YouSaid · the spoken record

Lewicki

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325
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2018-04-27
most recent
2020-01-09
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53
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un-security-council

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  1. We deeply regret that the Burundian Government did not take the opportunity to make progress on national reconciliation and decided not to attend the fifth round of negotiations. It goes without saying that only an inclusive political process can ensure a sustainable and widely acceptable solution. It is high time for the Government to prove its readiness for a political compromise and engage in a real dialogue with a wider spectrum of the opposition. It is especially important now with the presidential elections approaching in 2020, as it is the role of the authorities to ensure that the electoral process is free, fair, transparent and truly inclusive. Secondly, on human rights, let me stress that, in our view, the issue of human rights lies fully within the mandate of the Security Council, in line with the Charter of the United Nations.

    2018-11-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8408 (2018) · source

  2. At the outset, I would like to thank Mr. Michel Kafando, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Burundi, and Ambassador Jurg Lauber, Chair of the Burundi configuration of the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC), for their very important and comprehensive briefings. Let me also to take this opportunity to express Poland's full support for all the efforts of the Special Envoy, Mr. Kafando, and the PBC's Burundi configuration, under the able stewardship of Ambassador Lauber, to ensure peace, stability and development in Burundi. Allow me to focus on three key issues, namely, the political process, human rights and the economic and humanitarian situation. First, on the political process, Poland commends all the efforts made by the East African Community and the facilitator, Mr. Benjamin Mkapa, to enable the intra-Burundian dialogue.

    2018-11-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8408 (2018) · source

  3. The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has a significant impact on the stability ofCentral and sub-Saharan Africa. Poland calls on all regional and subregional organizations, as well as neighbouring States, to continue their coherent and effective support for the political process in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In that context, we welcome the assistance provided by the Southern African Development Community to the electoral process. In conclusion, the upcoming elections mark an opportunity to take an indispensable step towards lasting security and development of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We express the hope that this chance will not be wasted and that the ambitions of the Congolese society will be fulfilled.

    2018-11-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8397 (2018) · source

  4. Poland encourages the Democratic Republic of the Congo Government to pursue dialogue, fully implement the confidence-building measures contained in the Saint-Sylvestre agreement, ensure a level playing field for all the parties and open public space. We urge the Democratic Republic of the Congo authorities to release all political prisoners remaining in detention, including civil society activists and human right defenders. We note the Government's recent initiative on women's participation in elections, and encourage the authorities to increase their engagement in this regard. The fair and safe participation of both women voters and aspiring women candidates in the ongoing electoral process needs to be assured.

    2018-11-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8397 (2018) · source

  5. Let me also reiterate that respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms remains key to a democratic transition of power and the stability of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In this context, persistent reports of restrictions of freedom of expression, freedom of assembly and violations of media freedom are of great concern to us. We are also worried about shrinking space for civil society, as a strong and active civil society remains an essential element of a vital democracy. Furthermore, the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to Dr. Denis Mukwege underscores the urgent need to address in an effective way the sexual violence faced by so many women in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

    2018-11-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8397 (2018) · source

  6. Poland hopes that the constructive commitment of all the parties will be maintained until the end ofthe election campaign and in the post-electoral period. We are highly encouraged by Ms. Zerrougui's words that all stakeholders remain committed to the electoral process. In that context, we reiterate our call on the Democratic Republic of the Congo authorities to organize truly fair, credible, transparent and inclusive elections on 23 December. Poland continues to recognize the building of trust among all political and social actors as a precondition for the establishment of an environment conductive to credible elections. We encourage all stakeholders to continue their engagement through dialogue in order to build political consensus, especially on key contentious issues, including the voting machines and the voter register.

    2018-11-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8397 (2018) · source

  7. At the outset, I would like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary- General, Ms. Leila Zerrougui, for her briefing and for her tireless efforts aimed at strengthening peace, stability and democracy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Allow me also to thank Ms. Mbela for sharing with us civil society's views and expectations. Let me seize this opportunity to stress that Poland highly values the input of civil society into the Security Council's work because civil society quite often provides us with a reality check on the ground. Like other delegations, Poland welcomes the progress achieved this year in the implementation of the electoral calendar, as well as the visible and active involvement of all national stakeholders in the electoral preparations.

    2018-11-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8397 (2018) · source

  8. We also call upon the Iraqi authorities to ensure the provision of humanitarian assistance, protection and the integration of women and children who are of Da'esh families that have no link with Da'esh. In conclusion, let me express Poland's readiness to cooperate closely with the new Government of Iraq as well as our full support for the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq.

    2018-11-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8396 (2018) · source

  9. That is why we believe that special emphasis must also be placed on the issue of serving justice to the victims of atrocities committed by terrorist groups, based on fair-trial requirements and in accordance with international standards. We express our full support to the Investigative Team tasked with assisting Iraq in holding accountable the perpetrators of violence. We strongly urge the Iraqi authorities to include sexual and gender-based crimes and other internationally recognized crimes in the prosecution ofDa'esh fighters. We hope that the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Nadia Murad will provide further impetus to ensure justice for women and members of religious minorities in Iraq, who are victims of outrageous and unthinkable violence by Da'esh.

    2018-11-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8396 (2018) · source

  10. Last but not least, we believe that consolidating security, law and order and providing for the return of internally displaced persons should also be among the most important areas of the new Government's focus. We regret that none of the well-qualified female politicians were elected to senior leadership positions. We call upon the political leaders to ensure the appointment of women to senior positions within the new Administration and their representation at the highest levels of decision-making structures. There is no peace withoutjustice, we have already said so in this Chamber on a number of occasions, and it also relates to Iraq.

    2018-11-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8396 (2018) · source

  11. With the electoral process completed, we encourage the political parties in Iraq to work constructively towards the implementation of political, economic and social reforms, as well as the advancement of stabilization and reconstruction in the areas liberated from Da'esh. As the developments in the past months have shown, Iraqi citizens need an accountable and efficient Administration that would address the expectations of all groups of Iraqi society. Therefore, we would like to draw the attention of the new Iraqi Government to the need to focus on the delivery of basic public services and tangible benefits for all Iraqis, including providing good governance, creating job opportunities, improving living conditions, fighting corruption and promoting economic development.

    2018-11-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8396 (2018) · source

  12. We also welcome the partial formation of a new Government by Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi and the adoption of the Government programme by the new Council of Representatives. We are confident that the appointment of the remaining members of the Cabinet will be completed soon. We urge the political parties to work constructively to that end and contribute to the swift formation of an effective Administration. We would also like to welcome the elections held in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region and the progress made in relations between Baghdad and Erbil. We call upon them to capitalize on that positive trend and resolve all outstanding issues through dialogue and consensus, based on the full application of the provisions of the Iraqi Constitution.

    2018-11-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8396 (2018) · source

  13. At the outset, I would like to thank Mr. Jan Kubis for his informative briefing. Let me also express our most sincere gratitude for his outstanding service and enormous contribution to peace and stability in Iraq. We look forward to closely working with Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert. Let me also reiterate our appreciation for the tremendous work that the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) is doing in assisting the Iraqi authorities. Let me begin by commending Iraq for the completion of the electoral process within the constitutional time frame and by welcoming the election of Mr. Barham Salih as President of the Republic of Iraq and of Mr. Mohammed al-Halbousi as the Speaker of the Council ofRepresentatives. As pointed out by Mr. Kubis, it was an exemplary, democratic and peaceful transfer of power.

    2018-11-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8396 (2018) · source

  14. We reiterate the Security Council's call on all States and concerned regional and other international organizations to do the same in order to reinforce the pursuit of justice and contribute to the maintenance of the international peace and security because - let me reiterate - there is no peace without justice. That is why Poland is so pleased to continue supporting Ms. Bensouda's Office and was happy to co-sponsor the Arria Formula meeting on the link between the work of the ICC and the Security Council in July.

    2018-11-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8388 (2018) · source

  15. Bensouda about her good cooperation with the Libyan Prosecutor- General's office, which it is very commendable and encouraging. It could, among other things, advance the investigative efforts, potentially deter further crimes and contribute to improving the situation in Libya and beyond. We encourage its further development and call on all parties to support the political process and work towards strengthening the rule of law and achieving peace in Libya. Poland remains committed to cooperating fully with the Court and the Prosecutor, as requested in paragraph 5 of resolution 1970 (2011), referring the situation in Libya to the International Criminal Court.

    2018-11-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8388 (2018) · source

  16. However, Poland also supports the call of the Office of the Prosecutor on all States to take all possible steps to execute the warrants and surrender those named therein to the ICC, where they will receive a fair, impartial and public hearing of the allegations against them. We also emphasize the need for cooperation with the Office on a wide range of other activities, which include, inter alia, the seizure of evidence, the interviewing of witnesses and the freezing of assets. Poland appreciates such cooperation, including of the Office of the Prosecutor, with the United Nations Support Mission in Libya, the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011) concerning Libya, the Libyan Prosecutor-General's office and several States, organizations and civil society groups. And we were very pleased to hear from Ms.

    2018-11-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8388 (2018) · source

  17. Furthermore, the abduction and prolonged detention of persons without trial or other legal process, as well as crimes, including killings, sexual violence and the torture of migrants transiting through Libya, allegedly continue. We reiterate our call for an end to all atrocities in Libya and for full respect for international law, including international humanitarian law and human rights law. Poland recognizes that a crucial step in combatting impunity for serious crimes in Libya is the arrest and surrender to the ICC of the individuals named in arrest warrants issued by the Court. We note that Libya remains under an obligation and has the primary responsibility in that respect.

    2018-11-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8388 (2018) · source

  18. Poland supports the call on all States, including those on the Council, non-State actors, international organizations and other stakeholders to work together towards those goals. Such cooperation is vital in the light of the reported and ongoing violence and violations of international law, including international humanitarian law and human rights law, on the ground. We are deeply disturbed and gravely concerned by the ongoing serious human rights violations and abuses. Those include the killing of civilians, including women and children, the repeated forced eviction and displacement of hundreds of families, and restriction of humanitarian access.

    2018-11-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8388 (2018) · source

  19. Fatou Bensouda, Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, for presenting the sixteenth report of the Prosecutor of the ICC, pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011). The conclusion of the report reads in part as follows: "Accountability for crimes under the Rome Statute and full respect for the rule of law are integral to sustainable peace, stability and development in Libya The appalling cycle of violence, criminality and impunity cannot be allowed to continue for the sake of the Libyan people and the security and stability of the country and the region." We very much agree with those statements and are grateful for the commitment of the Office of the Prosecutor to investigating allegations of serious criminal activity in Libya and to bringing justice to the victims of atrocity crimes committed there.

    2018-11-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8388 (2018) · source

  20. As this is the first public meeting of the Security Council under new leadership, let me congratulate China on assuming the presidency of the Council for this month. We look forward to closely working with you, Mr. President, in the upcoming weeks and days. Let me also take the opportunity to express our deepest appreciation for Ms. Bensouda and her team for their tireless efforts aimed at fighting impunity and ensuring accountability. As Ms. Bensouda has just said, there is a link betwen the work of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the mission of the Security Council, which is the maintenance of international peace and security, as there is no peace without justice. So I once again thank Ms. Bensouda and assure her of Poland's continued support for her work. I would like to thank Ms.

    2018-11-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8388 (2018) · source

  21. In that context, we welcome the extension of MINURSO's mandate for another six months. We also wish to thank the United States as penholder for its efforts during the negotiations. In conclusion, let me assure you, Mr. President, of Poland's continued support for the mission of the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General for Western Sahara, Horst Kohler.

    2018-10-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8387 (2018) · source

  22. Poland voted in favour of resolution 2440 (2018) and regrets that the Council was unable to reach consensus on it. We supported the resolution because we believe that it is the Security Council's responsibility to assist the parties in achieving ajust, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution to this long-standing dispute, based on compromise and in accordance with the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Poland appreciates the important role played by the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) on the ground and the need for it to fully implement its mandate, including its role in helping the Personal Envoy reach a mutually acceptable political solution. We believe that the resolution adopted today by the Security Council is an important step in advancing that process.

    2018-10-31 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8387 (2018) · source

  23. We believe that a joint visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the weeks to come could be instrumental in reaching a political solution in the country. In that respect, we also stress the importance of the United Nations Office to the African Union in providing support and ensuring concerted action between the two Councils. In conclusion, I reiterate Poland's support for strengthening United Nations-AU cooperation and our appreciation to the Secretary-General for his continued efforts focused on strengthening the partnership with the African Union, as well as other regional partners in Africa. Let me assure you, Madam, that Poland stands ready to work closely with African partners not only on African issues, but also on ways to address our shared global challenges.

    2018-07-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8314 (2018) · source

  24. At this juncture, allow me to once again express Poland's appreciation for African mediation and facilitation efforts in various conflicts, including in South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Central African Republic. Poland believes that continued United Nations support for the African Union in its efforts to equip itself with the capacities, tools and means necessary for effective action is critical. It is of utmost importance in enabling both organizations to face new threats and address complex sources of instability in Africa. We believe that regular exchanges between the Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council are an essential instrument for deepening the partnership. In that context, we would be supportive of the possible expansion ofjoint field missions of both Councils.

    2018-07-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8314 (2018) · source

  25. Let me stress that enhanced cooperation and collaboration between the United Nations and the African Union are needed not only in relation to peace and security operations; they are equally important in the area of mediation and conflict prevention, as well as in addressing the root causes of conflict, strengthening political processes and respect for rule of law, and good governance, and promoting sustainable and inclusive development. Therefore, we commend the United Nations-AU action plan on implementation of Agenda 2063 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as agreed at the second United Nations- African Union Annual Conference held in Addis Ababa in early July.

    2018-07-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8314 (2018) · source

  26. Poland believes that, if African peace and security operations are to be most effective, the partnership between the two organizations should be further strengthened in the area of joint analysis and planning. We recognize the need for flexible, predictable and sustainable funding of AU peace operations authorized or mandated by the Security Council, and we stand ready to further discuss various options and models of such support, including access to United Nations-assessed contributions. At the same time, we underline the need to ensure the full compliance of African-led peace operations with United Nations rules and standards in terms of troop quality, training and equipment, as well accountability, conduct and discipline.

    2018-07-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8314 (2018) · source

  27. In recent years, the African Union has taken on important responsibilities, and its role in promoting peace and security has only expanded. We appreciate the ownership it has consistently demonstrated in tackling security challenges and in bringing together subregional organizations in joint efforts to ensure peace, stability and development on the African continent. We all acknowledge the comparative advantages of African Union peace operations - their understanding of the realities on the ground, ability to rapidly deploy and flexibility, and capacity to perform mandated tasks that United Nations peacekeeping operations are unable to perform.

    2018-07-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8314 (2018) · source

  28. Let me begin by joining other speakers in thanking Special Representative Zewde and African Union (AU) Commissioner Chergui for their insightful briefings. Allow me also to take this opportunity to congratulate Ms. Zewde on her new appointment and wish her every success in fulfilling her mandate, including fostering progress between the United Nations and the African Union. We could not agree more with Ms. Zewde that partnership is not a choice. It is a necessity, and that is why Poland is a steadfast supporter of fostering the strategic partnership between the United Nations and the African Union. We therefore welcome the progress made over the past year, covered by the report of the Secretary-General (S/2018/678) under consideration.

    2018-07-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8314 (2018) · source

  29. We believe that stopping the uncontrolled flow of arms to the territory of South Sudan will result in a decrease in the number of clashes on the ground and violations of the ceasefire, but more important, it will significantly reduce violence and brutality against civilians. It is the resolution's key objective to protect civilians. In its previous resolutions, the Council has made it clear that the fighting in South Sudan must stop and that there will be consequences for those who violate the ceasefire and obstruct the peace process. We welcome the fact that today the Security Council decided to put its words into actions. Lastly, let me extend my delegation's very warm welcome to the new Permanent Representative of Cote d'Ivoire, and we look forward to working with him and with his excellent team very closely.

    2018-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8310 (2018) · source

  30. Poland voted in favour of resolution 2428 (2018), and we regret that we were unable to reach a consensus on that important text. We supported the resolution because we are appalled by the continuing violence in South Sudan, and we believe that it is the Security Council's responsibility to introduce adequate measures within its capacity with a view to scaling down and preventing the ongoing human tragedy in South Sudan. Poland appreciates the regional efforts of African leaders and their leadership of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development in elaborating a viable political solution to the conflict and ending civil war in South Sudan. We see the measures adopted today by the security Council as an important means to advance the peace process.

    2018-07-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8310 (2018) · source

  31. While leading the climate negotiations, we will bear in mind that climate security issues constitute the core threat for countries vulnerable to climate change, especially small island developing States and least developed countries. In conclusion, let me underline that effective responses to climate change and conflict are strictly linked to the implementation of the security and sustainable development agendas. Only by taking coherent and integrated actions in those areas can tangible and durable progress be accomplished.

    2018-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8307 (2018) · source

  32. That is why we are grateful that Sweden has addressed that topic. Such debates could complement other deliberations carried out in United Nations forums, mainly in the General Assembly, within their respective mandates and by various international and regional organizations and other stakeholders. That is the point we have been making consistently in recent years and which we will be raising in the future if need be. This year, Poland will assume the presidency of the twenty-fourth Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP). This will be the fourth time we will hold the COP presidency, and we intend to use our past experience to deliver positive conclusions.

    2018-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8307 (2018) · source

  33. In order to fulfil such a task, the Security Council should be equipped with accurate climate-related security risk information, analysis and early-warning mechanisms. We cannot overestimate the critical role of reliable data about climate-change related risks, which is key to avoiding conflicts, building resilience and preventing natural disasters. Therefore, we believe that in order to implement adequate prevention measures, comprehensive information from the field is inevitable. All States and organizations should use the full potential of their field offices and diplomatic missions in order to gather reliable and current information from the regions affected or vulnerable to climate change and conflicts. Poland would like to see regular discussions and reporting on climate change and security on the agenda of the Security Council.

    2018-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8307 (2018) · source

  34. That is why the focus should be put primarily on preventing and mitigating the root causes of conflicts and natural disasters, as well as on enhancing countries' adaptive capacities, strengthening resilience and reducing their vulnerability to climate change. We believe that the Security Council is key to enhancing the United Nations response to conflicts, in particular in the context of conflict prevention in regions affected by adverse effects of climate change, such as the Lake Chad basin, West Africa, the Sahel and Somalia. The Council should underline the need for better climate-related security risk assessment and management strategies, as has been discussed by a number of previous speakers.

    2018-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8307 (2018) · source

  35. Ibrahim oultined in her statement, is that those impacts are threat multipliers that can aggravate poverty, environmental degradation and social tensions, and can lead to escalations oflocal and regional conflicts. Poland would like to underscore the inevitable need of acting in the spirit ofmultilateralism. The problem of climate change is not a problem only of the affected or risk-exposed countries. It is also a global challenge of the whole international community and needs a global response. The only effective way to respond to that challenge is to act together. Every country should share the responsibility to act. The effective prevention of conflicts that have resulted from climate change is definitely more cost effective than addressing their consequences.

    2018-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8307 (2018) · source

  36. More than 10 years ago, the Security Council discussed the link between climate change and security for the first time (see S/PV.5663), as mentioned by Ambassador Karen Pierce. Since then, the situation has not improved. Since then, the number of climate change-related conflicts has only increased. That is why we believe that it is more timely than ever that we are having this debate right now. It falls fully within the Security Council's mandate. Ifthe Security Council does not address this topic on climate-related security risks, we will fail the people on the ground and fail to deliver on our mandate. Having said that, I wish to stress that we simply cannot neglect the negative impacts of climate change on global peace and security. What we are seeing, as Ms.

    2018-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8307 (2018) · source

  37. At the outset, let me thank the Swedish presidency for organizing this highly important debate. I would also like to thank Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed and Minister Hassan Janabi for their excellent briefings. Last but not least, I am very grateful to Ms. Hindou Ibrahim for her very touching statement and for having reminded us, the Security Council, of our responsibility to tackle the security challenges resulting from climate change, because we are talking about the effects of climate change on the lives of ordinary people. We also welcome the President of Nauru and look forward to hearing his statement on how climate change is affecting his country, as has been mentioned by several speakers. It is a kind of existential threat to a number of small island States.

    2018-07-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8307 (2018) · source

  38. In conclusion, Poland would welcome further Security Council discussions on mine action. We believe that countries should continue the practice of yearly reporting on the issue, which would contribute to the enhancement of all activities aimed at mitigating threats posed by contamination.

    2018-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8304 (2018) · source

  39. The first was the twentieth anniversary of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on Their Destruction, which aims to put an end to the suffering and casualties caused by anti-personnel mines. We are very glad that in 2017 the number of States party to the Convention increased to an impressive 164. The second event was the twentieth anniversary of the United Nations Mine Action Service. We would like to reiterate our full recognition for the important role of the United Nations Mine Action Service since 1997 in mitigating threats posed by mines and associated remnants of war. Since 2015, Poland has regularly supported the activities of the United Nations Mine Action Service by making annual budgetary donations. We intend to continue that support this year.

    2018-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8304 (2018) · source

  40. The number of casualties caused by mines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices increased more than twofold in 2017, compared to 2014. That statistic is terrifying. Afghanistan, Libya and Yemen are among those most severely affected by contamination, not to mention eastern Ukraine, where, a few months after August 2017, more than twice as many civilians were killed by remaining explosives. On a positive note, the joint and coherent efforts of national and international actors can lead to results. We saw that in Colombia, where considerable progress in mine action has been achieved. Last year, we celebrated two important events.

    2018-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8304 (2018) · source

  41. Last year, the adoption of the first stand-alone resolution on mine action was a clear sign of the concerns we all share about the serious threat to civilians, including children, humanitarian and medical personnel, posed by landmines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices. Today we share that concern even more. The importance of resolution 2365 (2017) and its message must be emphasized. For Poland, as the European Union facilitator of a General Assembly resolution on mine action, the effective and coordinated engagement of the United Nations in that area is of utmost importance. Regrettably, due to protracted active conflicts and fighting, there is an ever-increasing number of contaminated areas and the scale of a worldwide threat posed to the civilian population is very alarming.

    2018-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8304 (2018) · source

  42. We agree with the Secretary-General's observation that the key role of mine action is sustaining peace. We therefore believe it critical to incorporate possible mine action from the earliest stages of planning and programming cycles when a threat occurs. We share the Secretary-General's views on the link between actions on the peace and stability and sustainable development agendas. Only by integrating those areas through joint action can solid and durable solutions be accomplished. Poland would like to underscore the crucial importance of promoting risk education activities among the affected populations, including youth and children, as well as constant support for the victims. Education is the key solution to minimize the risk of suffering of thousands of affected civilians.

    2018-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8304 (2018) · source

  43. Let me to start by thanking the Assistant Secretary-General for Rule of Law and Security Institutions in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations, Mr. Alexander Zouev, for his very informative and thorough briefing. Let me also express our appreciation to the personnel of the United Nations Mine Action Service for its daily work to save lives. Poland welcomes the report of the Secretary- General on a comprehensive approach to mine action (S/2018/623), which is indeed a useful source of comprehensive information on the scale of the current threat posed by mines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices. It enables the Security Council to gain thorough insight into the situation of civilians exposed to mine risk, including children, women, humanitarian personnel and peacekeepers.

    2018-06-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8304 (2018) · source

  44. Those undertakings require determination and engagement, which we will continue to support through training and advisory activities, within the framework of the NATO-led Resolute Support Mission. Finally, let me refer to the briefing of Special Representative Yamamoto, who said that there are currently unprecedented opportunities to make progress in seeking peace, and that it is up to the people and Government ofAfghanistan to seize those opportunities and strengthen their resolve to achieve lasting peace and development. He also noted that it is up to us, the Security Council, and the international community to provide the Government and the people of Afghanistan with the necessary assistance in that regard.

    2018-06-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8294 (2018) · source

  45. The security situation in the country continues to negatively impact civilians, particularly those who are most vulnerable, such as women and children. In that respect, I wish to echo the words of the representatives of France and Sweden to the effect that more needs to be done to protect those members of society, particularly children. The continued violent acts of terrorist groups remind us of the fundamental importance of strengthening Afghanistan's institutions, specifically those tasked with ensuring the security and defence of the country and its people. Poland supports and encourages the Afghan Government to continue its efforts to improve the capability of the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces.

    2018-06-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8294 (2018) · source

  46. Broad participation by women, both as candidates and voters, remans a high priority for us. We see it as an important precondition for enhancing peace and security. The development of a prosperous and peaceful future must be founded on wide and equal access to education for both boys and girls. Unfortunately, the report published this month by UNICEF, entitled Global Initiative on Out-of-School Children: Afghanistan Country Study, indicates that almost half of Afghan children are denied education - a very basic human right - due to a lack of security, poverty and discrimination. We think that the current situation needs to be addressed by the Afghan Government, with strong assistance provided by the international community and civil society organizations.

    2018-06-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8294 (2018) · source

  47. Poland welcomes the announcement of 20 October as the date on which parliamentary elections will be held. We regard as a key political commitment the holding of parliamentary elections in 2018 and presidential elections in 2019 in a transparent, inclusive and credible manner. We note that the process faces challenges at the outset, such as recruiting personnel for electoral bodies and providing security for polling stations. However, such challenges must be overcome by the authorities. Poland hopes that the new Parliament will create a strong legislative foundation for the sustainable development and protection of human rights in the country. With regard to technical support, we encourage the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan to provide necessary assistance at the request of the Afghan authorities.

    2018-06-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8294 (2018) · source

  48. Poland reiterates the significance of the peace process, which should be continued through constructive dialogue. In that regard, we recognize President Ghani's comprehensive and unprecedented proposal, which was made during the second Kabul process conference in February, as an important step forward. We hope that that offer will be given a chance and eventually lead to a genuine peace process. We count on the representatives of Taliban groups to respond positively to the offer of peace talks without conditions and to take part in an inclusive Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process. Goodgovernanceandsuccessfulinstitution-building require adherence to rules and procedures that enable all citizens to participate in the democratic process.

    2018-06-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8294 (2018) · source

  49. Let me start by conveying Poland's deepest sympathy following further senseless killing of innocent civilians in the recent attacks. It simply demonstrates the kind of enormous challenges that lie ahead on the path to lasting peace in Afghanistan. I would like to thank all our briefers - Special Representative Yamamoto, Executive Director Fedotov and Under-Secretary-General Voronkov - for their insightful and thorough briefings. Let me also take this opportunity to pay tribute to the courageous and dedicated team of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan for its daily efforts to advance peace and stability in Afghanistan. Poland aligns itself with the statement to be delivered later today by the observer of the European Union.

    2018-06-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8294 (2018) · source

  50. That is why Poland shares the concerns about Iranian activities undertaken contrary to the provisions of annex B to resolution 2231 (2015), as meticulously reported by the Secretary-General. In conclusion, let me stress the necessity of maintaining the unity of the Council on the question of peace and security in the Middle East. We believe that more needs to be done by all of us, in particular regional actors, to find lasting peaceful solutions to all regional conflicts and challenges.

    2018-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8293 (2018) · source