile in a public market in Donbas. Give the total fiasco of the state of its initial plans, the Kremlin went back to its playbook. First, it invaded territory. Next, it forced Ukrainians to leave. And right after it started the déjà vu charade of the legitimization of the invasion. In September of last year, 143 States of the General Assembly condemned the sham referendums on the annexation of four Ukrainian regions, declaring that they had no validity under international law.”
2023-09-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9414 (2023) · source
“We now know that Russia’s aim was to deny Ukraine its existence; when it failed, it focused on the eastern part of Ukraine. The sad truth is that Russia has never stopped bombarding urban and residential areas, with shelling, missiles and drones flying into homes and apartment buildings. Entire villages, towns and cities have been reduced to smithereens. Around 50 per cent of Ukraine’s power-generation infrastructure has been destroyed. And now Russia is attacking ports and grain silos, as we heard in recent days. Large swathes of the eastern regions have been turned into mine fields. Instead of achieving demilitarization — unwillingly and in a totally adverse effect — Russia’s policy became, as it were, the biggest sponsor in making Ukraine much stronger, better armed and more equipped to defend itself.”
2023-09-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9414 (2023) · source
“I thank Mr. Jenča for his briefing. I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Albania. I thank Assistant Secretary-General Jenča for his briefing on the recent developments in Ukraine. Let us go back in time for a second. At the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin rushed to convince the world that Russia had no plans for an occupation of Ukrainian territory, that the sole purpose of the military intervention was the country’s demilitarization — focused entirely on military infrastructure — and, finally, that the civilian population had nothing to fear. After 562 days of a relentless war, we know that everything is false — a big lie — and that the harsh reality has left the emperor without clothes.”
2023-09-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9414 (2023) · source
“In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representatives of Czechia, Estonia, Italy, Poland and Ukraine to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite Mr. Miroslav Jenča, Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas, Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite His Excellency Mr. Olof Skoog, Head of the Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations, to participate in this meeting. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I give the floor to Mr. Jenča.”
2023-09-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9414 (2023) · source
“I now resume my functions as President of the Council. There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. The meeting rose at 4.50 p.m.”
2023-09-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9413 (2023) · source
“The same goes for improving peacekeeping performance and transparency in standards and evaluation systems, as outlined in the A4P+ initiative. Finally, the involvement of women in peacekeeping ensures inclusivity, brings diversity and favours gender equality. It enhances conflict resolution and sustainable peace efforts through diverse perspectives, negotiation skills and the protection of vulnerable groups in conflict zones, particularly women and children. Promoting gender equality aligns with United Nations principles emphasizing women’s active roles and rights in society. In conclusion, we salute the dedication and bravery of United Nations peacekeepers worldwide and pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the noble cause of peace over the past 75 years.”
2023-09-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9413 (2023) · source
“To counter false information and distorted narratives, peacekeeping missions need to work closely with local communities so that the people can see and understand that United Nations missions are not there to implement some theoretical and opaque mandate but to help and protect them in every way they can; that they are not there just because they are mandated to be, but because they are needed; and that while they represent the United Nations, they work only for the people. The safety of peacekeepers is paramount, and the increase in national investigations addressing acts of violence against them demonstrates our commitment to justice. We must bring justice for fallen peacekeepers and deter future acts of violence against those serving with the Blue Helmets.”
2023-09-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9413 (2023) · source
“We remain worried that the security crisis that has already been precipitated by activity in various places by notorious mercenaries, known for their lack of care for innocent lives, risks further aggravating weakened peace and stability after the United Nations withdraws. While United Nations missions and their mandates are not beyond criticism, unhappy Governments must know that resorting to mercenaries should not be done lightly. It may prove wrong, treacherous, costly and even dangerous. As many speakers have mentioned today, in the age of social media, disinformation and misinformation pose a significant threat.”
2023-09-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9413 (2023) · source
“Matching mandates with operational realities, especially in difficult and extended conflicts, has become very challenging. That has led to increased and sometimes unrealistic expectations, and when those expectations are not met, they are followed by growing criticism and in some cases even hostile attitudes. Understanding, cooperation and support from host countries are therefore essential to ensuring that peacekeepers can implement their mandates and enjoy freedom of movement so that they can execute their missions safely. When trust is broken, it is the implementation of the mandate and, ultimately, peace and the protection of civilians that will pay the price. At the request of the host country, MINUSMA is being withdrawn. MONUSCO will soon begin its transition phase.”
2023-09-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9413 (2023) · source
“The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon has successfully maintained the ceasefire since 2006 and is rightly credited for its role in deterrence. The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) has contributed significantly to the protection of civilians despite the difficulties faced in terms of patrols, convoys and static and temporary bases. Peacekeepers’ outposts have often served as a haven for those displaced by violent conflict and terrorist acts. But it is a fact that conflicts have grown increasingly complex, influenced by domestic, geopolitical and transnational factors, exposing gaps between United Nations peacekeeping mandates, practical implementation and sometimes the expectations of host countries.”
2023-09-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9413 (2023) · source
“Throughout history, those missions have been pivotal to promoting human rights, supporting accountability initiatives and advancing governance, security and justice reform. There are many success stories. The United Nations Mission in South Sudan’s intervention in Tambura during the 2021 conflict was instrumental in establishing a temporary base to halt hostilities, protect civilians and facilitate dialogue. The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) has worked tirelessly to create stability since the 2018 elections, safeguarding more than 100,000 internally displaced persons. The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic facilitated peace negotiations and the delivery of humanitarian aid to nearly 2 million people in 2022.”
2023-09-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9413 (2023) · source
“I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Albania. I thank Under-Secretary-General Lacroix for his thorough briefing. We welcome the report of the Secretary-General, which highlights efforts to enhance the efficiency of United Nations peacekeeping missions. We strongly support the Action for Peacekeeping initiative and the subsequent Action for Peacekeeping Plus (A4P+) plan for 2021–2023. United Nations peacekeeping missions unquestionably remain an indispensable means for sustaining peace and pursuing political solutions in many parts of the world. As of June of this year, close to 90,000 personnel continue to serve and more than 70 United Nations peacekeeping operations have been deployed in different parts of the world, dedicated to maintaining peace and preventing further violence and conflicts.”
2023-09-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9413 (2023) · source
“I thank Mr. Lacroix for his briefing. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.”
2023-09-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9413 (2023) · source
“In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, to participate in this meeting. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I give the floor to Mr. Lacroix.”
2023-09-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9413 (2023) · source
“The draft resolution received 15 votes in favour. The draft resolution has been adopted unanimously as resolution 2696 (2023). The meeting rose at 3.10 p.m. 2/223-26262”
2023-09-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9412 (2023) · source
“The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. Members of the Council have before them document S/2023/652, which contains the text of a draft resolution submitted by the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The Council is ready to proceed to the vote on the draft resolution before it. I shall put the draft resolution to the vote now. A vote was taken by show of hands. In favour: Albania, Brazil, China, Ecuador, France, Gabon, Ghana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, Russian Federation, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United States of America”
2023-09-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9412 (2023) · source
“There are still a number of speakers remaining on my list for this meeting. Given the lateness of the hour, I intend, with the concurrence of the members of the Council, to suspend the meeting until 3 p.m. The meeting was suspended at 1.05 p.m.”
2023-09-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9410 (2023) · source
“I wish to remind all speakers to limit their statements to no more than three minutes in order to enable the Council to carry out its work expeditiously. I now give the floor to the representative of Cuba.”
2023-09-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9410 (2023) · source
“While not in and of themselves the solution to the conflicts on the Council’s agenda, the working methods are a means to an end and can build the path towards finding solutions. I look forward to hearing the proposals from the wider membership as we collectively strive towards enhancing the Council’s effectiveness, efficiency and transparency. Proposals put forward today will help shape future discussions of the Informal Working Group under my remaining months as Chair and will be critical for future Chairs to consider. I resume my functions as President of the Council. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.”
2023-09-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9410 (2023) · source
“Easily accessible through the website of the Security Council, the handbook serves as a practical guide to the rules, practices and procedures of the Council and is intended for its members and the wider membership to better understand and implement the working methods. We are grateful to Japan for spearheading such an initiative. It is a timely innovation for the incoming elected members, who will commence observing proceedings next month. Before I conclude, I would like to stress that, rather than an obscure and merely technical area of expertise, the working methods of the Council are a critical tool for the effective functioning of the Council and for the discharge of its mandate. It is therefore crucial for everyone in the Chamber to be collectively invested in advancing this agenda and proactively contribute to its enhancement.”
2023-09-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9410 (2023) · source
“Discussions in the Informal Working Group have also led to practical outcomes. In April 2023, emulating a practice well-established in the General Assembly, the Council rolled out a live list of speakers for open debates, which will help the wider membership to be better informed and engaged in the work of the Council. Lastly, I would like to highlight that, in the true spirit of Informal Working Group cooperation, former Informal Working Group Chairs Kuwait and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as myself as current Chair, joined Japan in collaborating towards the successful launching of the Interactive Handbook of the Working Methods of the Council.”
2023-09-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9410 (2023) · source
“Similarly, the regular reporting by penholders on the way in which they held the pen was aimed at enhancing their accountability in doing so, and additional efforts should be considered on that track. In the past 18 months, the Informal Working Group addressed many other topics, including how to improve the selection of Chairs of subsidiary bodies and ensure a more equitable distribution of labour among Council members, the access of elected members to confidential documentation of the Council predating their membership, the practice of monthly assessments, the cooperation with other United Nations principal organs, the mainstreaming of gender into the work of the Council and the participation of civil society in Council meetings and ensuring their protection against reprisals.”
2023-09-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9410 (2023) · source
“Indeed, the Informal Working Group has proven that working methods can aid in facilitating the Council’s work and reduce polarization by discussing topics that present clear obstacles to the functioning of the Council and identifying possible solutions. For example, the Informal Working Group has maintained on its agenda, as standing items, regular reporting by presidencies of the Council and penholders in exercising their responsibilities. Building on the work of previous Chairs, the reporting on the work of each presidency has made those members holding that responsibility more aware of their fundamental role in implementing the working methods agreed upon by the Council. It has also facilitated the sharing of best practices among Council presidencies.”
2023-09-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9410 (2023) · source
“The second note (S/2023/615) reaffirms the Council’s commitment to making every effort to agree provisionally on the appointment of the Chairs of the subsidiary bodies for the following year no later than 1 October and includes an interim contingency measure in case the provisional agreement is not reached on time during the month of January. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all Council members for the cooperation demonstrated in the framework of the Informal Working Group in achieving those important outcome documents. Contrary to the narrative of division that I mentioned earlier, the Informal Working Group proves that productive engagement is possible in the Council and that the search for common ground should always be pursued.”
2023-09-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9410 (2023) · source
“Those indicators are crucial to get a better overview of how the Council is performing and what gaps remain. In that regard, I would welcome the comments and feedback of Member States to further enhance the indicators and identify new areas of work for their reflection, if possible, in the Group’s 2023 annual report. As I mentioned at the outset, under the auspices of the Informal Working Group, the Council adopted two additional notes by the President of the Security Council on working methods. The first note by the President (S/2023/612) lays out the procedure for the observance of minutes of silence and aims to ensure that it is conducted in an orderly manner. It reflects the consensus of all members of the Council to ensure that those solemn occasions are conducted smoothly, respectfully and devoid of any politicization.”
2023-09-05 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.9410 (2023) · source