YouSaid · the spoken record

Kazragiene

lines on the record
86
first
2011-10-28
most recent
2014-06-25
sittings or episodes
12
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. Afghanistan's grave economic situation, illicit economy and the issue of combating drug trafficking will all continue to require urgent attention. Finally, given the multitude of challenges, UNAMA will remain an essential partner of the Government of Afghanistan in ensuring the success of the transformation process, maintaining the progress that has been made and supporting much needed reforms. Afghanistan has Lithuania's full support in its further efforts.

    2014-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7208 (2014) · source

  2. We welcome the reinstatement of provisions of the Criminal Procedure Code that enable women to testify against relatives. We also welcome the measures taken for tracking enforcement of the law on the elimination of violence against women, and for tracking civilian casualties disaggregated by gender. However, further efforts are required to promote and advance human rights. UNAMA has an important further role to play in that regard. The independence and effectiveness of the Afghan Independent Human Rights Commission should be ensured. Regional cooperation is essential for developing a stable and prosperous Afghanistan, since today's challenges know no borders. We are heartened by the support and determination of the States in the region, including through the Istanbul Heart of Asia Process.

    2014-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7208 (2014) · source

  3. A stable, secure, economically sustainable Afghanistan can be built only based on the rule of law, strengthened democratic institutions and the implementation of citizens' rights. Progress in the Afghan human rights situation, however, remains limited. We are especially concerned that children's rights continue to be gravely violated, as reported by the Country Task Force on Monitoring and Reporting on Children and Armed Conflict. We express our grave concern that schools continue to be attacked by parties to the conflict, teachers continue to be threatened and more than 100,000 children continue to be deprived of their right to education. We call upon the Afghan authorities to endorse a road map to enhance the implementation of the children in armed conflict action plan.

    2014-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7208 (2014) · source

  4. International assistance in support of the Afghan army and police will remain essential during and beyond the transition period. We reiterate our support for the transition and look forward to the swift conclusion of the status-of-forces agreement by the country's new leadership. Lithuania has pledged to contribute in support of the ANSF after 2014. We also note that only scant progress has been achieved in the dialogue between the Government and the armed opposition. Those efforts need to continue, including on the local level, where they are most effective. We welcome UNAMA's engagement in facilitating local dialogue and peace initiatives, including through community efforts in Nuristan and by launching the latest report of the Afghan People's Dialogue on Peace.

    2014-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7208 (2014) · source

  5. However, the security situation remains a source of concern and a challenge for the new leadership of Afghanistan. Civilians continue to be caught in fighting between the Government and the armed opposition. We are especially worried about the increase in civilian causalities, which include women and children. Once again, explosive weapons have been the leading cause of civilian casualties, with improvised explosive devices standing out as weapons of particular concern. During the past three months, more than 100 children have been killed or wounded as they stumbled upon ordnance, which is often poorly marked. We also note with concern the growing number of incidents in the east of the country carried out by a range of Al-Qaida affiliates working parallel to the Taliban.

    2014-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7208 (2014) · source

  6. We welcome the support of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and its engagement with the Afghan authorities and people during the run-up to the elections and while they were being held. The EU and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe deployed their election observation teams. We urge the Afghan leadership to make full use of their observations for future elections. We commend the efforts of the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) in ensuring security during the elections, which demonstrated its growing ability to carry out large-scale security operations and provide effective country-wide security. I want particularly to underline the ANSF's role in protecting women and providing a favourable environment for their participation in the elections.

    2014-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7208 (2014) · source

  7. Among the teams ofcandidates in the first round, three included female vice-presidential candidates. It is encouraging that there were almost 300 women among Provincial Council aspirants and that, according to the preliminary results, 97 of them are winners. It is critical that the will of the people be reflected. The work of the Independent Election Commission and the Independent Electoral Complaints Commission will be important in the days ahead. We urge the remaining candidates to engage constructively with the electoral institutions and refrain from any acts that could incite violence or civil disorder or that could lead to instability. Once complaints have been considered in accordance with the law, we urge them to accept the outcome.

    2014-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7208 (2014) · source

  8. I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Jan Kubis and Executive Director Fedotov of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for their briefings. Lithuania aligns itself with the statement to be delivered on behalf of the European Union (EU) and its member States. The 2014 presidential election was an historic moment for Afghanistan, its transition and democratic development. We pay tribute to the people of Afghanistan for their courage in casting their ballots despite threats and attacks by the Taliban and other extremist and terrorist groups. The people of Afghanistan have proven that votes, not violence, count. In particular, we commend Afghan women for their determination, in the face persistent stigmatization, to have their rightful say in the election and to engage more actively in the country's political life.

    2014-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7208 (2014) · source

  9. Finally we reiterate that, as long as the authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina fail to implement the standing requirements necessary for the closure of the Office of the High Representative, the Office has an important to play.Lithuania also stands ready to engage in discussions, together with regional and international partners, on a possible recalibration of the approach towards the mandate of the Office.

    2014-05-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7176 (2014) · source

  10. We believe that the new leadership will be committed to translating the legitimate concerns of the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina into legislative and fully implemented initiatives to launch structural and institutional reforms, including the strengthening of the rule of law, anti-corruption and financial accountability measures and protecting human rights. It is critical that the international community remain committed to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The interests of States - not individuals - must prevail in the decision-making process, which will lead the country to political stability and economic welfare.

    2014-05-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7176 (2014) · source

  11. The achievements should be sustained and built upon. Again, all responsibility lies with the political leaders of the country. I wish to recall here resolution 2123 (2013), which calls on Bosnia and Herzegovina's political leaders to refrain from divisive rhetoric and make further concrete and tangible progress towards European Union integration, including by implementing the European Court of Human Rights ruling in the Sejdie-Finci case. We support the Office of the High Representative in fostering initiatives for more inclusive dialogue among all ethnic communities, including at the local level.

    2014-05-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7176 (2014) · source

  12. Without the rule of law, good governance and anti-corruption measures, economic growth will be inconclusive and stagnate further. We urge the competent authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina to launch reforms to strengthen the legislative and regulatory framework. There is also an urgent need to create a functioning State structure that would enable Bosnia and Herzegovina to be a credible partner. The Dayton Peace Agreement was a necessary tool to end the worst war in Europe since the Second World War. The fact that the country has proven capable of determining its future in a safe and secure environment is a major achievement for the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The international community, with its substantial political and financial commitment, has played an important role in supporting reforms in the country.

    2014-05-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7176 (2014) · source

  13. We are concerned about increasing statements from a number of Republika Srpska officials challenging the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as stated in the report under discussion today. Lithuania reaffirms its commitment to the territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a sovereign and united country. Much remains to be done to foster economic development in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as the country has the highest rate of youth unemployment - 59 per cent - the lowest rate of economic activity, the highest level of social assistance and the lowest foreign direct investment per capita in the region. The socioeconomic protests that started in February are a reflection of that frustration. The lack of economic growth is detrimental to restoring confidence between political leaders and society.

    2014-05-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7176 (2014) · source

  14. However, the future of the country is in the hands of its people and its political leaders. Like the representative of Jordan, we have not heard of the universal human value of ethnicity either. We commend the decision of Bosnia and Herzegovina's Central Election Commission to announce the holding of general elections in October. We urge the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina to actively participate in the elections and to choose leadership that will take on the responsibility of charting a path towards irreversible progress in the country. There should be no place for disrespectful or divisive rhetoric throughout the electoral campaign and in general.

    2014-05-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7176 (2014) · source

  15. Sound political will is already evidenced in the region, such as Croatia's recent accession to the European Union and the ongoing Belgrade-Pristina dialogue stipulating the progressive steps of Serbia and Kosovo towards the European Union. We commend neighbouring countries for their political support to Bosnia and Herzegovina and for their readiness to engage in regional cooperation, including, and most importantly, on economic cooperation. In April, the European Union sent a strong message to the political allies of Bosnia and Herzegovina calling for collective responsibility. The European Union also reassured it of its engagement and support. Broadening the European Union agenda clearly indicates that the European Union does not intend to retreat or reduce its presence in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    2014-05-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7176 (2014) · source

  16. We warmly welcome Mr. Valentine Inzko, High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, to the Security Council, thank him for his report (S/2014/3l4, annex) and reiterate our support to him. Lithuania associates itself with the statement to be made by the observer of the European Union. Almost 20 years ago, the Dayton Agreement ended the three-and-a-half-year-long Bosnian war. At the time, we had a vision of a united, stable, prosperous, multi-ethnic Bosnia and Herzegovina. Today Bosnia and Herzegovina is lagging behind its neighbours and other countries in the region. The political will of the leaders of the country to find consensus on compelling issues is crucial.

    2014-05-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7176 (2014) · source

  17. Let me conclude by underlining our support for, and commitment to the Court and the Office of the Prosecutor. We hope that they will successfully continue their thorough investigation of the situation in Libya.

    2014-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7173 (2014) · source

  18. Moreover, we believe that the situation of conflict- related detainees remains a major concern that needs an urgent solution. We take note of the fact that, despite some progress made, the deadline set by the Libyan law on transitional justice for completing the screening of detainees has expired and, in conjunction with security issues and capacity constrains, 7,000 people have not yet been transferred to the State authority. Public prosecution can hardly cope with the problem. Such a lack of effective accountability creates an environment conducive to torture or other ill treatment, including the deaths of individuals in custody. Therefore, we would like to stress the importance of the proper implementation of the law on transitional justice as a basis for the reconciliation process.

    2014-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7173 (2014) · source

  19. At the same time, we welcome the cooperation between the Libyan authorities and the Office of the Prosecutor in implementing last year's memorandum of understanding on burden-sharing in further investigations and prosecutions of persons allegedly responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Libya since 15 February 2011. We note the information provided by the Prosecutor concerning the ongoing investigations by her Office of the allegations of crimes committed by some pro-Al-Qadhafi officials who currently might be outside of Libya. Wejoin the Prosecutor in encouraging the Libyan Government to provide all the necessary support to the staff of the Court so they can conduct investigations promptly and in an unimpeded manner.

    2014-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7173 (2014) · source

  20. Since the adoption of resolution 1970 (2011), the Libyan Government has continued to demonstrate its determination to cooperate with the Court. However, with regard to the cases of Saif Al-Islam Al-Qadhafi and Abdullah Al-Senussi, we would like to stress that admissibility is a judicial issue under the exclusive purview of the Chambers of the Court. While both admissibility decisions remain under appeal, we would like to remind Libya, as the Prosecutor has states in her report, that Libya has an obligation to surrender Saif Al-Islam Al-Qadhafi to the Court. The obligation to surrender to the Court the persons against whom arrest warrants have been issued must be respected.

    2014-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7173 (2014) · source

  21. Let me begin by thanking Ms. Fatou Bensouda, Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, for her briefing and for introducing the seventh report to the Security Council. Lithuania welcomes the efforts undertaken by the Government of Libya in establishing the rule of law and bolstering an effective system ofjustice throughout the country. Some progress has been made, yet Libya continues to face complex and serious political, security and legal challenges. Despite some positive developments, the system of criminal justice is not yet fully functional and the security sector requires major reform. We believe that the International Criminal Court is an important and necessary partner of the Libyan authorities in restoring the rule of law and ensuring accountability for the serious crimes committed in Libya.

    2014-05-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7173 (2014) · source

  22. Finally, Lithuania encourages an enhanced, comprehensive and more regional approach to address the threats faced by Central African States. Let me conclude by expressing our full support for the activities of UNOCA.

    2014-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7171 (2014) · source

  23. We welcome the advancement in the inter-agency Regional Response Plan, which is aimed at addressing the growing humanitarian needs. We urge its implementation and encourage strong engagement by international actors. Rising maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea, poaching and the illegal trade in resources in the region remain of great concern. That has to be addressed, in particular as transnational rebel and terrorist groups in the Central African region, including the LRA, are financed through such activities. We welcome the regional and international activities to tackle the challenge and we commend UNOCA's engagement in mobilizing a cooperative approach to the issue among the countries of the region.

    2014-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7171 (2014) · source

  24. Therefore, the crimes by Boko Haram should be addressed by the International Criminal Court. The violent acts of Boko Haram remind us that women's rights are constantly under assault, thereby undermining gender rights, equality and development. We are deeply concerned that the activities of Boko Haram force thousands of people to flee their homes, schools and fields. We commend and encourage regional initiatives to strengthen cooperation in addressing the security threats posed by terrorist groups, as well to tackle the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. As noted by Mr. Moussa, the humanitarian effect of the Central African Republic crisis on countries in the region is yet another issue to address. Neighbouring countries continue to receive high numbers of refugees, many of whom are women and children.

    2014-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7171 (2014) · source

  25. It is important to put an end to those crimes and to ensure accountability for the perpetrators. Let me express our concern over the Boko Haram terrorist group, whose activities across the borders of Nigeria pose a threat to security in the broader region. We strongly condemn Taliban-style acts of violence against schoolgirls in Chibok, in the Borno state of Nigeria. That is a grave violation of international and national laws. Education is a human right, and girls throughout the entire world should be able to pursue it free from violence, fear and intimidation. The girls must be released immediately and unconditionally. Abduction, sexual violence and exploitation constitute grave violations of international humanitarian and human rights law, and may amount to crimes against humanity as defined in the Rome Statute.

    2014-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7171 (2014) · source

  26. We also stress the importance of developing and promoting disarmament, demobilization and reintegration programmes in LRA-affected areas as one of the means of addressing the threat posed by that terrorist group and encouraging further defections. Former combatants must be provided with an opportunity for reintegration into society and the possibility of different life to avoid their return to rebel life. The challenge remains how to successfully reintegrate children abducted by the LRA. In that regard, we welcome Chad's intention to sign a protocol on the release of 46 children who were associated with ex-Seleka in Koro-Toro, as well as the plan to develop a reintegration plan. We commend UNICEF for its work on child protection and the prevention of sexual and gender-based violence in LRA-affected countries.

    2014-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7171 (2014) · source

  27. We urge all concerned countries in the region to fulfil their commitments to fighting the LRA, including by contributing troops to the African Union Regional Task Force. We note that it is crucial to ensure close cross-border cooperation and information-sharing among actors in the region. We also note the importance of enhancing collaboration between the Regional Task Force and the African-led International Support Mission in the Central African Republic, as well as with the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic. UNOCA will continue to play a leading role in fostering the development of long-term programmes to address humanitarian problems in LRA-affected areas. Many civilians will depend on humanitarian assistance.

    2014-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7171 (2014) · source

  28. We see a sharp decrease in the number of LRA fighters and in the overall number of attacks attributable to that terrorist group. We understand that the LRA is now primarily involved in survival-mode activities and that its command structure is weakened. However, the threat posed by the group has not passed. One hundred and sixty thousand civilians remain under constant threat. We should not remain complacent. UNOCA's role is vital, especially as the deteriorating security situation in the Central African Republic and South Sudan threatens to undermine the progress made thus far. We note with concern the increased LRA activities in the Central African Republic, where the leaders of the LRA are reported to be based now.

    2014-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7171 (2014) · source

  29. Let me begin by thanking Special Representative of the Secretary- General Abou Moussa for his briefing on the latest activities of the United Nations Regional Office for Central Africa (UNOCA) and on the implementation of the regional strategy on the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA). I want to express my delegation's appreciation for his leadership and dedicated service in implementing the challenging mandate, which brought about tangible results in promoting peace and security in the Central African region. I also welcome the appointment of Abdoulaye Bathily as the incoming Head of UNOCA. The results of the activities of the African Union Regional Cooperation Initiative against the LRA and of the African Union Regional Task Force, as well as those of other regional and international actors, are obvious.

    2014-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7171 (2014) · source

  30. The Government of Prime Minister Tammam Salam, formed in February, has a lot to grapple with, including holding this year's elections within an established time frame. We reiterate our call to all parties in Lebanon to adhere to a policy of dissociation from the Syrian conflict, uphold the Baabda Declaration and maintain a national dialogue. The Security Council's strong and unanimous support to Lebanon remains critical to preserving its sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  31. Lithuania is also concerned about recent reports of certain discrepancies in the chemical weapons removal process that may indicate that the Syrian authorities have retained the ability to deploy chemical weapons. This too must be investigated and clarified. I would also like to say a few words on the dangerous and highly damaging impact that the spillover of the Syrian crisis has had on its neighbours. In Lebanon, for example, shelling, shooting and aerial incursions into its border zone from Syria, as well as movements of armed fighters and war material between the countries, have become part ofthe daily reality oflife. And yet Lebanon stoically keeps its doors open to refugees from Syria, who now total 1 million. Lebanon needs the political support and assistance of the international community.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  32. Furthermore, such elections clearly contradict the letter and the spirit of the Geneva communique of 2012 (S/2012/523, annex). The Joint Special Representative of the United Nations and the League of Arab States, Mr. Lakhdar Brahimi, has voiced deep concern about the impact of such an election on the chances of a resumption of the Geneva talks. Secondly, each State party to the Chemical Weapons Convention undertakes not to use chemical weapons, including toxic chemicals and their precursors, under any circumstances. The alleged use of chlorine gas against the Syrian population violates that commitment and raises the issue of accountability. The case must be promptly and thoroughly investigated.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  33. One such tool is the referral of Syrian case to the International Criminal Court. Let me touch upon two other issues related to Syria. First, with respect to presidential elections, holding elections in June in a country that has never had a real election, in the midst of war and under the most extreme humanitarian circumstances is a travesty of legitimacy and a mockery ofelections. Can anyone imagine polling stations being set up in Aleppo, Homs or any other city, town or village in Syria under constant and real threat to human lives, or in the various locations inaccessible due to siege? Or polling stations being set up where food and basic humanitarian necessities have not been able to enter for months? What about the votes of the refugees and displaced persons, whose numbers have reached some 9 million?

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  34. Sieges, aerial bombings, shellings and the barbaric use of barrel bombs continue unabated, causing even more destruction, suffering and death among the civilian population. Impunity reigns. The Council's recent Arria Formula meeting on the so-called Caesar report revealed horrifying facts about the industrial-scale torture and forced starvation campaign carried out by Syria's regime. The Council cannot afford to remain silent on the humanitarian situation, and it cannot ignore Syria's continuing non-compliance with resolution 2139 (2014). Tolerating violence and impunity breeds more violence and impunity. The Syrian people have already lost and suffered too much. It is time to act. We must use the tools at our disposal to drive home the message that there is no escaping accountability and justice.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  35. As I turn to the situation in Syria, I cannot but refer to the recent report (S/2014/295) of the Secretary- General on the implementation of - or rather the failure by the parties to the conflict to implement - resolution 2139 (2014) . The Secretary-General clearly states that civilians are not being protected and that humanitarian access to those most in need is not improving. The warring parties in Syria, the Syrian regime in particular, continue to violate the Geneva Conventions, international humanitarian law and the human rights of the Syrian people, including the most basic right of all - the right to life. Humanitarian access remains intermittent and malnutrition remains severe. War crimes and crimes against humanity, predominantly committed by the Government of Syria, are mounting.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  36. We are also seriously concerned about the recent disturbances at the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount complex, which is sacred to Muslims and Jews alike. Both sides must demonstrate responsibility and do everything possible to prevent a further escalation of the situation. The settlement of all outstanding issues must be pursued by way of dialogue between the parties. Lithuania condemns the attacks on Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip, including those during the Easter and Passover holidays. In light of intra-Palestinian reconciliation, Hamas must fully subscribe to the Quartet principles and renounce violence, adhere to previous agreements and recognize Israel's legitimate right to exist.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  37. That chance is now slipping away. Israelis and Palestinians deserve a life of peace, security and safety in their homes. We cannot allow a further escalation of violence, more bloodshed and more human tragedy in an already highly volatile region. It is in the interest of Israelis and Palestinians alike to return to the path of negotiation. We reiterate our call to the two parties to exercise maximum restraint and to abstain from any actions and violence that could further aggravate this very difficult and delicate moment. Political will and leadership of the highest order are required from both sides. My delegation expresses grave concern regarding the recent authorization of a new settlement in Hebron. All settlement expansion and demolitions, as well as all acts of incitement and violence from both sides, must stop immediately.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  38. I wish to thank the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Robert Serry, for his briefing. Lithuania aligns itself with the statement to be made by the observer of the European Union. Let me start with the Middle East peace process. The last time we spoke, my delegation, like all those around this table, urged the two parties to seize the rare opportunity created by the perseverance and dedication of United States Secretary of State Kerry to firmly pursue the path of negotiation and to abstain from any moves and actions that could damage the historic chance for an agreement that would lead to a viable two-State solution, with both peoples living in peace and security, paving the way for economic and other ties and exchanges that would benefit all - Israelis, Palestinians, their neighbours and the rest of the world.

    2014-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7164 (2014) · source

  39. That is the probable reason why the Dayton peace accords did not include the provisions recommended in the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the Beijing Platform for Action. Indeed, our toolbox is full of useful instruments but it is now time to take matters into our own hands, consolidate our actions on the ground and deliver together and in close cooperation with all humanitarian, diplomatic, justice, security and civil society actors.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  40. Finally, let me touch upon the issue of survivors. Care for and protection of survivors of sexual violence are another vital issue to address in order to fight stigmatization and reprisals and prevent violence and impunity in the future. We believe that reparations could significantly contribute to restoring justice, especially when other means are not feasible. Twenty years after the end of the Balkan War, an estimated 20,000 survivors of crimes of sexual violence have not seen justice. The alleged perpetrators enjoy positions of influence while victims and their children born of rape are left to suffer stigmatization and shame. Women were excluded from the peace negotiations, even though women's organizations were the first to initiate meetings with people from the other side, trying to find common ground and ways to stop the violence.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  41. The sexual violence in Syria against women and men, including in Government detention facilities; non-State armed groups targeting female family members of Government forces; and more than 300 cases of gender-based Violence in three health clinics in Damascus and Rural Damascus alone are clear violations of international humanitarian law and resolution 2139 (2014). We support referral of the situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court. Only by using all available tools at our hands will we be able to prevent further violence and end this vicious cycle of impunity. The experience in combating conflict-related sexual violence in the Central African Republic, Syria and many other countries, as reported by the Secretary- General, shows that the United Nations has to find meaningful ways to engage non-State actors.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  42. The International Commission of Inquiry on the Central African Republic should provide all relevant information to the Committee established pursuant to resolution 2127 (2013) in order to list the perpetrators and send a strong signal that all offenders will be held accountable. The capacity of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic to monitor and report human rights violations, including sexual violence, must also be enhanced.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  43. As the Council continues to horizontally integrate the issues of sexual violence into its work, including in the drafting or renewing mandates of United Nations peacekeeping and special political missions, relevant sanctions committees must review their listing and de-listing guidelines, add sexual violence to their lists of criteria, harmonize designation criteria for listed individuals by including any relevant charges from international justice mechanisms, consider sanctioning parties identified by the Secretary-General and his Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict. The Council at its disposal has and should actively consider other means to ensure accountability, such as a referrals to the International Criminal Court, special tribunals and commissions of inquiry.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  44. National political leaders have a major role to play in ensuring that international law is transposed into national law and implemented. National ownership and responsibility should be key priorities. We welcome the facilitation of national responsibility efforts through the joint communiques between the United Nations and the Governments of the Central African Republic, Cote D'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea and Somalia, as per the Secretary-General's report. We note with appreciation that women, peace and security issues are included in the Secretary-General's country-specific reports under a separate heading. The Security Council could also consistently include the women, peace and security agenda in the terms of reference of its visiting missions.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  45. Peacekeeping forces must ensure that internally displaced persons camps are free of alleged perpetrators. The United Nations Blue Helmets themselves must strictly follow the rules of conduct. Lithuania strongly supports the Group of Eight declaration on preventing sexual violence in conflict, and we are glad to learn that over 140 States have already endorsed the declaration of commitment that was introduced in New York in September 2013. Lithuania looks forward to the global summit in London in June this year, where specific actions are to be identified and agreed. However broad and strong it may be, international assistance will not provide sustainable results unless it is complemented by national commitment.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  46. We welcome the extremely important work of the Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict, which is being rapidly deployed in situations of particular concern with respect to sexual violence in armed conflict to assist national authorities in strengthening the rule of law. Another concrete and laudable example is the joint UN-Women/Justice Rapid Response training, roster management, and deployment mechanism established upon a request of the Secretary-General to ensure that each commission of inquiry is provided with expertise on investigations of sexual and gender-based violence. It is also of paramount importance that peacekeepers continue to be trained to prevent and respond to conflict-related sexual violence, and that special training materials be prepared, preferably in the native languages of peacekeepers.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  47. Having more robust monitoring and reporting mechanisms, the Security Council could also consider developing a procedure that would ensure systematic monitoring of the implementation of its decisions and commitments taken up by parties to conflict. At the same time, the lack of adequate national capacity and expertise to prevent, investigate and prosecute violence remain among the main impediments in combating sexual violence and ensuring accountability. We are encouraged by the United Nations efforts to assist the strengthening of national capacities.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  48. Among other operational provisions, it calls for the further deployment of women protection advisers and gender advisers to the relevant United Nations peacekeeping and political missions, as well as humanitarian operations. The Security Council has also recognized the need for more systematic monitoring and more timely, objective, accurate and reliable information as a basis for prevention and response. The Security Council's support of the monitoring, analysis and reporting arrangements on conflict-related sexual violence has contributed to a better understanding of the scope and roots of the problem and facilitated a more proactive stance of United Nations teams on the ground.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  49. Sexual violence has become a tactic and weapon of war and impunity prevails. The only way to effectively address this scourge is a comprehensive and integrated approach which entails prevention, early warning, justice, accountability, the participation of women in political processes and economic empowerment. The inclusion of provisions on sexual Violence in the Arms Trade Treaty is just one of the recent encouraging examples of action in that regard. In its turn the Security Council, in resolution 2106 (2013) a the fourth resolution focused on conflict-related sexual violence - has reaffirmed the centrality of gender equality and women's political, social and economic empowerment to preventing sexual violence and further developed the operational framework on conflict- related sexual violence.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source

  50. Bineta Diop, the first African Union Special Envoy on Women, Peace and Security, on her recent appointment. At the outset, Lithuania aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by observer of the European Union. Despite all of the efforts of the international community and the establishment of legal and normative frameworks, including seven Security Council resolutions, conflict-related sexual violence is on the rise. It is getting more complex. It is used to displace civilian populations, to seize land and property and to illicitly extract natural resources. Children are sexually assaulted and suffer from stigma when born out of rape. Young girls are trafficked, forced to marry rebels and used as messengers. Boys and men are subjected to sexualized violence.

    2014-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7160 (2014) · source