YouSaid · the spoken record

Melkert

lines on the record: 153
first: 2006-07-24
most recent: 2011-07-19
sittings or episodes: 8
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

“My fourth point is on constructive neighbourhood cooperation. Promoting Iraq's cooperation with and integration in the wider region is part of UNAMI's mandate. Of particular priority is the normalization of regional relations, not least with Kuwait, and the related exit from Chapter VII provisions that naturally is strongly desired by Iraq as the demarcation of a new era after decades of wars and sanctions. As the report of the Secretary-General on resolution 1859 (2008) is still pending before the Council, I see it as a key priority for UNAMI to facilitate rapprochement and agreement on all outstanding issues. We will seek the consent of both parties to define a mutually agreed agenda, the completion of which should resolve any remaining issues and normalize Iraq's position within the United Nations.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“Twenty-three per cent of the population, or nearly 7 million people, live below the poverty line, with scores of young people unemployed, fuelling discontent and instability. Food insecurity, exacerbated by rising food prices and drought, remains a reality for large sections of the population. Further, the United Nations has embarked on a number of activities aimed at strengthening governance and the rule of law within Iraq. Of particular significance is the current preparation of the first Iraqi national anti-corruption strategy, including through the participation of an Iraqi delegation in the Conference of State Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption. The strategy has identified several key areas of engagement, including financing for political party and elections and a civil service code of conduct.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“This may be an important way to respond to the invitation to develop an international assistance vision, particularly in support of the National Development Plan. Addressing the crucial development of the private sector within Iraq, Prime Minister al-Maliki has also called for an extensive programme for foreign direct investment. It is interesting to note growing global interest among potential investors weighing their opportunities in Iraq. Apart from what is an obvious need with regard to the regulation of oil production, it will be important for the next Government to provide a solid legal framework for doing business. Only with investment and development will the ills of unemployment and poverty be addressed.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“As there is still a limited amount, around $135 million, to be disbursed and programmed, it was agreed to extend the Facility into next year only for that purpose. An independent lessons-learned exercise between the United Nations and the World Bank will take place between January and June 2010 and will provide a full assessment of the IRFFI initiative. The alignment of UNDAF with other bilateral strategies was also discussed, and it was agreed that discussions should continue with all stakeholders. Options were also presented and discussed for a post- IRFFI funding and coordination mechanism, including the establishment of a new United Nations multi-donor trust fund that would build on the achievements of IRFFI.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“At the same time, participants acknowledged the strong call by Prime Minister al-Maliki that now is the time for Iraq to take the lead and for the international community to provide support on the basis of the strategic directions defined by the Government. This also changes the role of the United Nations, from co-chairing to providing secretariat and liaison functions in support of stronger coordination at the sides of both the Government and the international partners. On 8 November, the Donor Committee of the International Reconstruction Fund Facility for Iraq (IRFFI) held a meeting, near the end of a period in which humanitarian assistance and development projects have been approved to a total of $1.25 billion.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“Last week, two important meetings took place, both marking the end of an era of first recovery and reconstruction and the start of an era of investment in economic growth and social progress. On 7 November, at a meeting co-chaired by the Minister of Finance, Mr. Al-Jabr, and the Special Advisor to the Secretary-General on the International Compact, Mr. Gambari, partners of Iraq took stock of achievements under the Compact that have, over the past three years, provided an essential instrument for intensifying and solidifying relations between Iraq and the world after decades of devastation and isolation.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“The process has been supported extensively by different parts of the United Nations family, particularly through the provision of in-depth advice on 12 sectoral analysis papers. In alignment with the National Development Plan, the United Nations country team has agreed on the first common country assessment for Iraq, focusing on three key areas, namely, governance, inclusive economic growth and ensuring quality essential services. In turn, both the Development Plan and the common country assessment will inform a United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) 2010-2014 providing a harmonized approach to sustainable development in the coming years. As we speak, this process, which is standard practice in many parts of the world but new for Iraq, has been launched.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“As it is difficult to see how a new Government programme could be built and agreed upon without strong reference to the different demarcation issues, it may be wise to consider the period immediately after the elections as a window of opportunity to engage key leaders and stakeholders, establish an agenda and embark on the road towards understanding and ultimate agreement, including on article 140 of the Constitution. My third point is on economic growth and social progress. The aim of all political development is to create an environment in which the citizenry can grow; schools, hospitals, civil administration and private enterprise are all essential components in this development. It is encouraging to note that the Government has put considerable effort into the formulation of the National Development Plan 2010- 2014.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“If the current lack of clarity were to remain after the start of a new Government, it would have a detrimental effect on the authority of the State and its credibility vis-a-vis citizens who should benefit from sources of immense richness not seldom located at the doorstep of inconceivable poverty. These four developments provide a context in which UNAMI can consider the next steps in assisting the clarification of the principles and arrangements within a federal constitutional framework.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“This raises expectations that political leaders will become more ready to recognize the inextricable linkage between addressing complex political issues that cannot be left in a frozen state and promoting an improved investment climate as part of a solid economic strategy. The fourth factor that should be mentioned is the need to clarify the legal basis and financial impact of oil extraction now that important new contracts have been signed or are under consideration. The transparency and predictability of contract arrangements and revenue-sharing mechanisms are part and parcel of a sustainable federal State framework.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“It is also potentially significant for underpinning future political arrangements addressing the outstanding disputed boundaries agenda. UNAMI is therefore closely following, on an information basis, these developments, which hopefully will soon be officially ratified by all sides. A third factor weighing in for the near future follows from the start of new mandate periods. When I met last week in Erbil with Prime Minister Barham Saleh, no doubt was left as to the new Regional Government's determination to strengthen the basis for stability, economic growth and social progress. Meanwhile, the current Iraqi Government is preparing the transition to a new period in a systematic way, with the support of bilateral and multilateral partners.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“The importance of such practical steps forward cannot be underestimated, as it would be a strong signal to ordinary citizens that at last something will change for the better for many of them. A second point of considerable importance has been the joint efforts of the Iraqi army and the Kurdish Peshmerga, advised and supported by United States forces, to agree on collective security arrangements in relevant conflict areas in the Ninewa, Kirkuk and Diyala governorates. This is a markedly different evolution compared to the situation this past summer, which was marked by a rapid increase of tensions in various places, with the area around Mosul in particular becoming an almost daily target of vicious attacks over the course of many months.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“In outlining our intentions for the months ahead, I would like to share some developments that might point to an improving overall climate for progress. First, I would like to refer to the High-Level Task Force that addresses issues in connection with the disputed internal boundaries around the border of the Kurdish region and that, over the past few months, has engaged in a number of confidence-building measures aimed at bridging core issues. Senior advisors to the 3 Iraqi Prime Minister and the Kurdish region President meet regularly under UNAMI auspices. We might now be approaching agreement on measures to expedite property claims, improve transparent and legal detention procedures, and guarantee the right of all Iraqi's to educate their children in their mother tongue.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“The second point is on the disputed internal boundaries. Soon after election day, it will be time to engage in the serious task of engagement in relation to the internal boundaries of the federal State and its components in terms of competencies and responsibilities, revenue-sharing, service delivery, security arrangements and territorial boundaries. Unless these key issues between the federal Government in Baghdad and the regional Government in Erbil are resolved, the new Iraq will be permanently at risk of being pulled back or dragged into fundamentally destabilizing conflict. The protracted discussion in the framework of the Electoral Law on arrangements for the Kirkuk governorate in particular was yet another reminder of an unfinished agenda.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“What we can and will do is to undertake a maximum support effort, together with the impressive team of often young Iraqi men and women providing the hands-on legal, technical and communication services that modern election management requires. We have expressed serious concerns about the very late date of finalizing the Law. It is truly a Herculean task to ensure that basic standards can be met. I consider these concerns to be outweighed by the importance of the primacy of the parliamentary process and of adherence to the constitutional demands essential to strengthening overall authority and stability. On balance, it still is possible and must be made possible if Iraq is to have credible elections on 18 January. However, in order to arrive at that precious moment, the call will be "all hands on deck".”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“Eighteen million voter information cards have been distributed nationwide to assist voters in identifying where they should cast their ballot on election day. The UNAMI electoral assistance team, comprising 20 international technical advisors, 09-60820 continues to provide technical support within each department of the Electoral Commission, enabling adherence to international standards and the delivery of a transparent electoral process. The aim of all efforts is to support an election with an outcome acceptable to the Iraqi people as a basis for policy and progress in the next four years. I should point out that the United Nations cannot guarantee such an outcome.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“While the passage of the Electoral Law through the Council of Representatives has been beset by complex negotiations, the debate has been a clear example of the capacity of the political leadership to embrace sovereignty and define the process of people's representation. The special reference in the Law to the possible review of voter registry lists in Kirkuk and other governorates might entail a considerable task for UNAMI after election day. In preparation for the elections, the voter registry update exercise took place from 22 August to 30 September, accompanied by a national voter education campaign. As a result of these efforts, over 1.5 million Iraqis visited one of 1,082 voter registry centres to confirm their data or to enrol on the register.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“The following five areas in particular will define our agenda of work in the period ahead. The first of those areas is elections. The pivotal event for Iraq in the coming months is, of course, the January elections for the Council of Representatives. UNAMI has exercised its mandate in the support and assistance provided to the Independent High Electoral Commission in this pre-elections phase. The Electoral Law was ratified by the Council of Representatives on Sunday, 8 November. The Presidency Council now has 10 days to accept or reject the Law. If a statement is not issued by 19 November, the Law will be adopted automatically. For now, the Independent High Electoral Commission, whilst awaiting adoption of the Law, has based its planning on the election date of 18 January.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“Neighbourhood relations could and should still greatly improve. The framework of the federal State needs to be solidified, reducing existing tensions and disputes. And importantly, the coming period 09-60820 should lay the foundation for Iraq's return to the league of middle-income countries, in conjunction with the jump in social development that is within reach if business initiatives are to thrive and oil revenues spent wisely. Those are still big "ifs", and a big responsibility for a new Government. The upcoming period will also require UNAMI to shift gear and adjust direction along the lines of the request of the Government of Iraq, as well as the mandate set out by the Council in resolutions 1770 (2007) and recently reconfirmed in resolution 1883 (2009).”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“It remains of the utmost importance that they can continue to count on the Council to enable the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) to live up to their expectations. It will have to be a long-term commitment. There will be no shortcuts. Change needs to take root. Change is under way in many aspects. For it to take root, however, these are still early days. The elections will take place under threat of the repetition of the atrocious attacks at the heart of the Government on 19 August and 25 October. The Security Council's rejection of those horrendous acts and expression of support for the Government to stand firm were very welcome signals. Furthermore, reconciliation within the country and the return of refugees and the internally displaced are still uphill tasks ahead.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“Success is far from guaranteed as inside and outside forces continue their efforts to impose an agenda of division and destruction. Opposed to that stands the will of the people to participate in the design of the future and to democratically mandate its leaders. That is the true significance of the historic elections ahead, prepared under full Iraqi leadership and responsibility. And that must motivate the United Nations to mobilize all possible support for the process and progress, for Iraqis are receptive and eager to incorporate the values of the United Nations Charter into the building of a new State and a new society. The United Nations is seen and approached as a trusted partner by many.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“Mr. Melkert: I thank you, Sir, for this opportunity to inform the Council of the significant developments that have taken place in Iraq over the past few months. The forthcoming January elections will mark the end of the first full term of a freely elected Parliament in the country's history. It has been a period of great challenges and achievements. While the face of daily life still frequently shows the ugly sides of death and threat, the souls of the overwhelming majority of Iraqis vibrate in reaching at the prospect of a safe and fair society. During that initial period of being a privileged guest in their country, I have been impressed by the energy and the optimism of countless Iraqis, inside and outside the Government, in building a better future.”
2009-11-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6218 (2009) · source
“We often talk of ordinary Iraqis as the litmus test for recovery, but even over these few short weeks, I have come to think of them as extraordinary Iraqis. These families held firm to a belief in the greatness of their country throughout the most testing times. An overwhelming majority show high motivation to help the tree of democracy take root in Iraq, with the expectation that the fruits of democracy will follow: thatjobs will be available, streets will be clean, schools revitalized and communities safe. We in the United Nations share that motivation. I can promise them that we will do all in our power over the coming months to gear ourselves towards this challenge.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“Unfortunately, that will inevitably require a great deal of human and financial resources. We will continue to assess the situation and to adjust our policy as necessary or possible. Suffice it to say that the adequacy of funding of that part of the Mission, including through commensurate contributions from agencies, funds and programmes, defines the scope of our outreach. We continue to count on Member States for their support in that regard. In closing, the theme that I would prefer to stress at this early juncture is strategic acceleration, building on progress in the political sphere and throwing our full support behind economic growth and social development benefiting the people, in partnership and constant consultation with Iraqis themselves.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“To achieve it, we are committed to increasing our presence and visibility in Iraq, particularly through United Nations agencies, funds and programmes. This month, we will mark the sixth anniversary of the attack that cost and scarred the lives of Sergio Vieira de Mello and many other friends and colleagues who only wanted to stand by the Iraqi people. Both Iraq and the United Nations Mission have come a long way since that time. We now have to build on the momentum. It will be a considerable management challenge to align the ambition to be more present and more effective with maintaining paramount attention to staff safety. With Iraq's Government, we will also work towards a more self-reliant operational approach in terms of our security and logistics.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“That is a natural alternative to direct development aid to a country that, oil price fluctuations aside, has ample resources. It should not, however, be a precursor to losing interest. Iraqis would not understand, and the global interest would not be served. There is, I think, a common understanding that any future formula for international engagement with Iraq should emerge from Iraq's own vision for recovery, reconciliation and development. The International Compact with Iraq has to date been critical to linking Iraqi and international priorities. It may now be time for the next stage - one more naturally integrated into the National Development Plan, with Iraq itself clearly in the lead. We have an ambitious programme of action before us.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“The United Nations focus will be on improving Iraq's own capacity in that area to secure the legal and constitutional rights of its citizens and to foster a climate of respect for human rights as a way of rebuilding trust in institutions and rule of law. While it works towards normalization, this is most certainly not the time for the international community to disengage on Iraq or to lessen its commitment. I hope that the United Nations can lead the way towards a new global partnership on Iraq that reflects Iraq's current reality and preserves the gains of the International Reconstruction Fund Facility for Iraq as it approaches closure. The balance between Iraq and its international partners is shifting towards fewer capital-intensive investments and more loans, growth- related investment and technical expertise.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“We also look forward to pursuing promising dialogue on cross-border initiatives that will boost regional confidence and cooperation, such as border demining and border security. Integration into the regional economy is crucial to Iraq's internal development, including reaching agreements on the export of oil and gas and on the management of the region's dwindling water resources. Iraq is also at a unique point in its history as it comes to terms with its commitment, as a partner in the international community, to the fundamental principles of human rights. Those are a promise to the people who have suffered long and deeply and still rightfully aspire to more. Neither true reconciliation nor true development can be built in their absence.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“An important conditioning area of focus for our work will be to further open the door to engagement on issues that still challenge Iraq's relationship with its neighbours. The normalization of Iraqi-Kuwaiti relations remains a priority. I am grateful for the Council's interest in advancing the completion of outstanding requirements in relation to resolution 1859 (2008). Lasting confidence on both sides would be a major cornerstone of a new regional understanding of the huge potential of the mutual benefits that are within reach. Assisting Iraq to regain its rightful place among the community of nations, as stated by the Secretary-General in his recent report on resolution 1859 (2008) (S/2009/385), lies at the heart of our Mission.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“Dialogue rather than precipitous decision-making should be the method to disentangle complex and sensitive facts and perceptions. With the Council's support, the United Nations remains well placed to be the impartial connector between interests that may differ in many ways, but are also part of a common heritage. Progress on deadlocked constitutional issues, such as revenue sharing and the hydrocarbon law, are inextricably linked to those initiatives on national reconciliation. An open door on one issue would naturally lead to doors unlocking on several others, and UNAMI will continue to strive for that type of chain reaction. The scope for progress will be greatly enhanced by a display of constructive neighbourliness by all of Iraq's partners.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“Two of the most critical priorities within the Mission will be preparations for the national elections in 2010 and resolution on Iraq's disputed areas through the High-level Task Force. On the former, we are continuing to work alongside the Independent High Electoral Commission to strengthen the legitimacy of the electoral process. An update of Iraq's national voter list, planned for August, is an essential factor. In addition, we will continue to advise on the technical aspects of future electoral events. Our work on Iraq's disputed areas will follow the path set by the reports on the disputed internal boundaries, the High-level Task Force and the article 23 committee in Kirkuk, which continues to receive extensive technical support from UNAMI.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“Having said that, there are those for whom humanitarian needs are still dire, specifically communities decimated by years of conflict and a number of Iraq's over 3 million internally and externally displaced. The United Nations consolidated appeal for 2009 was only 33 per cent funded for activities in-country by July, and needs for support to returnee families have since increased by over $100 million. I thank the Member States that have provided support so far and hope that more will be forthcoming to fill that gap. As a necessary precondition for long-term stability, we will have to continue to work to bring to term those reconciliation processes already under way that are essential to internal consensus and stability.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“The United Nations Development Assistance Framework 2011-2014 will be based on the priorities of the National Development Plan, with an emphasis on capacity-building; a final draft will be completed by the end of the year. That will enable the Government to co-sign after the January 2010 national elections, moving the United Nations and Iraq into a true economic support and social development partnership. Over time, that should enable the United Nations humanitarian programme to shift focus, moving away from emergency appeals towards more comprehensive support to poor and vulnerable communities, expanding beyond Iraq's displaced populations. We can create conditions for return only by restoring jobs and services where conflict and poverty have undermined them and by fostering a climate of human rights and social healing.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“The Government of Iraq has requested that particular attention be paid to the management of its agriculture and internal water resources in order to try to halt the damage caused by the tragic shrinking of its rivers. The main vehicle for our assistance will be Iraq's five-year National Development Plan, due to start next year, on which we are already closely cooperating with the Government. We welcome the intention for the National Development Plan to refocus Iraq towards achievement of the Millennium Development Goals, tailored to the Iraqi context, in order to deliver on basic social, economic and development rights. It will be my priority to ensure that our development support, as a United Nations family, is fully aligned with the National Development Plan.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“These are goals that cannot wait for political consensus; rather, they can become a platform for consensus. The global financial crisis and oil price volatility have hit Iraq hard, decimating its revenues almost to 2003 levels and challenging its future capital budget. At the same time, indispensable systemic reforms have been slow, fragmented or absent. Managing oil and gas contracts, building on a few promising recent results, remains key. Yet a shift from the current oil-dependent economy towards a healthy private sector that encourages entrepreneurship and international investment is central to stability and growth. Large- scale programmes to stimulate the private sector and modernize Iraq's public sector are in preparation or under way. These and further support activities will be core priorities for an integrated UNAMI.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“This should continue to guide United Nations actions, while more than ever before gearing our focus towards translating political progress into tangible benefits for the many Iraqis still struggling in their daily lives. Now, as the multinational forces draw down and international partners are tending to wait and see, we have to resist the temptation to take on too much. To be successful, the United Nations should base its actions on Iraqi ownership, selectivity in priorities and the nexus between national reconciliation and economic development. Allow me to briefly highlight the main areas of focus. 3 All the evidence shows that Iraq's healthy future will depend on the diversification of its economy, on creating jobs for young people, on better services for its citizens and on the stronger capacities of those who seek to deliver them.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“I would also like to promote closer alignment with the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund to strengthen our common cause. I would like to align myself with my predecessor in underscoring the importance of the broad mandate provided by this Council through resolution 1770 (2007). Coming from a far distance, the United Nations has increasingly embarked on the expanded mandate, empowered to become an essential, impartial factor in peacebuilding inside Iraq. In particular, we have been able to provide a thinking pause for all stakeholders on contentious issues, construct a framework for dialogue and foster the skills needed to help move Iraq towards the socio-economic revival it wants and needs.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“With one third of Iraq's young people unemployed, a significant budget deficit combined with debt service and compensation obligations, drought and agricultural underperformance and the reluctance of investors to step in, there is a strong case for joining forces to invest in the productivity and social cohesion of the country as a whole. Eventually, progress should not only be measured at the level of political authorities but also be tangible for Iraqis in their jobs, schools, hospitals and homes. This should also guide the United Nations Mission more and more effectively. Therefore, I see it as my principal task to bring all United Nations organizations and staff together for the purpose of delivering as one through the integrated Mission in order to serve Iraq and the international community in the most effective way.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“It should particularly be noted that the Iraqi people have shown persistent restraint and dignity in the face of often unpredictable and vicious attacks in deliberate attempts to throw Iraq off its current course. This shows just how far out of step the attackers are with national sentiment. For the Iraqi Government, it remains a formidable task to provide reassurance to the 09-43962 people that their Government can protect them and that returning to the normal life they seek is still on track. Against the backdrop of these trends, I would like to submit that the time has come to place economic and social conditions up front.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“On the basis of the provisional results, I congratulate the people of the Kurdistan region on an impressive turnout of 77 per cent and a peaceful electoral process. I hope that a mutually respectful dialogue between the main actors - particularly the Kurdistan Democratic Party, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan and the Change List - will now seek to translate this positive start into a cohesive and truly representative regional Government. With the Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission, we will assess the electoral process against the generally accepted standards that are constantly being promoted as part of UNAMI's mandate. On balance, there are grounds for cautious optimism.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“Of course, socio- economic reforms can bear fruit only in a climate of political consensus. There have been some promising moves in this direction. The establishment of the High- level Task Force in the wake of the comprehensive United Nations report on the so-called disputed internal boundaries provides a much-needed framework for ongoing engagement on an issue that will require everyone's constructive effort and patience, as well as a keen awareness that only through peaceful resolution can long-term stability and progress in the area be sustained. The recent elections for the Iraqi Kurdistan Parliament offer a renewed opportunity to resume constructive engagement on outstanding issues.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“Although statistics tell the story of a downward trend in the overall level of violence, reality is still tainted by an unacceptably high level of 09-43962 indiscriminate attacks on civilians. The coming period will be a true challenge for the Iraqi Government and the Iraqi security forces; they must show skill and determination to gain the trust of the population and to respect fundamental human rights. The United Nations will continue to monitor facts and, it is to be hoped, further progress. The initiative to embark on the preparation of a long-term National Development Plan is one good example of a new mindset for governance, which will give direction not just to Iraq's own national priorities and budgeting, but also to international partners seeking to invest in Iraq's future.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“There are many factors, some internal, some external, that could still tip the scale. On the one hand, there is a new sense of optimism and energy spreading, with many Iraqis determined not just to have reclaimed their country's sovereignty but to mobilize the full responsibilities of sovereignty in order to deliver economic and social reforms, pursue political consensus and normalize regional relationships. Iraq's national pride was evident for the world to see as the Iraqi security forces reclaimed full responsibility on 30 June for the protection of Iraq's cities. The Government and people of Iraq truly had reason to celebrate this occasion. On the other hand, the new situation invokes new responsibilities.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“Allow me on this particular occasion to somewhat reserve my views on the country situation as it stands and on the United Nations action to come. First and foremost, I would like to benefit from the Council's guidance and engage in intensive interaction with all relevant partners in Iraq and the wider region. The two occasions that I have had to meet with Prime Minister Al-Maliki have been important to my understanding of the Government's immediate priorities. I am grateful to my predecessor, Staffan de Mistura, for his able leadership, his handover and his characteristic frankness in sharing his experiences and insights. From all sides in Iraq I heard the same message - this is not only an unparalleled moment of opportunity, but also one of great sensitivity.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“Mr. Melkert: I thank you, Sir, for this opportunity to address the Council. I would also like to thank the Secretary-General for the confidence he has bestowed upon me, with the Security Council's support, to lead a mission as crucial as the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) is to contributing to the future of the Iraqi people and to stability in the world. My recent brief introductory visit to Baghdad confirmed the sense of strong determination guiding the Iraqi Government and the spirit of utmost dedication motivating all United Nations staff in their joint efforts to promote hope and progress. I feel a sense of purpose, as well as a great weight of responsibility to add my part to these efforts.”
2009-08-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6177 (2009) · source
“In conclusion, I call upon Security Council members, and indeed all Member States, to give the United Nations presence on the ground - including the United Nations country teams - the tools and resources that they need to move towards working more proactively with young persons in situations of armed conflict, so that children and youth become full partners in bringing their countries and societies closer to peace and stability.”
2006-07-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5494 (2006) · source
“In the same way that we have moved from traditional approaches to disarmament, demobilization and reintegration to the so-called three Rs approach, which prioritizes not just the disarming of former combatants, but their return, rehabilitation and sustainable reintegration into their home communities, we need a fresh approach to young persons and armed conflict. That new approach could be called the "three Es", as in engage young persons in efforts to build lasting peace, educate young persons with life skills and not just perfunctory job training, and empower young persons to develop and seize political and economic opportunities so that they can transform their countries and their societies.”
2006-07-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5494 (2006) · source
“We often worry about the threat that large numbers of unemployed youth pose to peace and security in fragile situations, but how often do we make the effort to train youth as election observers, or peace monitors in their communities, or as a national network of mediators that can help bring peace to their communities? As we spend billions in reconstructing post-conflict societies, we also need to invest more to establish national service schemes that provide youth with life skills, as they help to rebuild their communities.”
2006-07-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5494 (2006) · source
“They include the successful United Nations-led demobilization of 60,000 former combatants in Liberia, where UNDP and other agencies have sought to focus attention on the lasting reintegration of primarily young combatants, especially girls and young women, into their communities. At least half of the former combatants have now been successfully reintegrated into their communities. The challenge is to equip them with longer-term opportunities for political and economic empowerment, particularly through job creation. We therefore must look critically at how we can improve our efforts to make young people active agents for peace. How often do we craft post-conflict needs assessments or interim poverty reduction strategies that place a particular emphasis on initiatives for the political and economic empowerment of youth?”
2006-07-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5494 (2006) · source
“In Port-au-Prince, a highly successful employment-generation initiative has engaged youth in civic activities, such as garbage pick-up and repair of basic utilities, thus making them active agents for reconstruction. Those examples illustrate that we need to, and can, engage young persons in conflict management and peacebuilding initiatives, including the provision of concrete skills for youth in accompanying their communities in reviving agriculture, thus reducing the pressure on urban areas, and training in leadership skills. Through the Mano River Union Peace Initiative, UNDP is supporting efforts in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea to implement those means.”
2006-07-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.5494 (2006) · source