YouSaid · the spoken record

Kvalheim

lines on the record: 85
first: 2021-06-14
most recent: 2023-01-18
sittings or episodes: 17
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

“Experience shows that ISIL and other terrorist groups exploit existing conflicts and vulnerabilities in States and populations, including gender inequalities and sexual and gender-based violence. We must apply a gender perspective in our response to address the impact of those threats. We would like to emphasize three principles from our national counter-terrorism strategy, which takes a whole-of-society approach to terrorism. We believe that the principles of prevention, protection and aversion are globally applicable. First, on prevention, it is clear that preventing violent extremism is the most effective counter-terrorism strategy. For every terror attack prevented, we will save human lives and avoid suffering. We also avoid the economic cost of an attack, as well as the largest societal impact that results from the fear of terrorism.”
2021-08-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8839 (2021) · source
“Let me start by thanking the briefers for their comprehensive presentations, as well as the Secretary-General for his thorough biannual report (S/2021/682). The report is a harsh reminder of the fact that Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and other terrorist groups still pose a serious threat to international peace and security. Norway shares the Secretary-General’s concerns regarding the expansion of ISIL affiliates into Africa. We have witnessed numerous attacks in the Sahel, the Lake Chad region and in East and Central Africa, as well as in Mozambique. We therefore express our full support for the Global Coalition against Da’esh and, together with our international coalition partners, we will maintain our highly prioritized contributions. The fight against ISIL and other terrorist groups must continue on all levels.”
2021-08-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8839 (2021) · source
“Which technologies have the greatest potential to enhance the implementation of peacekeeping mandates? What are the main obstacles regarding the use of new technologies in United Nations peace operations? What risks do their use pose? How can we strengthen protection, safeguard against those risks and ensure that their use is in accordance with international law, including obligations under international human rights law and international humanitarian law? In conclusion, peacekeeping operations are one of the world community’s most effective tools for the promotion and maintenance of international peace and security. It is our responsibility to enable them to optimize their effectiveness and ensure that they can deliver on their mandated task.”
2021-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8838 (2021) · source
“Those principles are equally relevant regarding the use of other technologies. In that regard, it is critical that the digital dignity of affected people be preserved by protecting their personal data. To move forward, we need to ensure that discussions on the use of technology are integrated into all aspects of the peacekeeping planning process. Moreover, the use of the various technologies should continuously be evaluated and adapted as missions progress and lessons are learned. We also need to engage in partnership and cooperation, not only within the United Nations and among Member States, but also with those who develop new technologies, such as think tanks, the private sector, academia and non-governmental organizations. The questions we should ask include the following.”
2021-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8838 (2021) · source
“Norway is a strong believer in the importance of making active use of technology to enhance political processes. Political process is conducive to the establishment of a protective environment, to the benefit of peacekeepers and civilians alike. Equally importantly, an inclusive political process is vital in laying the groundwork for lasting peace. Digital technologies can play a key role in that regard through the facilitation of an analytical, gender-responsive, forward-looking understanding of conflict environments. However, one cannot simply assume that the active use of digital and other technologies will change everything for the better. Norway therefore welcomes the guiding principles for the digital transformation strategy, which include a do-no-harm approach, inclusion and transparency, and sustainability and scalability.”
2021-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8838 (2021) · source
“Norway welcomes the Strategy for the Digital Transformation of United Nations Peacekeeping. As the Secretary-General himself emphasized, it is an important contribution to his vision statement in which he identified digital transformation as an imperative for the next five years. Norway fully concurs with the emphasis placed on the use of technology to enhance the safety and security of peacekeepers, and strengthening the capacity to protect civilians is a key Norwegian priority. We will therefore provide funding to a project undertaken by the Department of Peace Operations that is using data and technology to enhance performance on the protection of civilians by United Nations operations. That includes the Situational Awareness Geospace Enterprise database and the Unite Aware platform.”
2021-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8838 (2021) · source
“Let me therefore start by thanking India and you, Your Excellency, for arranging this debate and for presenting the presidential statement on how we can move forward on this important issue (S/PRST/2021/17). As technological advances continue at a breathtaking pace, it is most timely that the Security Council meets to discuss the role of technology for United Nations peacekeeping. We need to make sure that peace operations are set up in the best way possible, including when it comes to the use of relevant technologies. Norway fully agrees with the focus given to technology as a cross-cutting issue in the preparations for the Seoul Peacekeeping Ministerial Conference. We are convinced that such a focus will help to ensure that further progress can be made in the current implementation phase of the Action for Peacekeeping Plus initiative.”
2021-08-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8838 (2021) · source
“Finally, for peacebuilders, human rights defenders, journalists and media workers, especially the brave women who for years have stood up for their rights and demanded equal participation and say in their future, the situation feels desperate. Consistent marginalization at negotiations, as well as reprisals and targeted violence against them and their family members, gives rise to deep concerns about their safety and the goal of an inclusive political settlement. In the current situation, we, the Council and the wider international community, all have a responsibility to ensure their protection, and must use all means of support and diplomatic and political channels to amplify their voices and protect them from harm.”
2021-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8834 (2021) · source
“A sustainable end to the conflict in Afghanistan can be achieved only through an inclusive, just, durable and realistic political settlement that upholds human rights, especially for women, children and minorities. We express our support for the ongoing political and diplomatic efforts centred on both Doha and Kabul to ensure a transition that is orderly and prevents further bloodshed. We commend the ongoing diplomatic efforts by several key stakeholders, including the United States, Qatar and Pakistan. The future new Government must be united, inclusive, representative and participatory. It must have the full, equal and meaningful participation of women. It must adhere to Afghanistan’s international obligations, including with regard to respecting universal human rights.”
2021-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8834 (2021) · source
“The ongoing violence across Afghanistan, including in urban areas, has caused grave harm to civilians, especially children, as well the interruption of services and damage to civilian infrastructure, including those providing water and sanitation, food and education and health services. Safe access to those services must be immediately restored. We are deeply concerned about the number of reported serious violations of international humanitarian law and human rights abuses in communities affected by the ongoing armed conflict across the country, and stress the urgent and imperative need to bring the perpetrators to justice. All parties must respect their obligations under international humanitarian law in all circumstances, including those related to the protection of civilians.”
2021-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8834 (2021) · source
“How Taliban members conduct themselves in actual deed will matter a great deal in terms of whether or not, and how, the international community will be willing and able to relate to, cooperate with and support a future new Afghan Government in which the Taliban participates. Restoring law and order in Kabul must be the utmost priority. There have been disturbing reports of looting and chaos. The current situation at and around Kabul International Airport is also unclear and deeply worrisome. We call on all parties to ensure that all Afghan and foreign nationals who wish to leave the country can do so in a safe and orderly way.”
2021-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8834 (2021) · source
“The reality with which the international community must now contend is that the Taliban movement exercises de facto control over much of the Afghan territory, including the capital, Kabul. We have taken careful note of statements by Taliban representatives over the past few days. Those include assurances that the security and safety of all Afghans, diplomats and humanitarian workers will be guaranteed. It has been communicated that Government workers, whether military or civilian, will not face retribution of any kind. Furthermore, Taliban representatives have stated that women and girls will have access to work and education. Those are encouraging words. However, the Taliban will be judged not by words, but by actions in the days, weeks and months ahead.”
2021-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8834 (2021) · source
“The country and its population are now facing a multi-layered crisis of very significant proportions — suffering and hardship because of violent conflict, drought and food insecurity, as well as the coronavirus disease pandemic and other infectious diseases, such as polio and measles. We, the Security Council and the entire international community, need to show our continued commitment to them, in both words and actions. In this unprecedented situation, Norway calls for an immediate end to the violence in Afghanistan, the restoration of security and civil order and urgent talks to resolve the current crisis of constitutional authority and arrive at a peaceful settlement.”
2021-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8834 (2021) · source
“I thank you, Mr. President, for calling this emergency meeting on the situation in Afghanistan. Allow me also to thank the Secretary- General for his participation and his briefing, as well as Ambassador Isaczai for his remarks. In echoing the Secretary-General and previous speakers, the situation in Afghanistan is extremely serious. Over the past few weeks, amid an ongoing violent conflict, the national security and defence forces of the country have almost collapsed entirely. Over the past 24 to 48 hours, the leadership of the central Government disintegrated.”
2021-08-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8834 (2021) · source
“The success or failure of a future, reconfigured AMISOM depends on the timeliness and quality of such a collective discussion.”
2021-08-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8833 (2021) · source
“We believe that the Council should consider the need for UNSOM to also improve its climate-related security risk analysis and reporting, including on how issues of climate security affect its mandate. We note the report of the independent assessment team on the engagement of the African Union (AU) in and with Somalia post-2021, as well as the discussion in the AU Peace and Security Council on 30 July. However, considering the timelines in resolution 2568 (2021) for transferring responsibility for security to Somali authorities and for the reconfiguration of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), we also strongly encourage constructive dialogue on the way forward among the AU, the United Nations, the Somali Government and other key actors.”
2021-08-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8833 (2021) · source
“While Al-Shabaab remains the main perpetrator, we also note that a significant number of violations continues to be attributed to Government security forces, including the Somali Police Force. We urge all parties to immediately end and prevent all violations against children and to comply with international humanitarian law and international human rights law. The humanitarian situation in Somalia also remains dire. The rapid shifts from severe droughts to flooding is a reminder that Somalia is increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. It is therefore critical to support the Federal Government of Somalia to strengthen its capacity to integrate responses to climate-related security risks across Government. Additionally, we are approaching the renewal of the mandate of United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM).”
2021-08-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8833 (2021) · source
“It could not be stated more clearly than in the Somali Women’s Charter itself, which reads, in its first operative paragraph: “We, the Somali women, resolve to realize equal participation in all political and peacebuilding processes and accountability from the highest officials of the [S]tate. Without women’s political participation there can be no sustained peace and development.” This call from the women of Somalia must be heeded. The message we heard today from Ms. Gaballe was clear. It is possible to find a mechanism. Among other measures, seats can be reserved for women in the Upper House and the Lower House. Norway condemns the worrisome high levels of the six grave violations against children.”
2021-08-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8833 (2021) · source
“Furthermore, we encourage Somali leaders to make full use of the good offices of the United Nations to find solutions to the outstanding electoral issues. Somalia cannot afford an electoral process that excludes half of the population. We are therefore deeply concerned that Somali leaders have yet to define a clear mechanism for implementing the 30 per cent quota for electing women. While the appointment of the advocacy committee is a positive step — and we particularly welcome the presence of Ms. Batula Axmed Gaballe in today’s meeting — Somali women deserve concrete results. And so far, the Upper House elections are not delivering. The call for a 30 per cent quota for women is not imposed from the outside.”
2021-08-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8833 (2021) · source
“I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Swan, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia Madeira and Ms. Batula Axmed Gaballe for their insightful briefings. While the electoral process faces new delays, we welcome the continued, constructive, atmosphere between Somali leaders under the leadership of Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble. Regular, constructive and inclusive dialogue in the National Consultative Council format is key to progress in implementing the electoral model, and timely, credible and inclusive elections are of utmost importance to bringing Somalia back to the promising reform track of the recent past and to ensuring democratic development. The economy and security of the Somali people have for too long suffered from the political impasse.”
2021-08-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8833 (2021) · source
“In conclusion, let me say that Norway continues to support a strong role for the United Nations. We see the appointment by the Secretary-General of a Personal Envoy for Afghanistan and Regional Issues as a positive step. As we near the renewal of UNAMA’s mandate, we look forward to consulting with all on how we, together, can enable the United Nations to play an even stronger role in supporting the Afghan people’s pursuit of a political settlement.”
2021-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8831 (2021) · source
“We must make it clear that the pursuit of victory and establishment of a new Government by military force will not be accepted and that no one in the international community would support such a Government. Any political solution acceptable to the international community must uphold human rights for all, in particular women and girls. While there is positive complementarity between the different formats supporting the peace process, including the United States and Europe meetings and what is known as the extended troika, it could also make a significant positive difference if the key international and regional stakeholders all joined together in one format to coordinate efforts and align messages. We encourage greater flexibility from the relevant capitals to make that possible.”
2021-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8831 (2021) · source
“Moreover, the targeting of human rights defenders and media workers is unacceptable and must stop. All parties must respect their obligations under international humanitarian law. Safe and unhindered humanitarian access remains crucial to protect and assist people in need. All allegations of violations of human rights and international humanitarian law must be investigated and perpetrators brought to justice. There is no acceptable alternative to an inclusive, just and realistic political settlement, as the Council underscored in its press statement of 3 August. We all share a responsibility to put effective political and diplomatic pressure on the Taliban to engage in negotiations.”
2021-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8831 (2021) · source
“Let me be clear — the worrying deterioration of the situation has come about largely as a result of the Taliban’s military offensive against district capitals and, more recently, against three provincial capitals in the west and south of the country. Those attacks are completely unacceptable. The Taliban must immediately end their ongoing military offensive. The recently reported abuses by the Taliban, including the execution of civilians in so-called revenge killings and the execution of prisoners of war, must stop. Some of those abuses may constitute war crimes and we condemn such acts unequivocally. We are also seriously concerned by reported violations by members of the Afghan national security and defence forces. The importance of ending all violence and protecting civilians, especially children, cannot be overemphasized.”
2021-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8831 (2021) · source
“We are appalled by the assassination today of the Director of Afghanistan’s media and information centre and express our condolences to his loved ones. There should be no impunity for that horrendous crime. It is indeed timely that we meet today, and we thank you, Sir, for convening this meeting. I also thank Ambassador Isaczai, Ms. Akbar and Special Representative Lyons for their comprehensive and, I must say, deeply worrying briefings. Let me express our appreciation for all United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) staff as they continue their difficult and dangerous work. The Council condemns the deplorable attack on the UNAMA offices in Herat on 30 July. We remain extremely concerned by the significant and increased loss of life, injury and displacement across Afghanistan in recent weeks.”
2021-08-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8831 (2021) · source
“We cannot continue to allow the international norm against the use of chemical weapons to erode. Let me conclude by reiterating Norway’s steadfast confidence in the work of Director-General Arias, the Technical Secretariat of the OPCW and their commitment to ensuring that upholding this vital norm is a priority.”
2021-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8830 (2021) · source
“We echo the OPCW in requesting the Syrian Arab Republic to provide all relevant information regarding the movement, and any remains of, the cylinders. Similarly, it is disappointing to hear that the deployment of the Declaration Assessment Team has been postponed for nearly three months now. Regular consultations are vital to maintaining consistent cooperation, exchanges of information and technical assistance. It is urgent that this issue be resolved. Norway urges Syria to fully cooperate with the OPCW and provide sufficient technical information or explanations to close out the 20 outstanding issues. It is critical that Syria complete the necessary measures in order to lift the suspension of its rights and privileges as a State party to the Chemical Weapons Convention.”
2021-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8830 (2021) · source
“We note the recent exchange of correspondence between Director-General Arias and Syrian Foreign Minister Mekdad regarding a proposed in-person meeting to discuss relevant developments and a way forward regarding the Secretariat’s mandated activities in the Syrian Arabic Republic. Furthermore, we are pleased to see that the issue of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) staff member’s visa has been resolved. We regret, however, that it took so long to do so. It is troubling to note that two chlorine cylinders related to the chemical-weapon incident that took place in Douma in 2018 have been moved from where investigators last inspected them. That is despite the Secretariat’s advice to not open, move or alter the containers or their contents without the consent of the Secretariat.”
2021-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8830 (2021) · source
“I will start by joining others in thanking France for an excellent presidency of the Security Council in the month of July. I wish India every success in its presidency for the month of August. You can count on our support, Mr. President, for your work. I would also like to thank the Deputy to the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Mr. Markram, for his briefing on the monthly report towards the full elimination of the Syrian chemical-weapons programme. It is discouraging to note yet again that very little progress has been made regarding the elimination of chemical weapons in Syria. The Syrian Arab Republic must fulfil its obligations in accordance with the Chemical Weapons Convention and resolution 2118 (2013).”
2021-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8830 (2021) · source
“Thirdly and finally, we know the effects of climate change on security through its impact on increasingly scarce resources. It is time for the Security Council to follow the African Union and African leadership and take climate and security seriously. At the same time, we acknowledge that MINUSMA’s resources are limited. That is why we are looking at ways to financially support its climate and security work. In conclusion, as we will also highlight in Norway’s updated Sahel strategy later this month, we wish to emphasize that security depends on inclusive and sustainable development, good governance and respect for the human rights of all Malians. They deserve to see the Algiers Agreement become a reality.”
2021-06-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8794 (2021) · source
“We are deeply concerned by the worsening human rights situation, including the reported violations by national, regional and international forces. We commend MINUSMA for its efforts to support investigations into allegations of human rights violations and abuses and violations of international humanitarian law. We call on the authorities to hold perpetrators to account. To that end, Norway together with France is proud to provide a specialized capacity-building police team to MINUSMA. We ask again for follow-up to the recommendations of the International Commission of Inquiry for Mali — a report requested by the parties to the Algiers Agreement. A concrete first step could be a conference on impunity and fair criminal justice, in line with the Commission’s final recommendation. Norway stands ready to provide its support.”
2021-06-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8794 (2021) · source
“More than half of those closures are the result of attacks and threats by armed groups. Attacks on education have significant long-term negative impacts on children and their communities. There is no question that safe and unhindered humanitarian access is crucial to protect and assist people in need; provide education; and prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence. We echo the Secretary-General’s words that: “Mali needs now, more than ever, leaders who stand together in the interest of their country and the future of their children” (see S/2021/519, para. 91). My second point is the importance of ensuring human rights and accountability, which is a prerequisite for the trust-building needed to move Mali forward as a country.”
2021-06-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8794 (2021) · source
“Norway strongly supports the roles of the Economic Community of West African States, the African Union and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) in monitoring the transition. Amid these turbulent times, we are embarking on a mandate renewal for MINUSMA. In addition to women and peace and security, let me highlight three other priority areas for Norway. Our first priority is the protection of civilians, in particular children. We repeat our deepest condolences for the victims of the recent horrific attacks in Burkina Faso and elsewhere in the region. As Special Representative of the Secretary-General Wane mentioned, we also know that more than 1,300 schools in Mali remain closed, which affects hundreds of thousands of children.”
2021-06-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8794 (2021) · source
“But make no mistake — more inclusive processes are still needed. Only days after that encouraging event, another coup was reported in Mali, potentially jeopardizing some of the hard-won progress achieved to date. A huge responsibility now rests with those who took it upon themselves to forcefully take over Mali’s transition. Let me be clear: we join the calls for the immediate release of former transitional leaders from house arrest and detention. We expect the recently appointed transitional Government to respect the timeline for holding inclusive, transparent and credible presidential elections by March 2022. As the Transitional Charter stipulates, neither the transitional President nor the members of the transitional Government are eligible to run for office in the elections.”
2021-06-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8794 (2021) · source
“I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Wane for his first briefing this morning. We also appreciated the insights of Ms. Fatima Maiga — a treasured former consultant at our Embassy in Bamako. We strongly commend her leadership in strengthening the voices of women in Mali. I also thank her for the kind words she addressed to us. We also appreciate the presence of Ambassador Issa Konfourou. Recently, Norway joined Mali, the United Kingdom and France in an event that underscored one of the achievements Ms. Maiga has contributed to: the increased participation of women in the Monitoring Committee for the Algiers Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali. The ideas and recommendations shared by those women clearly demonstrated why their participation is a master key to progress.”
2021-06-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8794 (2021) · source