YouSaid · the spoken record

Juul

lines on the record

1,152

first

2005-02-17

most recent

2023-07-27

sittings or episodes

232

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

1. “It should serve as an example for future cases as a step towards accountability and justice — by the parties, by the Special Jurisdiction itself and for the victims. At the same time, we must also take seriously the reports that victims and alleged perpetrators, including former members of the FARC-EP and the public security forces, do not feel that they can contribute to the transitional justice system without risking their lives. To ensure due process and meet the demands of victims, it is essential that the authorities protect those appearing before the court. Let me end by repeating that recent events in Colombia have demonstrated the fragility of peace and the importance of sustained dialogue to resolve political differences. We encourage the parties and all stakeholders to keep working together in order to achieve lasting peace.”

   2021-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8818 (2021) · source

2. “On a more positive note, Norway welcomes the progress made by the integrated system for transitional justice. The Truth Commission provides an invaluable space for truth-telling and encounters between victims and perpetrators. We urge all actors to make full use of the Commission. It is important to highlight the significance of the assumption of responsibility by former leaders of the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia- Ejército del Pueblo (FARC-EP) in Case 01 of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace, concerning hostage-taking and severe deprivations of liberty. That is historic — it is unprecedented that leaders of a former guerrilla group assume responsibility for crimes against humanity and war crimes.”

   2021-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8818 (2021) · source

3. “Recent events should serve as strong encouragement to the parties to reverse those worrisome developments and implement the full range of provisions in the peace agreement, in particular those related to security guarantees, enhanced political participation and all gender provisions; ensuring the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women in the peace process, as well as the active and meaningful participation of ethnic minorities and youth. The protection of human rights defenders must also be strengthened. Indeed, the very purpose of the peace agreement is to ensure that violence is replaced by political participation. Chapter 2 provides a range of tools to strengthen Colombian democracy and to ensure participation in the exercise of politics.”

   2021-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8818 (2021) · source

4. “That includes, of course, those responsible for the attack against the President’s helicopter on 25 June. Since the Security Council last met (see S/2021/401) to discuss the implementation of the Colombian peace agreement, we are concerned to hear reports that an additional 15 ex-combatants have been murdered, that there has been an increase in the recruitment and use of children by armed groups, and that the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has received reports of 49 additional killings of social leaders and human rights defenders. We are also worried about the high level of stigmatization experienced by female ex-combatants and human rights defenders engaging in political work. That includes reports of sexual and gender-based violence.”

   2021-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8818 (2021) · source

5. “Let me start by recognizing the strong commitment of the parties to the continued implementation of the Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace, even in the midst of challenging circumstances with social unrest. Yet the reports of the deaths of 56 persons and of more than 90 still missing are deeply disturbing. In response the international community has insisted on respect for human rights and peaceful protests, condemned any disproportionate use of force and called on all actors to resolve differences through dialogue. We echo those calls at this meeting today. To put an end to the cycle of violence, it is crucial that all human rights violations and abuses be investigated and that those responsible be held accountable.”

   2021-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8818 (2021) · source

6. “We thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Ruiz Massieu for his very useful briefing and, of course, for the impressive work he and his team are doing in Colombia. Allow me also to extend a warm welcome to Melissa Herrera for sharing her experience at this meeting today and for her valuable recommendations. Women and peace and security is a high priority for Norway and an area where we enjoy close cooperation with the Colombian Government, headed personally by Vice-President and Minister for Foreign Affairs Marta Lucía Ramírez. I warmly welcome her and thank her for taking time to be with the Security Council today.”

   2021-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8818 (2021) · source

7. “I would like to take this opportunity to wholeheartedly thank all Council members for their uniquely close and constructive cooperation throughout the six-month period during which we have been working to renew this very important resolution 2585 (2021). It is in fact the first time since 2016 that we have unanimously adopted this life-saving cross-border resolution. So once again, I would say a huge thank you to all Council members for their cooperation.”

   2021-07-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8817 (2021) · source

8. “That requires constructive engagement, political will and courage to find compromise. We call on the three parties to refrain from any action that could undermine negotiations and make full use of the good offices of the African Union, especially through its facilitator role. Norway encourages Egypt, Ethiopia and the Sudan to invest politically in an agreement on the GERD that all parties can benefit from. We are confident that the return on the investment will be development and prosperity for the people of all three States and beyond. Let the GERD and the Nile be a source of opportunities, not conflict.”

   2021-07-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8816 (2021) · source

9. “I thank the briefers for their important insights. We also welcome the Ministers and representatives of Egypt, Ethiopia, the Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to today’s meeting. The three parties — Egypt, Ethiopia and the Sudan — have legitimate interests in the Nile River and its water resources. A sustainable solution to the issue of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) can be found only by the parties themselves. Much has already been agreed through the Declaration of Principles on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which is a good framework to seek equitable and reasonable use of the Blue Nile. What remains now is for the parties to reach a consensus on modalities for future cooperation, based on the Principles as well as on transparency and trust.”

   2021-07-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8816 (2021) · source

10. “On all those issues, it will be vital for UNOWAS to work together with the African Union, ECOWAS, the Group of Five for the Sahel and other regional actors to unlock new potential.”

    2021-07-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8814 (2021) · source

11. “The strategy also has a strong focus on dialogue as a means of conflict resolution at the local, national and regional levels. We are encouraged to see that that thinking aligns with signals from the ordinary session of the Authority of Heads of State of the Group of Five for the Sahel, held in N’Djamena in February, the “nexus plus” vision of the United Nations Integrated Strategy for the Sahel and the People’s Coalition for the Sahel. The proposed civilian joint project to address intercommunal violence could be a good new opportunity for UNOWAS to make a difference. The project should also consider the effects of climate on security, as well as women’s roles in peace and security.”

    2021-07-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8814 (2021) · source

12. “We also underscore the need for sustainable ocean planning to build the foundations for a peaceful and prosperous coastal economy. Last week, the Peacebuilding Commission held a positive meeting on the Gulf of Guinea. For us, that is a topic that the Council should once again look into, particularly in support of regional efforts. Norway recently presented its new holistic Sahel strategy. The strategy mirrors our overall priorities on the Security Council — peace diplomacy, women’s participation and rights, the protection of civilians, climate and security. Norway appreciates and encourages the continued engagement of UNOWAS on all those issues. Our new strategy places enhanced emphasis on the promotion of good governance and inclusive political processes, as ways to prevent violent conflict and the recruitment of armed groups.”

    2021-07-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8814 (2021) · source

13. “We also deplore the repeated abduction of school children for ransom in Nigeria. As part of their efforts to find solutions to that trend, we commend Nigeria for hosting the fourth international Conference on the Safe Schools Declaration, to be held in October. The Council must remain vigilant and find ways to support regional responses to terrorism, which is worryingly spreading seawards. Action is also needed in the Gulf of Guinea, which remains the world’s piracy hotspot. Besides the threat posed to international navigation, piracy also has detrimental effects on the sustainable development of coastal States, as well as countries further inland. In order to better understand such effects, Norway is currently supporting a study by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime on the topic.”

    2021-07-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8814 (2021) · source

14. “We were also heartened to see how President Bazoum immediately put youth, education and safe schools at the centre of his agenda. As he stated during our recent open debate on children and conflict (see S/2021/617), educated children are the pillars on which strong nations are built. However, if we needed a reminder of the challenges that continue to face children and civilians in the region the Solhan massacre in Burkina Faso was it. Not only were children among the more than 130 victims of the attack. Children were also used by terrorist actors to carry out the attack. We condemn that in the strongest possible terms in addition to the continued targeting of children as victims of abduction sexual and gender- based violence. The perpetrators of such crimes must be held accountable in line with national and international law.”

    2021-07-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8814 (2021) · source

15. “We welcome Special Representative of the Secretary-General Annadif back in his new capacity, assure him of Norway’s full support and thank him for his valuable briefing today. We also welcome the insights shared by Ms. Ayemou. Women’s rights to full, equal and meaningful participation and leadership are essential in all aspects and phases of peace and political processes. This is a fundamental basis for achieving and sustaining peace. Let me first take a moment to recognize a positive development since we last met to discuss the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS). In April, the Niger celebrated its first transfer of power from one democratically elected President to another. We congratulate the Niger on that historic and inspirational achievement.”

    2021-07-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8814 (2021) · source

16. “The complete drawdown from the Kasai region this month will be followed by the exit from Tanganyika province next year. Norway expects MONUSCO to continue to work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that the drawdown remains sustainable and that the stabilization and peacebuilding priorities outlined in the mandate can continue. The Mission’s role in ensuring the protection of civilians must remain a priority, even with fewer troops. In that respect, we are looking forward to receiving the transition plan for MONUSCO in September, as requested in resolution 2556 (2020).”

    2021-07-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8813 (2021) · source

17. “Peace and reconciliation efforts need to encompass and empower the people affected by instability and violence, including victims and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. In that regard, we commend the extraordinary work of organizations and individuals, such as Nobel Peace Prize laureate Mr. Mukwege, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. One thing is clear — innovative grassroots initiatives led by local people are needed if we are to reach a more stable situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Moreover, these initiatives must be supported by the Council, the broader United Nations membership and countries and organizations of the region. My delegation hopes that the formation of a new Government will create new momentum to address those challenges. We are at a turning point in terms of MONUSCO’s presence.”

    2021-07-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8813 (2021) · source

18. “We condemn all attacks and demand that all actors respect and comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law. That also applies to Ituri and North Kivu provinces, which are both presently under a state of siege. As the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) is drawing down, root causes of conflict must be addressed. Security sector reform and a sustainable framework for disarmament, demobilization and reintegration are crucial. Yet, these efforts must also be complemented by initiatives to promote peace and reconciliation, including through strengthening the fight against impunity and providing greater support to transitional justice and dialogue.”

    2021-07-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8813 (2021) · source

19. “At the same time, we urge the Democratic Republic of the Congo to ensure the meaningful participation of all stakeholders in the current electoral reform efforts. Norway expects everyone’s voice — including civil society, women and youth — to be heard in this comprehensive effort leading up to the Presidential election in 2023. While we welcome progress in some areas, we cannot downplay the serious challenges related to humanitarian needs and the protection of civilians in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These challenges have only been exacerbated by the eruption of Mount Nyiragongo in May. The increasing violence, particularly in Ituri province, and the growing number of violations against children is deeply concerning.”

    2021-07-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8813 (2021) · source

20. “I would also like to express our shock and deepest condolences with regard to the assassination of Jovenel Moïse, President of Haiti, and the attacks on his family. Our thoughts are with his family and the people of Haiti. I thank you, Mr. President, for convening this meeting. I also thank Special Representative Keita and Ms. Kibambe for their informative briefings. Let me start by highlighting some recent positive developments in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The installation of a new Government, with more women than ever before, and the adoption of the Government’s programme of action for 2021-2023 both provide a solid basis for advancement in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.”

    2021-07-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8813 (2021) · source

21. “Fourthly, the conflict in Tigray cannot be resolved by military means. The recent elections in Ethiopia took place in very challenging conditions. But, as we can see in this situation, elections alone cannot bring about a democratic transition or resolve the political challenges currently being faced. A meaningful, inclusive national dialogue is needed to enable Ethiopia’s democratic development and to reduce conflict across the country. We strongly urge all actors in Tigray to work across divides and prepare the ground for a possible dialogue. A political solution is the only way to sustainable peace in Tigray — and in Ethiopia as a whole.”

    2021-07-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8812 (2021) · source

22. “That will be key to reinstate public trust in justice and security institutions and to lay the foundation for reconciliation and sustainable peace. In that regard, welcome the joint investigation by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, as well as the independent commission of inquiry of the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights, into alleged atrocities in Tigray. We expect that all findings will be used to ensure accountability. Thirdly, the conflict in Tigray threatens regional stability. We call on neighbouring States to refrain from aggravating the situation. The continued presence of Eritrean troops in Tigray is a threat to regional peace and security and must end. We call for their immediate withdrawal.”

    2021-07-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8812 (2021) · source

23. “All parties must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law, respect the protected status of aid workers and civilians and refrain from unacceptable destruction or removal of objects that are indispensable for the survival of the population. Secondly, impunity cannot be tolerated. We condemn in the strongest terms the reported killings of civilians and the widespread and systematic acts of sexual and gender-based violence. All violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law should be documented and verified, with a view to the future investigation and prosecution of those responsible. Accountability for crimes and gross violations, including individual accountability under criminal law, must be ensured.”

    2021-07-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8812 (2021) · source

24. “However, despite that positive step, we have received credible reports from several border crossings that humanitarian actors are still being denied access. Let me be clear: the primary responsibility for the protection of its citizens rests with the State. The central Government of Ethiopia must ensure humanitarian access into Tigray. Humanitarian actors must immediately be allowed to cross the front lines with personnel and supplies. The restoration of basic infrastructure — electricity, banking, telecommunications and access to fuel and the Internet — is critical to scale up the humanitarian response.”

    2021-07-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8812 (2021) · source

25. “I too thank the briefers. Eight months into the armed conflict in Tigray, the situation remains critical and highly unpredictable. Humanitarian needs are overwhelming. Up to 900,000 people are likely suffering from near-famine conditions, with millions more at risk. Critical aid is being blocked, and humanitarians are prevented from saving lives. The current situation is extremely fluid, and information is difficult to obtain. I would like to address four key points in my intervention today. First, we reiterate our call for unrestricted and unconditional humanitarian access into and within all parts of Tigray. We welcome the federal Government’s declaration of a unilateral ceasefire on humanitarian grounds and call on all parties to move towards a permanent ceasefire.”

    2021-07-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8812 (2021) · source

26. “Norway remains a steadfast supporter of the constructive diplomatic dialogue to decrease tensions and increase trust and cooperation. I would like to conclude by emphasizing that we welcome ongoing efforts by the remaining JCPOA participants and United States on the possible return of the United States to the agreement and the return of Iran to full JCPOA implementation. The full and effective implementation of the JCPOA by all parties will contribute positively to building confidence, stability and security in the region and beyond.”

    2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source

27. “We urge Iran to return to full compliance with the JCPOA, resume its provisional application of the Additional Protocol and other transparency measures, and renew full cooperation with the IAEA without delay. We stress the importance of an urgent and clear solution for the Agency’s ability to recover and re-establish the necessary continuity of knowledge. We share the concerns brought to the Secretary-General’s attention relating to several ballistic-missile launches and a space-launch-vehicle test and encourage Iran to address these concerns. As several States have pointed out, these activities are not consistent with paragraph 3 of annex B of resolution 2231 (2015). The security situation in the region remains tense and unpredictable. We call on all stakeholders to show restraint and avoid action that might contribute to escalation.”

    2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source

28. “We also deeply regret the worrying series of steps taken by Iran since 2019 that go against its nuclear-related commitments. As the Secretary- General’s report notes, the IAEA has documented Iran’s activities in relation to the installation of new and advanced centrifuges, research and development for uranium metal production and enrichment of uranium up to 60 per cent. The Secretary-General’s report further shows that Iran’s decisions have affected the IAEA’s verification and monitoring activities, including reporting provided for in resolution 2231 (2015). Such actions are a direct challenge to the international community. The continuing escalation is deeply unsettling and must be reversed.”

    2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source

29. “We remain of the view that the full and effective implementation of the JCPOA is the best opportunity available to build international confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme. In this regard, we join the Secretary-General and other Council members in commending the professional, factual and impartial work of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). We also remain committed to efforts to facilitate legitimate trade with Iran, and we echo the Secretary- General in calling on Member States to work effectively, including by supporting the INSTEX mechanism to allow economic operators to engage in trade with Iran. Norway regrets the decision of the United States to withdraw from the JCPOA in 2018 and to unilaterally reimpose sanctions.”

    2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source

30. “I would like to start by thanking the briefers for their briefings. Norway welcomes the eleventh report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of resolution 2231 (2015) (S/2021/582) We share his view and that of other Council members that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), as endorsed by the Security Council through resolution 2231 (2015), remains a success of multilateral diplomacy. The JCPOA strengthened global nuclear non-proliferation and is important for regional and international stability and security. Its full implementation, supported by the broader international community, is vital. Over the past few years, the JCPOA has been put under increasing strain.”

    2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source

31. “Let me end by once again confirming that we fully support the sovereignty, territorial integrity and fundamental structure of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a single, sovereign State comprising two entities. On the procedure for appointing the High Representative, it is our understanding of the Dayton Accords that such decisions rest with the Peace Implementation Council Steering Board.”

    2021-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8810 (2021) · source

32. “All parties must prioritize the implementation of comprehensive reforms in a manner benefiting all citizens. That requires political will and leadership. We also encourage the Government to make further efforts to improve the rule of law to ensure that Bosnia and Herzegovina develops as a State based on that fundamental principle. That includes abiding by its international commitments on human rights and implementing decisions by the European Court of Human Rights. Norway welcomes the continued work of the European Union military operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Its contribution to maintaining stability and a safe and secure environment in Bosnia and Herzegovina is important.”

    2021-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8810 (2021) · source

33. “The Security Council has repeatedly stated its commitment to the principles of the 5+2 agenda as the condition for the closure of the Office of the High Representative, most recently in November last year in resolution 2549 (2020), which was adopted unanimously. Norway gave its support to those principles in its statement at the Council meeting on Bosnia Herzegovina held in May (S/2021/436, annex X). The authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina must take the necessary steps to complete the 5+2 agenda. Again, prior to the closure of the Office of the High Representative, the well-established requirements from 2008 need to be met. As elaborated in May, we call for continued reforms to secure stability and the welfare of all the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina.”

    2021-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8810 (2021) · source

34. “I thank Mr. Lecoq for his useful briefing. We also appreciate the presence at the meeting of Ms. Bisera Turković, Deputy Chairperson of the Council of Ministers and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Let me start by reiterating what we said when we discussed Bosnia and Herzegovina less than two months ago (see S/2021/436). Norway fully supports the Office of the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina and its ongoing work. It is important that the High Representative can continue the task of overseeing the implementation of civilian aspects of the 1995 Dayton Peace Agreement. We also use this opportunity to thank Mr. Inzko for his commitment and hard work over many years in his role as High Representative.”

    2021-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8810 (2021) · source

35. “Let me conclude by repeating our call for broader and better coordinated international engagement. Together with the Syrians themselves, all actors involved must be engaged in the process, especially those present on the ground. A new international mechanism for moving the process forward may be combined with a step-by- step approach, as proposed by the Special Envoy. We must start by building trust on all sides and then move ahead together to solve the larger questions of political reform and a political solution — one based on human rights and the rule of law.”

    2021-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8805 (2021) · source

36. “As the Special Envoy has elaborated, there is a fragile calm in Syria, with less violence than earlier in the conflict. However, as the attack on 12 June on a hospital in Afrin shows, civilians are still being killed and injured as a consequence of the conflict. A nationwide ceasefire is needed. We continue to urge all parties to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law, including with regard to the protection of civilians and civilian objects. The Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant still has a significant presence in Syria and continues to take advantage of the ongoing conflict and a lack of stability and a political solution. We must stay vigilant and continue our support to fight the Islamic State in Iraq and the Sham on every level.”

    2021-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8805 (2021) · source

37. “We urge the parties to work with the Special Envoy in good faith to lay the groundwork for a reformed Constitution, as part of a Syrian-led, Syrian-owned peace process. Let me also emphasize the important contribution of the Syrian Women’s Advisory Board and the Syrian Civil Society Support Room towards an inclusive process. As we have said previously, the Constitutional Committee is just one piece of the larger political process. Other parts of resolution 2254 (2015) must also be implemented, including a nationwide ceasefire, the release of arbitrarily detained persons and the voluntary, safe and dignified return of refugees. We have the framework for a solution in Syria, which was adopted by consensus by the Council. Now we need it to be fully implemented.”

    2021-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8805 (2021) · source

38. “I thank Special Envoy Pedersen for his briefing. We are very happy to finally have him here in person. I also want to thank Abeer Hussein for her remarks and for the important work conducted by her organization to promote the rights of women and girls. Regrettably, since last month’s meeting (see S/2021/418), there has been little to no progress on the political track. We are well aware that the Special Envoy has worked intensively with the parties in the Constitutional Committee to reach agreement on a framework for further negotiations. Yet a compromise proposal has not yet been fully agreed. We give our full support to Mr. Pedersen’s efforts to make sure there are concrete results in the next round of negotiations.”

    2021-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8805 (2021) · source

39. “We appreciate the leadership of the President of Angola and urge the Government of the Central African Republic to honour commitments on dialogue and inclusion made during the second mini-summit held in Luanda in April. We encourage the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region to continue working closely with the international community in those important mediation efforts. Let me conclude by expressing Norway’s deep appreciation for MINUSCA’s work, in very challenging circumstances. We are pleased to see that the reinforcement of the Mission is gearing up, following the decision of the Council to increase troop ceilings. Norway has also decided to second civilian staff to MINUSCA. Special Representative Ndiaye and his team have our full support and confidence.”

    2021-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8802 (2021) · source

40. “We applaud the announcement by President Touadera of the imminent launch of a “republican dialogue”. We encourage him to make that dialogue genuinely inclusive, addressing all legitimate grievances. We congratulate Prime Minister Dondra on his recent appointment and look forward to the formation of a new, inclusive Government. We call on the new Prime Minister to ensure the full, equal and meaningful political participation of women. That could be a unique opportunity to put the political process back on track. We recommend in particular making use of the excellent African Union (AU) resources, such as FemWise-Africa, to that end. Norway commends actors in the region for their engagement. We applaud the intensified involvement of the AU, the United Nations, the European Union and the Economic Community of Central African States.”

    2021-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8802 (2021) · source

41. “MINUSCA is an instrument of the Council. It must be allowed to do its work and fully and independently implement its mandate. MINUSCA’s access should be unrestricted for the Mission to truly protect civilians, as it is mandated to do. We urge all those with influence over the actors on the ground to help end the targeting of MINUSCA and ensure the safety and security of United Nations peacekeepers. Recent signals by the authorities of the Central African Republic are positive, but we need to see an actual change in the field. Norway also strongly condemns the targeting of humanitarian workers and infrastructure. We call on all actors to ensure unhindered humanitarian access. Thirdly, an inclusive political dialogue must be resumed. We need a reinvigorated peace agreement.”

    2021-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8802 (2021) · source

42. “But the national defence forces and their foreign instructors also bear a heavy responsibility. The Secretary-General is clear in his latest report, which states that, “Investigations by the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) revealed that most civilian deaths resulted from indiscriminate, disproportionate and excessive use of force by national defence forces and bilaterally deployed and other security personnel.” (S/2021/571, para. 66) That is unacceptable. The national army and those who have been invited to support it should protect the people — not kill, rape and loot. Secondly, the recent sharp increase in the number and gravity of status-of-forces agreement violations by national security forces, as well as by their Russian instructors, is inadmissible.”

    2021-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8802 (2021) · source

43. “Crucially, much of the humanitarian crisis is man- made. Therefore, we see three important elements that must change to ease the suffering of the people: First, the violence against civilians must stop. Human rights violations and abuses, including conflict-related sexual violence, must stop. Violations of international humanitarian law must stop. Violations and abuse of children’s rights, including the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict, must stop. And the targeted abuse and stigmatization of ethnic and religious minorities must stop. Let me be clear. This is a message to all parties to the conflict. Armed groups should lay down their arms and commit to the process of disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and resettlement or repatriation.”

    2021-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8802 (2021) · source

44. “Let me thank today’s briefers for their valuable insights. Let me also thank Secretary-General Guterres for his latest report on the Central African Republic (S/2021/571). I also welcome the presence of the President of Angola and the representatives of the Congo, the Central African Republic and Chad. Recent news from the Central African Republic, including the latest report of the Secretary-General, is very sobering. Norway is deeply concerned about the increase in protection concerns and the dramatic deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the country. More than half of the population is in need of humanitarian assistance and protection. One third remains displaced. Half of the country’s children are out of school, and food insecurity has reached alarming levels, with the risk of even worsening next year.”

    2021-06-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8802 (2021) · source

45. “Support from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and regional actors is key to the successful implementation of the peace agreement and an irreversible transition to free and fair elections. We will continue to support IGAD and regional actors to those ends. I want to conclude by stating that Norway’s commitment to the people of South Sudan remains as strong as ever. We look forward to the day when the promise of 9 July 2011 is finally fulfilled.”

    2021-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8801 (2021) · source

46. “Yet, comprehensive peace is essential. We call on all parties to negotiate in good faith and reach inclusive agreements. And humanitarian actors need immediate and unfettered access to all areas of the country. The Government of National Unity should speed up the implementation of the revitalized peace agreement, including the 35 per cent provision for the representation of women in Government positions. Work on the new and permanent constitution should start in order to ensure the inclusive and meaningful participation of women and young people. Political leadership is crucial to ensuring that the next decade is better than the first. The current leader must honestly assess where progress is lacking and learn from those challenges.”

    2021-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8801 (2021) · source

47. “The people continue to suffer too much from national political dynamics and the absence of peace dividends, which continue to be the most important drivers of conflict and displacement in South Sudan. Subnational conflicts in turn create food insecurity and lead to a vicious cycle, one made worse when humanitarian workers are prevented from — or worst of all attacked during — the provision of life-saving assistance. Such attacks are unacceptable. Climate change also exacerbates conflict and displacement in South Sudan, including through unseasonal flooding that sharpens competition for scarce resources. We are pleased to see that UNMISS is now mandated to address climate change. Many issues need urgent attention. It is therefore necessary to prioritize. The national dialogue made specific recommendations in that regard.”

    2021-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8801 (2021) · source

48. “And we appreciate all efforts to implement the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan and welcome the reconstitution of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly. South Sudan has engaged constructively in the Sudan’s peace processes, as witnessed by the Juba Peace Agreement and ongoing negotiations between Khartoum and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement- North. We are impressed with the brave voices of local civil society. They need to be heard, especially those of young people. Independence means freedom and democracy means respect for different opinions. However, overall we are disappointed with the current state of affairs.”

    2021-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8801 (2021) · source

49. “Basic infrastructure was lacking and many institutions had to be set up from scratch. Indeed, building a modern State takes time and is difficult. The complexity of the situation is reflected in the three elements at the heart of the mandate of UNMISS: peacekeeping, peacebuilding and State-building. Norway’s support for the people of South Sudan has been consistent for the past 50 years. We are a partner in words and in deeds. South Sudan consistently ranks among our top aid recipients, as we want to see a country at peace with itself and in which all people — especially the most marginalized — enjoy basic human rights and benefit from the fruits of development. There are important signs of progress. The cessation-of-hostilities agreement is in large part holding firm.”

    2021-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8801 (2021) · source

50. “First, let me congratulate Special Representative of the Secretary-General Haysom on his new role. Norway wishes him all the best in that important endeavour. I also thank him and Mr. Mohandis for their briefings. I also welcome the Permanent Representative of South Sudan to today’s meeting. As others have mentioned, this briefing is being held on the eve of an important milestone for both South Sudan and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) — the 10-year anniversary of the declaration of independence on 9 July 2011. A decade is not a very long time and as we reflect on the present and the way forward, we should apply a long-term perspective. South Sudan was born out of a long history of conflict, displacement and civil war. Violence marked the lives of generations.”

    2021-06-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8801 (2021) · source