YouSaid · the spoken record

Mona Juul

lines on the record: 260
first: 2020-04-23
most recent: 2021-05-26
sittings or episodes: 44
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

“As I conclude, let me reiterate that this report should serve as an urgent reminder to us all of our joint responsibility to do our utmost to end the conflict in Syria.”
2021-05-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/506 (2021) · source
“And let me again emphasize the importance of an inclusive process and of the participation of women as key to achieving sustainable peace. The Syrian Women’s Advisory Board plays an important role in this regard. We deeply regret that today’s elections in Syria are not being held in line with resolution 2254 (2015). Elections should have been held on the basis of a reformed constitution, agreed between the Syrian parties, and be free and fair for all Syrians. This is not the case. Children are among those who have suffered the most during the conflict. Norway remains alarmed by the abuses outlined in last month’s report of the Secretary-General on children in armed conflict.”
2021-05-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/506 (2021) · source
“There is an urgent need for progress on this file and for the release of those arbitrarily detained. This is so important for so many people in Syria. There is a need for confidence-building measures to allow for a new dynamic in the process. I would also like to repeat the need for broader international engagement. While the conflict remains highly internationalized, it is not enough that the Syrian parties alone negotiate. We should all contribute to a more coordinated and effective international engagement, as called for by the Special Envoy, in particular by those engaged on the ground in Syria. The step-by-step approach proposed by the Special Envoy should be explored in order to bring progress to the stalled process. We need to build trust on all sides and prepare the ground for political reforms and a political solution.”
2021-05-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/506 (2021) · source
“I will start by thanking Special Envoy Pedersen for his briefing. We hope that the compromise proposal from the Special Envoy will lay the foundation for a continued constitutional process, leading to a reformed constitution for Syria, as part of the Syrian-led, Syrian-owned inclusive peace process. We continue to support Mr. Pedersen’s call for concrete results in the next round. And we urge the parties to contribute to the process in good faith, in the interest of the people of Syria, who need stability and peace. A political solution for Syria is overdue. The Constitutional Committee is just one piece of the puzzle. Other parts of Security Council resolution 2254 (2015) are also crucial for a political settlement. We remain deeply concerned about the countless missing persons in Syria and those arbitrarily detained.”
2021-05-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/506 (2021) · source
“As this meeting combines both political and humanitarian agenda items, I will now speak in my national capacity on the political situation.”
2021-05-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/506 (2021) · source
“Despite slow improvement in cross-line access, the United Nations still faces considerable difficulties and great unmet needs that continue to rise. While this Council pursues a negotiated political settlement in line with Security Council resolution 2254 (2015), and mindful of the Council’s strong commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Syria, there is no excuse for not assisting the millions of people in need in Syria. If we fail, the Syrian people will bear a terrible cost, and no one will gain. To quote the Secretary-General: “A large-scale cross-border response for an additional 12 months remains essential to save lives”. Let us listen to the Secretary-General, to the United Nations agencies, to the implementing partners and, most importantly, to the Syrian people.”
2021-05-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/506 (2021) · source
“However, despite efforts by the United Nations, the parties have not yet been able to reach agreement on a cross-line mission across the active front lines to Atarib. We urge all parties to facilitate a cross-line mission to the north-west without delay. But we must also recognize that it will take time to scale up, even in the best of circumstances. The United Nations dispatched an average of 1,000 trucks of aid per month in 2020, crossing the border from Turkey to Idlib and reaching 2.4 million people each month throughout the year. Cross-line convoys, even if deployed regularly, could not replicate the size and scope of this operation. Look to the north-east: as the Secretary- General observed at the General Assembly on 30 March 2021, the situation has worsened after the closure of Ya‘rubiyah almost 16 months ago.”
2021-05-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/506 (2021) · source
“Let me also stress the importance of the United Nations Monitoring Mechanism, which ensures the verification of the humanitarian nature of all cross- border shipments at Bab al-Hawa. The United Nations cross-border operation is one of the most heavily scrutinized and monitored aid operations in the world. Not renewing the cross-border authorization would mean losing the transparency and accountability that the United Nations provides for the humanitarian operation of warehouses at the border, at distribution points, and after distribution to beneficiaries. On the question of cross-line support to the north-west, which has been raised frequently in recent meetings: as we have said before, we fully support the strengthening of all modalities for humanitarian assistance in Syria.”
2021-05-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/506 (2021) · source
“Failure to agree on a renewal of the humanitarian aid delivery mechanism would mean that, in the north-west, the United Nations and its partners would cease providing monthly food assistance for 1.4 million people, educational material for tens of thousands of children, and essential medical items that supported 10 million treatments in 2020 – and now include vaccinations against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) – to mention just some of the most critical areas of assistance. As humanitarian co-penholders, Norway and Ireland have consulted all members of the Council, and we will continue to do so in the weeks to come. In keeping with our stated aim of a principled humanitarian needs-based approach, we will work to reach consensus on the renewal of a large-scale life-saving United Nations cross- border response.”
2021-05-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/506 (2021) · source
“We must act to ensure that humanitarian assistance continues to reach all of Syria through all modalities necessary. We must act to ensure that access is safe, rapid and unimpeded. In north-west Syria, the number of people in need has increased by over 20 per cent so far in 2021. Prices of food staples rose by over 200 per cent in the last year. Winter brought freezing temperatures, flooding and further hardship for the 1.6 million people, mostly women and children, living in camps and informal settlements. The cross-border provision of humanitarian assistance remains the only modality that can operate at the scale required to reach the 3.4 million people in need in this region, a fact that is unlikely to change over the next 12 -month period.”
2021-05-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/506 (2021) · source
“I make this statement on behalf of the co-penholders of the Syrian humanitarian file, Ireland and Norway. We would like to thank Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Lowcock for his briefing today. As we have heard, and as reported by the Secretary-General, the Under- Secretary-General and a number of partners on the ground, the humanitarian situation in Syria is worse today than 10 months ago, when resolution 2533 (2020) was adopted by the Security Council. In a little over six weeks’ time, the humanitarian aid delivery mechanism renewed by resolution 2533 (2020) will expire. At that time, the Council confronts a choice: we can live up to our principles and support Syria’s most vulnerable people, or we can fail and face the grave humanitarian consequences. The Security Council must act.”
2021-05-26 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/506 (2021) · source
“Efforts must continue to strengthen the capacity of United Nations peace operations to protect civilians, including by prioritizing support for political dialogue as a means of establishing a protective environment. Missions must receive adequate resources, and engage all components to deliver on protection mandates, including to combat sexual and gender-based violence, and ensure child protection. The report of the Secretary-General also shows the impact of the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, particularly those with wide-area effects wherein 88 per cent of the casualties are civilian. We support the Irish-led initiative for a political declaration to minimize the use of such weapons. There is no doubt that the prevention of conflict is key. And the primary responsibility lies with Member States.”
2021-05-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/505 (2021) · source
“More people were forcibly displaced by mid-year than in the entire year before. This considerable increase is a harsh reminder that we must shift the Council’s focus from recognition to action. Additionally, the cycle between conflict and food insecurity can only be broken through an integrated response. We call on all parties to spare no effort in providing the infrastructure needed for food production and distribution. The intentional use of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare is a war crime. And we urge States parties to the Rome Statute to ratify or accept the recent amendment concerning the war crime of starvation in non-international armed conflict.”
2021-05-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/505 (2021) · source
“And we call on all States to endorse and implement the Safe Schools Declaration. We applaud the 108 States that have already done so, including 10 members of the Council. The widespread and increasing level of sexual and gender-based violence in conflict settings — now intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic — is also of a grave concern. The Council must use all means at its disposal to prevent and protect against sexual and gender-based violence and other gender-related threats. Perpetrators must be brought to justice. And there must be an end to the widespread use of sexual violence as a tool of political repression and tactic of war and terror. On top of the pandemic, the threat of famine, conflict, environmental degradation and climate risks converged in 2020.”
2021-05-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/505 (2021) · source
“We call for the full implementation of resolutions 2286 (2016) and 2565 (2021). And we support the Secretary-General’s global ceasefire appeal. We will continue to encourage all parties to adhere to it and call for direct support to make such ceasefires more robust and durable. In conflict, children have to carry the heaviest burden on their shoulders. They must be better protected. We are appalled by attacks on education facilities and remain concerned that the COVID-19 pandemic has fuelled absenteeism and school closures, exposing children to the risk of a wide range of threats, including child marriage, child labour, sexual and gender-based violence and their recruitment and use by armed forces and groups. The right to education must be upheld. Education protects children.”
2021-05-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/505 (2021) · source
“Norway therefore urges all parties to armed conflicts to comply with their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law. Alleged violations of international humanitarian law must be thoroughly, impartially and effectively investigated. And accountability for violations must be ensured through credible national or international criminal justice mechanisms. We are deeply concerned about the consequences of persistent and increasing levels of violence, threats and attacks against medical care, thereby amplifying the devastating effects of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Attacks against medical and health-care facilities and medical personnel and transports, including through cybermeans, are always unacceptable, and prohibited under international humanitarian law.”
2021-05-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/505 (2021) · source
“We thank the presidency for organizing this open debate and are grateful for the briefings given by Under-Secretary-General Lowcock, The President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Peter Maurer, and the Director of the Afghanistan Research and Evaluation Unit, Orzala Nemat. We are appalled by the increase in attacks deliberately targeting civilians in Afghanistan that she mentioned. We are struck by the levels of civilian death, injury, psychological trauma and destruction of infrastructure reported by the Secretary-General (S/2021/423). This is particularly alarming, as we know that the extent to which civilians are protected during a conflict can determine the ultimate prospects for achieving sustainable peace and reconciliation.”
2021-05-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/505 (2021) · source
“Norway is heartened by the engagement of fellow Member States — as well as the United Nations Secretariat — in enhancing the safety and security of peacekeepers, including substantive efforts to deal with the coronavirus disease. We trust that ongoing engagement will result in concrete proposals to make good on our joint commitment to ensure their well-being. We owe it to all those whom we have lost and all those who will bear the scars of their service to the United Nations for the rest of their lives. We also owe it to the host communities, because safe and secure peacekeepers are better peacekeepers.”
2021-05-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/501 (2021) · source
“Transitioning to renewable energy can also create socioeconomic dividends, which may lessen the animosity towards peacekeepers that exists in some host communities. That in turn could have a positive impact on the implementation of a mission’s mandate. Thirdly, host States must take seriously their obligation to bring to justice those who attack peacekeepers. The United Nations, however, must also play its part to assist in that endeavour. Norway is pleased to provide targeted capacity- building support to the Malian authorities in their fight against impunity. We do so through our specialized police team in the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali, which also includes French improvised explosive device experts.”
2021-05-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/501 (2021) · source
“Norway urges fellow troop- and police-contributing countries to train and deploy personnel with the capabilities set forth in the Peacekeeping-Intelligence Policy. That will help protect our peacekeepers and also enhance their capacity to handle what is the main priority of most missions — the protection of civilians. Secondly, the United Nations must optimize the use of technology and equipment to maximize the safety and security of its personnel. That includes enhancing situational awareness and analysis. Optimizing the use of technology should also include the transition to renewable energy, whenever feasible. That will reduce missions’ fuel requirements and the frequency of long-distance fuel convoys, which are vulnerable to attacks and prone to accidents.”
2021-05-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/501 (2021) · source
“We also recall the countless others who have suffered severe physical or mental scars after having served with the United Nations. Those keepers of peace — and their families — have made enormous sacrifices on our behalf, and for that we thank them profoundly. The least we can do to honour their bravery is to keep looking for solutions to prevent accidents and illness, not least to reduce the threat of malicious acts. In that regard, we would like to highlight three points — training, technology and accountability. First, adequate training is essential to ensure that peacekeepers are prepared to deal with the complex operational situations that they will face in the field. That training must be as context-specific as possible.”
2021-05-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/501 (2021) · source
“I thank the briefers, as well as China, for adding this important debate to our agenda. We see it in connection with other events, including the Arria Formula meeting on improvised explosive devices, organized by Kenya in March. The safety and security of peacekeepers has been a key concern for Norway since our first United Nations deployments. On 13 July 1948 in Jerusalem, our countryman Ole Helge Bakke became the first peacekeeper to lose his life while on United Nations duty. Since then, almost 4,100 women and men have died while serving as United Nations peacekeepers. Earlier this month, the Secretary-General held his annual memorial service for 2020. The names of 336 lost United Nations colleagues were read out, including the names of 130 peacekeepers. Just reading their names lasted almost half an hour.”
2021-05-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/501 (2021) · source
“Let me end by reiterating Norway’s firm support for the Special Envoy and all the work undertaken to ensure fair and safe elections in December, as well as comprehensive and inclusive political, security and economic processes. As we know, there are many potential spoilers of these efforts, and hurdles remain ahead. It is our responsibility as Council members to provide the Libyans with the support they need.”
2021-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/498 (2021) · source
“Norway joins the Special Envoy in expressing our continued concern about the arbitrary detention of migrants and refugees, including children, in formal detention centres. With an increasing number of migrants crossing the Mediterranean, the number of refugees and migrants in detention is also increasing. Particularly alarming are the reports of torture, sexual violence and abuse within these centres. We welcome the announcement of a 15-member committee to address the issue of arbitrary detention and, as always, urge respect for international humanitarian law and human rights law. As we enter a season when migration across the Mediterranean is expected to increase, we also need to focus on the prevention of drowning tragedies.”
2021-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/498 (2021) · source
“The implementation of the ceasefire provisions must be prioritized, including the reopening of the strategic coastal road connecting Misrata with eastern Libya. In line with these efforts, a comprehensive disarmament, demobilization and reintegration process is also needed for returning foreign fighters, in order to avoid spreading instability in the region. And security sector reform is urgently needed. I would also like to reiterate the obligation of all countries to respect the weapons embargo instituted by this Council. Breaching the embargo only fuels the conflict. We support the European Union Naval Force Mediterranean Operation IRINI in implementing the United Nations arms embargo on Libya.”
2021-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/498 (2021) · source
“Investigating and prosecuting violations of international humanitarian law, and human rights violations and abuses, as well as promoting transitional justice, are critical components of achieving sustainable peace and stability in Libya. The fact that the ceasefire is still holding remains a positive signal. A safe environment for voting in December is essential to break the military deadlock. Norway welcomes the progress report on the ceasefire monitoring arrangements and commends preparations under way to deploy the UNSMIL ceasefire monitoring component. Norway also welcomes the continued efforts of the 5+5 Joint Military Commission to facilitate the withdrawal of foreign fighters and mercenaries.”
2021-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/498 (2021) · source
“We also commend the role of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) and of Special Envoy Kubiš in facilitating the finalization of a draft constitution proposal in advance of the upcoming plenary meeting of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum. Norway fully supports the Libyan people in their quest for peace and reconciliation through an inclusive political process, and we continue to urge the full, equal and meaningful participation of women at all levels, as well as the effective inclusion of voices from youth and civil society groups in all their diversity. We also welcome the establishment of a High National Reconciliation Commission and the Special Envoy’s engagement with the African Union on this issue.”
2021-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/498 (2021) · source
“I thank Special Envoy Kubiš for his and his team’s ongoing work to support the political, security and economic processes under way in Libya. We are pleased to see continued progress on the political track, especially as part of the road map towards December elections. We welcome the continued steps by both the Government of National Unity and the House of Representatives to sustain the positive momentum. And we encourage continuous focus on the preparations to approve and pass the constitutional and legal framework for elections, and other necessary legislation. In this regard, the adoption of a budget is a critical next step. And we urge the interim government to prioritize measures important to the daily lives of the Libyan people — such as restoring basic services of water, electricity and health care.”
2021-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/498 (2021) · source
“Benchmarks are useful when they relate to measurable results. Indicators should be agreed upon in dialogue with the full range of interested parties — Government bodies as well as civil society — at the national and local levels. A continued positive trajectory in the Sudan’s transition depends on constructive dialogue and partnership among the Government of the Sudan, UNITAMS and the Security Council. We are ready to play our part.”
2021-05-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/495 (2021) · source
“Pending final Government approval, Norway is planning to contribute personnel to the specialized police team in UNITAMS in order to help to enhance the capacity of the Sudan Police Force to conduct community policing and investigate sexual and gender-based violence, which is an important step towards strengthening the protective environment in the country. We are also considering putting forward a candidate for the post of Military Advisor to Special Representative of the Secretary- General and Head of UNITAMS. Norway commends UNITAMS for progress achieved thus far with limited resources, and we applaud the Special Representative’s commitment to making UNITAMS’s efforts relevant to the whole of the Sudan. The four strategic goals remain relevant and should not change. Yet, on a daily basis, it is necessary to prioritize tasks.”
2021-05-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/495 (2021) · source
“We are encouraged by the signing of the declaration of principles between the Government and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North faction of Abdelaziz Al-Hilu. Negotiations on the substantive issues should be swift. Furthermore, ongoing and future talks must be inclusive. The full, equal and meaningful participation of women must be a top priority for all. Norway stands ready to support the process in close coordination with: the negotiating parties, the Government of South Sudan, UNITAMS and other relevant actors.”
2021-05-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/495 (2021) · source
“The humanitarian situation — compounded by climate change — is dire, and the number of persons displaced by conflict in Darfur is increasing. In this respect, we welcome the transitional Government’s announcement of eight measures to address violence in West Darfur and call for their speedy implementation. Several of these measures are derived from the Juba Peace Agreement (JPA), in which the United Nations — represented by UNITAMS — is given specific and critical roles. Going forward, operationalizing and clarifying these roles is a key task for UNITAMS and of great importance to the implementation of the JPA. In this context, ceasefire monitoring is vital. The peace process is not complete until all armed groups have signed on.”
2021-05-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/495 (2021) · source
“In our view, success will also depend on how well the Government — and we the partners — follow the script of transition laid out in the Constitutional Document and in the Juba Peace Agreement. The Transitional Legislative Council should be formed without further delay, and the Sovereignty Council in the Sudan must prepare for the transition to a civilian chairperson. Security sector reform also cannot wait. Assisting these processes are at the core of the mandate of the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in the Sudan (UNITAMS). Norway remains deeply concerned at the security situation in Darfur in particular and at the critical gaps in the protection of civilians, especially the lack of effective measures against sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls.”
2021-05-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/495 (2021) · source
“I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Perthes for his comprehensive and positive briefing today (annex I). Let me congratulate the Sudan on the successful outcome of the Paris conference earlier this week. The message was clear: we must stand together to make the transition irreversible, even though many challenges remain. The Sudan now has a unique opportunity to create conditions for sustainable growth. The success of the transition process can — and should — be measured by two main criteria: first, how well the transitional Government manages diversity based on the principle of equal rights; and secondly, how the people as a whole benefit from economic development. It is inclusive policies that bring both of these criteria together.”
2021-05-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/495 (2021) · source
“They call it the four “people’s pillars”, which are to, first, prioritize the protection of civilians; secondly, create a political strategy to address the root causes of the crisis; thirdly, respond to humanitarian emergencies; and, fourthly, combat impunity. Lastly, I am glad to note that those signals are increasingly being recognized — the G-5 Sahel Summit in N’Djamena focused on a civilian and political surge. The road map of the Coalition for the Sahel also includes pillars involving development and the return of the State and basic services, such as schools and health clinics. In the end, that is what matters to people in their daily lives.”
2021-05-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/484 (2021) · source
“In addition, an increase in police presence would help. The Force must also be expected to deliver on the women and peace and security agenda. The positive attention of the G-5 Sahel Executive Secretariat to the role of women in leadership positions should continue. Military solutions alone can never transform conflicts into peace. Security measures must be complemented by understanding and addressing root causes — whether owing to the lack of development, inequality of opportunity or vulnerability to climate change. We should continue to enhance the advisory role of the Peacebuilding Commission in that regard. The fight is not only against violent extremism, but also about gaining the trust of the civilian population through inclusive governance. This was also a main message in a recent report from the People’s Coalition for the Sahel.”
2021-05-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/484 (2021) · source
“We also commend the Joint Force’s implementation of the compliance framework to prevent civilian harm. We hope that we have seen only the beginning of such efforts. Let me be clear: any international support effort that involves the United Nations would hinge especially on conduct that is fully in line with the its Human Rights Due Diligence Policy. We recognize that the Joint Force is operating in a challenging context. However, professionalism and the protection of civilians must be expected in strict accordance with human rights law and international humanitarian law. Particular attention should be given to children in armed conflict. To that end, Norway will continue to support the compliance framework, expertly implemented by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.”
2021-05-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/484 (2021) · source
“We understand the need for increased predictability, sustainability and flexibility. Norway is ready to discuss how that can be done, including through the United Nations and the actions of the Security Council. However, some questions remain, including what options are there to overcome the operational and logistical challenges we see today and what support mechanisms are best suited to preventing and addressing violations and abuses of human rights and international humanitarian law. Norway is troubled by reported attacks against civilians committed by members of the Joint Force, including allegations of sexual violence against women and girls. At the same time, we commend the recent examples where perpetrators have been removed from their posts or prosecuted.”
2021-05-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/484 (2021) · source
“I thank the briefers for their insights from various perspectives. Norway remains deeply concerned about the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in the Sahel and the loss of humanitarian space. Those crises must be addressed and prevented from spreading to neighbouring countries. The death of late President Idriss Deby Itno of Chad has also highlighted the many cross-border linkages in the region, as did the recent loss of the Niger’s soldiers near the border with Mali. We pay our respects to them and convey our condolences to Chad, the Niger and those most affected. We are encouraged by the progress made by the Joint Force of the Group of Five for the Sahel (G-5 Sahel) in fighting terrorism. As a regional response to regional challenges, the Joint Force merits our attention and support.”
2021-05-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/484 (2021) · source
“Finally, let me reiterate that Norway welcomes the decision by the United States to lift sanctions against ICC officials. We look forward to continued cooperation with the Court and all Council members in promoting accountability for mass atrocities. Finally, as it is Ms. Bensouda’s last briefing to the Council on Libya, we would like to express our deepest appreciation to her for her tireless efforts on this file. We look forward to seeing her again in the Council in June for the Darfur briefing.”
2021-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/483 (2021) · source
“Preventing and responding to conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence is a priority in all our peace and security efforts. We should utilize sanctions, where relevant and appropriate, to counter such heinous acts. It is troubling and highly regrettable that the three arrest warrants issued by the Court have still not been executed. We note reports that one or two of the individuals named may be deceased, and support the Prosecutor’s call for efforts to clarify the facts. We urge all States to ensure that those wanted by the Court are surrendered. The Council cannot remain indifferent to the lack of cooperation reported by the Prosecutor. The Council must assume its responsibilities and consider every possible measure to support the Court.”
2021-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/483 (2021) · source
“However, we remain deeply concerned by reports of ongoing crimes, including murder, enforced disappearances, arbitrary detention in official and unofficial centres, torture and sexual and gender-based violence. Summary sentencing and convictions in secret trials without access to a fair trial has to end. We urge the Government to investigate and prosecute those responsible without delay and fully cooperate with the ICC. Addressing impunity is critical to sustainable peace, stability and reconciliation. Norway welcomes the progress made by the ICC during the reporting period. We call on the Libyan authorities to provide access to detention centres and other sites where there is suspicion of serious crimes having been committed. Norway is concerned by the use of sexual violence in Libya, as reported by the Prosecutor.”
2021-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/483 (2021) · source
“Norway would like to thank Prosecutor Bensouda for today’s briefing. Norway has been a staunch supporter of the International Criminal Court (ICC) from the beginning. The mission of the ICC remains as crucial as ever. Norway lends its full support to the political process in Libya, including the upcoming elections in December. It is a positive sign that the ceasefire is still holding, but it is fragile. We look forward to the deployment of the ceasefire monitoring mechanism. We reiterate our call for armed groups to leave the country, as the Libyans themselves decided in the ceasefire agreement from October 2020. Norway notes the decline in crimes since the ceasefire and the inauguration of the new interim Government of National Unity.”
2021-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/483 (2021) · source
“Moreover, I would like to stress that the Riyadh agreement and the establishment of a unity government are important steps towards peace. Rivalry and fragmentation, whether in the south or on the west coast, only derail efforts at securing peace and stability.”
2021-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/465 (2021) · source
“The spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Yemen is alarming. We are glad to see that COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access Facility vaccines are being distributed in Government-controlled areas, but supplies are far from sufficient. Furthermore, there is an urgent need to distribute vaccines in the north of the country, in compliance with World Health Organization guidelines. It is time to act. We urge all actors, especially key actors in the region, to use their influence and leverage towards the parties. Any sustainable solution to the conflict in Yemen must be inclusive and address its root causes. In this regard, we are deeply concerned by the recent large-scale shipment of weapons, which was apparently on its way to Yemen.”
2021-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/465 (2021) · source
“There is an urgent need to ensure sufficient and predictable supplies of food and fuel. We call for the lifting of the sea blockade and an immediate reversal of all restrictions on humanitarian actors. We are deeply concerned by reports that starvation is being used as a weapon. We should not forget the dire situation in Taiz. We are shocked by reports that Houthis have denied people in the city access to water. Furthermore, roads must be reopened to end the long-term siege. I would like to highlight the critical role that journalists play in wars. We are alarmed by the treatment of journalists in Yemen. Norway condemns the death sentences against four journalists issued by a Houthi court in April last year. Their cases will come up for review this month, and we call for their immediate release.”
2021-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/465 (2021) · source
“However, we deeply regret that a nationwide ceasefire has still not been agreed, and that the humanitarian crisis and violence continue unabated. We are appalled by the high level of violence. March saw the highest number of civilian casualties in six months. At least 90 children have been killed since January. We also know that children are being recruited and used in armed battle. This is unacceptable. We are troubled by reports that fighting is affecting internally displaced person (IDP) sites and civilian areas, mainly in Ma’rib, but also in Hajjah and Al- Hudaydah. In addition to shelling and attacks by the Houthis, we hear reports that heavy coalition air strikes have hit IDP camps and civilian houses. Eighty per cent of IDPs in Yemen are women and children. Humanitarian access to people in need must be granted immediately.”
2021-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/465 (2021) · source
“I want to thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Martin Griffiths and Under-Secretary-General Mark Lowcock for their briefings. Moreover, I would like to wish Muslims in Yemen and around the world Eid Mubarak. Norway welcomes the international community’s increased efforts to achieve progress in Yemen, and would like to thank Martin Griffiths, as well as United States Special Envoy for Yemen, Mr. Lenderking, and Oman and other regional actors, including Saudi Arabia. We are encouraged by news of recent prisoner exchanges in Ma’rib, facilitated by local mediators. I believe that such initiatives represent the capacity of the Yemeni people to find practical solutions and reflect their genuine will for peace.”
2021-05-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/465 (2021) · source
“The coronavirus disease pandemic has also significantly burdened Iraq, compounding these and other challenges. In that connection, we express our deepest sympathy to victims of the tragic fire at Ibn Al-Khatib hospital in Baghdad. On a final note, we welcome the progress made on the return of Kuwait property and the repatriation of nationals of Kuwait and third countries, as well as their remains. We commend Iraq and Kuwait for their cooperation in bringing this humanitarian file to a close.”
2021-05-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/474 (2021) · source
“That said, the continued engagement between Iraq and its international and regional partners — aimed at furthering peace and regional stability — is encouraging. On this point, Norway would like to underline the additional need to address the issue of climate change and water scarcity. As stated in the Secretary- General’s report (S/2021/426), joint challenges such as climate change require joint solutions in order to ensure a stable and secure future. Sustained attention must also be given to the impact of displacement. While we welcome the Government’s pause on the closure of internally displaced persons camps, we remain concerned by the overall grave humanitarian situation, and call for durable solutions. Returns must be safe, voluntary, dignified and sustainable.”
2021-05-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2021/474 (2021) · source