YouSaid · the spoken record

Orrenius Skau

lines on the record: 360
first: 2017-11-29
most recent: 2018-12-21
sittings or episodes: 60
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

“Secondly, it commends the efforts undertaken by the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic ofthe Congo (MONUSCO), the World Health Organization (WHO) and other actors in response to the outbreak. The continued leadership of the WHO remains essential. In order to prevent the deterioration of the present outbreak, the resolution also reminds us of the importance of strengthening national health-care systems. Thirdly, it stresses the crucial importance of continued international engagement and regional cooperation. To address the overall humanitarian crisis, we need full, safe, unhindered and sustained humanitarian access, as well as adequate humanitarian funding.”
2018-10-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8385 (2018) · source
“First, it points to the extremely challenging security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and strongly condemns all attacks by armed groups against civilians, including humanitarian and health personnel. Let me be clear - the women and men who are working on the front line to battle this disease, and who risk their own lives to save those of others, deserve our respect and our protection. They must never themselves become targets - not in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, not anywhere. Humanitarian principles must be upheld everywhere, at all times and with no exceptions.”
2018-10-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8385 (2018) · source
“We too welcome the unanimous adoption today of resolution 2439 (2018), on the Ebola outbreak in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the ongoing efforts to respond to this crisis. We appreciate the close collaboration with our Ethiopian partners and we thank all Council members for their constructive engagement and the sponsorship of the resolution by all 15 members. The resolution sends a clear, coherent and comprehensive message of support to all those involved in front-line response efforts on the ground in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and in neighbouring countries. I should like to highlight four key elements in that regard.”
2018-10-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8385 (2018) · source
“We hope that Council members can come together around these points in a serious effort to alleviate the enormous human suffering in Syria.”
2018-10-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8384 (2018) · source
“That also relates to the importance of independent needs assessments and monitoring for principled humanitarian action, as the Under-Secretary-General discussed this morning. The second point I want to highlight is the implementation of the Russian-Turkish agreement on the ceasefire in Idlib in order to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe there. Thirdly, in the light of the above we need to renew the modalities in resolution 2165 (2014) on humanitarian access, including for ensuring its continued delivery to more than 3 million civilians in Idlib and across northern Syria. Finally, it seems that we all agree that the humanitarian situation can be alleviated only if we make progress on the political track, through a political solution based on resolution 2254 (2015).”
2018-10-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8384 (2018) · source
“I too would like to express our deepest condolences to the Government and the people of Indonesia for the plane crash this morning. The representative of Kuwait has already spoken on behalf of Sweden as co-penholder, but after listening to this morning's statements, I want to take the floor just to highlight a few issues on which I hear a broad convergence of positions. Fortunately, those areas also seem to overlap with the asks put forward this morning by the Under-Secretary-General. First, I want to touch on respect for humanitarian principles and international humanitarian law, including access to Rukban and other hard-to-reach areas, as well as protection, including in Deir ez-Zor and, more generally of hospitals and other health- care facilities and schools.”
2018-10-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8384 (2018) · source
“The humanitarian challenge in the Central African Republic is immense. As we have heard, half of the population is in need of assistance and only about a third of the humanitarian appeal has been funded. Additional funding is therefore urgently needed. We also need initiatives to combine development, humanitarian and peacebuilding efforts for long-term sustainable peace. In conclusion, we must remain mobilized and united in our efforts to support the Central African Republic. The situation remains fragile, and only by working together can we help the country achieve lasting peace.”
2018-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8378 (2018) · source
“With regard to the upcoming mandate review, we welcome the initiative by the Central African Republic country-specific configuration of the Peacebuilding Commission to provide observations to the Security Council, which include the importance of strengthened international support to the Government in its implementation of reforms and the advancement of the political peace process, and should now be duly considered in our review process. Transitional justice will play a critical role in the peacebuilding efforts. The people of the Central African Republic have repeatedly demanded that past grievances be addressed. We therefore welcome the progress made in establishing the Special Criminal Court and encourage further steps to secure financial support and political commitment for its functioning.”
2018-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8378 (2018) · source
“The European Union (EU) and its Training Mission has already made important contributions in that regard. Trilateral efforts among the United Nations, the EU and the African Union can play a significant role in restoring peace and security in the country. We welcome the efforts to address sexual exploitation and abuse, in line with relevant Security Council resolutions and the Secretary-General's new policy. However, we note with concern that nine new allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse were recorded against MINUSCA forces during the reporting period. We expect that those cases will now be swiftly followed up, in accordance with agreed procedures.”
2018-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8378 (2018) · source
“There are good examples of that. The robust operations in the north-western province of Ouham-Pende have led to a drop in attacks on civilians and the return of internally displaced persons. They have been based on a proactive approach by MINUSCA and coordinated with the activities of the Central African armed forces. We therefore support the recommendation that MINUSCA should provide limited logistical support to national defence and security forces, enabling it to increase its footprint outside Bangui. Central African security forces must be fully and sustainably operationalized. A formal monitoring process should be put in place to ensure that MINUSCA's support is in full compliance with the United Nations Due Diligence Policy on Human Rights.”
2018-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8378 (2018) · source
“We are concerned about the continued widespread violence by armed groups, as well as targeted attacks on civilians and aid workers. Sexual and gender-based violence is increasingly used as a weapon of war, and women have become an expendable currency in the political economy of that war. The Council sent a strong signal earlier this year by making sexual and gender-based crimes a stand-alone designation criterion for the sanctions regime. That must now be effectively and actively implemented. Like others, we commend and pay tribute to MINUSCA for its impressive efforts in a very challenging and often dangerous environment. Given the dire security situation, MINUSCA must be able to effectively exercise its core mandate to protect civilians and to do it increasingly in partnership with the national defence and internal security forces.”
2018-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8378 (2018) · source
“Women have key roles as mediators in local initiatives, and we believe there is potential for their increased participation in the African Initiative's panel of facilitators, as well as for women as parties to the dialogue. We encourage the Special Representative ofthe Secretary-General, as a new member of the panel, together with Special Representative Nebie and others, to work to improve the inclusion of civil society, as well as the participation of women. Progress in advancing the peace process is also important for stable and credible elections in 2020 and 2021. We support the Secretary-General's recommendation to include limited logistical support to the electoral process in the MINUSCA mandate. It is needed to strengthen capacity and ensure that the constitutional timeline can be met. The security situation remains volatile.”
2018-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8378 (2018) · source
“We therefore fully support the African Union-led African Initiative for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic as a framework for all international engagement. We also welcome the proposal to appoint a special envoy to lead the Initiative who would mobilize and coordinate regional and international engagement. The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) should also have a strong role in supporting the process. The African Initiative must become more inclusive in its approach, however. For instance, in its current composition there is no space for representatives of civil society.”
2018-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8378 (2018) · source
“I would like to thank all today's briefers for their valuable input and perspectives, and for their efforts to build peace in the Central African Republic. I would especially like to thank our colleague Ambassador Adom for his leadership on the Committee established pursuant to resolution 2127 (2013) concerning the Central African Republic. We are encouraged by President Touadera's commitment to advancing the peace process, including at the recent high-level meeting during the general debate of the General Assembly. The country's national ownership and leadership are of course critical to progress. United, well-coordinated and transparent international support is now needed.”
2018-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8378 (2018) · source
“During the three years since the signing of the peace agreement for Mali, important progress has been made, but much still needs to be done to advance its effective implementation. We commend all of the efforts made and continue to urge all parties to take further steps without delay. Sweden will continue to offer its full support.”
2018-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8376 (2018) · source
“Strategic coordination must continue to be strengthened within MINUSMA and the United Nations, as well as coordination with the African Union, the Economic Community of West African States and other partners. It is also important that cooperation be further enhanced between the countries in the Sahel region and the United Nations, including the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel, so as to further advance the United Nations Integrated Strategy for the Sahel. The Peacebuilding Commission offers an important forum for continuing discussions in that regard, including as steps are taken to transfer certain tasks to the United Nations country team and other development partners.”
2018-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8376 (2018) · source
“It also includes a substantial troop contribution to MINUSMA, where Swedish Lieutenant General Dennis Gyllensporre took up his functions as Force Commander of MINUSMA on 2 October. We will continue to strongly support the Mission, including through continuous engagement on the commitments made within the framework of the Action for Peacekeeping agenda. The decline in the number of peacekeeper fatalities in Mali is encouraging. It is important, however, that measures be taken to enhance the mobility of troops, with the aim of achieving greater operational effect in parallel with the efforts to strengthen the safety and security of peacekeepers. Long-term stability and prosperity in Mali can be achieved only through a combination of security and development support.”
2018-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8376 (2018) · source
“That includes assessing the approach of the Government, the United Nations and other actors. Addressing the root causes of the situation must also be part of that analysis. We welcome further information on the ongoing efforts in that regard, including in relation to resolution 2423 (2018) and the Government's integrated security plan. We also commend the efforts of the Joint Force of the Group of Five for the Sahel, and we continue to advocate for sustained support. Sweden remains a committed partner to Mali and the entire Sahel region in their efforts to enhance security and development and build sustainable peace. Our broader commitment includes support through the United Nations and the European Union, and through bilateral and regional development cooperation and humanitarian assistance.”
2018-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8376 (2018) · source
“We are also deeply concerned by the spillover of insecurity into Burkina Faso and the wider region. The targeted attacks on civilians and intercommunal clashes, limited access to humanitarian support and inadequate access to basic social services and justice are deeply concerning. Allegations of violations of human rights and international humanitarian law, reports of widespread conflict-related sexual violence and grave Violations against children further add to those concerns. We call on the Malian Government to increase efforts to prevent and investigate human rights violations and abuses, including those committed by the Malian armed forces. It is now urgent to stem the tide of violence and carefully assess our joint approach to the protection of civilians in the central regions.”
2018-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8376 (2018) · source
“We hope that the Government will translate that commitment into further action without delay. As underlined by the Council in resolution 2423 (2018), the parties should ensure the full and equal participation of women in the peace process, including through the greater representation of women in the mechanisms established by the Agreement to support and monitor its implementation, as well as in the upcoming elections. The continued deterioration in the security situation, in particular in central Mali, remains of great concern. We are particularly alarmed by the increasing number of civilian casualties, now the highest number during any reporting period since the deployment of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).”
2018-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8376 (2018) · source
“It is also important that the mixed patrols of the Operational Coordination Mechanism be able to begin patrolling and that regional and local interim authorities be made fully operational. The Council and other partners should continue to support the implementation of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation through established mechanisms. We call on all parties to take full advantage of that support, including the independent observer and the Committee established pursuant to resolution 2374 (2017) concerning Mali. As Chair of that Committee, Ambassador Skoog plans to visit Mali later this year. Inclusivity is essential for long-term stability. We therefore welcome the commitment in the Pact for Peace to seeking an inclusive approach to the implementation of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation.”
2018-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8376 (2018) · source
“Let me begin by thanking the Permanent Representative of Mali, Ambassador Konfourou, for joining the discussions today, and let me also thank Under-Secretary-General Lacroix for his informative briefing. We recognize recent progress in the implementation of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali and particularly welcome the signing ofthe pact forpeace in Bamako earlier this week. It is now important that the parties redouble their efforts to carry out key reforms, as outlined by the pact and resolution 2423 (2018). The reforms relating to disarmament, demobilization and reintegration, as well as to decentralization and security-sector reform, the rule of law, social cohesion and socioeconomic development, should now be taken forward without any delay.”
2018-10-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8376 (2018) · source
“Our faith in a negotiated, just and fair two-State solution led us to recognize the State of Palestine in 2014. It is not too late to resolve this conflict. We must do everything in our power to make sure that the hope of two States is kept alive and that the vision of ajust and lasting peace in the Middle East is realized. We owe it to every young Israeli and Palestinian. They deserve no less from us.”
2018-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8375 (2018) · source
“Together we managed to mobilize $122 million, significantly reducing UNRWA's deficit and enabling the Agency's schools to remain open throughout 2018. Having now overcome the most immediate crisis, we must shift our focus to the coming year. Much work remains to be done to secure funding for 2019. We must maintain the recent positive momentum and end the Agency's perpetual crisis mode by finding solutions for more predictable and sustainable funding. UNRWA is not part of the problem, it is part of the solution. In conclusion, we cannot allow the viability of a two-State solution to move beyond our reach. We must act, or we risk moving rapidly not only towards perpetual occupation but towards a one-State reality. That should not be in anyone's interest. The Council, and every one of its members, has a responsibility.”
2018-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8375 (2018) · source
“Only reconciliation will lead to a unified Palestinian leadership and a reunification of Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) was established by the General Assembly and mandated to provide assistance and protection to Palestinian refugees across the region until a negotiated, lasting and just solution to that issue was reached. UNRWA not only delivers critical services and education but plays a crucial role in ensuring stability in a region seriously affected by conflict, terrorism and turmoil. During the high-level week of the General Assembly, Sweden, together with Jordan, Turkey, Japan, Germany and the European Union, hosted a ministerial meeting to mobilize political and financial support to UNRWA.”
2018-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8375 (2018) · source
“We must also step up efforts to avoid a humanitarian disaster. There is an urgent need for humanitarian interventions with a quick, direct and immediate impact on the daily lives of the people in need. All actors have a responsibility in that regard. There is an urgent need to lift the restrictions, secure full and sustained access and movement to and from Gaza and ensure unimpeded access for all humanitarian actors, while maintaining respect for the legitimate security concerns of Israel, Palestine and Egypt. The efforts to achieve the full return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza must be redoubled. We support the Egyptian-led efforts to achieve reconciliation and call on all Palestinian factions to revitalize genuine attempts to that end.”
2018-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8375 (2018) · source
“Both Israel and Palestine have been vocal advocates for the full implementation of the women and peace and security agenda and the meaningful inclusion and engagement of women in the peace process. We remain committed to supporting such efforts in every way we can. Mr. Mladenov has rightly put the Council on high alert today. Gaza is on the verge of collapse. The situation remains untenable and increasingly desperate. Millions of people are caught between Hamas and other militant groups on the one hand, and the Israeli policy of closure on the other. The people of Gaza must not pay the price for that long-standing crisis. We continue to witness tragic events leading to regrettable loss of life. All the parties must exercise maximum restraint, avoid confrontation and take immediate steps to de-escalate.”
2018-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8375 (2018) · source
“On the Palestinian side, laws are used to curtail freedom of expression, and on the Israeli side, representatives of civil-society organizations are delegitimized, creating obstacles for them in carrying out their important work. We call on both the Palestinian and Israeli leaderships to support, respect and allow members of civil society to operate and express their views freely. In the so-called post-Oslo generation, few on either side have any hope that peace is still possible. We must show these young people that there is an alternative to conflict, violence and a constantly deteriorating situation. And the voices of young Israelis and Palestinians must be heard, in line with resolution 2419 (2018).”
2018-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8375 (2018) · source
“We strongly condemn all acts of violence against civilians, including acts of terrorism. The use of disproportionate, lethal violence in recent days and weeks is a tragedy. The crimes must be investigated and those responsible must be held accountable. The peace process cannot merely be about ending the occupation and the conflict. It must also be about building peaceful and inclusive societies. A vibrant civil society, particularly with the meaningful inclusion of women and young people, is critical to sustainable peace. The shrinking space for civil society and the possibilities for promoting human rights are a source of great concern on both sides.”
2018-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8375 (2018) · source
“Israelis and Palestinians alike have an urgent responsibility to reverse those trends. We are deeply concerned about the continuing rapid settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and that includes the decision by the Israeli authorities to advance plans for new settlement units in the city of Hebron. We are also deeply concerned about the demolition of homes, including the imminent threat of demolition of Khan Al-Ahmar and the forcible displacement of its inhabitants, a majority of whom are children. The village is located in Area E-l, a location of strategic interest for preserving the contiguity of a Palestinian State. Settlements are illegal under international law, and the evictions and demolitions of homes that enable the policy to continue seriously threaten the prospects for peace.”
2018-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8375 (2018) · source
“It consists of two States, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace and security, with Jerusalem as the future capital of those two States and the home of three world religions. We must now return to a meaningful and inclusive peace process, ending the occupation and resolving all final status issues. If we are to achieve a just and sustainable peace, it is critical to ensure that any future peace plan is based on international law, the relevant United Nations resolutions and previous agreements. Final status issues can be taken off the table only when they have been resolved through negotiations between the parties. The continued rapid deterioration of the situation on the ground is destroying hopes for peace. A two- State solution is regrettably becoming more distant by the day.”
2018-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8375 (2018) · source
“Sweden has a long-standing engagement on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and a steadfast friendship with the peoples of both Israel and Palestine. As a member of the Security Council, we have consistently based our position on international law, including international human rights and international humanitarian law. While the proliferation of new and re-emerging crises in the Middle East requires our attention, we must maintain our active commitment to resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict. The situation is increasingly urgent as new generations grow up in a reality marred by conflict. The shared vision of the international community remains unchanged.”
2018-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8375 (2018) · source
“I would like to start by thanking Special Coordinator Mladenov for his briefing and for his tireless efforts. The United Nations and its agencies deserve to be commended for the work that they are doing on the ground every day in a very challenging environment. We stand fully behind their efforts and their continued close consultations with the parties. I thank Mr. Hagai El-Ad for being here today and for sharing his honest assessment and valuable perspectives, and more importantly for the integrity and bravery of B'Tselem and many other civil-society organizations in both Israel and Palestine. We commend him for his conscience and encourage him to speak up as an Israeli citizen. Personal insults have no place in this Chamber. We align ourselves with the statement to be delivered by the observer of the European Union later today.”
2018-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8375 (2018) · source
“We will miss the clarity and straightforwardness of his briefings, but we also look forward to continuing to closely work with him in his new important role in Somalia.”
2018-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8357 (2018) · source
“We agree that there is a need to push for further progress, rather than risk the gains that have been made. Furthermore, in the absence of the envisaged temporary institutions, UNISFA has been carrying out crucial tasks in areas that were not foreseen. We particularly commend the work done in addressing sexual and gender-based violence and children's rights. There is a serious governance vacuum, and the mission must be equipped to appropriately address that. It should, for example, have the tools to also support mediation opportunities and address essential law and order issues. Let me conclude by extending our sincere thanks to Special Envoy Haysom for his relentless engagement and invaluable contribution to that work. His efforts have contributed not only to the issue before us today, but to the whole region.”
2018-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8357 (2018) · source
“Some efforts have been made and small positive steps taken, but much more needs to be done to reach a political settlement that addresses the underlying issues. We hope that the recent positive developments in the relations between the Sudan and South Sudan can also contribute to reaching a political solution on the future status of Abyei. The Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism (JVBMM) is a Vital part of the framework that regulates the relationship between the Sudan and South Sudan, which also contributes to overall stability in the border area. As stated in the Secretary-General's letter (S/2018/778), no single confrontation between the parties' forces has taken place since the inclusion of the JBVMM. in the mission's mandate in 2012.”
2018-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8357 (2018) · source
“The implementation of the relevant chapters of the cooperation agreement - namely, border issues and security arrangements, and the settlement of the final status of Abyei - is the end state that needs to be achieved. We therefore welcome the Secretary- General's recommendation to give the mission an augmented role in supporting the political process. In that context, we also commend the work of the African Union High-Level Implementation Panel and UNISFA's cooperation with the Panel must be maintained and further synergies with the efforts of the African Union should be sought. We share the sense of frustration that the parties have not built on the positive momentum of last spring and carried through the actions that were expected of them.”
2018-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8357 (2018) · source
“Protecting civilians, securing access for humanitarian assistance, mediating migration-based conflicts, facilitating the return of displaced persons and demilitarizing the border region are all tasks that are vital to upholding stability in the Area. Seven years after UNISFA's creation, we are regrettably no closer to a political solution. The current impasse cannot be allowed to continue, and we must step up efforts to find new ways forward. UNISFA needs to remain part of the path towards the normalization of relations between the Sudan and South Sudan. United Nations efforts should always aim at reaching political solutions, and its mission should be calibrated to advance that objective. That is also true for UNISFA.”
2018-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8357 (2018) · source
“I would like to first extend our thanks to our briefers for their updates this morning on the situation. We welcome the fact that the security situation in Abyei has remained relatively calm, while we are aware that the situation still remains unpredictable and tense. The situation could quickly deteriorate and, in that case, have unacceptable consequences for civilians. Also, considering the instability in nearby areas, we very much agree with the Secretary-General that the continued presence of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) remains crucial. We commend the work of the mission and the Ethiopian troops carrying out that important mandate.”
2018-09-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8357 (2018) · source
“The denial of access and restrictions of movement remain unacceptable. UNMISS has to be able to carry out its mandated tasks, including to monitor and investigate the human rights situation and to protect civilians. The millions of South Sudanese caught up in this brutal and futile war have waited for over four years for an end to the conflict and an opportunity to start rebuilding their lives and country. The Agreement reached last week provides a unique opportunity for peace, reconciliation and recovery. This is not the time for euphemisms, but we cannot afford an attitude of cynicism either. As Mr. Haysom said, we cannot allow the perfect to become the enemy of the good. We must remain focused, and all parties must stay the course and seize this opportunity.”
2018-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8356 (2018) · source
“The continued high level of conflict-related sexual violence, as highlighted by the Secretary-Generals report (S/2018/831), is truly appalling. The continued monitoring and reporting of such crimes will remain important. We also remain deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation, which results directly and indirectly from the conflict. The rapid, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian relief across South Sudan must be ensured. In that context, we again commend the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for its efforts to reach areas critical to addressing protection concerns, as well as its preparedness to now support the parties in taking further steps on the path towards peace. It is worrisome that violations of the status-of-forces agreement continue.”
2018-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8356 (2018) · source
“The spirit of inclusivity, which was a crucial element of the High-level Revitalization Forum, must now be maintained in the coming implementation phase. The quest for peace will be viable only if it includes all stakeholders. We must continue to assure the effective participation ofyouth, women and civil society. Gender equality is central to peace and security, and we should support further efforts to increase the political representation of women. An important aspect as we move forward will advancing accountability and transitional justice mechanisms, including by establishing the envisaged hybrid court for South Sudan without further delay. Impunity for human rights violations and abuses and violations of international humanitarian law, not least are acts of sexual violence targeting women and girls, cannot be accepted.”
2018-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8356 (2018) · source
“A complete cessation of hostilities by all parties, the Government and armed groups alike, is urgent and must be unconditional. There must be consequences for violations of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement, as well as against those who stand in the way of the full implementation of the Peace Agreement. We encourage the region, supported by the international community, to maintain its active engagement and continue to play a proactive role. The region's involvement in monitoring the implementation of the Agreement and holding the parties to account will now be especially important. It is also vital that the Council continue to support those regional efforts, making sure that we speak with one voice.”
2018-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8356 (2018) · source
“Their tireless efforts over recent months, with the backing of a coherent region, were instrumental for reaching the revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan. I also acknowledge the efforts of the South Sudanese for the progress made and for having demonstrated the necessary flexibility and willingness to compromise. But the Agreement is only a first step. What is now needed is a clear political will of the parties to implement what has been agreed to in an inclusive manner and to engage in genuine peacebuilding and reconciliation activities. While we welcome reduced levels of fighting in recent weeks, we are also deeply concerned about reports of continued military operations.”
2018-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8356 (2018) · source
“I would like to thank Under-Secretary-General Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General Nicholas Haysom and Special Envoy Ismail Wais for their briefings today. Let me also extend a particular word of thanks to Ms. Grace John for her briefing. We heard her loud and clear, including her call to urgently enforce the ceasefire, put an end to impunity and ensure accountability and continue promoting women's meaningful participation. I can assure her that we will do our utmost to follow through on her calls. I would like to start by commending the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the facilitators of the High-level Revitalization Forum process, in particular the Government of the Sudan and Special Envoy Wais.”
2018-09-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8356 (2018) · source
“The continuous, horrendous attacks in Kabul and around the country, including targeted attacks on girls' schools, religious minorities and journalists, must be condemned in the strongest terms. All attacks on civilians, including those against humanitarian and development workers, are unacceptable. All parties must comply with their obligations under international law. In that context, UNAMA's continued documentation of civilian casualties is important. With continuous attacks on civilians and a worsening humanitarian situation, the challenges in Afghanistan can sometimes seem overwhelming. But renewed momentum for a peace process and the upcoming elections offer opportunities to change the trajectory. We should jointly seize that opportunity.”
2018-09-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8354 (2018) · source
“The Geneva Ministerial Conference on Afghanistan in November will be an important opportunity to bring key stakeholders together. The Conference should focus on evaluating the reform agenda that has been mutually agreed by Afghanistan and the international community, including the conduct of the parliamentary elections, anti-corruption efforts and the implementation of the National Action Plan for the implementation of Council resolution 1325 (2000). The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan is worsening. Due to conflict and drought, about 4.2 million people now need humanitarian assistance. The situation has also led to an increase in internally displaced people. Safe and unhindered access is critical. It is also essential to ensure close coordination between humanitarian and development efforts, including on climate-change mitigation.”
2018-09-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8354 (2018) · source
“Any attempt to obstruct the electoral management bodies from carrying out their work is unacceptable. Adequate security measures need to be taken to prevent attacks on the elections and the electoral preparations. Women and men must be able to safely run for elected office, campaign freely and, of course, vote. Special attention should be given to ensuring that women in remote and rural areas are also able to vote. UNAMA has a clear mandate to promote women's participation, and we encourage close cooperation with relevant actors, including UN-Women, in this work. Coherent and coordinated international support for national peace efforts in Afghanistan is critical. All stakeholders, especially the neighbours, must now act on their commitment to supporting a political solution. The role of UNAMA in backing those efforts remains important.”
2018-09-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8354 (2018) · source
“It is deeply regrettable that the Taliban did not accept the offer of a bilateral ceasefire, and we join others in urging the Taliban to cease all violence and to immediately engage in talks with the Government. A peace process must be inclusive, involving both women and youth, if any agreement is to be sustainable. As stated by others, the upcoming elections will be decisive for the future of Afghanistan. The ability to ensure credible elections will be a test of the Afghan reform agenda and is crucial for achieving long-term stability and for strengthening democracy. It is a shared responsibility of the Government, the opposition and the electoral management bodies to create the necessary conditions. Responsible institutions must address unresolved preparatory issues without further delay.”
2018-09-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8354 (2018) · source
“Let me begin by thanking Special Representative of the Secretary- General Yamamoto for his briefing and for the important work of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) in Afghanistan. I would also like to thank Mr. Ramiz Bakhtiar for sharing his valuable insights this afternoon. With more than 60 per cent of the population in Afghanistan estimated to be under 25-years old, the future clearly lies in the hands of the youth. In line with resolution 2419 (2018), on youth, peace and security, young people should be actively and meaningfully engaged in all decision-making processes, including in the Council. The only viable solution to the conflict in Afghanistan is an Afghan-owned and -led peace process. In that regard, we commend the unprecedented steps taken by the Afghan Government this year.”
2018-09-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8354 (2018) · source