YouSaid · the spoken record

Seepanovic

lines on the record: 32
first: 2013-02-12
most recent: 2016-06-10
sittings or episodes: 5
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

“In conclusion, allow me to refer to cases of sexual exploitation in United Nations peacekeeping operations in the Central African Republic and other countries, which Montenegro strongly condemns. Such criminal activity and abuse has no place in United Nations flagship activities in any circumstances. It is our collective duty to ensure thorough investigations into those cases, accountability and justice for victims. Zero tolerance and zero impunity have to prevail as our only option in order not to tarnish the United Nations credibility again.”
2016-06-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7711 (2016) · source
“New technologies can significantly help to improve the security and safety of peacekeepers and assets, as well as the United Nations capacity to protect civilians and implement mandates more effectively. I would like to highlight the fact that Montenegro endorsed and fully supports Kigali Principles on the Protection of Civilians. We hope that more countries will recognize the merits of the Principles in our common quest to further improve the implementation of protection of civilians mandates. We also expect that the entry into force of the Arms Trade Treaty will contribute to alleviating the suffering of civilians by preventing irresponsible flows of weapons and ammunition to conflict-affected areas.”
2016-06-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7711 (2016) · source
“If we want to ensure that peacekeeping missions provide safety for civilians, protection of civilians mandates must be tailored to the conditions on the ground, rather than following a pre-established pattern. Missions operate in ever more complex environments, with peacekeepers being deployed in different types of dangerous situations. That calls for improved conflict analysis in the pre-mandate assessment phase, with particular emphasis on how United Nations missions can better respond to threats posed to civilians on the ground. Peacekeepers must be given the resources and capabilities necessary to act more effectively through improved mobility, proper equipment and medical evacuation.”
2016-06-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7711 (2016) · source
“States and non-State armed groups have the duty to protect, not target, civilians and civilian objects, and to facilitate, not hinder, the delivery of humanitarian assistance. In that sense, the use of explosive weapons in populated areas is especially concerning. All those who violate the law must be held accountable for their actions. Otherwise, violations will continue unabated. The Security Council should consider applying targeted measures against parties and individuals who systematically violate their obligations to protect civilians. The second area I would like to focus on is the design and implementation of protection of civilian mandates.”
2016-06-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7711 (2016) · source
“We live in an era in which the extensive harm civilians endure and the widespread violations of international law during armed conflicts are almost accepted as a given, which is unacceptable. In trying to remedy that fact, allow me to single out the following two areas. First is prevention and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. These are obviously the most effective way to protect civilians. Placing primacy on political solutions, as well as strengthening preventive measures, is therefore essential. That will, inter alia, require greater utilization of mediation and closer collaboration of the United Nations with regional arrangements. When an end to violence is not possible, respect for international law is crucial to ensuring that human suffering is minimized.”
2016-06-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7711 (2016) · source
“I would like to thank the French presidency for organizing this open debate and for preparing the concept note (S/2016/503, annex) before us. I also thank the briefers for their valuable contribution to this debate. My country fully associates itself with the statement made by the observer of the European Union. I would like, however, to make some additional remarks in my national capacity. As stated in last year's report of the Secretary- General's report, "Despite some progress at the normative level, the general state of the protection of civilians on the ground remains bleak" (S/2015453, para. 9). Civilians, unfortunately, account for the vast majority of victims of armed conflicts.”
2016-06-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7711 (2016) · source
“It is also vital that the Security Council, to the extent possible, use the option to refer situations to the ICC and that the Working Group on Children and Armed Conflict further consider modalities to increase the pressure on persistent perpetrators of human rights violations and put an end to impunity. Montenegro remains committed to contributing to our common and noble objective and providing the children of the world with a safer future.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“These attacks deprive children of their right to education and result in unspeakable suffering for them. We use this opportunity to call on parties to armed conflict to refrain from these actions. With respect to United Nations peacekeeping and political missions and the indispensable role they play, Montenegro would like to advocate for a strong child protection component to be incorporated in mission mandates. This would require peacekeepers, military and security personnel to receive specialized pre-deployment child protection training. There is a need for more action in order to fight impunity for crimes committed against children. Therefore, the International Criminal Court (ICC) and national judicial authorities have an important role in responding to violations as they occur.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“We must work together and share our expertise and resources so we can end child recruitment in the next two years. It is also essential that the Council's Working Group continue to make the best use of its tools in order to provide appropriate responses to all types of grave violations, including those committed by non-State actors. In this regard, we would like to stress that Member States need to allow United Nations personnel access to areas controlled by armed non-State actors for the purpose of ending violations and concluding and implementing action plans. We have seen an increasing trend of attacks on schools and the use of schools for military purposes, which we find alarming. Therefore, we welcome resolution 2143 (2014), highlighting the concern over the military use of schools.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“The Security Council has made significant progress in advancing the children and armed conflict agenda, but there is still a lot of work ahead of us in protecting the rights of children in situations of armed conflict and ensuring that perpetrators of grave violations against children are held to account. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the adoption of resolution 1612 (2005), which established the Working Group on Children and Armed Conflict. It is also the first anniversary of the "Children, Not Soldiers" campaign that was launched to end the recruitment and use of children by Government armed forces by 2016. The momentum and progress generated by the campaign are encouraging, but the remaining challenges are enormous to reach our objective.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“We thank you, Mr. President, for convening today's debate on children and armed conflict, and commend France's strong support and commitment to this issue. We also thank today's briefers for their inspiring presentations. Montenegro aligns itself with the statement delivered by the observer of the European Union. I would like, however, to highlight some points of particular importance to my country. We are witnessing the dramatic consequences of the violence affecting millions of children due to the evolving character of contemporary conflicts. We are at risk of losing entire generations in Syria, the Central African Republic, Iraq and South Sudan. Girls and boys are recruited by armed forces and armed groups, become the victims of indiscriminate attacks, or are subject to violent abuse.”
2015-03-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7414 (2015) · source
“Let me underscore that today's threats must be tackled through j oint efforts and in an integrated manner across the entire nexus of development, peacekeeping, peacebuilding, the rule of law and human rights. In this way, we can have a balanced and sustainable society with durable peace. Montenegro will continue to be reliable partner of the United Nations, working for international peace and security, proud of its values and its achievements, and confident in the future.”
2015-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7361 (2015) · source
“Our focus on preventive measures should definitely be strengthened in order to prevent crises from developing and escalating, and to mitigate the possible repercussions of crisis. The responsibility to protect and its further operationalization must also remain a priority. In the era of accountability, perpetrators of crimes against humanity should not go unpunished. It is only by strengthening inclusive and democratic institutions, good governance and the rule of law that the structural causes of poverty, inequality and violence can be tackled. We advocate for these issues to be given a prominent place in the post-2015 development agenda and for the protection and empowerment of all individuals to be ensured.”
2015-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7361 (2015) · source
“In order to ensure that the United Nations maintains its rightful place as the central mechanism of global governance, our Organization must take a modern, reformed shape that recognizes the new geopolitical realities and the world's evolving, multifaceted conditions and environments. As many examples across the world familiar to us all have shown, prevention and early intervention can and do work, and they are cost-effective. That is why I would like to underline, as on previous similar occasions, the significance of the United Nations early- detection and early-warning mechanisms, as well as the establishment of mediation as a core function of the United Nations.”
2015-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7361 (2015) · source
“Countries need to demonstrate strong commitment to the rule of law, respect for human rights and freedoms, democracy and the non-use of force in settling disputes. Regional and subregional organizations can play a positive and valuable role in facilitating dialogue and setting a conciliatory tone towards conflict resolution, as we have seen in many instances in Africa. However, if Member States fail to address these challenges, as is often the case in the current, fragile international peace and security context, it is the Security Council that should address these issues. We must recognize that we are far from having a truly effective system.”
2015-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7361 (2015) · source
“Through inclusive education and the implementation of a variety of inclusive programmes and projects, younger generations should be equipped with the self-confidence and ambition to be constructive and valued members of society and to succeed in this new globalized economy, promoting peace, tolerance and diversity. In combination, all of these aspects will contribute to an inclusive approach and to our common objective of safeguarding international peace and security. And this is primarily the responsibility of all Member States and regions. We in Montenegro know from our experience that the best and only truly sustainable way to resolve differences and rectify tensions and conflict situations is through peaceful means in a spirit of dialogue and committed to diplomatic and political efforts and tools.”
2015-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7361 (2015) · source
“It is therefore important to recall that non-discrimination and the inclusion of all groups in the workings of society are enormous assets that contribute to our well-being and enhance the vital perception of social justice, trust and systemic legitimacy. An enabling environment for inclusive institution-building essential for peaceful societies free of conflict implies the active engagement of national and local authorities, parliaments, communities, civil society, academia and women's groups. Important focus must also be placed on transparency, accountability and effective management and oversight, with a view to strengthening the legitimacy and integrity of security and judicial institutions.”
2015-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7361 (2015) · source
“We must share the burden and prove that we are capable of building a peaceful, equitable and just future through joint concrete action and a proactive approach, based on a framework of justice and progress, tolerance and the dignity of all human beings. However, maintaining international peace and security is not only the task of the United Nations and other international organizations; it is a process of individual, collective and institutional transformation. All Member States, civil society bodies and individuals have a responsibility to take action in the process of inclusive development based on the universal values of respect for life, justice, solidarity, human rights and equality between men and women.”
2015-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7361 (2015) · source
“We thank you, Sir, for having organized this important open debate and congratulate you on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of January. We also thank Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon; the Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission, Ambassador Patriota of Brazil; and Nobel Peace Laureate Leymah Gbowee for their valuable briefings. Montenegro aligns itself with the statement delivered by the observer of the European Union. I would like, however, to add some remarks in my national capacity. It is hard to remember a time when the United Nations, its agencies and the broader international community were facing more simultaneous crises. Conflicts hit hardest those who are most vulnerable, making it impossible to improve their lives. It is our duty to help resolve conflicts.”
2015-01-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7361 (2015) · source
“Using veto in the face of mass atrocities, as we have witnessed for example in Syria's case, has devastating consequences on human lives, livelihoods and basic respect for human rights. It also harms reputation and credibility of the Security Council and of the United Nations as a whole. Therefore, we remain very keen to see the idea of the code of conduct materialize, in the spirit of dialogue and constructiveness and in the manner that will ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of the solution. We hope that voluntary self-restraint on the use of the veto will open the way for a much-needed and long-overdue comprehensive reform of the Security Council, in order to bring the Council in line with contemporary world realities.”
2014-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7285Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Only after all means of peaceful settlement of disputes under Chapter VI have been exhausted, should the Security Council resort to Chapter VII provisions. In the context of the responsibility to protect, to which Montenegro is firmly attached, let me also welcome the timely initiative of France on the voluntary restraint in the use of the veto in cases of genocide, mass atrocities and crimes against humanity. That initiative, which Montenegro fully supports, is all the more commendable since it came from a permanent member. My country strongly believes that Council's ability to effectively respond to situations of mass atrocities should not be held hostage by exercising or threatening the veto.”
2014-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7285Resumption1 (2014) · source
“We believe that the entire membership can benefit from a more substantive dialogue on issues of importance and relevance between the two principal organs of the United Nations. Another aspect is preventive work of the Security Council. Montenegro is of the View that Council should better utilize the options at its disposal so as to prevent the emergence of conflicts. In that regard, we deemed useful the horizon-scanning briefings by the Department of Political Affairs, as they represented valuable opportunities to identify potential crisis before developing and act proactively to mitigate the effects of escalation of violence. In that spirit, I would like to mention that measures under Chapter VI should be given priority in addressing crisis around the world.”
2014-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7285Resumption1 (2014) · source
“We welcome the tangible progress made in recent years towards improving the working methods of the Security Council, including most recently the three presidential notes adopted since the convening of last year's debate. It is important to recognize that the efforts to improve transparency, inclusiveness, efficiency and openness have been considerable. This is reflected in holding of open and public debates, wrap-up and Arria Formula meetings, interactive and informal dialogues, all of which contribute to enhanced transparency and improving of the dialogue between Security Council and general membership. But there is still a lot of room for improvement in the working methods. One particular area we feel deserves our renewed attention is the interaction between Security Council and the General Assembly.”
2014-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7285Resumption1 (2014) · source
“Allow me to congratulate you, Madam, on your country's presidency and to thank you for organizing this annual open debate on Security Council working methods. We appreciate Argentina's leadership and devotion to the Council's working methods, as well as the results achieved so far under your chairmanship of the Informal Working Group on Documentation and Other Procedural Questions. We thank the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court and the Ombudsperson of the Committee pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999) and 1989 (2011) concerning Al-Qaida and associated individuals and entities for their useful presentations and extend our appreciation and support for their respective work.”
2014-10-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7285Resumption1 (2014) · source
“I would like to conclude by expressing Montenegro's commitment and readiness to contribute constructively to ensuring greater effectiveness in the protection ofcivilians, which is a core responsibility and priority in the mandate of the Security Council and the United Nations system.”
2013-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6917Resumption1 (2013) · source
“One step to that end would be the increased use of training modules on the protection of civilians by Member States sending personnel to protection-mandated missions. As the Secretary-General stated in his 2012 report (S/2012/376), international humanitarian law requires parties to a conflict to protect the civilian population from the effects of hostilities. A failure to do so can result in deaths and injuries to civilians who are directly targeted or otherwise caught in the fighting. We recognize the importance of translating normative progress into concrete improvements in the protection of civilians on the ground through strong leadership on the part of the Security Council and a focus on the five core challenges and recommendations outlined in the Secretary-General's report.”
2013-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6917Resumption1 (2013) · source
“We hope that the Conference will produce a strong treaty with the highest possible common standards for regulating the global trade in arms, so that it can make a real difference to the lives and security of millions of people around the world. We recognize the valuable progress that has been made in the area of enhancing the implementation of protection mandates by United Nations peacekeeping and other missions. We need to achieve more effective interaction and better coordination among protection-mandated missions, host States, political missions and humanitarian organizations undertaking protection efforts, in a spirit of joint endeavour, in order to continue to improve the protection of civilians from physical violence.”
2013-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6917Resumption1 (2013) · source
“Ensuring safe and unhindered access for humanitarian assistance is fundamental to the protection of civilians and an effective humanitarian response. We emphasize how important it is for States and other parties to conflict to prevent attacks on or interference with medical and humanitarian personnel and journalists, and to prosecute those responsible for such acts. We also call on the parties to conflicts to honour their obligations in refraining from the use of explosive weapons in densely populated areas. The final United Nations Conference on an Arms Trade Treaty, to be held in March, presents a vital opportunity for enhancing the protection of civilians as we seek to address the human cost and dire consequences resulting from a poorly regulated international arms trade.”
2013-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6917Resumption1 (2013) · source
“When national authorities fail to take the steps necessary to ensure accountability, the international community, and the Security Council and the International Criminal Court above all, has a role to play in ensuring an appropriate international response. Since accountability through national processes was not guaranteed in Syria, Montenegro has decided to support the Swiss initiative calling on the Security Council to refer the situation in that country to the International Criminal Court. In addition, Montenegro is of the view that utilizing independent commissions of inquiry and fact-finding missions, especially early in a crisis, along with taking the necessary follow-up action, can indeed help to end further violations and provide accountability.”
2013-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6917Resumption1 (2013) · source
“Of particular concern is the deteriorating situation in Syria. Montenegro is alarmed and condemns the widespread and systematic violations of human rights and international law in Syria, which, according to the independent international commission of inquiry, may amount to crimes against humanity and war crimes under the Rome Statute of International Criminal Court. We would like to emphasize that all perpetrators of such crimes, without exception, must be held to account and that there should be no impunity for such violations and abuses. Bolstering accountability serves as an integral component in strengthening compliance by parties to armed conflict, including individual perpetrators, with their international obligations. Moreover, without accountability there can be no sustainable peace.”
2013-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6917Resumption1 (2013) · source
“Deliberate targeting, indiscriminate or disproportionate attacks and sexual and gender-based violence are just a few examples of the worrisome trend of the frequent failure of parties to conflict to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law, international human rights law and refugee law to respect and protect civilians. Despite some positive developments and the important progress achieved since the adoption of resolution 1265 (1999), reflected mainly in advancements at the normative level, the abysmal state of the protection of civilians has changed little, as the Secretary-General pointed out in his 2012 report (S/2012/376). The suffering of civilians, especially women and children, and the harsh conditions they endure in many of today's conflicts requires our continued close attention and decisive action.”
2013-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6917Resumption1 (2013) · source
“Allow me to begin by congratulating you, Sir, on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of February. I would like to thank you for having organized today's important and timely debate. I also thank the Secretary- General, the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the International Committee of the Red Cross Director for International Law and Cooperation for their interventions. Montenegro fully associates itself with the statement made by the European Union. Let me, however, make some additional comments in my national capacity. It is a sad reality that civilians continue to account for the vast majority of casualties in armed conflicts.”
2013-02-12 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.6917Resumption1 (2013) · source