YouSaid · the spoken record

Moraes Cabral

lines on the record: 869
first: 2009-02-19
most recent: 2012-12-13
sittings or episodes: 118
sources: un-security-council

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“In this regard, we commend the efforts being undertaken by the States of the region and regional organizations, and call for their continued engagement to this purpose. But we agree with the Special Adviser that we must also embrace new solutions of an economic, security and judicial-penal nature. In this regard, we are ready to work in the Council to help achieve a prompt outcome on the basis of these proposals.”
2011-01-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6473 (2011) · source
“We will look into the realization of these proposals as potential tools for promoting institution-building and the rule of law, and for encouraging economic activity adequate to sound and peaceful progress in the country. We all know that the roots of piracy off the coast of Somalia lie inland, not at sea. They are to be found in the difficult living conditions that result from a persisting situation of conflict and instability, weak institutions for fighting impunity, and serious development problems. Such circumstances make it particularly difficult for Somalis to create alternatives to an economy in which piracy's influence is increasingly preponderant. Despite the complexity of the subject, the Special Adviser has managed to present us with a simple approach. We must improve the solutions that are currently being pursued.”
2011-01-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6473 (2011) · source
“I also thank our Somali colleague for his comments, and have taken note of the points raised by the Assistant Secretary-General. The Special Adviser gave us a thorough and accurate overview of the situation on the ground. Moreover, he presented us with a set of proposals for overcoming the difficult challenge that confronts us today in the issue of piracy off the coast of Somalia - a challenge first of all for Somalia, but also for the region and for the international community as a whole. Portugal stands ready to work on those proposals, with the aim of preventing and punishing piracy in the region. We are guided by the conviction that the success of any strategy on this matter lies with the empowerment of Somalia and the need for Somalia to be entrusted in the near future with added capacity to fight this phenomenon from within.”
2011-01-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6473 (2011) · source
“The United Nations, through its programmes and funds, along with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and other international organizations and donors, in coordination with the Contact Group on Piracy off the Coast of Somalia, all have a role to play in dealing with the subject at hand in its different dimensions. They have to be further supported in countering piracy and in addressing its root causes and overall impact in Somalia. Increased funding, including through voluntary contributions, cannot be avoided. The cost of inaction would be much, much higher. It is for these reasons that I wish, like others, to thank the Special Adviser of the Secretary-General, Mr. Jack Lang, for his detailed, comprehensive and, I must add, very disturbing report (S/2011/30).”
2011-01-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6473 (2011) · source
“The international community and the Security Council cannot and, I know, will not turn a blind eye to Somalia at this critical juncture. The range of piracy activities is spreading to neighbouring countries, and the number of reported piracy acts is growing, as is the number of victims. The sophistication of the attacks has also increased. The number of hostages taken by pirates is both impressive and disturbing. The other victims, perhaps less visible or not so frequently mentioned in the news, are the Somalis themselves, condemned in their daily lives to suffer the corrosive social impact of piracy.”
2011-01-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6473 (2011) · source
“In that regard, as a member of the European Union, Portugal naturally shares the position that will be expressed by its representative during this debate. In concluding, I would like to recall an expression of Sergio Vieira de Mello, who personifies United Nations involvement both in Bosnia and Herzegovina and in Timor-Leste. He said "The UN is an instrument, a frame, an engine, a dynamic, as conciliatory, as innovative, as successful as Member States wish it, allow it and make it be." That is our common challenge and our shared responsibility. Bearing that in mind, let me assure the Council of Portugal's commitment to contribute to a more effective and coherent international responsible to post-conflict peacebuilding.”
2011-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6472 (2011) · source
“ll-2l268 Peacebuilding is also an exercise in managing the expectations of the authorities and the civil society of the country in question and those of the mission and other international stakeholders. That can be done only through constant dialogue and through a real grasp of political, social, economic and cultural realities and their dynamics and evolution. National ownership contributes to institution- building, and, on the other hand, institution-building reinforces national ownership and national responsibility, thus paving the way for a successful exit strategy of the international partners and self-sustained peace and stability. The European Union has long been committed to supporting institutional development in post-conflict countries.”
2011-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6472 (2011) · source
“The centrality of national actors is therefore indispensable. The importance of national ownership in post- conflict peacebuilding is well known to all of us. The partnership between the State and the international partners must be based on a shared strategic understanding of the objectives and the way forward, with clear common goals, permanent and effective dialogue and interaction with the people of the country - the authorities, opposition parties and civil society as a whole. It must include a smooth exit strategy for the international actors. Gender issues and the instrumental role that women play in economic recovery, social cohesion and political legitimacy, expanding the scope of national capacities, are also of particular importance.”
2011-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6472 (2011) · source
“International economic aid should be concentrated on projects that take into account the economic, social and even cultural realities of the country, its specific capacities and the potential they offer for foreign investment. Adequate management of natural resources should also be incorporated early into development programmes and infrastructure reconstruction. Development of national capacities must be a constant objective in all areas. There is an obvious link between development and peace. The nature of that link is perhaps not totally clear, nor can one build upon a casual relationship between the two. But they are surely mutually reinforcing. No one can better understand the situation in a country than the people who live there. No foreign commitment can replace their will, without which no peacebuilding effort will be sustainable.”
2011-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6472 (2011) · source
“Only such institutions will be able to address the many issues that remain in post-conflict situations and to bring the resolution of political disputes into the political process. Each country is a different and specific case. General recipes are dangerous, to say the least. But two further elements are common and equally important in all peacebuilding strategies: economic and social development, and national ownership. Institution-building alone will not suffice, since no country will achieve sustainable peace and stability without economic and social development. Unemployment, especially youth unemployment, must be addressed at an early stage of peacebuilding efforts through concrete, focused initiatives.”
2011-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6472 (2011) · source
“The United Nations must enhance its capacity to define integrated strategies from the outset and to coordinate the activities of the different actors on the ground - those in charge of security and the development agencies and non-governmental organizations - enhancing interaction with all the relevant stakeholders, including regional and subregional organizations, neighbouring countries, peacebuilding configurations and troop- and police- contributing countries. Much has been done in that sense, but more still needs to be done. Only with legitimate, credible and resilient institutions will a State be able to discharge its functions and meet the expectations of its citizens.”
2011-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6472 (2011) · source
“In time, that proposal led to the establishment of the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC), which has been chaired by our colleague Peter Wittig, whom I congratulate on his commitment and leadership. I must say that I share his analysis and suggestions concerning enhancing the role of the PBC. It is now a common assumption that peacekeeping and peacebuilding should be seen as an integrated effort and no longer as sequential activities, and that peacebuilding activities should begin as soon as the situation on the ground so permits, well within the span of the foreseeable duration of a peacekeeping operation and throughout its cycle.”
2011-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6472 (2011) · source
“But it is mainly due to the will of the Timorese people and their political leaders' vision of national ownership and leadership. Portugal is honoured, alongside the other members of the Portuguese-speaking community, to be deeply associated with the successful path Timor-Leste has followed. In the early stages of the United Nations reform process, Mozambique and Portugal jointly proposed the creation of a framework within the United Nations system that would help to bridge the gap between security needs and the need to rebuild stable institutions that would allow Governments in post- conflict situations to effectively pursue their main tasks. Without that, stability would be elusive and relapse into conflict would be a serious possibility.”
2011-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6472 (2011) · source
“Thank you, Mr. President, for convening this timely and important debate. It is most suitable that we address this issue under your presidency, given your country's remarkable transition from the post-conflict stage to a stable democracy. I also thank the Secretary-General for his important statement. I wish to extend a most cordial welcome to Mr. Jose Luis Guterres, Deputy Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, a country that is also a paradigm of today's subject and a success in the United Nations' peacebuilding efforts. Today, less than eight years after its independence, Timor-Leste is a democracy with stable institutions, looking confidently towards the future. That is due to the success of the peacebuilding efforts carried out in Timor-Leste, with institution- building at the centre.”
2011-01-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6472 (2011) · source
“The ability to absorb the necessary resources for reconstruction is a vital issue for Haiti and for international donors. Our efforts in capacity- building should aim at solving the present situation. Finally, Portugal joins others in expressing concern over the fragile and unstable situation in Haiti and the continued plight of the population. While giving our full support to MINUSTAH in fulfilling its mandate, we also stress the importance of calling upon the parties to abide by democratic rules, the Constitution and the laws of Haiti and to allow MINUSTAH and humanitarian workers full and unhindered access to all people in need.”
2011-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6471 (2011) · source
“We must recognize that those conditions have never been fully met. We are concerned about new elements that may further increase the present instability in the country, such as the return of Mr. Duvalier, even if he is brought to justice. Ensuring security in all its dimensions is an essential requirement for the full recovery of Haiti. It must be felt in urban and rural communities all over the country. Furthermore, it is a prerequisite for efficient distribution of aid. MINUSTAH's efforts in that area are highly laudable, and we are well aware of the immense challenges that it faces on a daily basis. Regarding relief and recovery, Portugal stresses the need to reinforce coordination among MINUSTAH, United Nations agencies and programmes, national and international non-governmental organizations and the various donors.”
2011-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6471 (2011) · source
“MINUSTAH can also play an important role, not only by providing logistical support and ensuring safety throughout the process, but also by promoting political dialogue. The earthquake brought Haiti's woes to us under a sharper light. Social and economic conditions in Haiti were already very difficult prior to it. Respect for human rights, the rule of law and the democratic process were not entrenched. What we are currently addressing is not only the turmoil created by the cataclysm, but also the structural deficiencies and imbalances that have existed for many years. That aspect must be taken into account in designing our response to political and social developments in the country. The hard road to recovery and sustainable development requires stability, democratically legitimized authorities and political leadership.”
2011-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6471 (2011) · source
“The paralysis that we have seen during the past two months needs to be quickly overcome. We commend the work carried out by the Organization of the American States (OAS) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and its expert mission on the presidential election of last November. We hope that their findings will help to restore credibility and the confidence of the Haitian people in their political system. In that sense, a free, fair and transparent second round of the presidential election is essential. To pursue that objective, effective international observation of those elections is crucial, minimizing the potential for irregularities and providing meaningful support for that process. We thank the OAS and CARICOM. for their valuable cooperation in the next decisive phase of that process.”
2011-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6471 (2011) · source
“It is obvious that humanitarian relief will continue to be the main priority as long as the basic needs of the Haitian population - be it access to water, food, shelter, sanitation or health care - are not ensured. Hurricane Tomas and cholera have compounded the situation. Millions still depend on humanitarian aid on a daily basis, even if, encouragingly, some progress has been made, such as the decrease in the number of internally displaced persons, the reduction of the mortality rate and the stabilization of the cholera outbreak. However, much more needs to be done, and the international community can do more, namely, at the structural level. The transparency and credibility of the electoral process that will lead to the installation of a democratic Administration are paramount.”
2011-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6471 (2011) · source
“Like others, I too wish to thank Under-Secretaries-General Alain Le Roy and Valerie Amos for their reports and the very relevant information that they provided the Council today. I also wish to thank our colleague from Haiti for his statement. One year after the earthquake, our thoughts of course go to the hundreds of thousands of Haitians who perished and to the civilian and military men and women of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) who lost their lives. We should also be grateful to the United Nations staff on the ground who, disregarding their own safety, worked to save lives in the following hours and days.”
2011-01-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6471 (2011) · source
“We call upon all Lebanese political forces to refrain from actions that may escalate tensions and to seek a negotiated political solution to the current situation. We further reiterate our full support for the work of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, established at the request of the Government of Lebanon with a clear mandate from the Security Council. Its work proceeds in accordance with the legal principles and standards applied by all international tribunals. Portugal also reiterates its commitment to Lebanon's sovereignty and independence. We fully support the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, in which we participate, and the active role it plays in ensuring the full implementation of resolution 1701 (2006) and maintaining the calm along the Blue Line.”
2011-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6470 (2011) · source
“Twenty years after Madrid, the peace we all envision for the Middle East is a lasting and comprehensive one that leads to the creation of a viable Palestinian State and to the full integration of Israel in its regional environment, along the lines set out in the Arab Peace Initiative. Portugal therefore supports close cooperation between the Quartet and its Arab partners. It is time for the international community to fully assume its responsibilities. Allow me two words on the situation in Lebanon. Recent developments in that country have once again brought to the fore fears of renewed instability. The Secretary-General has rightly emphasized the importance of maintaining calm. Stability in Lebanon is crucial to the whole of the region.”
2011-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6470 (2011) · source
“None of us can afford another missed opportunity, adding to the list that goes from Oslo to Annapolis, through Camp David and Taba. We urge the parties not to waste any more time and encourage them to build upon past negotiations during which a number of concrete final status proposals were discussed. The international community must remain committed to assisting the parties in proceeding with the bold and difficult decisions that await them. Portugal looks forward to the active involvement of the Quartet and to a fruitful and forward-looking discussion at its next meeting, bearing mind the 12-month period it set to reach a framework agreement.”
2011-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6470 (2011) · source
“But achievements on the institution-building track need to be consolidated with solid advances on the negotiation track if Palestinians are to continue to have faith in the peaceful pursuit of their Statehood. We therefore call upon Palestinian and Israeli leaders to respond positively to efforts seeking the resumption of meaningful negotiations on all core issues. We encourage them to engage actively and constructively in such an endeavour. The time has come for them to show leadership, vision and courage. As I said, the general outlines of a final negotiated solution are well known. The relevant Security Council resolutions, the Madrid terms of reference, including land for peace, the Road Map, the agreements previously reached by the parties and the Arab Peace Initiative remain the basis of such a settlement.”
2011-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6470 (2011) · source
“Portugal fully supports UNRWA and greatly appreciates the dedication and commitment of its staff, who work in circumstances that are most challenging. Palestinian reconciliation is another issue that sadly remains at an impasse. We commend and fully support Egypt's tireless efforts in this regard and call upon our Arab partners and other parties in the region to contribute positively to these endeavours. Prime Minister Fayyad and his Government are progressing steadily in preparing Palestinian institutions for Statehood. We commend them for their efforts and results. We recall the World Bank's recent assessment of the Palestinian Authority's current performance in institution-building and delivery of public services.”
2011-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6470 (2011) · source
“However, much more needs to be done to enable the full economic recovery of the Gaza strip, ensure the reconstruction of homes, infrastructure and businesses and meet the humanitarian needs of the people of Gaza. Exports, which are a key component of Gaza's recovery, remain limited to a few shipments of agricultural goods. Portugal therefore calls upon Israel to allow the immediate and sustained opening of crossings for the flow of humanitarian aid, commercial goods and persons to and from Gaza, in accordance with resolution 1860 (2009). For the past 60 years, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has played, and continues to play, an essential role in lessening the suffering of Palestinian refugees.”
2011-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6470 (2011) · source
“Portugal also unequivocally condemns the indiscriminate firing of mortars and rockets by extremist groups in Gaza against civilian populations in Israel, in direct contravention of international law, and calls for their immediate halt. We are deeply concerned about the escalation of these terrorist attacks during the past month. We also note with concern, and condemn, the continued captivity of Staff Sergeant Shalit. We call for his release. It is unacceptable that he continues to be detained and denied humanitarian access. Portugal fully supports the ongoing efforts to secure his peaceful release. Portugal takes note of some progress in the situation in Gaza. The measures undertaken by Israel are a step in the right direction.”
2011-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6470 (2011) · source
“Portugal condemns all actions that undermine trust and opposes all unilateral actions that prejudge the outcome of negotiations on permanent status issues, including Jerusalem, which is called to be the capital of two States. We recall that the annexation of East Jerusalem is not recognized by the international community. Notwithstanding the easing of movement in certain areas, of which we take positive note, many obstacles continue to restrict or impede free movement and access throughout the West Bank. In addition to the difficulties they impose on daily life and the unwarranted humiliations they often entail, they also hamper the economic development of the West Bank.”
2011-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6470 (2011) · source
“Portugal deeply regrets Israel's decision not to extend the moratorium, as requested by the international community, as well as the resumption of settlement activity as soon as the moratorium ended. It is in that context that we must look at the draft resolution submitted yesterday by Lebanon, with the wide support of the Members of the United Nations. Indeed settlements, including in East Jerusalem, are illegal under international law and are an obstacle to peace. We therefore once again call upon the Government of Israel to reconsider its decision and to abide by its international obligations and its commitments under the Road Map, including dismantling all outposts erected since March 2001. I recall that the Fourth Geneva Convention applies to the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem.”
2011-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6470 (2011) · source
“But we must recognize that an agreement on all final status issues remains elusive. We know what the basic ingredients for such an agreement are, as well as the core issues that have to be negotiated. What is lacking is the political will to address them. On the other hand, developments on the ground continue to seriously undermine confidence in the process, to thwart attempts at moving negotiations forward and to erode the prerequisites of the two-State solution, advocated not only by the international community but by the parties themselves. Building on occupied territory proceeds unabated, as do demolitions and evictions, in violation of international law and undermining the viability of the Palestinian State. The recent partial demolition of the Shepherd Hotel and the extension of Gilo are particularly worrying in this context.”
2011-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6470 (2011) · source
“We need strong political motivation and a spirit of compromise from all sides, as well as the robust involvement of the international community and its main players to ensure the conditions and support necessary for political solutions that will bring about peace, stability, security and economic and social progress to all parties in the region. Portugal is deeply concerned about the situation and, as a member of the European Union (EU), shares the position that will be expressed by the EU's representative during this debate. The situation in the occupied Palestinian territory remains one of great concern, as does the impasse on any serious and fruitful negotiations. We support United States commitments and efforts to relaunch a credible peace process that brings the parties to direct negotiations.”
2011-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6470 (2011) · source
“Like others have done, I too would like to thank Under-Secretary- General Pascoe for his comprehensive briefing, as well as the Permanent Observer of Palestine for his contribution to today's debate. The situation in the Middle East remains unstable and very fragile. The protracted lack of progress on almost every front is disconcerting, to say the least. As has so often been stated in the Chamber, time is of the essence. The conflict has continued for more than 60 years. With the increasing problems faced by the region, the sense of urgency has never been so acute.”
2011-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6470 (2011) · source
“To achieve that goal, we need the continuing engagement of all parties, including international and bilateral partners. It is of fundamental importance that the international community continue to support both the North and the South, regardless of the referendum outcome. Portugal stands ready to play its part.”
2011-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6468 (2011) · source
“Portugal calls on the parties to cease hostilities immediately, to ensure full and unhindered access for the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur throughout the mission area, and to allow humanitarian workers to provide assistance to all populations in need. My delegation continues to underscore the need for a political resolution to the crisis and urge all groups to join and actively engage in the peace process without further delay or preconditions. In conclusion, over the past two weeks, the Sudanese authorities conducted the referendum on self- determination for Southern Sudan, as envisaged in the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement that ended 22 years of civil war. The calm and orderly environment in which it took place gives us renewed faith in a peaceful and prosperous future for all Sudanese.”
2011-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6468 (2011) · source
“In that context, it is of the utmost importance that the parties reach an agreement on Abyei, the absence of which is responsible for ongoing instability and acts of violence that we strongly deplore. Along with the future of the Abyei region, my delegation also recalls the need for timely and transparent popular consultations in Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile states. Unfortunately, the peaceful climate of the referendum cannot be extended to Darfur. We remain deeply concerned by the increase in violence and insecurity in Darfur. We condemn the kidnapping on 13 January of three members of the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service and urge their immediate release.”
2011-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6468 (2011) · source
“While the Sudan awaits the provisional and final results, the protection of the fundamental rights of all Sudanese citizens is paramount. We therefore urge the parties to the CPA to reassure people of all nationalities in the Sudan, including Southerners in the North and Northerners in the South, that their rights, safety and property will continue to be respected. Despite the remarkable operational and political achievement that the referendum represents, the work of completing the implementation of the CPA is not over. It will require persistent, patient and methodical negotiation by both parties and a spirit of compromise and cooperation. We are encouraged by the public commitments made by President Al-Bashir and first Vice-President Salva Kiir to continuing negotiations on outstanding CPA issues once the results have been announced.”
2011-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6468 (2011) · source
“We also extend a word of gratitude and appreciation to the Secretary-General's Panel on the Referenda in the Sudan for its work. The process is not finished, however. The transmission of results from nearly 3,000 referendum centres has only just begun. We call on the people and the parties of the Sudan to exercise the necessary restraint until the Southern Sudan Referendum Commission announces the final result of the referendum, for which timelines have already been set. We believe it essential that, during this period, all citizens be kept well-informed of progress made towards the final results. We call on all the parties to respect the outcome of the referendum, which translates the expression of the free will of the people, and to refrain from any unilateral action.”
2011-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6468 (2011) · source
“This was indeed a milestone, in terms not only of the implementation of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), but also of underlining the Sudanese people's attachment to the democratic process. Let me also commend the work of the Southern Sudan Referendum Commission in Khartoum and in Juba for its efforts to make the referendum happen, despite serious time constraints and numerous challenges. Portugal also commends the two parties to the CPA for maintaining the political commitment required to ensure that the peace process moves forward. Portugal would like to voice appreciation for the support provided by the United Nations Mission in the Sudan, and for the work of the observer groups, including the very significant European Union election observation mission, which travelled throughout the Sudan to assess the situation.”
2011-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6468 (2011) · source
“Like others, I would like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Sudan, Mr. Haile Menkerios, and President Mkapa for their comprehensive briefings and for the very significant work they have undertaken thus far. We are encouraged by their analysis and evaluation of the problems that still lie ahead. Portugal welcomes the conclusion of the generally peaceful and orderly polling process for the referendum on the self-determination of Southern Sudan, consistent with international standards, and congratulates the Sudanese people on their patience and peaceful determination to cast their ballots in an orderly fashion. We also congratulate the leaders of the Sudan on their historic accomplishment.”
2011-01-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6468 (2011) · source
“This should be understood as sending a clear message to perpetrators of sexual Violence that the Council is ready to apply sanctions to perpetrators who have been identified or who are credibly suspected of committing sexual violence in situations of armed conflict on its agenda. Finally, let me assure the Council of our constant support to the Special Representative in her difficult but very important tasks.”
2010-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6453Resumption1 (2010) · source
“With sufficient information, the Council will be able to take, in a timely manner, further steps to influence parties to conflict to comply with international law and to make specific commitments regarding the prevention of sexual violence or the investigation of alleged abuses. However, if these measures do not restrain the perpetration of sexual violence, the Council needs to follow-up on resolution 1888 (2009). In this regard, Portugal welcomes the decision of the Council to use information available in the reports of the Secretary- General as a basis for a more focused United Nations engagement with those responsible for such acts.”
2010-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6453Resumption1 (2010) · source
“In this regard, Portugal strongly supports the recommendations contained in the report of the Secretary-General and the decision taken yesterday by the Council to establish a monitoring and reporting system on sexual violence in conflict in order to ensure a coherent and coordinated approach at the field level and at Headquarters. The good practices of the mechanisms created by the Council to monitor the situation of children in armed conflicts should guide our action, and we hope that these mechanisms will enjoy the same level of success to combat sexual violence in armed conflicts. The second aspect is the Council's action. Indeed, a Council that is better informed is also in a better position to take action.”
2010-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6453Resumption1 (2010) · source
“Concerning the Council's action on this issue, we believe that the Council has been quite successful but that it still needs to reinforce its effectiveness. The mass rapes in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo in July and August emphasize the need for further action by the international community. We can certainly consolidate and make full use of existing tools by ensuring adequate funding for the Office of the Special Representative and for the Team of Experts on the Rule of Law, and by assessing the need for women's protection advisers in relevant peacekeeping operations. I would underline two aspects where the Council could become more effective. The first aspect is the need to improve the Council's access to timely, objective, accurate and reliable information on sexual violence in situations on its agenda.”
2010-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6453Resumption1 (2010) · source
“We must recognize that much has been done. The legal framework exists. Under international law, the definition of sexual violence is clear and, depending on the circumstances, can constitute a war crime, a crime against humanity, an act of torture or a constituent act of genocide. These crimes may entail individual criminal responsibility, including that of commanders. With the appointment of Special Representative Wallstrom and, subsequently, of the Team of Experts on the Rule of Law, with the presence of United Nations agencies and peacekeeping missions in the field, the Council should have the tools necessary to obtain reliable and accurate information on sexual 3 violence. This is an issue of particular importance to helping the Council discharge its responsibilities.”
2010-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6453Resumption1 (2010) · source
“The excellent report before us today provides us with a clear analytical framework for understanding sexual violence in conflict as a threat to security and an impediment to peacebuilding in situations on the Council's agenda. It also examines the causes and consequences of sexual violence in local communities, as well as its consequences for the conflict and the peace process itself. Moreover, the report provides us with very useful information on the significant progress made in implementing resolutions 1820 (2008) and 1888 (2009) with the appointment of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, as well as with the establishment of a Team of Experts on the Rule of Law, in order to assist national authorities in reinforcing judicial systems weakened by conflict.”
2010-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6453Resumption1 (2010) · source
“I would like to thank you, Madame President, and the United States of America, for your initiative to convene this important open debate. I would also like to thank Margot Wallstrom, the Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, for presenting the report of the Secretary-General (S/2010/604). I commend all Council members for the adoption of resolution 1960 (2010), which Portugal had the honour to co-sponsor. That action-oriented resolution is already a landmark, and I am convinced that it will indeed make a difference, especially for women and girls, in so many parts of the world. Portugal obviously shares the views that were expressed by the European Union regarding the implementation of the resolution, but let me underline some aspects of particular significance to my country.”
2010-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6453Resumption1 (2010) · source
“To conclude, let me assure the Council that Portugal will stay fully committed and actively engaged in all efforts pertaining to strengthening the protection of civilians in armed conflicts. We look forward to working closely with members of the Council on this endeavour from the outset of our tenure next January.”
2010-11-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6427Resumption1 (2010) · source
“We commend the work that has been conducted within the United Nations towards achieving a shared understanding of this concept and developing a strategic framework for mission-wide strategies on the protection of civilians. Training modules and the identification of resources and capacities required to perform the tasks are also of the utmost importance, as are scenario-based exercises for senior mission leadership, as described in the progress report on the New Horizon initiative. However, if missions are to perform efficiently, adequate capacities have to be deployed on the ground, with clearly defined and achievable tasks and objectives, so as to avoid capability gaps that would hamper missions.”
2010-11-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6427Resumption1 (2010) · source
“Recent experiences show the importance and usefulness of engaging with local communities and benefiting from their wealth of knowledge of specific situations and conditions, as well as the extent to which such engagement can reinforce the sense of ownership by the people. One must also bear in mind, however, that those communities might be singled out as objects of reprisal by warring factions, and act accordingly. Finally, the growing complexity and diversity of mission-mandated tasks demand an integrated approach to United Nations peacekeeping. There is a growing understanding of the concept of the protection of civilians in armed conflicts, and in this sense the guidance given to United Nations missions on how to effectively protect civilians is particularly important.”
2010-11-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6427Resumption1 (2010) · source
“It is clear that the normative framework we currently have is adequate; what seems often to be lacking is the political will to implement it effectively. My second point concerns the need to strengthen United Nations peacekeeping operations and missions. This requires clear, specific, situation- or country- oriented mandates, as well as training and resources, so as to successfully fulfil our responsibilities to those who suffer the most. Allow me to stress training. If they are to carry out their tasks in an efficient way, peacekeepers should be well acquainted with the origins and reasons underlying a conflict as well as the social, economic, ethnic and cultural patterns of the country in which they serve.”
2010-11-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6427Resumption1 (2010) · source