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“Allow me to express my delegation's deep appreciation to you, Mr. President, for convening this open debate in order for us to share views on the situation in the Middle East, including the question of Palestine. Mydelegationwishesto alignitselfwiththe statement delivered by delegation of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. At the outset, let me take this opportunity to express our deep concern at the escalating tension and violent clashes that took place in and around the old city of Jerusalem this weekend.”
2017-07-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8011Reprise1 (2017) · source
“We also acknowledge with appreciation the contribution that China makes to enhancing African capacities in diplomacy, peacekeeping, civilian protection, logistical support, joint military exercises and training, counter- terrorism and counter-piracy. Lastly, China also contributes troops, police, experts and funding in support of peacekeeping missions in Africa, for which we are deeply grateful.”
2017-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8006Reprise1 (2017) · source
“Until Africa addresses its peace and security challenges, its sustainable development will continue to be elusive. As the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development rightly notes, "There can be no sustainable development without peace and no peace without sustainable development." Conflict prevention and resolution are therefore critical to sustainable development and durable peace. Poverty is identified as one of the root causes of conflict and instability, reinforcing the importance of the nexus of development and security. Promoting economic and social development enhances national, regional and global peace and security. Botswana commends China for the capacity- building and technical-training programmes that it has provided to African countries over the years through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.”
2017-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8006Reprise1 (2017) · source
“Africa needs financial and technical assistance and capacity-building if it is to enhance its capacities in the areas of peace and security. This is crucial to developing human capital and national legal frameworks, policies and action plans for promoting peace and security, particularly with regard to the acquisition and management of weapons and small arms. African capacities can also be strengthened through institutional cooperation between the African Union and the United Nations, as well as strategic partnerships with other actors actively involved in this area, such as your own country, Mr. President. Botswana welcomes the commitment by African leaders to silencing the guns by 2020, in accordance with the African Union's Agenda 2063 and the 2016 Lusaka road map.”
2017-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8006Reprise1 (2017) · source
“Botswana aligns itself with the statement delivered earlier by the representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. Botswana welcomes this open debate focused on peace and security challenges in Africa, the most conflict-prone continent in the world. It is our ardent hope that today's discussion will enable us to find solutions to the existing, new and emerging challenges to peace and security in Africa. In that regard, we urge the international community to assist African Member States, the African Union and Africa's regional economic communities in dealing with those challenges, particularly the rise of terrorism and the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons.”
2017-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8006Reprise1 (2017) · source
“Given the lateness of the hour, I will be very brief. I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of my delegation, to congratulate the People's Republic of China on its assumption of the presidency of the Security Council for the month of July and to commend you, Mr. President, for convening today's important open debate on the topic "Peace and security in Africa: enhancing African capacities in the areas of peace and security". I would also like to thank the Secretary-General for the very valuable contribution he made this morning at the start of the debate. We would also like to express our appreciation for the briefing by the Commissioner for Peace and Security of the African Union.”
2017-07-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8006Reprise1 (2017) · source
“We are gravely concerned that, while there is general consensus on the escalation of international terrorism, the difficulty in agreeing on a common definition of terrorism will continue to undermine our efforts to fight that global scourge. Also problematic is the phenomenon of dual-use and the use for peaceful means. The inherent right of sovereign States to the peaceful use of nuclear energy, for instance, must be respected. Anything to the contrary undermines existing multilateral instruments, the Charter of the United Nations and all others efforts to prevent non-State actors from acquiring weapons of mass destruction. In conclusion, I wish to reaffirm Botswana's unwavering commitment to support the international community by playing its part in ensuring that terror organizations do not have access to any weapons ofmass destruction.”
2017-06-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7985Reprise1 (2017) · source
“Botswana also continues to train agencies, such as the financial intelligence agency, and other safety and security entities to effectively deal with the crimes of terrorism, terrorist financing, money laundering and the monitoring and tracking of the movement of chemicals in the country that have the potential to contribute to the proliferation of chemical weapons. There are a number of challenges and opportunities available to us in order to effectively deal with this matter. Botswana firmly believes that deepening international cooperation and strengthening existing mechanisms should form the basis of our efforts to prevent terrorists from acquiring weapons of mass destruction.”
2017-06-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7985Reprise1 (2017) · source
“Botswana also fully supports the ongoing United Nations conference to negotiate a legally binding instrument to prohibit nuclear weapons, leading to their total elimination Should that effort come to fruition, it would be an enormous step towards a nuclear-free world, for which we all yearn. Before I conclude, let me highlight some of the measures that Botswana has adopted to support the implementation of resolution 1540 (2004). To strengthen national capacities to deal with emerging global security challenges, Botswana, among other things, adopted a counter-terrorism act, a chemical-weapon prohibition act and a proceeds-and-instruments of crime act.”
2017-06-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7985Reprise1 (2017) · source
“Weapons of mass destruction are a serious threat to global peace and security, and their use has devastating consequences for humankind and all forms of life on our planet. In that regard, it is imperative that the Security Council, Member States and international organizations spare no effort in preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction by non-State actors. In that regard, Botswana reaffirms its commitment to international instruments that ban weapons of mass destruction, such as the Chemical Weapons Convention and the Biological Weapons Convention.”
2017-06-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7985Reprise1 (2017) · source
“The rise of terrorism and insurgent groups increases the risk of non-State actors acquiring weapons of mass destruction. The advent of international terrorism has had adverse effects on our efforts to establish and sustain a tranquil and peaceful international order. Moreover, in the recent past, terrorist groups have employed weapons of mass destruction against innocent and unarmed civilian populations. Ensuring that such actors do not have access to those devastating weapons should be a lesson and a challenge for us all. Botswana fully supports resolution 1540 (2004), which urges all States to refrain from providing any form of support to non-State actors seeking to develop, acquire, manufacture, possess, transport, transfer or use nuclear, chemical or biological weapons and their means of delivery, in particular for terrorist purposes.”
2017-06-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7985Reprise1 (2017) · source
“At the outset, allow me, Mr. President, to join other delegations in commending your delegation most sincerely on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of June. I also wish to commend you for convening this important open debate focused on the global effort to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction by non-State actors. Botswana aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the representative of Venezuela on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. Botswana also welcomes this open debate, which seeks to consider practical measures to implement resolution 1540 (2004), and applauds your country, Sir, for drawing global attention to the threat of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction to non-State actors.”
2017-06-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7985Reprise1 (2017) · source
“In that respect, the SADC nations have entered into bilateral and regional peace and security frameworks that seek, among other things, to address conflict within and among States. In conclusion, I wish to reiterate SADC's constructive engagement with and commitment to working with the United Nations and with our own continental body, the African Union, to enhance international security and development. Taking place against the backdrop of devastating terrorism attacks on innocent civilians, today's debate should serve to strengthen our resolve to combat conflict and all other forms of insecurity. We owe it to the multitudes of our people, our children and posterity to ensure a safe and secure environment that allows the human spirit to thrive to its fullest potential.”
2015-11-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7561 (2015) · source
“While acknowledging the primacy of the United Nations in maintaining international peace and security, there are equally more important partners that must be involved. First and foremost, States and their citizens must play a leading role in finding solutions to their problems. Imposing solutions and maintaining a monopoly on making peace is counterproductive. It is therefore prudent for regional and subregional mechanisms to be at the fore of efforts to promote sustainable peace and development. For that reason, SADC remains committed to contributing to a stable, just and peaceful security architecture by strengthening effective, inclusive and accountable national and regional institutions.”
2015-11-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7561 (2015) · source
“In accordance with the Charter of the United Nations, the Security Council is entrusted with the responsibility for maintaining of international peace and security. In that context, the Council needs to be more proactive and to invest more in conflict prevention, mediation and arbitration, instead of attempting to manage conflicts that are already raging. As we scan the horizon, any scenario that exhibits the potential for conflict should be met with unwavering resolve and all appropriate tools at the disposal of the international community should be put to use. In that regard, it is important to address any simmering situation before it escalates into a full-blown conflict that could lead to untold suffering and devastation, especially on the part of vulnerable social groups.”
2015-11-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7561 (2015) · source
“Consequently, where such conflict situations exist, democracy and the rule of law are undermined, resulting in the suppression of individuals by the very machinery that ought to protect them. That glaring failure by States to fulfil their obligations to protect their citizens can be attributed to weak governance institutions, poor leadership, the marginalization of certain communities and the lack of inclusive development. In essence, conflict can be attributed to the absence of a positive social contract between those in power and civil society. As the United Nations marks its seventieth year of existence, it remains as relevant as ever as the only universally agreed platform for addressing international disputes through peaceful means.”
2015-11-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7561 (2015) · source
“That clearly demonstrates the fact that the two issues are interrelated and that the attainment of both should be our ultimate aim. A deficit in either could result in untold suffering, leading to conflict. SADC believes that peace and security are prerequisites for the attainment of sustainable development. The two provide a conducive environment for development, which in turn results in improved quality of life for our citizens. Many reasons have been advanced as root causes of conflict throughout the world. We often see nations and communities tear each other apart for reasons such as the inequitable distribution of resources, the lack of good governance, social exclusion, political intolerance or environmental conflicts, among many others.”
2015-11-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7561 (2015) · source
“Today's open debate, on security, development and the root causes of conflict, is very timely inasmuch as it affords the international community the opportunity to reflect on this important matter. The tragedies the world is currently experiencing serve to underscore the need to intensify global efforts towards the effective management and prevention of conflicts and terrorism in all their forms and manifestations. SADC sincerely commends the Council's continued engagement with Member States on pertinent issues concerning the maintenance of international peace and security. The discourse regarding security and development is often a difficult one. While some would argue that security is needed to enhance development potential, others would advance arguments to the contrary.”
2015-11-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7561 (2015) · source
“I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the member States of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). SADC aligns itselfwith the statementjust delivered by the Permanent Representative of Sierra Leone on behalf of the African Group. Allow me to join in expressing our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the vicims following the tragic events in France and elsewhere, in which a significant number of human lives were lost as a result of terrorism and violent conflict. Allow me also to sincerely commend the British presidency of the Security Council for the initiative to hold this open debate at a time when there are serious threats to international peace and security.”
2015-11-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7561 (2015) · source
“We may not have a definitive answer, or cover everything that could be said in today's interventions, but Botswana remains firm in its conviction that freedom of expression and an independent media are fundamental for sustainable development. Information is power, and it is information thatjournalists risk their lives to gather. It should urgently be translated into national development policies and interventions for the betterment of humankind. In conclusion, I wish to reaffirm Botswana's support for efforts by the international community aimed at protecting the lives of innocent civilians, including journalists, without whom the world may well be less stable, less secure and much less equipped to transition to the new development agenda that we look forward to in 2015.”
2015-05-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7450Resumption1 (2015) · source
“It is therefore imperative that the international community step up and build up the required capacity to assist States in shielding their populations from harm. Greater effort should be made towards accountability and the prevention of impunity, which - as we are all well aware - is the most important deterrent. The willingness on the part of States at a national level in that regard is critical and cannot be over-emphazised. The tough question before us is this: Is this how it can be achieved? How can we as responsible members of the international community make this world a safer place forjournalists to do their work?”
2015-05-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7450Resumption1 (2015) · source
“The Additional Protocol to the Geneva Conventions of 1949, relating to the protection of victims of international armed conflicts explicitly provides that journalists are entitled to all the rights and protections granted to civilians in international armed conflict. Resolution 1738 (2006) thus recognized the imperative for States in conflict to bear the primary responsibility to protect their civilians. However, the implementation of the resolution has been mediocre if not dismal. For example, we continue to see very low levels of accountability for attacks on journalists. Perpetrators of crimes against journalists are escaping justice, and States are obviously failing in their responsibility to protect.”
2015-05-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7450Resumption1 (2015) · source
“The Security Council's adoption of resolution 1738 (2006) reflected a recognition of the need for a more concerted international effort to ensure the safety of journalists and to fight impunity against the crimes committed against them, some of which constituted crimes against humanity. While it is well understood that the very nature of their work predisposes them to highly dangerous situations, it is the rising number of deliberate acts of violence against them - including kidnapping, arbitrary imprisonment and torture, that are of particular concern, and which are in direct contravention of international humanitarian law.”
2015-05-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7450Resumption1 (2015) · source
“This is largely because these elements provide for multifaceted and multidimensional platforms for informed discussions across a wide range of issues, which in turn contributes to democratic and inclusive governance and sustainable human development. We are cognizant of, and deeply troubled by, the increasing risks and dangers faced by journalists working in conflict situations. The recent spate of beheadings of journalists by terrorist organizations is all too real a reminder of the brutality that media professionals are often confronted with. It is also deeply disturbing that they are being directly targeted simply for doing their job, which not only keeps us informed but invariably makes for a safer world.”
2015-05-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7450Resumption1 (2015) · source
“Botswanajoins others, Madam President, in congratulating you on your country's assumption of the presidency of the Security Council for the month of May. We extend our support and cooperation in your efforts. We deeply appreciate Lithuania's initiative to convene this very important debate on the protection of journalists in conflict situations. With the unprecedented number of conflicts across the globe and the frequent attacks against journalists, which threaten media freedom, today's debate could not be more timely. In addition, as the Secretary-General notes in his synthesis report on the post-2015 development agenda (A/69/700), sustainable development can be achieved only where freedom of press, access to information and freedom of expression prevail.”
2015-05-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7450Resumption1 (2015) · source
“They should therefore be allowed to live without fear and to practice their religions. For that reason, it goes without saying that Governments have the responsibility to protect their populations from mass atrocities and human rights Violations, especially those linked to religion and ethnicity. The victims of such attacks deservejustice. The International Criminal Court remains their only ray of hope. We therefore call on the Court to continue to conduct investigations and prosecute the perpetrators of such heinous crimes. In conclusion, Botswana joins the international community in strongly condemning acts of terrorism in all their forms and manifestations. Terrorism cannot be contained within national borders. Therefore no country is immune from being either the target or the victim of terrorism.”
2015-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7419 (2015) · source
“The efforts of the United Nations, including the deployment of peacekeeping operations and special political missions, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, and the Security Council's adoption of presidential statements and resolutions on the various situations, are truly commendable. While it is difficult to identify the precise cause of some of those violent conflicts, we have seen that in most of them large numbers of Christians have been abducted, sexually and physically abused or killed; moreover, their churches have been destroyed, and some have been forced to change religion. We join the international community in condemning those acts in the strongest terms. We believe that freedom of religion is a basic and fundamental human right that should never be violated. Societies have different values, beliefs and religions.”
2015-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7419 (2015) · source
“We are witnessing an unprecedented pattern of violence among religious groups, across regions, from Africa to Asia to the Middle East, where people are turning against each other in the name of religion and culture. The beheadings by the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria captured on video, as well as the killings and major displacements of Christians and Yazidis in Iraq, are just some of the appalling crimes that have been committed in the Middle East region. These acts of violence further complicate the long-standing conflicts in Syria and between Israel and Palestine.”
2015-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7419 (2015) · source
“At the outset, allow me to congratulate France on assuming the presidency of the Council for the month of March. We commend you, Sir, for having convened this very important debate on an issue that remains one of the most serious threats to national, regional and international peace and security. We deeply appreciate the presence of and briefings by the eminent persons who have joined us here today, all of whom have imparted tremendous insight, which has greatly broadened our understanding of the subject matter. We wish to acknowledge specifically the presence earlier today of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of your great country, Sir. It is deeply regrettable that the world has become more brutal and Vicious.”
2015-03-27 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7419 (2015) · source
“We remain disheartened by the fact that the perpetrators of terrorist acts continue to wantonly undermine international humanitarian law and human rights law through their activities. Yet they still remain at large, frustrating the course ofjustice and continuing to endanger the lives of innocent women and children. That state of affairs must cease forthwith.”
2014-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7316 (2014) · source
“In that regard, we believe that developing strong institutions of governance, the promotion of the rule of law and the promotion and protection of human rights provide a useful foundation for countering terrorism. Needless to say, it is the duty and responsibility of States to ensure that citizens are protected from crimes against humanity, genocide, war crimes and crimes of aggression. We call on the international community to scale up its cooperation assistance to strengthen institutions that promote good governance and the rule of law. That can go a long way in making the world a more secure and prosperous place for the benefit of both present and future generations of humankind. In conclusion, I wish to reaffirm Botswana's commitment to the fight against terrorism and impunity.”
2014-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7316 (2014) · source
“My delegation condemns in the strongest possible terms this barbaric and grisly killing, which was captured on videotape and shamelessly broadcast for the entire world to watch. That just goes to show that no nation can single-handedly fight and root out organized terror. Therefore, a comprehensive and holistic approach is the only way to tackle this problem. Poor governance, discrimination, political exclusion and inequitable economic development, among other things, are some of the factors that have been found to create social tension, which has the potential to precipitate terrorism. Governments should therefore guard against such conditions, as they provide a breeding ground for terrorism.”
2014-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7316 (2014) · source
“Acts of terrorism have shown that terrorism knows no boundaries and that no country is exempt from such heinous crimes. My delegation has been following with horror and disbelief the emergence of violent extremist groups and foreign terrorist fighters in the Middle East region who have no regard for human life. There is no doubt that the existence of the so-called Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant and the Al-Nusra Front in Iraq and Syria is a blatant challenge to international peace and security. During this year alone, they have committed atrocious acts against humanity ranging from bombing neighbourhoods to beheading innocent people. The recent beheading of a United States humanitarian worker, Mr. Peter Kassig, has gripped the consciousness of humankind, while demonstrating how savage and senseless these terrorists are.”
2014-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7316 (2014) · source
“Let me start byjoining other delegations in congratulating Australia on its assumption of the presidency of the Council for the month of November. I also wish to express my delegation's sincere appreciation to you, Sir, for convening this important debate on international cooperation in combating terrorism and violent extremism. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. Botswana strongly condemns acts of terrorism in all their forms and manifestations and wishes to reiterate its unwavering support for the efforts of the international community towards the promotion and protection of international peace and security. Terrorism and violent extremism remain serious threats to national, regional and international peace and security.”
2014-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7316 (2014) · source
“Let me conclude by reaffirming Botswana's commitment to playing its part and to giving unwavering support to the international community's efforts to promote and protect international peace and security.”
2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source
“The highly destabilizing effect of such weapons therefore impels us, as responsible members of the international community, to exercise great vigilance in controlling their stockpiles and committing ourselves to ending their illegal trade. One of the greatest threats to international peace and security is the continued use and indiscriminate testing by some countries of nuclear weapons. Until such time as those weapons have been completely destroyed, humankind's very existence remains in peril. Needless to say, guaranteeing the preservation of our planet and the human race compels responsible action not only on the part of those who possess nuclear weapons but by all who desire a stable, peaceful and secure world.”
2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source
“In that connection, Botswana remains steadfast in its commitment to the principles of democracy, accountable and inclusive governance, the rule of law and the promotion and protection of human rights for all. We continue to strongly support action against impunity as well as the strengthening of institutions of accountability at the national and international levels. The uncontrolled movement of small arms and light weapons within and across borders also remains a cause for our collective concern. Their presence, illegal transfer and continued use create tensions in communities, often resulting in the eruption of conflict in one form or another.”
2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source
“It should also ensure that commitments undertaken to respond to international security crises are met without conditions, in order to lessen the human cost. Despite the Security Council's mandated responsibilities, the burden of responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security does not lie solely with it. Each region and each nation State and its citizens has an important role to play in that regard. It is our duty to shield our citizenry from all forms of conflict that deprive them of their basic human rights and livelihoods. It is also our responsibility to protect them from crimes against humanity, genocide, war crimes and crimes ofaggression.”
2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source
“It is a fact that the Security Council has a vital role to play in the maintenance of international peace and security, as part of its responsibilities under the Charter of the United Nations, specifically under Article 24. However, it is also a fact that the effectiveness of that role can be legitimately questioned at times when the Council fails to act swiftly or decisively. Thousands of innocent lives continue to be lost and humanitarian crises reach catastrophic proportions, and the fundamental United Nations objective of safeguarding humankind is compromised by the selfish national interests of some Member States. We therefore urge the Council to definitively take on its responsibilities and intensify its efforts to fight the just battle.”
2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source
“This debate could not have come at a better time, as it takes place against the backdrop of violent conflict and bloodshed in many parts of the world, from the Middle East to Eastern Europe and Africa. We are witnessing increasing trends of regional instability and insecurity, which are posing serious threats to international peace and security. The hard reality of such circumstances is that no one country is ever truly immune from the direct or spillover effects of conflict. It is therefore an absolute imperative that the international community act in unison and make concerted efforts to comprehensively address those threats in order to create a world that is safer, secure and prosperous for the benefit of both present and future generations of humankind.”
2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source
“Allow me to join other delegations in expressing our congratulations to the United Kingdom on its assumption of the presidency of the Council for the month of August. I also wish to express my delegation's sincere appreciation to you, Mr. President, for taking the initiative to convene this important debate on the maintenance of international peace and security. We also welcome the resolution that has been adopted unanimously by the Council on this subject (resolution 2171 (2014)). My delegation wishes to align itself with the statement delivered by the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. Similarly, my delegation aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the representative of the Republic of Zimbabwe on behalf of the Southern African Development Community.”
2014-08-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7247 (2014) · source
“As the well-known children's rights activist, Graca Machel, once said, "The impact of armed conflict on children must be everyone's concern and is everyone's responsibility" (A/51/306, para. 317). We remain optimistic that given our collective will and responsibility, we can bring an end to the shameful crimes currently prevailing against children. To conclude, we welcome the adoption today of resolution 2143 (2014) on children and armed conflict. Its adoption by consensus indicates the willingness of Council members and, indeed, the general membership of the United Nations, to move ahead on this agenda and focus on areas that have not received much attention in the past.”
2014-03-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7129 (2014) · source
“Botswana believes that strengthening global efforts to end the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict should be consistent with and complementary to wider efforts to promote the implementation of Security Council resolutions on children and armed conflict and of other resolutions regarding the promotion and protection of the rights of children. In that regard, we welcome several States' significant efforts to implement those resolutions, including resolution 1612 (2005) and 2068 (2012), and believe that they should continue to be vigorously pursued. We also share the view that such efforts should be supported so as to strengthen national capacities for child protection, investigation and prosecution and accountability mechanisms, as well as the establishment of age verification processes in military recruitment.”
2014-03-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7129 (2014) · source
“To that end, a focus on national ownership and responsibility, and on engagement with concerned Governments and armed groups to establish commitments to accountability, as well as the systematic monitoring of such commitments, represents the highest possible priority and importance for my delegation. We therefore call on the Security Council to continue its efforts to fight impunity and enforce accountability, including by adopting targeted measures against persistent perpetrators of violations against children and their referral to the International Criminal Court. Regarding the effective delivery of humanitarian assistance, we believe that allowing the access necessary for reaching vulnerable populations, particularly children in situations of armed conflict, is essential.”
2014-03-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7129 (2014) · source
“In line with the principle of the responsibility to protect, Botswana believes that States have primary responsibility for protecting their own populations from genocide, ethnic cleansing, war crimes and crimes against humanity, including protecting children from the risk of war. My delegation also wishes to reiterate that impunity for violations against children is unacceptable and must never be tolerated. In that regard, we wish to stress the urgency and importance of enhancing political will and commitment in order to address the tragic plight of children in armed conflict.”
2014-03-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7129 (2014) · source
“My delegation also welcomes yesterday's launch of the "Children, not soldiers" campaign organized by UNICEF, the Special Representative and the Luxembourg Permanent Mission. We believe the launch was timely and will go a long way to complementing ongoing efforts to end the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict. Despite the commendable progress highlighted in the report, we remain deeply concerned that children continue to be recruited, killed, maimed, sexually abused and deprived of their childhood and their right to education and health care, among other things. It is disheartening to note that in some ongoing crises, such acts have become systematic and widespread.”
2014-03-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7129 (2014) · source
“We are also encouraged by the Security Council's continued focus on the subject and wish to emphasize the need for greater and more systematic attention to be paid to the agenda of children and armed conflict in the Council's own work. Recognizing that ending violations of the rights of children is a moral imperative that we must collectively commit to achieving, Botswana reaffirms the importance it attaches to the protection and promotion of the rights of children, including in the context of armed conflict. To that end, we strongly support all efforts aimed at protecting the rights of children, including the mandate and work of the Secretary- General's Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, among others.”
2014-03-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7129 (2014) · source
“I would like to join other delegations that spoke before me in extending our sincere congratulations to you, Madam President, on your country's assumption of the presidency of the Council for the month of March. In the same vein, I wish to thank you on behalf of my delegation for convening today's open debate on the very important theme of children and armed conflict. We thank the Secretary-General for his latest annual report (S/2013/245), which not only highlights the progress that has been made in protecting children in countries affected by conflict, but also documents how the evolving character of war is creating unprecedented risks for our children.”
2014-03-07 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7129 (2014) · source
“My delegation remains appreciative of the efforts of the United Nations system to support national law- enforcement mechanisms through programmes that continue to benefit our respective law-enforcement officers and our judicial and correctional institutions. That has made an immense contribution to the greater appreciation of the rule of law at the national level.”
2014-02-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7113 (2014) · source
“In that respect, we reiterate our long-held position, which is shared by many Member States, that the Council must refer the worsening situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court. We remain steadfast in our support for the work of the Court as well as that of the Security Council in their continued efforts to strengthen the international criminal justice system. Botswana, as a member of the international community, pledges to continue to play its part in promoting the rule of law not only within its borders but throughout the world. It will continue to support the efforts of the United Nations system, especially those that are targeted towards peacekeeping, post-conflict zones and transitional arrangements.”
2014-02-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7113 (2014) · source