YouSaid · the spoken record

Jürgenson

lines on the record: 525
first: 2020-01-10
most recent: 2022-06-02
sittings or episodes: 106
sources: un-security-council

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“Besides scarce aid, one of the immediate results of the closure of Al-Yarubiyah has been that the humanitarian organizations are increasingly looking to work through local partner networks. Essentially, if earlier the United Nations and Security Council had had more control over the movement of aid and goods into Syria, that is now decreasing. The help will always find the most direct way to those in need, the only difference being that we now have less information about it. The challenges of the north-east are most visible in Al-Hol camp, where recent winter floods have caused substantial damage. Close to 3,000 tents had to be replaced in the aftermath of these heavy rains in recent months. Worsening living conditions have led to new tensions.”
2020-01-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8707 (2020) · source
“As the Syrian Government consistently violates former ceasefire and de-escalation agreements, the pressure of displaced people will only grow further. Taking these concerns into account, Estonia joins the humanitarian co-penholders Belgium and Germany in their calls for the establishment of an emergency humanitarian ceasefire in Idlib and across Syria. The fight against terrorism should not lead to the violation of human rights and dignity. Regarding the situation in the north-east of Syria, initial reporting by OCHA indicates that there are serious concerns about the potential lack of health supplies in the area after the closure of the Al-Yarubiyah crossing earlier this month.”
2020-01-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8707 (2020) · source
“Mr. Jürgenson (Estonia): First, I want to thank Under-Secretary-General Mark Lowcock for his very thorough briefing on the difficult humanitarian situation in Syria. We remain gravely concerned about the developments in the north-west of Syria. The military operations carried out by the Syrian army, and supported by the Russian Federation, have unleashed a mass exodus. According to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), over past two months more than 350,000 people have left their homes in the southern parts of Idlib. Most of them are now heading towards the Turkish border. Turkey is already the largest host country for Syrian refugees, with over 3.6 million Syrians residing there.”
2020-01-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8707 (2020) · source
“The continued military operations in the area may have severe humanitarian consequences and lead to another influx of refugees as increased violence threatens millions of civilians. The humanitarian situation in the area remains dreadful despite the renewal of the cross- border aid mechanism on 10 January. Millions of people remain in need of life-saving assistance and protection. The instability in Idlib and further military gains by the regime and its allies may harm the prospects for a meaningful political transition.”
2020-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8706 (2020) · source
“I would also stress the importance of continued support to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which remains crucial to providing essential services for Palestinian refugees, especially health care and children’s education. Estonia has contributed with additional funding in recent years so as to support UNRWA’s activities in the Middle East. With regard to Syria, we want to reiterate our support for resolution 2254 (2015). As pointed out in that resolution, the success of the political process is closely interlinked with a nationwide ceasefire. Unfortunately, that is not the case for Idlib province, where the situation remains highly volatile despite the repeated ceasefire agreements by various parties to the conflict.”
2020-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8706 (2020) · source
“Holding elections throughout the Palestinian territory, including in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza, would be important for renewing the democratic legitimacy of the Palestinian Authority and ensuring its strong institutions. Unfortunately, the situation in the Gaza Strip remains fragile. We condemn the firing of rockets from Gaza into Israel. Such indiscriminate violence and targeting of the civilian population are completely unacceptable. We call on all parties to exercise restraint and to refrain from targeting civilians, in line with obligations under international humanitarian law. The cycle of violence in Gaza will only bring about more civilian casualties. It undermines the humanitarian situation in Gaza, resulting in further suffering and growing extremism.”
2020-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8706 (2020) · source
“We are concerned about the continuation of Israel’s settlement activity in the occupied Palestinian territory, in violation of international law. We also call on Israel to end the demolitions of Palestinian-owned buildings in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, which have also included projects funded by the European Union and its member States. Concerning recent calls for the annexation of areas in the West Bank, I would like to stress that annexation would constitute a serious violation of international law and would harm prospects for moving forward with the peace process. Reaching a sustainable political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict also requires progress on intra-Palestinian reconciliation. We encourage all Palestinian factions to commit to inclusive, comprehensive and fair elections.”
2020-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8706 (2020) · source
“Mr. Jürgenson (Estonia): I thank Under- Secretary-General DiCarlo and Assistant Secretary- General Mueller for their briefings. I align myself with the statement to be delivered by the observer of the European Union. The only way to achieve lasting peace and to fulfil the legitimate aspirations of the Israelis and the Palestinians is through a negotiated two-State solution that respects the internationally agreed parameters and international law. Unfortunately, the developments on the ground are deteriorating and are preventing the resumption of meaningful negotiations in order to resolve this long-standing conflict. I would reiterate the importance of implementing resolution 2334 (2016), including its call for affirmative steps to reverse the negative trends on the ground that are imperilling the two-State solution.”
2020-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8706 (2020) · source
“The recent renewal of the mandate of the UNMHA shows that the Security Council is united in its efforts to help solve the conflict (see S/PV.8701). We call on the authorities in Al-Hudaydah to ensure the freedom of movement of the Mission. I would also like to reiterate the importance of full implementation of the Stockholm Agreement in building confidence between the parties. Finally, with regard to the decaying FSO SAFER oil tanker, we call on the authorities in Al-Hudaydah to allow the United Nations assessment team to have access to the ship in order to prevent an environmental disaster in the Red Sea.”
2020-01-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8704 (2020) · source
“Even though we heard that there was considerable improvement in 2019, the scale of the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, as set forth by the briefers, remains extremely critical, and the human cost of the war is immense. Some 24 million people still depend on humanitarian assistance. It is therefore crucial that unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance be guaranteed throughout the country. We commend the Government of Yemen and the Southern Transitional Council for the steps already taken towards implementing the Riyadh agreement. The next phase, involving military and security steps, is undoubtedly challenging, but we urge the parties to make efforts to fulfil their agreed obligations. Implementation of the agreement is crucial in order to move towards a comprehensive political settlement in Yemen.”
2020-01-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8704 (2020) · source
“I call on the parties to resume discussions on a comprehensive political solution without delay or preconditions. We welcome all efforts to de-escalate tensions, including the implementation of such confidence-building measures as the recent prisoner exchange in Taiz governorate. However, it is unacceptable that the civilian population continues to be harmed by the attacks across the country. We are also concerned about reports of gender-based violence, the repression of women, the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict, and arbitrary detentions. We call on all parties to fulfil their obligations under human rights law and international humanitarian law and to hold all perpetrators of violations accountable.”
2020-01-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8704 (2020) · source
“Mr. Jürgenson (Estonia): I thank Special Envoy Griffiths and Director Rajasingham for their briefings. Estonia fully supports Mr. Griffiths in his efforts to find a peaceful solution in Yemen. We also commend United Nations agencies for their efforts aimed at improving the humanitarian situation in Yemen and welcome the renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Mission to Support the Hodeidah Agreement (UNMHA) (resolution 2505 (2020)). I was glad to hear that there have been positive developments and a reduction in violence. However, in the context of rising regional tensions, it is important that all stakeholders remain committed to de-escalation. Fighting will not bring about a solution; that can only be achieved through inclusive dialogue among all relevant groups and civil society in the region, including women and youth.”
2020-01-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8704 (2020) · source
“A continuous and principled fight against impunity will not only hold the perpetrators accountable, but is also a powerful tool in building trust and bridging a way to lasting peace.”
2020-01-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8703 (2020) · source
“It is important that Mali and its neighbouring States take full ownership of the fight against terrorism. We welcome the efforts of the Joint Force of the Group of Five for the Sahel and encourage its further operationalization. Estonia supports the counter-terrorist efforts in the Sahel by contributing to French-led Operation Barkhane. The Estonian parliament recently decided to nearly double our military personnel deployment in the operation. Finally, allow me to turn to the question of accountability. Parties involved in grave human rights violations and abuses, those fuelling intercommunal tensions, and perpetrators of crimes against civilians and peacekeepers must be brought to justice.”
2020-01-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8703 (2020) · source
“The growing number of terrorist attacks on civilians, targeted attacks on military outposts and growing resentment towards the international presence are extremely worrying. Only last week, MINUSMA’s base in Kidal was attacked again. These terrorist attacks are simply unacceptable. We agree that it is important to effectively engage the local community. Its trust and acceptance are crucial for the successful implementation of MINUSMA’s mandate and a sustainable transition. We commend MINUSMA for the steps taken so far. However, this remains a key challenge and requires a thorough, integrated approach and enhanced cooperation with relevant actors. Counter-terrorist efforts in Mali require effective cross-border cooperation among regional and subregional organizations, the States of the region and international actors.”
2020-01-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8703 (2020) · source
“A crucial aspect in the implementation process is the full, effective and meaningful participation of women and youth; a lasting solution will not be possible without them. We welcome the holding of the inclusive national dialogue that was concluded on 22 December. However, the most important part of the process — implementing the conclusions of the national dialogue — needs to start now. Moreover, the process has to support the implementation of the peace agreement. We count on the leadership of the Government of Mali and the political will of all parties to take this process forward. We are following with great concern the reports of negative trends in the country, especially the further deterioration of the security situation in the centre of the country.”
2020-01-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8703 (2020) · source
“Mr. Jürgenson (Estonia): I thank Under-Secretary- General Lacroix for his comprehensive briefing. Estonia expresses its strong support for the activities of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and the work of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General. I would like to focus my statement today on the following points: the need for the implementation of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, the deteriorating security situation, and the importance of accountability. Full implementation of the peace agreement remains the basis of a successful political process in Mali. It is the main tool for addressing the root causes of the conflict and helping to restore trust among the people of Mali.”
2020-01-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8703 (2020) · source
“We encourage everyone to continue that valuable work though transitional justice mechanisms that provide truth, justice and reconciliation for victims — decisive elements for sustainable peace and long-lasting development. The Special Jurisdiction for Peace is a pillar of transitional justice and respect for its independence and autonomy must be ensured. We are pleased to see the progress that the Colombian Government has made and would like to express Estonia’s strong support for the comprehensive implementation of the peace agreement. The support of the international community, including the Security Council, remains critical.”
2020-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8702 (2020) · source
“It is important to ensure the security of all parts of the country, especially for the most vulnerable. We encourage the Colombian Government to continue to make use of all established mechanisms. The National Commission on Security Guarantees, a body established in the peace agreement with the mandate of seeking solutions to ongoing protection challenges, should be used to develop a policy on the dismantling of criminal organizations and their support networks. We reiterate the need to prioritize prevention, early warning and collective protection measures, which should take into consideration the particular needs of the potential victims, such as indigenous people and Afro-Colombian communities, and should have a gender-sensitive approach. Progress is needed in other areas of the agreement.”
2020-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8702 (2020) · source
“As a result of the increased urbanization of demobilization, the majority of ex-combatants now live in civilian communities where it is more difficult to track them and ensure that they can access services and the same benefits as other citizens. We are deeply concerned about the security situation and the rising levels of violence against community leaders, human rights advocates and former combatants. Those individuals are at the forefront of implementing the peace agreement and violence towards them represents a fundamental threat to its success. The year 2019 was the most violent year for former combatants — a record 77 of whom were killed. We also remain concerned about the reports of violence targeting women’s political participation.”
2020-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8702 (2020) · source
“The role of the local and departmental authorities is critical to the success of Colombia’s peacebuilding efforts. It is the opportunity for the newly elected local authorities to align themselves with the peace process and advance the implementation of the peace agreement. We acknowledge the Government-initiated national conversation on different sectors and themes. We encourage seeing dialogue as a platform to build more consensus and maintain momentum in the society. We note positively that the vast majority of former fighters remain engaged and committed to the Final Agreement and continue working to reintegrate into civilian life, despite continued uncertainties and attacks against them. It is important to emphasize that risks and challenges still remain and require more attention and action.”
2020-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8702 (2020) · source
“Mr. Jürgenson (Estonia): I thank Special Representative of Secretary-General Carlos Ruiz Massieu for his briefing and for the important work that he is doing. We warmly welcome Ms. Claudia Blum de Barberi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Colombia. The peace process has continued to move forward through a challenging period. We encourage everyone to continue those efforts on the path to peace and prosperity. We welcome the first local and departmental elections since the signing of the Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace and the first with the participation of the Fuerza Alternativa Revolucionaria del Común (FARC) and the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia- Ejército del Pueblo (FARC-EP), which marks an important step forward.”
2020-01-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8702 (2020) · source
“We supported resolution 2504 (2020) in order to save millions of lives in Idlib, but we strongly voice our discontent at the way in which this result was achieved; instead of cooperation, the preferred means of negotiation by the Russian Federation were blackmail and presenting other parties with ultimatums. Finally, I would like to reiterate that the last-minute amendments to the resolution in no way change the principles of the mechanism that have existed thus far, and deliveries of humanitarian aid do not require the consent of the Syrian authorities.”
2020-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8700 (2020) · source
“Even though the Al-Yarubiyah crossing is mentioned in the text, its future remains unclear. But what is even more important is that our colleagues leading these efforts did not resort to short-term political gains; instead, they put lives first — the lives of the Syrian people. At the same time, the Russian Federation did not engage in any serious discussion or offer any alternatives that would have granted humanitarian access to the north-east of Syria in a sustainable way. Taking this all into account, Estonia voted today with a heavy heart.”
2020-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8700 (2020) · source
“Mr. Jürgenson (Estonia): At the outset, I should like to thank the co-penholders for the immense amount of work they did and their persistence in truly fighting for the maintenance of the cross-border humanitarian mechanism first established by resolution 2165 (2014) more than five years ago. Belgium and Germany and, earlier, Kuwait worked closely to reach an outcome that aims to support Syrian civilians across the country. Over five years, millions of Syrians have received vital assistance. For that work, we thank the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and other United Nations agencies that despite hardships have continued to provide life-saving and life-sustaining aid to the people in urgent need inside Syria. Despite the numerous compromises made, the text provided by the co-penholders is a jump into the unknown.”
2020-01-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8700 (2020) · source