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Pecsteen De Buytswerve

lines on the record: 949
first: 2016-08-23
most recent: 2020-07-28
sittings or episodes: 176
sources: un-security-council

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“In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that, in line with the relevant Council resolutions, in particular resolutions 242 (1967) and 497 (1981), we do not recognize Israel's sovereignty over the territories occupied since June 1967, including the Golan Heights, and we do not consider them a part of the territory of the State oflsrael. We will not accept that the occupation of the Golan Heights serve as a precedent to justify similar possible actions in the occupied Palestinian territory.”
2019-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8517 (2019) · source
“The resolution of the Gaza crisis requires a fundamental change, which includes the lifting of the blockade and the full opening of crossing points, while taking into account Israel's legitimate security concerns. A political solution to the crisis also requires that control of the territory be returned to the Palestinian Authority. We call on all parties to constructively engage in intra-Palestinian reconciliation talks. Elections conducted in accordance with international democratic standards can contribute to reconciliation. Unity is in the interest of the Palestinian people and peace in the region.”
2019-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8517 (2019) · source
“We urge the Israeli authorities to conduct independent investigations into the alleged illegal use of lethal force so that the perpetrators are held accountable. It is also not acceptable for demonstrations in Gaza to be hijacked by extremist elements. We call on all those responsible not to use or encourage children to participate in demonstrations in Gaza that may become violent. We call on all parties to respect human rights and international humanitarian law and to ensure unhindered access for humanitarian actors. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East has an indispensable role as a humanitarian actor, and Belgium will continue to support its efforts on the ground.”
2019-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8517 (2019) · source
“We recall the responsibility of the parties to respect international law and the responsibility of Israel, as the occupying Power, to ensure the protection of Palestinians in Hebron and throughout the occupied Palestinian territory. With regard to the situation in Gaza, I stress that all leaders must respect the fundamental right to demonstrate peacefully. By establishing the Independent International Commission of Inquiry, the Human Rights Council has demonstrated its responsibility in assessing the situation. The conclusions of its report are serious and significant. While recognizing Israel's right to ensure its security, we recall that Israel must respect the principles of proportionality and necessity in the use of force.”
2019-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8517 (2019) · source
“With those objectives and principles in mind, we are obliged to observe that the settlement policy in the West Bank and East Jerusalem is continuing and is being accompanied by measures such as forced displacement, evictions and demolitions. In accordance with resolution 2334 (2016), we strongly condemn that policy, which is contrary to international law, undermines the viability of the two-State solution and serves only to exacerbate tensions, as demonstrated by the increased violence between Israeli settlers and Palestinians. Any use of violence, whoever may be responsible, is unacceptable and its perpetrators must be prosecuted. We are also concerned about the situation in Hebron. The April 2019 report of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs on the subject paints a bleak picture.”
2019-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8517 (2019) · source
“Belgium remains convinced that there is no option other than a negotiated solution based on the coexistence of two States, with the city of Jerusalem as their future capital, in accordance with agreed international parameters. Any credible initiative to relaunch the peace process must be based on international law, put an end to settlement activities and allow Palestinians full and free access to their resources and the enjoyment of their rights, while ensuring Israel's security. A just, comprehensive and lasting solution that is supported by the international community, in particular by the Security Council, is in the interests of Israel and its security and the stability of the entire region.”
2019-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8517 (2019) · source
“Mr. Pecsteen de Buytswerve (Belgium) (spoke in French): I would like to thank all the participants in today's briefing, in particular the representatives of Eco-Peace Middle East. Belgium supports dialogue with civil society and the invaluable input of women and young people in that regard. We wish to emphasize how much their work contributes to creating an environment that is conducive to peace and respect for human rights. The dynamism and plurality of civil society are part of an open and democratic society, and it must be allowed to do its work without hindrance. We are concerned about actions and policies that are hostile to civil society. I would like to begin my statement by reaffirming our commitment to the two-State solution, despite the developments on the ground that are taking us further away from such a solution every day.”
2019-04-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8517 (2019) · source
“In conclusion, I would like to express Belgium's solidarity with the people of the Sudan and their desire for a peaceful solution to the situation in their country.”
2019-04-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8513 (2019) · source
“Human rights violations are among the root causes of the conflicts there, and we have not forgotten the issue of the outstanding arrest warrants of the International Criminal Court. As we know, the Security Council referred the situation in the Sudan, or more precisely in Darfur, through resolution 1593 (2005). Based on that, the Court issued arrest warrants for five individuals. Belgium would like to point out that resolution 1593 (2005) stipulates that the Sudan and all other parties to the conflict in Darfur have the obligation to cooperate fully with the International Criminal Court and its Prosecutor and provide them with all necessary assistance. It is essential to ensure accountability for past actions.”
2019-04-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8513 (2019) · source
“In that regard, we look forward to the joint report of the United Nations and the African Union on the strategic review. In any case, we must take a cautious approach to the withdrawal that ensures that the continued United Nations presence in Darfur is adequate. In general, establishing the rule of law and ensuring a fundamental respect for human rights are key elements for Darfur's future. The protection of civilians, an improved humanitarian situation, disarmament, demobilization and reintegration and security-sector reform remain essential to a lasting solution to the crisis. Finally, combating impunity is at the heart of the protesters' demands in the Sudan.”
2019-04-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8513 (2019) · source
“Belgium has noted the announcement of the release of political prisoners, an essential measure that will help to establish a climate of mutual trust with a view to reconciliation. At this fragile moment, it is important that in recognition of the crucial role of the AU and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the Security Council should back their efforts to find a peaceful solution, and we support the efforts of the Secretary-General in that regard. Secondly, the situation in the Sudan has an undeniable impact on the issue of Darfur and the peace process. The Council should therefore continue to monitor the situation in the rest of the country closely and assess its effect on the drawdown and exit process of the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur.”
2019-04-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8513 (2019) · source
“Belgium welcomes the 15 April communique of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU), which emphasizes the importance of arriving as soon as possible at a solution to the current crisis that is based on respect for the constitutional order and reflects the aspirations of the Sudanese people. The communique also requires the Sudanese military to hand over power to a civilian-led transitional political authority, in accordance with the will of the people and the constitutional order. A consultative and inclusive process that involves all political actors and stakeholders should ensure consensus on a transition led by civilians and lead to the holding of free, fair and transparent elections as soon as possible.”
2019-04-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8513 (2019) · source
“Mr. Pecsteen de Buytswerve (Belgium) (spoke in French): I thank the briefers for their statements. I would like to underscore three points: first, the need for a credible and inclusive transition in the Sudan; secondly, the situation in Darfur; and thirdly, the importance of fighting impunity. First, the situation in Darfur must be considered in the broader context of the whole country and cannot be seen in isolation. Belgium is concerned about the current situation in the Sudan. We reiterate our call for showing restraint in the use of force, avoiding violence and ensuring full respect for human rights, including freedom of assembly and freedom to demonstrate.”
2019-04-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8513 (2019) · source
“There have been several cases of denial of access to humanitarian aid for children. We therefore call on all the parties to respect international humanitarian law and take effective and urgent measures to end all such violations. In that context, we welcome the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Special Representative and the coalition, and we look forward to the development of a programme of activities for implementing it in a concrete and meaningful way. We ask Mr. Griffiths to ensure that child-protection measures are at the heart of the peace process. Finally, Ms. Muna Luqman's courageous testimony reflects the importance of civil society in Yemen. Her experience as a mediator in Taiz shows the importance of involving women in peace processes and in the implementation of agreements.”
2019-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8512 (2019) · source
“I would like to echo the call made by Under-Secretary-General Mark Lowcock regarding humanitarian access, particularly access to the Red Sea Mills. We also heard his call to disburse our pledges as soon as possible. Belgium's contribution to the Yemen Humanitarian Fund will be available in May, and we call on other contributors to do the same. Thirdly, we are particularly concerned about the situation of children in Yemen. They are the main victims of this conflict, as Special Representative Virginia Gamba has just described. Children have been recruited, killed and even mutilated by all the parties. Air strikes are still hitting schools and hospitals even though the coalition was censured for this violation last year. Sexual violence is a major issue, and child marriage has increased dramatically.”
2019-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8512 (2019) · source
“Mr. Pecsteen de Buytswerve (Belgium) (spoke in French): I would like to thank our briefers today. We share the frustration over the delay in implementing the agreement on Al-Hudaydah redeployment plan. Given the humanitarian emergency, it must not fail. We therefore welcomed this morning's announcement of an agreement on the first phase of redeployment, and we call on all parties to implement it as soon as possible. We also call on all the parties to fully respect the ceasefire and to implement the agreement in good faith generally. In that regard, we reiterate our full support for the efforts of Special Envoy Martin Griffiths and Lieutenant General Michael Lollesgaard. Secondly, efforts to improve the catastrophic humanitarian situation continue to be crucial.”
2019-04-15 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8512 (2019) · source
“This is important not only for the legal authority and credibility of the Special Jurisdiction, but also to ensure the legal security of former FARC-EP members and military officers who have already appeared before the Special Jurisdiction or plan to do so. Finally, Belgium is concerned about the situation in Venezuela and understands that the crisis there is having serious consequences in Colombia. We welcome the solidarity shown by Colombians towards the many refugees and migrants arriving from Venezuela. In conclusion, 2019 will be a crucial year for peacebuilding in Colombia. We are firmly convinced that the comprehensive implementation of the peace agreement will enable Colombian society to achieve its objectives in an inclusive and sustainable manner.”
2019-04-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8511 (2019) · source
“We therefore echo the appeal launched by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in his latest report regarding respect for human rights and international humanitarian law by all parties. My fourth point is about transitional justice, the cornerstone of the peace agreement. In order to be implemented as well as possible, the Special Jurisdiction for Peace must be able to operate in complete autonomy and independence. Belgium therefore echoes the call of the Secretary-General and urges all the relevant parties to take steps to ensure the speedy enactment of the statutory law for the Special Jurisdiction, in accordance with the peace agreement.”
2019-04-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8511 (2019) · source
“Particular attention should also be paid to protecting the rights of children and combating violations against them such as their recruitment and use by non-State armed groups. My third point concerns the ongoing violence against human rights defenders and social leaders outside the security perimeters. We strongly encourage the Colombian authorities to affirm the State's presence throughout its territory, including through social programmes. Such measures will also help to address the issue of violence against former combatants of the Fuerza Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia- Ejercito del Pueblo (FARC-EP). The reports of an increase in forced displacement are also very worrying.”
2019-04-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8511 (2019) · source
“Some measures could ease those tensions, particularly accelerating the socioeconomic reintegration process, promoting better access to land and clarifying the future of the areas of concentration, with the full participation of the Fuerza Alternativa Revolucionaria del Comun in the forums established under the Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace. Secondly, we would like to draw attention to the role of women. The gender aspects included in the peace agreement represent some of the world's best practices. Belgium calls for implementing the national gender-related reintegration strategy and forming the intersectoral commission of guarantees for women, leaders and human rights defenders as soon as possible.”
2019-04-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8511 (2019) · source
“Mr. Pecsteen de Buytswerve (Belgium) (spoke in French): I want to welcome the presence of Mr. Trujillo Garcia, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Colombia, here today. I would like to make four points. First, Belgium welcomes the renewed commitment of the Colombian Government to the peace process, which represents a unique opportunity to break the cycle of violence, ensure the rights of victims and create momentum for change. Many indicators point to significant progress and the country can be rightly proud of its achievements. The finalization of territorial development plans is an important step. It is no exaggeration to say that the peace process in Colombia is a true source of inspiration for the whole world. In that context, it is worrying to note the increase in polarization and tensions in recent months.”
2019-04-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8511 (2019) · source
“Finally, we must promote the women and peace and security agenda in the Council generally. The Security Council should continue to emphasize the essential role of women throughout the cycles of conflict, from prevention to peacebuilding. The women and peace and security agenda is rich and ever-evolving. Women are agents for change all over the world. The demands are strong, and civil society often shows us the way. The Council must be up to the task. We have a responsibility, particularly in translating those demands into the mandates of peacekeeping operations, for example by supporting women's protection advisers in missions. Excluding half of humankind from peace efforts amounts to preparing oneself for failure. Belgium is convinced that gender equality is an essential element in achieving lasting peace and security.”
2019-04-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8508 (2019) · source
“Cases of harassment and sexual exploitation and abuse contribute to an environment that women perceive as toxic or dangerous. Belgium has been taking action in that regard. We have signed the voluntary compact with the Secretary-General of the United Nations on the commitment to eliminate sexual exploitation and abuse. Our Prime Minister participates in the Circle of Leadership created by the Secretary-General. We are funding a centre for sexual-abuse victims' rights within the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. We all have a responsibility to establish a transparent and accessible accountability system. We must continue to provide training in the prevention of harassment and protection. The code of omerta must be broken, and practical methods must be put in place to enable people to denounce such actions in full confidence.”
2019-04-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8508 (2019) · source
“Women make up only 8 per cent of the 27,000 active military personnel in the Belgian armed forces. The image of a world of men in this regard is a tenacious one. We have begun recruitment campaigns to attract more young women, and I want to highlight a fundamental principle in our armed forces, which is equality. Women have the same opportunities as men in the areas of recruitment, training, compensation, promotions and operational deployment. This year, for example, the Belgian armed forces proposed the creation of a mixed-gender engagement team within the Belgian special forces, which should be effective beginning in 2020. Thirdly, it is important to create a healthy environment for women in operations. A masculine culture in the military and the police is an obstacle to women's participation.”
2019-04-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8508 (2019) · source
“Deployment conditions must be adapted to female candidates' professional and personal needs. Among measures to be taken on the ground, I especially have in mind infrastructure and medical services that are appropriate for women. That also applies to deployment periods. In that regard, the role of gender advisers is crucial. Secondly, we must encourage troop contributors to deploy more women to operations. Troop- and police-contributing countries should deploy more women, in line with the commitments made under the Action for Peacekeeping initiative, but we realize that this is still a big challenge. Belgium is above average in terms of the percentage of women it deploys to United Nations operations, but at the national level we are aware that we still need to make progress.”
2019-04-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8508 (2019) · source
“Mr. Pecsteen de Buytswerve (Belgium) (spoke in French): I would like first to thank Germany for organizing this debate, Madam President. Belgium welcomes the uniformed gender-parity strategy of January 2019 adopted in accordance with resolution 2242 (2015). The number of women serving under the United Nations flag is growing, but as the Secretary-General has said, we must do more. In 2019, 4 per cent of peacekeepers and 8 per cent of female police officers in United Nations operations are women. We must indeed do more, and do better, at every level of the hierarchy and in every function. Targeting the hiring process is not enough. Women must be able to pursue their careers with the same opportunities as men. I would like to briefly discuss some possible solutions. First, we must overcome the obstacles related to deployment.”
2019-04-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8508 (2019) · source
“The Venezuelan people have the right to express themselves without fear of political persecution. The intimidation of members of the press and civil society is unacceptable. Belgium urgently calls for full respect for the rights provided in the Constitution and for the immunity of all members of the National Assembly, including its President. Their civil rights, freedom and physical integrity must be respected at all times. They must be able to carry out their functions without any form of intimidation. In conclusion, I thank the countries of the region for their support for Venezuelan refugees and migrants, especially Colombia, represented here today by its Minister.”
2019-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8506 (2019) · source
“The European Union, together with countries ofthe region, has set up the International Contact Group, which aims in particular to create the necessary conditions for the holding of presidential elections in the near future. I call on all stakeholders to demonstrate their full commitment to that initiative. In that regard, Belgium is concerned about reports of an increase in foreign military aid to the Maduro regime, the goal of which is far from clear. As I have already said, Belgium advocates for a peaceful resolution of the situation in Venezuela, and the presence of foreign security forces will not help achieve, but is diametrically opposed to, that goal. Thirdly, we call for the protection of Venezuelan citizens from all forms of violence.”
2019-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8506 (2019) · source
“I also commend the efforts of the United Nations and all humanitarian and medical personnel in Venezuela, as well as those of other partners, such as the European Union, which my colleague from France mentioned. Secondly, in the absence of a political solution, the humanitarian situation will continue to deteriorate. Belgium reiterates its call for the early launch of a peaceful political process that paves the way towards the holding of free and transparent presidential elections and reconciliation in Venezuela. As I have already said on several occasions, the May 2018 presidential elections were neither free and fair nor creditable, and thereby stripped the Government of Nicolas Maduro of its democratic legitimacy. We support Juan Guaido in his endeavour to organize the holding of free, fair and democratic presidential elections.”
2019-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8506 (2019) · source
“Approximately 25 per cent of Venezuelans are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. Those segments of the population most affected include people suffering from chronic health problems, pregnant women, young children and indigenous populations. We must do everything in our power to alleviate the suffering of those vulnerable groups. Belgium calls on all actors to allow and facilitate safe, rapid and unhindered access for humanitarian supplies and personnel in the country. We recall the need to respect the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence in the provision of humanitarian assistance, and we stress how it important it is that such assistance be provided according to needs- based criteria and not used to achieve political ends.”
2019-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8506 (2019) · source
“Mr. Pecsteen de Buytswerve (Belgium) (spoke in French): I thank those who have called for this briefing for the information they provided. In order to prevent the situation from further deteriorating, we call on all Council members to work together to foster a peaceful solution to the crisis. We call for violence to be avoided at all costs. In that regard, I would like to make three points - first, the importance of full humanitarian access in accordance with humanitarian principles; secondly, the need to launch as soon as possible a peaceful political process that paves the way towards free and transparent presidential elections; and, thirdly, an appeal to protect Venezuelan citizens from all forms of violence. First, it is clear that the situation in Venezuela constitutes a humanitarian crisis, as we just heard from the briefers.”
2019-04-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8506 (2019) · source
“Given that almost 60 per cent of refugees are hosted by only 10 countries and that 85 per cent of refugees are in developing countries, the Compact quite rightly prioritizes support for host countries, responsibility- and burden-sharing and the quest for durable solutions. That approach prevents lost generations, in particular in protracted crisis situations, due to the lack of health care, education and psychosocial support. I would like to end by paying tribute to the outstanding work done by the High Commissioner and his team.”
2019-04-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8504 (2019) · source
“Parties to conflict must provide the necessary guarantees to ensure that refugees can return in a safe, voluntary, dignified, well-informed and sustainable manner. Accompanying measures must be put in place, with a View to lasting reconciliation and transitional justice. Furthermore, refugees themselves, as well as diasporas, can make a valuable contribution to peace and reconciliation efforts; their role as actors in such processes must be supported. Thirdly, the shocking number of forced displacements, including refugees, leads us to reaffirm the importance of international cooperation on the issue of refugees. In that regard, Belgium supports the Global Compact for Refugees, developed by UNHCR, and hopes that its adoption will help give new impetus to international cooperation in that area.”
2019-04-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8504 (2019) · source
“Given the additional vulnerability of women and children to the risk of Violations, including sexual violence, we call on the United Nations and other humanitarian partners to pay particular attention to their specific needs and provide specialized medical and psychosocial services for victims of sexual violence. With regard to protection, we recall that displaced persons are protected by human rights through international humanitarian law and refugee law, as appropriate. We call on all States Members of the United Nations to respect the principle of non-refoulement. The High Commissioner mentioned the issue of returns. We believe that returns and reintegration must be an integral part ofpeace processes.”
2019-04-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8504 (2019) · source
“They should therefore be considered an early-warning sign and be included in the analyses and reports submitted to the Security Council so as to improve our response and prevention capacity. I would like to ask the High Commissioner for Refugees about his opinion on that issue. How can we work on that aspect of early warning? Secondly, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) places protection at the core of its mandate. Belgium supports the centrality of protection through a strong partnership with UNHCR. Such protection must remain at the core of all humanitarian action that supports displaced persons, as they face many additional risks, ranging from discrimination to serious violations of their rights.”
2019-04-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8504 (2019) · source
“Mr. Pecsteen de Buytswerve (Belgium) (spoke in French): First of all, I would like to thank you, Sir, for taking the initiative to convene today's meeting, and Mr. Grandi for his inspiring presentation. As we know, the number of displaced persons throughout the world has never been so high: 68.5 million, including more than 25 million refugees. Today's briefing therefore has its rightful place on the Security Council's agenda, given the links between conflicts and flows of refugees and internally displaced persons. In that regard, the drastic increase in the number displaced persons cannot become the indicator of our decreasing ability to prevent, contain and resolve conflicts. The emergence of flows of refugees and internally displaced persons is, in many cases, a warning sign.”
2019-04-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8504 (2019) · source
“A holistic approach will be needed within the mission. Belgium is convinced of the need for a robust human rights component in the future mission. Important emphasis should be placed on encouraging women's participation, with regard to which I am merely echoing what Ms. Loune Viaud said earlier. The future mandate should also include mechanisms for regularly evaluating the goals and results achieved, including through specific indicators. Lastly, we often talk about the transition, but it is mainly to the national authorities that a series of functions will be transferred. Responsibility lies first and foremost with the Haitian Government, in particular through the adoption and implementation of legislation aimed at consolidating the rule of law. In conclusion, I express my gratitude for the important work of MINUJUSTH.”
2019-04-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8502 (2019) · source
“We believe that a mandate under Chapter VI is appropriate, and we note that such an option was favoured by the Haitian authorities in their meetings with the strategic assessment mission. It is important that high-level strategic political and consultative capacities be available on the ground to support the Haitian authorities. We advocate for the inclusion of the following components within the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary- General: good offices, police development, justice reform, reduction of community violence, penitentiary administration and the protection and the promotion of basic rights, including women's rights. We believe that it is important not to dissociate the various elements of the criminal system by keeping the elements of support for the police and the justice and penitentiary systems together.”
2019-04-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8502 (2019) · source
“Belgium also welcomes the prompt reaction of the Haitian authorities following reports of human rights violations committed by the Haitian National Police. In addition, we are pleased to note the publication of the first public report of the Office of the National Human Rights Ombudsperson. We call on the authorities to further strengthen the capacity of the General Inspectorate of the national police and to implement its plan in response to the recommendations of the Human Rights Council. Thirdly, Belgium underlines the importance of continuity and a smooth transition during the withdrawal phase of MINUJUSTH. We welcome the Secretary-General's recommendations concerning the future United Nations presence in Haiti and support the choice of a special political mission.”
2019-04-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8502 (2019) · source
“The violent demonstrations that took place remind us of the need to pursue institutional reforms. Political instability can be resolved only through an inclusive internal dialogue to address socioeconomic challenges. Democratic governance involves constructive dialogue with the opposition and civil society, including on the sensitive issue of PetroCaribe funds and combating corruption. Moreover, the renewal of legislative power is a key step towards the consolidation of democracy. Belgium reiterates the importance of rapidly adopting the electoral law and updating the electoral lists to pave the way for the holding of credible, inclusive and timely elections. Secondly, with regard to human rights, we welcome the appointment of a delegate minister for human rights and the fight against poverty.”
2019-04-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8502 (2019) · source
“Mr. Pecsteen de Buytswerve (Belgium) (spoke in French): I will follow your instructions, Sir, and refrain from thanking the briefers. I would nevertheless like to welcome the presence of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Haiti among us. I will focus on three points: first, the country's political situation; secondly, current human rights challenges; and, thirdly, the importance of continuity and the gradual transition from the United Nations Mission for Justice Support in Haiti (MINUJUSTH) to the new mission. First, concerning the political situation, although Haiti has experienced weeks marked by tensions, it is crucial that those tensions do notjeopardize the progress made in recent years.”
2019-04-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8502 (2019) · source
“The NPT is the cornerstone of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime, the essential foundation of the quest for nuclear disarmament and an important element of prevention and confidence-building for the purposes of maintaining international peace and security.”
2019-04-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8500 (2019) · source
“We reiterate our call to Russia to return to full and verifiable compliance with the Treaty in order to safeguard its existence. The erosion of the Treaty occurs in parallel with rapid changes in missile technology, such as the emergence of hypersonic missiles, with potential consequences for doctrine and nuclear deterrence. That development demonstrates the need to give the proper attention to the issue of missiles in international debates. I also reiterate my country's wish to see the New START Treaty extended, as it is the only instrument regulating the deployment of strategic nuclear missiles between the United States and Russia. Belgium therefore strongly reaffirms its support for the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which must be wholly preserved.”
2019-04-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8500 (2019) · source
“On that difficult road, it is essential to establish a legally binding instrument banning nuclear tests. With regard to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test- Ban Treaty, as coordinator of the article XIV process, together with Iraq, Belgium calls on States that are not yet parties, in particular the annex 2 States, to accede to the Treaty so that it can finally enter into force. A world without nuclear weapons requires a world without nuclear tests. For my country, that principle also applies to North Korea, and therefore makes the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty a relevant instrument for any negotiated solution aimed at ensuring verifiable and definitive denuclearization. The future of the INF Treaty affects the security of Europe.”
2019-04-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8500 (2019) · source
“At the same time, it is vital to continue to promote the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, facilitate the sharing of nuclear technologies for peaceful purposes and encourage cooperation with developing countries. Belgium remains committed to the pursuit of nuclear disarmament, in accordance with article VI of the Treaty. A world free of nuclear weapons is both a common goal and a shared responsibility. In that context, Belgium would like to underline the primary responsibility of the five permanent members of the Security Council, which possess nuclear weapons. No other weapon has the destructive power of a nuclear bomb. That fact underlines not only the need for urgent disarmament but also the need for a proactive approach to non-proliferation.”
2019-04-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8500 (2019) · source
“That is why Belgium reaffirms its strong support for the three pillars of the NPT and continues to call for the full and balanced implementation of the 2010 Action Plan of the Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty. Its mutually reinforcing practical measures for nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation and the peaceful use of nuclear energy remain relevant and provide a basis that is acceptable to everyone for progress towards the ultimate goal of a world without nuclear weapons. Curbing nuclear proliferation is one of the major successes of the NPT. It is an undeniable achievement for our collective security and requires constant consolidation and strengthening.”
2019-04-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8500 (2019) · source
“I will focus only on the threats that affect the implementation of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty and the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, as well as the uncertainties that surround the future of the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) and the North Korean issue. Recent developments regarding those issues reflect the increased polarization within the non-proliferation community, where trust and cooperation among States have registered a sharp decline. That climate challenges the global non-proliferation and disarmament architecture, making it even more difficult to achieve the progress that is nonetheless essential now that the risks of proliferation are increasing.”
2019-04-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8500 (2019) · source
“Mr. Pecsteen de Buytswerve (Belgium) (spoke in French): First of all, I would like to thank you, Sir, for convening today's high-level briefing in support of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). Indeed, today's meeting, one year before the Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty and on the fiftieth anniversary of its entry into force, is an opportunity to reiterate, within the Security Council, our steadfast support for this keystone of the collective security system. I would also like to thank Mrs. Nakamitsu and Mr. Amano for their contributions. Belgium is concerned about the erosion of the multilateral system based on international law, which is particularly visible in the context of non-proliferation and disarmament.”
2019-04-02 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8500 (2019) · source
“It is in a position to encourage the training of peacekeepers in the field in the area of international humanitarian law, provide adequate space for international humanitarian law in the efforts to rebuild the rule oflaw in post-conflict situations, inscribe on sanctions lists perpetrators of the most serious crimes and make better use of existing monitoring and investigative mechanisms. In the face of the hundreds of daily casualties in armed conflict, it is the duty of us all to renew our commitment to respect international humanitarian law. That is why we welcome the initiative announced in that regard by Ministers Le Drian and Maas.”
2019-04-01 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8499 (2019) · source
“Fifthly, in line with their obligations under international humanitarian law, it is incumbent upon States to have the necessary means to ensure that the perpetrators of violations are accountable for their actions, thereby serving as a deterrent for committing atrocities. It is for that reason that combating impunity is important. In that regard, I would point out the contribution of the International Criminal Court in combating impunity for the most serious crimes, including war crimes. The Security Council also has a key role to play.”
2019-04-01 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8499 (2019) · source