YouSaid · the spoken record

Lind

lines on the record: 53
first: 2015-03-25
most recent: 2018-02-06
sittings or episodes: 11
sources: un-security-council

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“In closing, I would like to express our gratitude for the work done by Japan in the Informal Working Group and wish all the best to Kuwait for its chairmanship in the next two years.”
2018-02-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8175 (2018) · source
“In that connection, ACT believes the use of colour-coded ballots during straw polling should be discouraged and that the equal rights and role of all Council members in the process should be upheld. Last but not least, the ACT group calls for regular public briefings by the Security Council on developments in the nomination process and for open communication with regard to straw poll results. Overall we are glad to witness that the members of the Security Council are more often speaking in the open Chamber and contributing to increased transparency. We are fully aware that there are discussions and situations that need to be dealt with behind closed doors, but we encourage Council members to hold open meetings whenever possible and to seek interaction with the wider membership and other organs, as well as with civil society.”
2018-02-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8175 (2018) · source
“Although there is still time until the peak of the next Secretary- General selection cycle, I would like to draw Council members' attention to a few suggestions from our "lessons learned" document for future reference. First, the ACT group believes that the interaction between the Security Council and the General Assembly needs to be improved to live up to the expectations of the membership and the new standards of openness and transparency. In that regard, we encourage the Security Council to review its working methods, building on the discussions held among Council members during the latest selection. Secondly, the ACT group recalls the collective responsibility of the Security Council to reach consensus on a recommendation to the General Assembly for the appointment of the Secretary- General.”
2018-02-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8175 (2018) · source
“Furthermore, and as was already expressed in the 2005 World Summit outcome document, the main goal should be increased ownership of the Council's work by all countries and its accountability to the membership. We have closely seen the importance of effective and substantiated communication between the Security Council and the wider United Nations membership in the recent process of appointing the Secretary-General. In this regard, Estonia, acting on behalf of the ACT group, sent letters to the Secretary-General and to the Presidents of the General Assembly and of the Security Council on lessons learned. Our conclusions were recently published as document S/2017/846.”
2018-02-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8175 (2018) · source
“I thank you very much, Mr. President, for having organized this open debate today. We also offer our warm thanks to Mr. Martin for his briefing and to him and his team for their dedication. Estonia, as a member of the Accountability, Coherence and Transparency (ACT) group, fully endorses the statement delivered by the representative of Switzerland earlier today. Estonia, together with Costa Rica, has been at the forefront of the ACT group on the "T" - that is, transparency - issues. I would like therefore to emphasize a few points on this topic. Estonia cannot speak from first-hand experience about the complicated daily work of the Security Council since we have never served as a Council member. But we truly believe in the positive impact of open and inclusive processes.”
2018-02-06 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8175 (2018) · source
“In that context, we reiterate the call of the European Union for more cooperation at the United Nations level and emphasize the role of the Inter-Agency Coordination Group against Trafficking in Persons in ensuring that efforts to fight against human trafficking across the United Nations system are coherent.”
2017-11-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8111 (2017) · source
“As long as there is a will to pay criminals and a demand for such purposes as sexual exploitation, forced labour and slavery, we cannot put an end to human trafficking. Finally, we fully support the central role of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in the global fight against trafficking in persons, particularly in providing technical assistance to Member States to implement the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and its Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children.”
2017-11-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8111 (2017) · source
“The exploitation of vulnerable people, especially women and children who find themselves in a situation of conflict, by traffickers is appalling. It is imperative to investigate, prosecute and convict the perpetrators of human trafficking crimes and to put an end to impunity. The focus on prevention is pivotal and is central to the United Nations Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons. Together with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, it advances sustainable and inclusive development in order to address the root causes and vulnerabilities. We also need to find ways to actively combat the demand for trafficked people for exploitation in the destination and transit countries.”
2017-11-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8111 (2017) · source
“The fact that women and children are at greater risk of being trafficked and subjected to forced labour is recognized in the New York declaration for refugees and migrants. We welcome the adoption by the General Assembly, at the high-level meeting in September, of the political declaration on the implementation of the Global Plan ofAction to Combat Trafficking in Persons (General Assembly resolution 72/1). The declarations show the political will to end human trafficking, and now we need to start their implementation. The nexus between situations of conflict and human trafficking, facilitated by the absence of the rule oflaw, means that human trafficking can exacerbate conflict and foster continuous insecurity.”
2017-11-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8111 (2017) · source
“Resolution 2388 (2017), which was adopted by the Security Council today and which we co-sponsored, is an important milestone in that regard. Building on resolution 2331 (2016), it condemns all acts oftrafficking in persons in areas affected by armed conflict, which are used by terrorist groups both to terrorize and to finance terrorism. We also note with concern the criminal misuse of information and communication technologies, particularly the Internet, to facilitate trafficking in persons. We emphasize the importance of countering this phenomenon while fully respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms. Trafficking in persons is considered to be one of the most difficult problems in the context of migration as well.”
2017-11-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8111 (2017) · source
“I have the honour to address the Security Council on behalf of Latvia, Lithuania and my own country, Estonia. We would like to thank Italy for convening this open debate and to commend you, Sir, for your leadership on and commitment to this important issue. We align ourselves with the statement to be delivered on behalf of the European Union. Today the world is facing persistent challenges in the fight against human trafficking, in particular in conflict situations. The international community should confront this phenomenon in the most comprehensive manner. We are gravely concerned about the alarming increase of connections between armed groups, including terrorist groups, and trafficking in persons.”
2017-11-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8111 (2017) · source
“In conclusion, we see more robust and adaptive mandates, firm and decisive actions, less duplication and fragmentation, more innovative solutions and emphasis on the partnerships at the regional and international levels as essential to achieving lasting peace. Also, let me emphasize once more the importance of prevention when it comes to sustaining peace. Estonia is fully committed to that cause and sees that as one of the key issues in our endeavour to become an elected member of the Council for the period 2020-2021.”
2017-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8033 (2017) · source
“Participating in United Nations peacekeeping has always been important for Estonia. In recent years, we have significantly increased our participation in peacekeeping operations and are currently contributing to three missions - the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali and the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization. Furthermore, Estonia is currently a member of the Peacebuilding Commission, and we fully support a broader focus for the Commission, which must take a regional approach, address cross-cutting issues and serve as a bridge between the General Assembly, the Security Council and the Economic and Social Council.”
2017-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8033 (2017) · source
“The mandates of United Nations peacekeeping operations should therefore become more concrete and robust, especially by including tangible targets and an exit strategy, while bearing in mind the need to protect civilians and assure the sustainability of the rule of law, as well as the respect for human rights and international law. To achieve sustainable peace, it is important that all actors work together to resolve the conflict. Sustainable peace can be achieved only if we have a thorough and broad understanding of the conflicts, the different actors and the key players. That includes adding specialized units to United Nations peacekeeping missions where necessary. Sometimes a small specialized unit, such as an intelligence-gathering unit, can make a huge difference in terms of the mission's size or duration on the ground.”
2017-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8033 (2017) · source
“However, as we witness more complex, volatile and longer-lasting crises each passing year, there is a real need to look at the ways of tackling the instabilities in the world both before they have turned into a full blown armed conflict and also after the weapons have been put down. Preventive measures and striving for political solutions are key, and we fully support the Secretary- General's efforts in that regard. Equally important is giving attention to the post-conflict transition so as to enable sustainable peace.”
2017-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8033 (2017) · source
“I thank you, Mr. President, for convening today's debate on a topic that not only addresses United Nations peacekeeping operations, but also focuses on the broader shift of the United Nations towards the goal of preventing conflicts and sustaining peace. Estonia aligns itself with the statement just delivered by the observer of the European Union. United Nations peacekeeping operations play an essential role in securing peace and stability globally and the Blue Helmets who have served and are serving across the world deserve our highest appreciation. There is no doubt that peacekeeping missions have made real difference on the ground. As research shows, compared to the predeployment period, peacekeeping reduces the number of civilians killed by more than 90 per cent.”
2017-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8033 (2017) · source
“In that respect, let me underline the importance of accountability and the role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in cases where investigations or prosecutions at the national level are not possible. We encourage States to cooperate with the ICC and the Security Council to refer matters to the ICC.”
2017-05-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7951 (2017) · source
“In order to bring that into practice, Estonia has ratified the main instruments of international humanitarian law with respect to the protection of civilians and has introduced the necessary domestic regulations for their enforcement. We have taken it to heart to ensure that our personnel do not violate international law when carrying out their obligations in Estonia or on a mission. The Estonian Defence Forces are provided with training on the obligations for the protection of civilians under international humanitarian law. That includes basic overviews of the field, briefings on rules of engagement before every deployment and advanced training in international humanitarian law. Perpetrators must be brought to justice. States must ensure that those responsible do not operate with impunity.”
2017-05-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7951 (2017) · source
“Resolution 2286 (2016), adopted unanimously by the Security Council, was a landmark decision addressing the grave situation that medical and humanitarian personnel face today. It is important to underline that they are under the protection of international humanitarian law and that States have obligations to respect that. In that regard, Estonia will continue to support the implementation of resolution 2286 (2016). It is without doubt States that have the primary responsibility to ensure the protection of their own people. For that, we have to start with conflict prevention. Respect for civilian populations and health care in armed conflicts must be present at all times.”
2017-05-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7951 (2017) · source
“Deliberate attacks on civilians are war crimes, and they are simply unacceptable. It is with a heavy heart that we look at the increasing numbers of incidents placing civilians, including medical and humanitarian personnel, under direct attack in armed conflicts. We are witnessing obstacles placed to obstruct the delivery of medical equipment and people in need who are not receiving necessary medical treatment. Over the past years, we have seen a growing number of violations of international humanitarian law. In this vein I thank the Uruguayan presidency for convening the today's open debate to address this issue. Estonia also aligns itself with the statement delivered by the observer of the European Union.”
2017-05-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7951 (2017) · source
“For us, in addition to creating a more inclusive process and broader ownership - in line with present-day expectations - the aim has been to strengthen the institution of the Office of the Secretary-General by making it more representative. We hope that the culmination of the selection process will be as encouraging as the whole process has been so far.”
2016-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7740 (2016) · source
“We have emphasized the need for the Security Council to keep the General Assembly informed of any developments, and have encouraged regular and close communication between the Presidents of both organs. We expect that the overall change in the process will bring with it an updated approach by the Security Council. Furthermore, we are entering the most decisive phase of the selection process, and would like to see it conclude successfully. We would also like to recall that it is the General Assembly's prerogative to prepare the final draft resolution on the appointment of the Secretary- General. It is our understanding that a discussion of the elements to be included in that draft resolution will be taking place in the General Assembly soon.”
2016-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7740 (2016) · source
“In particular, the General Assembly hearings, which, for the first time, allow all Members of the Organization and a global audience to assess candidates, attest to the Member States' dedication to the vision set out by the Preparatory Commission of the United Nations in 1945, that the Secretary-General, more than anyone else, should stand for the United Nations as a whole. As a member of the ACT group, Estonia has encouraged candidates to participate in all elements of the selection process. The General Assembly proceedings have been successful, and the Security Council is planning to hold its first straw poll for the candidates in a few days.”
2016-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7740 (2016) · source
“As a member of the Accountability, Coherence and Transparency (ACT) Group, Estonia fully endorses the statement delivered by the representative of Switzerland. Together with Costa Rica, Estonia has been at the forefront ofthe ACT group on the issue of appointing the next Secretary- General. I would therefore like to emphasize a few points on that subject. Throughoutthecurrentprocess-whosetransparency and inclusiveness have been historic - which has successfully sought to implement General Assembly resolution 69/321, we have witnessed the importance of effective and substantive communication between the Security Council and the wider membership. In that regard, we consider the monthly meetings between the President of the Security Council and the President of the General Assembly and the reports from those meetings to be very useful.”
2016-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7740 (2016) · source
“However, if perpetrators are to be held accountable, it is important that those who have suffered from conflict-related sexual violence report such violence and not be held back by fear and stigma. This once more emphasizes the importance of awareness-raising and changing social norms. It is of utmost importance to continue to recognize and address the nexus between trafficking in persons and conflict-related sexual violence. Too many individuals, families and communities have been affected and devastated. Preventing and responding to sexual violence is vital to resolving conflicts, enabling development and building sustainable peace. The international community has to work together to respond to the urgency of this issue and Estonia is ready to actively engage in those efforts.”
2016-06-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7704 (2016) · source
“It is important to raise awareness and end the prevalence of stereotypical attitudes, social norms and practices that support and reproduce discrimination and violence against women. Estonia has included the protection of women in national strategies on conflict prevention and last year adopted its second national action plan for years 2015-2019 to implement resolution 1325 (2000). Secondly, there must be no room for impunity for sexual and gender-based crimes. Perpetrators must be held accountable. In this regard, Estonia reiterates the important role of the International Criminal Court in situations where States are unable or unwilling to bring perpetrators to justice domestically.”
2016-06-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7704 (2016) · source
“Given the cross-border dynamics of human trafficking and an evolving criminal infrastructure designed to exploit refugees, it is critical to have good regional and subregional cooperation. We support closer collaboration between countries and organizations on this matter. The global context of peace and security is changing and the international community is facing new challenges. Therefore, let me briefly touch upon two aspects to effectively tackle conflict-related sexual violence and the growing trend oftrafficking in persons. First, we need to keep on promoting gender equality and women's empowerment in order to address the root causes of conflict-related sexual violence.”
2016-06-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7704 (2016) · source
“Ms. Lind (Estonia) (spoke in French): I would like to thank the French presidency for having organized today's open debate. (spoke in English) Estonia welcomes the report submitted in April by the Secretary-General on conflict-related sexual violence (S/2016/361) and commends the work of the Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence in Conflict, as well as the efforts ofthe United Nations Action against Sexual Violence in Conflict. With heavy hearts, we read the Secretary-General's latest report. Sexual violence in conflict is a continuing concern and the drastic increase in the number of victims of trafficking is striking. As a European Union (EU) member State, Estonia fully aligns itself with the statement delivered here today by the Deputy Head of the EU delegation.”
2016-06-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7704 (2016) · source
“Ultimately, the solution lies in addressing the conflicts and assisting the fragile States where violent extremism breeds. To counter one of the most menacing terrorist organizations of our time, Da'esh, Estonia supports the Global Coalition to Counter the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant, to which we are contributing, in accordance with our capacity, through military and humanitarian aid. At the same time, we must not forget that terrorism and violent extremism are not limited to radical Islam and specific regions. No manifestation of terrorism can be tolerated wherever it emerges, regardless of its religious, political, historical or ethnical background and motivation.”
2016-04-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7670Resumption1 (2016) · source
“Estonia has signed and will ratify the Additional Protocol to the Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism, and our first cases on terrorist financing have been brought to justice. In the long term, we must focus on prevention. Radicalization is a social phenomenon first, and then a law-enforcement issue. Education, integration, employment and eventually deradicalization and rehabilitation must be provided to prevent violent extremism. Online and offline, we must stop terrorist propaganda and develop counter narratives, in public- private partnerships. In broad terms, democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights remain essential in preventing and countering terrorism. Estonia takes that into account in its activities on a national level as well as in its international cooperation and development aid.”
2016-04-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7670Resumption1 (2016) · source
“In that regard, let me point out the adoption of resolutions 2170 (2014), 2178 (2014) and, most recently, 2253 (2015), as well as the Plan of Action on Preventing Violent Extremism (A/70/674) presented by the Secretary-General. As a European Union member State, Estonia fully aligns itself with the statement delivered in the Council today by the Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU). To enhance the fight against terrorism, we support closer cooperation and the exchange of information, both inside the EU and with other countries and organizations. We participate in the EU work in progress, including the fight against terrorist financing and stemming the flow of foreign terrorist fighters.”
2016-04-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7670Resumption1 (2016) · source
“I thank you for organizing this debate, Mr. President. Since the last time the Estonian Minister for Foreign Affairs spoke at the United Nations, in September 2015 (see S/PV.7527), terrorist aggression has, tragically, continued around the world, including in our region, in Europe and in its neighbourhood, where hundreds of people have been killed and injured in heinous terrorist attacks. Estonia remains vigilant and committed to our common fight against terrorism. Terrorism is a global phenomenon, and the international community must act together to prevent and counter terrorism in a comprehensive and sustainable way. The United Nations is the most appropriate framework for shaping international counter-terrorism measures.”
2016-04-14 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7670Resumption1 (2016) · source
“In 1945, the United Nations Preparatory Commission said that, "The Secretary-General, more than anyone else, will stand for the United Nations as a whole". We want to ensure that all Member States, as well as the wider international community, have the possibility of learning about the Vision of the candidates presented and interacting with them. Additionally, and finally, we believe that after 70 years the time has come to be even more innovative. Therefore we are of the opinion that in making the final decision, preference should be given to equally qualified female candidates. We also look forward to a thorough discussion at this session of the duration of the term in office of the Secretary-General, including the option of a single, non-renewable term.”
2015-10-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7539Resumption1 (2015) · source
“As a first step, a joint letter from the Presidents of the General Assembly and the Security Council should be sent to all Member States calling for nominations. We would hope to receive this letter in the coming weeks so as to set in motion the whole process before the end of the year. The President of the General Assembly has received a very strong mandate from the resolution on the revitalization of the Assembly; the elements of the letter are also outlined therein. Now we are looking for the Council to do its part. In this regard, we were pleased to hear about the informal discussions that the Security Council had under the New Zealand presidency in July. More generally, our main concern should be ensuring that the best candidates come forward and are considered based on concrete selection criteria.”
2015-10-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7539Resumption1 (2015) · source
“But we truly believe in the positive impact of open and inclusive processes. We saw very clearly the importance of effective and substantive communication between the permanent members of the Security Council and the wider membership during negotiations on General Assembly resolution 69/321, on the revitalization of the work of the Assembly. ACT, with Costa Rica and Estonia in the forefront in those negotiations, is pleased with the outcome and consensual adoption on 11 September of the resolution, which set up a structured process for the selection of the next Secretary-General. Of course, implementation is key. Over the years, we have seen many resolutions adopted but not implemented on the issue of the selection of the next Secretary-General. We must change this.”
2015-10-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7539Resumption1 (2015) · source
“Estonia, as a member of the Accountability, Coherence and Transparency (ACT) Group, aligns itself with the statement delivered by Switzerland and would like to make some additional remarks on the issue of the appointment of the next Secretary-General. My statement is endorsed by the 26 States members of ACT. As Philip Stanhope, Earl of Chesterfield, said several centuries ago: "Many a man would rather you heard his story than granted his request". Although the wider membership would definitely value reflection on more suggestions coming from outside the Security Council, the main goal should be increased ownership of the Council's work by all countries. Estonia cannot speak from first-hand experience about the complicated everyday work of the Security Council, since we have never served as one of its members.”
2015-10-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7539Resumption1 (2015) · source
“Therefore, we have extended our cooperation with SIDS to the field of cybersecurity, inter alia in cooperation with the Organization of American States, in several Caribbean countries such as Dominica, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. Finally, we hope that today's debate will not remain the only one on the subject. The Security Council's involvement is essential in the maintenance of peace and sustainable development in the small island developing States. And vice versa, in order to better accomplish that aim, a stronger voice of the small nations in the Council is vital. We therefore hope that the SIDS countries will be adequately represented in the Security Council in the near future.”
2015-07-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7499 (2015) · source
“It recognized, as a core theme, that genuine and durable partnerships and international cooperation are essential for the mitigation of the risks of climate change and other challenges of those island countries. In Apia, nearly 300 partnerships were announced, and now it is crucial to implement them. Estonia has made a long-term commitment to partnering with SIDS countries. We have contributed to the project aiming to provide and improve satellite Internet connectivity in remote and vulnerable areas in the Pacific small island States. While information and communication technologies solutions have proved to be one of the most powerful promoters of development, especially in remote areas, the other side of the coin is security. Among other threats, SIDS are also susceptible to cybercrime and cyberattacks.”
2015-07-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7499 (2015) · source
“It is a matter of utmost importance that a global, ambitious, single, legally binding agreement on climate change, applicable to all, be concluded this year in Paris. Estonia has always been a strong proponent of safeguarding international law, and we also think that the obligations undertaken by the international community to fulfil the objectives of tackling climate change must be taken extremely seriously. Estonia has also decided to contribute â‚¬1 million to the Green Climate Fund in the years 2015-2016. Last year, Estonia was glad to be present at the third International Conference on Small Island Developing States, held in Apia, and to be part of the adoption of the SIDS Accelerated Modalities of Action (Samoa Pathway) and the Programme of Action for the sustainable development of SIDS.”
2015-07-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7499 (2015) · source
“One of the greatest challenges for SIDS, of course, is climate change, which generates sea-level rise and increasingly intense natural disasters, as was recently demonstrated by Cyclone Pam, which recently struck Vanuatu and Tuvalu. Estonia was one of the first to contribute to UNICEF in response to the most critical needs of the children and families affected by the disaster in both countries. In this context, we also welcome the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, which includes reference to the vulnerabilities of SIDS. As was also discussed in the recent Arria Formula meeting, climate change can be a driver for various types of insecurity and crises, both internally and globally.”
2015-07-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7499 (2015) · source
“First of all, I would like sincerely to thank New Zealand for having convened this important meeting, for the first time. I would also like to express my gratitude for all of the presentations made this morning. Estonia aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the observer of the European Union. We are all well aware that natural disasters and development issues such as the scarce resources, remoteness, limited administrative capacity and disadvantaged economies that small island developing States (SIDS) are facing can pose serious threats to peace and security not only in those countries but even in a wider context, both regional and global. These threats include tensions caused by political, social and economic instability, humanitarian crises, risks related to migration and transnational organized crime.”
2015-07-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7499 (2015) · source
“We recently supported UNICEF's work in South Sudan, the Central African Republic, Gaza, Syria and Somalia. I am glad to announce that Estonia will support the Office of the Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict this year with a contribution ofâ‚¬30,000. Children deserve a safe and happy environment to grow up in. If the Organization - and by that I mean us, its Members - can do something to ensure that goal, we should not hesitate to seize every opportunity to do so. I hope that today's debate represents a tangible step forward in that regard.”
2015-06-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7466 (2015) · source
“In order to make good on its commitment to deal effectively with persistent perpetrators, the Council could increase pressure on them by including violations against children in the mandate of all sanctions committees and by including individuals sought by the ICC on sanctions lists. In the context of today's discussion, we also welcome the Court's efforts in preparing a policy paper on the protection of children. However, when talking about accountability, we should not close our eyes to actions committed by the United Nations system personnel. All Violations by United Nations staff and United Nations peacekeeping troops need to be addressed. Finally, allow me to mention Estonia's contribution to the advancement of the children and armed conflict agenda.”
2015-06-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7466 (2015) · source
“I would also like to draw attention to the situation in Ukraine, as 1.7 million children there are affected by the conflict. Over 68 children had been killed and 176 wounded in eastern Ukraine as of the end of March 2014, and the actual numbers are probably higher. We would ask the Special Representative of the Secretary- General for Children and Armed Conflict to look into those grave violations against children in Ukraine. We see impunity as clearly one of the main reasons for the recurrence of those grave violations against children. It is only by consistent prosecution that we can deter the commission of such crimes. In order to achieve that, we reiterate the important role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in situations where States are unable or unwilling to bring perpetrators to justice domestically.”
2015-06-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7466 (2015) · source
“In that regard, we welcome the adoption of resolution 2225 (2015) in the Council today, which adds abduction as a trigger for listing. As a next step, we need to ensure that child-protection provisions are incorporated in the most efficient way into peace processes, negotiations and ceasefires. A considerable number of violations against children are carried out by non-State armed groups, which was one of the focuses of our previous debate on the subject (see S/PV.7414). We commend the work of Special Representative of the Secretary- General Zerrougui in addressing the challenging task of engaging with armed groups, and the case-by-case approach aimed at ending the recruitment and use of children. However, more needs to be done by all those concerned.”
2015-06-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7466 (2015) · source
“Last year was full of challenges for the protection of tens of millions of children growing up in, among other countries, the Central African Republic, Iraq, Nigeria, South Sudan, Syria and, most recently, in Yemen, where the security situation has deteriorated. We strongly support the initiative of Malaysia to introduce the abduction of children as an additional criterion in the annexes to the Secretary-General's reports on children and armed conflict. The abduction of children is unfortunately indeed a prevalent feature of contemporary armed conflict. It is used as a tactic of war to terrorize, suppress and humiliate communities. According to the Secretary-General's report, in Iraq and Syria alone, more than 1,000 girls and boys were abducted by the Islamic State in the Levant in 2014.”
2015-06-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7466 (2015) · source
“First, I want to warmly thank today's briefers and, in particular, Special Representative of the Secretary-General Leila Zerrougui, for her briefing and her tireless efforts. We also thank the Malaysian presidency for organizing this important debate. Estonia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the observer of the European Union. We would like to thank the Secretary- General for his report (S/2015/409), which provides a solid - although deeply concerning - basis for today's debate. It is extremely worrying that violence rose to unprecedented levels in 2014, leading to a dramatic increase in grave violations against children.”
2015-06-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7466 (2015) · source
“We are appalled by the mass abductions of children by non-State armed groups, be it by Boko Haram in Nigeria or by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Sham in Syria or Iraq. We call for the immediate release of all abducted children without delay. In that connection, we call on the Security Council to introduce the abduction of children as an additional criterion in the annexes to the Secretary-General's reports on children and armed conflict.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“The Council itself has on numerous occasions acknowledged that the fight against impunity for atrocious crimes, including against children, has been strengthened through the work ofthe ICC. To make good on its commitment to deal effectively with persistent perpetrators, the Council could increase pressure on them by including violations against children in the mandates of all sanctions committees and by improving the exchange of information between the Council, the sanctions committees and the ICC to include the individuals sought by the ICC on the sanctions lists. The recruitment and use of children in armed forces and groups is a grave Violation of international law. We categorically condemn the barbaric acts committed on a large scale by violent extremists.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“We see impunity as clearly being one of the main reasons for the recurrence of such grave violations against children. It is only by consistent prosecution that we can deter the commission of such crimes. To that end, we reiterate the important role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in situations where States are unable or unwilling to bring perpetrators to justice domestically. Furthermore, we also believe that the international community should assist in strengthening national judicial capacities so as to ensure accountability, including through the development of legislation criminalizing violations against children. Estonia allocates development cooperation resources to assist countries requesting help in the domestic prosecution of Rome Statute crimes, and we encourage others to do the same.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source