YouSaid · the spoken record

Secretary-General

lines on the record: 2,998
first: 1995-09-26
most recent: 2021-05-16
sittings or episodes: 363
sources: un-security-council

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“In adopting resolution 2056 (2012) last month, the Security Council showed its concern. Today, in view of the latest events, it is clear that the Council may be required to go further. (spoke in English) Limited progress has been made in restoring constitutional order in Bamako. Mali's socio-political forces remain divided over support for the transitional arrangements and, more broadly, over future prospects for the country. The military junta reportedly maintains a strong influence over the transitional process. It has retained control over the security and defence forces, and continues to violently repress fellow soldiers suspected of having supported the attempted counter-coup of 30 April.”
2012-08-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6820 (2012) · source
“I welcome this opportunity to brief the Security Council on the deeply troubling situation in Mali. Since the start of the crisis, a few months ago, the situation has only worsened, seemingly reaching new heights of severity every week. A regional pillar of democracy has completely fallen away from the constitutional path, undermining years of progress. An already terrible food and nutrition emergency has grown even worse, exposing thousands more people to severe shortages of food, water and basic services. In areas where there was previously stability and peaceful coexistence, extremism, criminal activity and violations of human rights have gained ground. Those grave developments have caused the people of Mali enormous suffering. They also pose a growing threat to international peace and security.”
2012-08-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6820 (2012) · source
“As I outlined in my action agenda for my second term, supporting nations in transition is a top priority and generational opportunity for the United Nations. We have much work ahead of us. But if the United Nations family, Member States and the wider multilateral system work together in support of nationally owned strategies, we can have an impact far greater than any single entity could achieve on its own. That is what we owe the peoples we serve. We look forward to deepening that work together.”
2012-07-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6805 (2012) · source
“Assisted by the Support Office and in synergy with operational lead entities, the Commission's impact in the field can be further amplified. The United Nations is also working to enhance our cooperation with the international financial institutions, including the World Bank and the African Development Bank. We are also committed to supporting the new model ofpartnership between fragile and conflict-affected countries and their development partners, as envisaged last year by the g71L countries and their partners in the New Deal on Engagement in Fragile States. But we need the support of Member States, including for the Peacebuilding Fund. The PBF has proven itself as a timely and flexible financing instrument when peacebuilding needs are most acute and when few other resources are available for early post-conflict interventions.”
2012-07-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6805 (2012) · source
“Thirdly, the PBC may be able to add significant value in some non-mission settings, where national authorities and Resident Coordinators would benefit from the intergovernmental support that the Commission can bring to bear. In order for the PBC to fully meet its potential, the Security Council should offer greater clarity on what type of advice it would like from the Commission in its deliberations and in the definition of mandates. That would help lead United Nations departments and actors in the field to coordinate with the Commission, and reduce the risk of duplication. The United Nations is committed to maximizing the potential of the Peacebuilding Commission and the wider peacebuilding architecture.”
2012-07-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6805 (2012) · source
“Let me highlight three areas in which we can enhance the impact of our peacebuilding tools. First, the PBC should do more to leverage its unique membership and collective ability to mobilize resources. Through distinct messages that complement those of others, the Commission can reinforce the efforts of national actors, Member States, and the United Nations family at Headquarters and on the ground. Secondly, the PBC should sustain the focus on longer-term peacebuilding. The Commission's contribution can be particularly valuable in galvanizing international commitment beyond the limited lifespans of United Nations missions on the ground.”
2012-07-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6805 (2012) · source
“This collective engagement is helping to establish the first of five regional justice and security hubs, which are critical elements of our transition strategy for the United Nations Mission and Liberia. In Sierra Leone, the PBC and PBF have been supporting efforts to deepen democracy. Over the course of five years, this work has evolved from strengthening State institutions, through the establishment of anti-corruption and human rights commissions, to empowering non-State actors. In Guinea, after more than 50 years of dominance by the military, the country has moved towards democratic rule and we are supporting the crucially important step of conducting a military census and providing a retirement programme for 4,000 military personnel. But of course, much remains to be done.”
2012-07-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6805 (2012) · source
“The Peacebuilding Commission (PBC), the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) and the Peacebuilding Support Office were established in 2005 to reinforce ongoing efforts on the ground in conflict-affected countries. Yet questions remain as to the focus and effectiveness of these bodies. Two years after the mixed review of the peacebuilding architecture, we are seeing signs that it has begun to come of age and is making a difference. This is the case particularly in those instances when the Peacebuilding Commission, Fund and Support Office reinforce each other and work hand in hand with the United Nations presence on the ground. In Liberia, for example, the Peacebuilding Commission and Fund have worked closely with United Nations actors on the ground to strengthen existing field efforts in the area of security sector and justice reform.”
2012-07-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6805 (2012) · source
“I commend Colombia's initiative to convene this timely debate, and I thank the Foreign Minister of Colombia for taking the time to preside over this meeting. The international community has long recognized the challenging and multidimensional character of the transition from conflict to sustainable peace and development. Security Council mandates have grown in scope. Our field missions now perform an unprecedented variety of tasks. We have increasingly integrated the various efforts carried out under the United Nations flag, and we have come to understand that we can succeed only if we work in close partnership with other key international actors, in support of nationally owned priorities.”
2012-07-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6805 (2012) · source
“Beyond that, I also urge the Council and Member States to consider new approaches to preventing and responding to violations of international humanitarian and human rights law, and to ensure that the protection of civilians receives the attention it demands.”
2012-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6790 (2012) · source
“Meeting these challenges requires political will - the will of the parties to conduct hostilities within the parameters of international law, to refrain from using explosive weapons in populated areas, to allow engagement with armed groups and open access to those in need of assistance, and to enforce discipline and hold accountable those who perpetrate violations. It also implies the will on the part of the Council to deliver on its long-standing commitment to the protection of civilians by consistently using the tools at its disposal, including the imposition of arms embargoes, targeted sanctions and referral of situations to the International Criminal Court.”
2012-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6790 (2012) · source
“Their work to directly protect civilians must be accompanied by effective political efforts to secure lasting peace and assistance to build State institutions so the peacekeepers can ultimately withdraw. Fourthly, for civilians trapped in conflict, survival often depends on international aid. We need to do more - much more - to ensure safe, timely and unhindered humanitarian access. Fifth is accountability. When national authorities fail to take the steps necessary to protect civilians or bring the perpetrators of war crimes and gross human rights violations to justice, I urge the Security Council to exercise strong leadership in guiding the international response.”
2012-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6790 (2012) · source
“Among them is the growing use of explosive weapons in populated areas. This year, my report also spotlights attacks against health-care services. According to the International Committee of the Red Cross, that has become one of the biggest yet least recognized humanitarian issues of our time. Secondly, there is an urgent need for a more systematic engagement with non-State armed groups. That does not presume recognition, but it does require understanding on the part of the groups and their leaders of their responsibilities and the consequences of violating international humanitarian and human rights law. Thirdly, when United Nations peacekeeping missions are mandated to protect civilians, they must have the resources and forces to do the job.”
2012-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6790 (2012) · source
“They are identifying and addressing threats through political efforts to prevent Violence and resolve conflict, immediate physical protection and building a broader protective environment for civilians. This includes assistance for State and local institutions to better fulfil their fundamental responsibility to protect their citizens. Drawing lessons from our experiences, we have developed new tools to improve peacekeeping efforts to carry out missions" protection mandates, including guidance on strategic planning and training. My report highlights five continuing core challenges for civilian protection. First, parties to conflict must do more to comply with international humanitarian and human rights law. All violations require our attention and action, but some demand particular scrutiny.”
2012-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6790 (2012) · source
“The Council has also shown greater willingness to use targeted sanctions against those who violate international humanitarian and human rights law. In recent months, landmark verdicts against Charles Taylor and Thomas Lubanga marked important steps for international justice and accountability. Commissions of inquiry by the Human Rights Council also found serious violations of international law in Cote d'Ivoire, Libya and Syria. I welcome the continuing role of the informal Expert Group on the Protection of Civilians. And, of course, every day, tens of thousands of civilians continue to depend on our peacekeepers for protection. Our peacekeeping missions have made important advances in tackling this most challenging part of their mandate.”
2012-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6790 (2012) · source
“United Nations observers have risked their lives to report to the world on what they have seen. They have reported armed assaults on civilians, execution-style killings and opposition forces firing from inside hospitals. Across that geography of conflict, we simply must do more. We must do more to protect women and children, in particular; more to prevent attacks against journalists; and more to save innocent lives. The Security Council has made important progress over the past year and a half. We saw the power of unity in the Council in halting violence and upholding democracy in Cote d'Ivoire. In Libya, international forces intervened to prevent a clear threat to civilians in the east after the former regime had demonstrated its readiness to carry out large-scale killings.”
2012-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6790 (2012) · source
“In Somalia, attacks by Al-Shabaab take place most frequently against unarmed civilians. Ongoing clashes between the Sudan, South Sudan and their proxies have caused many deaths, injuries and large-scale displacements of people. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, civilians are routinely caught up in ferocious fighting between Government forces and various armed groups; too often, they are the targets of reprisals by all sides. In Cote d'Ivoire, seven peacekeepers recently lost their lives defending villagers from armed attacks from across the border with Liberia. And in Syria, Government forces and armed groups are fighting with no apparent concern for civilian populations. Attacks are growing in frequency and brutality. As we speak, the city of Homs and other areas are being shelled.”
2012-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6790 (2012) · source
“The report I present today is my ninth on the protection of civilians in armed conflict (S/2012/376). Its essential thrust is clear - too many people are dying in too many places. Sometimes they are caught in crossfire; frequently they are targeted. They are the innocent victims of attacks on their communities and, often, on places that rightly should be sanctuaries - hospitals, schools and places of worship. More and more, we are witness to an appalling catalogue of sexual violence, forced disappearances, torture and other acts that Violate - often egregiously - international humanitarian and human rights law. Let us consider some of the most recent developments. Last year in Afghanistan, our Mission there reported a rise in civilian deaths. Anti-Government forces were responsible for more than 75 per cent of those killings.”
2012-06-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6790 (2012) · source
“The newly established United Nations Counter- Terrorism Centre, within the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force Office, serves a critical role in supporting Member States in all areas under the four pillars of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. I am grateful for the contribution of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the creation of the Counter- Terrorism Centre, and I would like to encourage all participants to contribute to our efforts. I will be participating in the Advisory Board meeting of the Centre early in June. By working together in undertakings ranging from strengthening law enforcement to tackling the underlying drivers of extremism, we can greatly reduce this major threat to peace and security. I wish the Council a productive debate.”
2012-05-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6765 (2012) · source
“The bodies created by the Council have played a critical role in the Task Force; these include the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate, the Monitoring Team of the 1267 Committee and the expert staff of the 1540 Committee. The Task Force is a valuable tool for 12-32940 creating an integrated response for capacity-building and for sharing best practices. In combating terrorism, the international community must also work as one. That is why I hope that Member States will decide to create the position of a United Nations counter-terrorism coordinator to promote better coordination, collaboration and cooperation among all players.”
2012-05-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6765 (2012) · source
“That means countering the appeal of terrorism, strengthening capacity-building and protecting human rights as a central part of our response. It means resolving differences peacefully, providing education and job opportunities, promoting development and intercultural dialogue, and addressing the grievances that terrorists exploit. It also means promoting respect for human rights and respect for the rule of law, which are integral to any sustainable counter-terrorism approach. The Council and the General Assembly both have endorsed this principle. Countering terrorism also means recognizing and alleviating the suffering of victims. My third point is actually a request. I urge Member States to make full use of the Counter- Terrorism Implementation Task Force.”
2012-05-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6765 (2012) · source
“Terrorist organizations continue to look for new havens, adopt new tactics and seek new targets. Today I would like to make three points. First, we need to focus special attention on conditions that are conducive to spreading terrorism. In the Sahel region, for example, instability and violence have recently increased, in part as fallout from developments in Libya. The fact-finding mission I sent last December has provided a valuable assessment of the situation in the Sahel and the impact of the crisis in Libya on the region, along with recommendations for mobilizing international support, building capacity and improving coordination among key stakeholders. Secondly, we must pursue the integrated approach to terrorism and violent extremism embodied in the Global Strategy.”
2012-05-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6765 (2012) · source
“I extend a warm welcome to His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan. I thank the Security Council presidency of Azerbaijan for having convened this timely debate. Next month, the General Assembly will conduct the third review of the United Nations Global Counter- 2 Terrorism Strategy, adopted six years ago. The issues that we will discuss today can contribute to a good outcome of that review. Terrorism is a significant threat to peace and security, prosperity and people. The international community continues to pursue a robust and comprehensive response. Collective efforts have disrupted attacks and disabled terrorist networks. But recent attacks in Afghanistan, Iraq, Nigeria and Yemen have demonstrated that the threat is still formidable.”
2012-05-04 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6765 (2012) · source
“Preventing illicit flows is beneficial to countries, communities and individuals. It is important for security, development and human rights. In six months, I will return to the Council with a report providing a comprehensive assessment of the United Nations work to help Member States counter illicit flows. 12-31426 Thank you again, Madame President, for addressing the aforementioned matters and working to improve our work in this crucial area.”
2012-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6760 (2012) · source
“We are helping Member States to strengthen their institutional and legislative frameworks in that area by developing technical guidelines for the safe management of ammunition and international control standards for small arms and light weapons. There are no quick solutions to illicit flows. There is only a long-term process that requires the sustained commitment of all. Our watchtowers must be accompanied by the watchwords: information, intelligence, data collection and analysis. It is an area where the United Nations, with its ability to provide objective and balanced information, can play a key role. We will continue to identify new threats and bring them to the attention of the Security Council, so that the international community can respond. As the Council knows, prevention is one of my priorities.”
2012-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6760 (2012) · source
“The Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force's Working Group on Border Management relating to Counter-Terrorism is compiling a comprehensive compendium of international instruments, norms and best practices. The illicit flows that pose the gravest threat are, of course, those related to the possible terrorist acquisition of weapons of mass destruction. Efforts to address that challenge include the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and the implementation of resolution 1540 (2004) through the activities of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1540 (2004). Trafficking in firearms and ammunition also helps to fuel terrorism, violence and armed conflicts, while hindering social and economic development.”
2012-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6760 (2012) · source
“Countering illicit flows also requires us to do more to prevent money laundering. We need systems that can detect and monitor the enormous flows of 12-31426 illicit money generated by cross-border crimes, most of which is laundered through the global financial system. Illicit flows are directly linked to terrorism. Our counter-terrorism strategies rely on States adopting measures on the cross-border movement of people, goods and cargo, small arms and light weapons, nuclear, chemical, biological, radiological and other potentially deadly materials. We are helping Member States to strengthen their institutional and legislative frameworks in that area.”
2012-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6760 (2012) · source
“We also need to give priority to establishing public institutions that deliver a sustained level of security and justice for citizens. Border security can never come at the expense of migrants' rights. Nor can it be used to legitimize inhumane treatment. The United Nations Task Force on Transnational Organized Crime and Drug Trafficking, co-chaired by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the Department of Political Affairs, is developing comprehensive approaches. Regional cooperation is key to addressing both illicit flows and human trafficking, as are legal tools. I urge Member States to ratify and implement the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and the Protocols thereto, as well as the United Nations Convention against Corruption and the legal instruments designed to fight terrorism.”
2012-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6760 (2012) · source
“But fragile and vulnerable countries - some of them devastated by war, others struggling to transform themselves - often lack the capacity to overcome the conditions that allow such criminal activity to flourish. The United Nations is thus hard at work, helping many States to build that capacity. In Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, the Airport Communication Project, known as AIRCOP, has been set up to strengthen controls at international airports. Project AIRCOP's maritime equivalent is the Global Container Control Programme. Although more than 500 million maritime containers move around the world each year and account for 90 per cent of international trade, only 2 per cent are inspected. Strengthening customs and immigration systems is essential. Border strengthening is effective, but not if done in isolation.”
2012-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6760 (2012) · source
“I thank the United States for using its presidency of the Council to draw attention to the important issue on today's agenda. Across the globe, insufficiently protected borders enable the trafficking of drugs, weapons, contraband, 2 terrorist funding, materials related to weapons of mass destruction, conflict minerals, wildlife and people. Such illicit flows undermine the sovereignty of States, destroy communities and individual lives, threaten peace and security and are rightly the focus of the Security Council's close attention. Countering those illicit flows requires action on many fronts. Strengthening border security is crucial. Member States are obligated under international law to secure their borders against illicit flows.”
2012-04-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6760 (2012) · source
“These discussions should be sustained at the highest levels. As I have often said, the 2009 Security Council summit presided over by President Obama (see S/PV.6l91) should not be a one-time event. I invite Council members to seriously consider follow-up at the opening of this year's session of the General Assembly. The international community looks to the Security Council to continue its leadership in generating the political momentum needed to achieve the peace and security of a world free from nuclear weapons.”
2012-04-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6753 (2012) · source
“12-29927 On Iran, the only acceptable outcome is a peaceful settlement that restores international confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme, in conformity with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. In that regard, I welcome the initial round of talks held in Istanbul between Iran and the E3+3. I hope that the parties will build upon that at their next meeting, in Baghdad. It is important to agree on concrete and reciprocal steps towards a comprehensive negotiated solution. I once again commend the focus of this meeting. I hope that the Security Council will continue to highlight that the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery constitute a threat to international peace and security, as highlighted in relevant resolutions, including resolution 1887 (2009).”
2012-04-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6753 (2012) · source
“I urge the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to immediately comply fully with its obligations under resolutions 1718 (2006) and 1874 (2009). As demanded by the Council, it should not conduct any further launches that use ballistic missile technology, any further nuclear tests or any further provocation. I renew my call on the authorities of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to build confidence with neighbouring countries and improve the lives of its people, who face serious food and nutrition needs. I also reaffirm my commitment to working for peace and stability on the Korean peninsula.”
2012-04-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6753 (2012) · source
“At the Seoul Nuclear Security Summit, I set out five areas for strengthening the global nuclear safety regime and promoting synergy between nuclear safety and nuclear security. The Final Document of the 2010 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons recognized the importance of addressing those challenges and sharing best practices. The first session of the Preparatory Committee for the 2015 Review Conference should devote specific time to those issues. Let me also stress the importance of full compliance with Security Council resolutions. I welcome the Council's presidential statement of 16 April (S/PRST/2012/ 13), which strongly condemned the launch of a so-called application satellite by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. The Council has sent a firm and unified message.”
2012-04-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6753 (2012) · source
“Meanwhile, the Conference on Disarmament (CD) remains deadlocked. Let me repeat, the current stalemate is unacceptable. If the Conference cannot begin work this year, then the General Assembly must exercise its primary responsibility in carrying forward the disarmament process. To facilitate negotiations in the CD, the five nuclear-weapon States may consider elaborating elements on a fissile material cut-off treaty. As Secretary-General, I am willing to consider establishing a group of eminent persons to help in that task. The tragic nuclear accident at Fukushima underscored the urgent need to enhance nuclear safety and the international emergency response framework. I commend the International Atomic Energy Agency for its work.”
2012-04-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6753 (2012) · source
“In order to help strengthen the legal framework for preventing nuclear terrorism, I will convene a high-level event this fall to promote universal adherence to, and the full implementation of, the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism. In spite of such progress, much work remains to be done. Tens of thousands of nuclear weapons continue to threaten humankind. Billions of dollars are being spent to modernize them, despite pressing social needs and growing global expectations for progress on 12-29927 disarmament. Sixteen years after its adoption by the General Assembly, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test- Ban Treaty has not yet entered into force. I warmly welcome its ratification by Indonesia and call on all other annex 2 States to follow suit.”
2012-04-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6753 (2012) · source
“I thank President Lee Myung-bak of the Republic of Korea for his leadership. At that Summit, I highlighted the need for us to strengthen our efforts to prevent the financing of proliferation and terrorism- related financing. I am therefore encouraged that today's draft presidential statement recognizes the importance of proliferation financing. The Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1540 (2004) is enhancing international cooperation aimed at preventing terrorists from acquiring weapons of mass destruction. I commend the decision of the Council to extend the Committee's mandate until April 2021.”
2012-04-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6753 (2012) · source
“They include efforts to conclude a nuclear-weapon convention backed by strong verification; the 10-nation Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Initiative; the establishment of the African Commission on Nuclear Energy; and further progress towards a Southeast Asia nuclear-weapon-free zone treaty. We are also preparing for a conference in Finland later this year on establishing a zone free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction in the Middle East. The 2010 Nuclear Security Summit in Washington, DC, agreed on a detailed work plan aimed at improving nuclear security, securing nuclear materials and preventing nuclear terrorism. I welcome the new commitments made at the 2012 Seoul Nuclear Security Summit, as well as the focused discussion on increasing the synergy between nuclear safety and security.”
2012-04-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6753 (2012) · source
“The Russian Federation and the United States are reducing their deployed nuclear arsenals under the New START agreement - and, together with other 2 nuclear-weapon States, they are holding consultations on implementing disarmament commitments and increasing transparency around their nuclear arsenals. For the first time, NATO has put the goal of a nuclear- weapon-free world on its agenda. The upcoming NATO Summit in Chicago will be an important opportunity to develop a common approach. There have also been innovative efforts by non-nuclear-weapon States.”
2012-04-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6753 (2012) · source
“I commend the United States for convening this follow-up meeting to the Security Council summit presided over by President Obama in September 2009 (see S/PV.6191). Many welcome developments have occurred since then. The 2010 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons adopted a 64-p0int action plan for nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation and the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. I look forward to constructive discussions at the first session of the Preparatory Committee for the 2015 Review Conference, which will start at the end of this month.”
2012-04-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6753 (2012) · source
“As we do so, it will be crucial to move beyond some of the assumptions that have often governed relationships between Arab countries and their partners. One damaging notion is that the Arab world is not ready for democracy; another is that security must take precedence over human rights. Those assumptions have had the effect of keeping unrepresentative Governments in power, with little to show for democracy or security. The United Nations, too, must update its approach to the region. We are placing the full spectrum of our expertise and best practices at the disposal of the countries in transition. We are strongly committed to doing our part to enable a profoundly changing region to achieve peace and realize its potential.”
2012-03-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6734 (2012) · source
“We must create the conditions for meaningful negotiations that will resolve the core permanent status issues - namely, with regard to territory, security, refugees and Jerusalem - and end the occupation that started in 1967. That is the only way to achieve a just and lasting peace that will realize the vision of two States living side by side in peace and security. The region would also benefit from an end to tensions rooted in concerns over Iran's nuclear programme. I urge all sides to exercise the utmost care and restraint, commit to diplomatic efforts in good faith and comply with all relevant resolutions of the Council. Two decades ago, a previous generation rebelled against tyranny in Eastern Europe. The international community was quick to help. Today, the international community should engage once again.”
2012-03-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6734 (2012) · source
“1245973 The situation in Gaza is yet again proving its unsustainability. I am gravely concerned about the latest escalation between Gaza and Israel. Once again, civilians are paying a terrible price. Rocket attacks from Gaza against Israeli civilian areas are unacceptable and must stop immediately. I reiterate my call on Israel to exercise maximum restraint. I have appealed to Israeli and Palestinian leaders to embrace regional changes and to show the courage and vision needed to reach a historic agreement. Together with my Quartet partners, with whom I met this morning, we will remain engaged to assist the parties in forging a way ahead.”
2012-03-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6734 (2012) · source
“Inclusive Government should be the watchword in the region's new democracies. Thirdly, women have stood in the squares and streets demanding change, and now have a right to sit at the table, with real influence in decision-making and safe from violence, intimidation and abuse. The deficit in women's empowerment has held back the Arab region for too long. Fourthly, we must create opportunities for young people. To absorb young entrants into the workforce, Arab countries need to create 50 million jobs within the next decade. Fifthly, there must be regional peace. A regional awakening based on the ideals of freedom, dignity and non-violence cannot be complete without a resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Yet, the past year has not brought about new momentum. The peace process continues to stagnate.”
2012-03-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6734 (2012) · source
“I appreciate the recent initiatives of the Russian Federation and China, including their engagement with Syria and with the League of Arab States. At this crucial juncture, it will be essential for the Council to speak with one voice, and I hope that the Council can find its way towards adopting consensus resolution that sends a signal of strong resolve. Let me also say a few words about the broader picture in the region going forward. I see five crucial points to bear in mind. First, leaders must choose the path of meaningful reform, or make way for those who will. People do not want cosmetic changes that give only the merest taste of democracy. They want accountable governance and firm measures against corruption and cronyism. Secondly, we must promote pluralism and protect the rights of minorities.”
2012-03-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6734 (2012) · source
“Annan held frank and comprehensive discussions with President Al-Assad, and put concrete proposals to the President. He urged President Al-Assad to take immediate steps to bring an end to violence and abuses, address the humanitarian crisis, 1245973 and embark with Mr. Annan's facilitation on a peaceful, inclusive, Syrian-led political process that would meet the legitimate and democratic aspirations of the Syrian people. I add my voice to that of Mr. Annan in urging President Al-Assad to act swiftly, within the next few days, in response to the proposals put forward by the Joint Special Envoy. I appeal to the Security Council to unite strongly behind ending the violence and supporting Mr. Annan's mission to help Syria pull back from the brink of a deeper catastrophe. This is vital for the Syrian people and for the entire region.”
2012-03-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6734 (2012) · source
“Together with Arab League Secretary-General Elaraby, I have asked former Secretary-General Kofi Annan to be our Joint Special Envoy and to use his good offices to facilitate urgent achievement of these goals. He will be assisted by Deputy Special Envoy Nasser Al-Kidwa. As members will have followed closely, the Joint Special Envoy has just visited Syria over the weekend. Prior to that, he had intensive consultations with me and others in New York, as well as in Cairo with Secretary-General Elaraby and a wide range of ministers attending the Arab League ministerial meeting there. In Damascus, he met twice with President Al-Assad, with part of the opposition and with Syrian civil society, business and religious leaders. All interlocutors in Syria welcomed Mr. Annan's mission. Mr.”
2012-03-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6734 (2012) · source
“Valerie Amos, continues her efforts, following her visit to the country, to gain the unhindered access needed to respond to the devastation. The International Commission of Inquiry for Syria concluded that Syrian Government forces have committed widespread, systematic and gross human rights violations amounting to crimes against humanity. And still the conflict deepens. Increasing numbers have fled internally or sought refuge in neighbouring countries. More groups are picking up arms. It is urgent for the international community to stop the violence. The General Assembly has spoken clearly in supporting the calls of the League of Arab States for a cessation of violence and a peaceful political solution.”
2012-03-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6734 (2012) · source
“In Syria, what started as a peaceful, popular call for long-denied democratic rights has turned into a 2 dangerous spiral of violence leading both Syria and the region into uncertainty. The Syrian Government has failed to fulfil its responsibility to protect its own people, and instead has subjected citizens in several cities to military assault and disproportionate use of force. These shameful operations continue. Sustained attacks against Idlib, Horns and elsewhere in the country have killed scores of people over the past couple of days, including women and children. I thank the Security Council for supporting United Nations humanitarian efforts. The Under- Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Ms.”
2012-03-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6734 (2012) · source
“And we see people across the region - women and young people in the vanguard - continuing to call for freedom and human rights, for dignity and opportunity, for accountable Government, and for an end to corruption and monopolies of wealth and power. The spontaneous and home-grown democratic movements are a credit to the Arab people. But we must also recognize that the cost in human suffering and loss of life has been large. We have reached a sober moment. In Egypt, we continue to urge a peaceful and early transfer of power to a civilian Government. In Bahrain, there remains a need for an all-inclusive dialogue and meaningful reform process In still other countries, people are standing up and battling their fears to call for more political empowerment and social justice.”
2012-03-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6734 (2012) · source