YouSaid · the spoken record

Skoog

lines on the record: 1,817
first: 2015-03-16
most recent: 2023-12-29
sittings or episodes: 248
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

“We expect Bosnia and Herzegovina to ensure that the next elections are conducted in line with European standards by implementing the standards set by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights and relevant recommendations of the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe, and ensure transparency of political party financing. Taking into account the institutional mechanisms, which were set by the Dayton Peace Agreement, Bosnia and Herzegovina needs to undertake further constitutional and electoral reforms to ensure equality and non-discrimination of citizens, notably by addressing Sejdić-Finci case law of the European Court of Human Rights.”
2021-11-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8896 (2021) · source
“However, regrettably, our call for Bosnia and Herzegovina to build on that momentum and use 2021 as a non-election year to continue to engage on reforms, has not been translated into concrete actions. Instead, Bosnian leaders returned to divisive nationalistic rhetoric and obstruction, resulting in a serious political crisis. Recurrent political crisis and a persistent lack of dialogue hampered any progress on the implementation of the 14 priorities. The recent blockage of State institutions is unacceptable and holds back the overall reform process. Political leaders need to overcome the stalemate as a matter of priority and refocus on reforms, which will enable Bosnia and Herzegovina to advance on its EU path.”
2021-11-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8896 (2021) · source
“Nevertheless, we welcome his report, which was circulated among the Security Council members, and we would like to reiterate our strong support for his work and the work of his Office in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In December 2019, the Council of the European Union urged executive and legislative bodies at all levels of Government to start addressing the 14 key priorities identified in the Commission Opinion on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s application for membership of the European Union, in line with the interests of all citizens to advance towards the European Union. In 2020, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s authorities took some steps to address the Opinion’s key priorities, including with the holding of local elections in Mostar, for the first time since 2008.”
2021-11-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8896 (2021) · source
“Mr. Skoog (European Union) (spoke in Spanish): Allow me to congratulate you, Mr. President, and your country on its assumption of the presidency of the Security Council. (spoke in English) I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its 27 member States. The candidate countries Turkey, the Republic of North Macedonia, Montenegro and Albania align themselves with this statement. The European Union (EU) is pleased that the mandate of the European Union Military Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina has been renewed by the Council, given its importance in maintaining security and a stable environment. We regret that we cannot listen to the usual briefing of the High Representative today.”
2021-11-03 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8896 (2021) · source
“In the framework of ongoing programming for our next cooperation period, EU engagement will be based on a renewed and strengthened framework of mutual engagement, in a spirit of full transparency, reciprocal trust and commitment. The EU has been, is and will remain one of the closest partners of the Central African Republic. Through our multidimensional action, we are committed to accompanying the country on the path of reform in the service of the population. We will act in full transparency and expect the same from all friends of the Central African Republic.”
2021-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8882 (2021) · source
“However, a lasting solution to the crisis cannot be solely military. Dialogue between the parties and the re-engagement and willingness of armed groups to return to the process after renouncing violence is also crucial. That will need to be accompanied by greater inclusion and a greater role for civil society, especially women, youth and political parties. In that regard, we support the renewed efforts of our partners in the region, the African Union, the Economic Community of Central African States and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region. We particularly welcome the organization of the summit on the Central African Republic in order to find a lasting solution, and we encourage the harmonization of ongoing initiatives.”
2021-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8882 (2021) · source
“Together with our international and regional partners, we expect quick and concrete signals and strong guarantees from the authorities to pursue our engagement in the country. The Central African Republic remains an extremely fragile country facing an acute humanitarian crisis, with 2.8 million persons in humanitarian need and 712,000 internally displaced. The entire international community must therefore remain mobilized and united and continue to provide an urgent and appropriate response to the pressing humanitarian needs of the country and its people. The restoration of security in the country is a priority for us; the progressive reinforcement of MINUSCA should make it possible to make a lasting and long-term contribution to securing the territory of the Central African Republic.”
2021-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8882 (2021) · source
“Further, the EU firmly condemns all violations of the status-of-forces agreement against MINUSCA, including limiting the freedom of movement of its troops, which prevents the Mission from fulfilling its mandate. We express our full support to MINUSCA. We remain concerned by the presence of bilaterally deployed and other security personnel with unclear objectives and targets. Full transparency and coordination between partners in the country is necessary. The authorities of the Central African Republic have to ensure that all stakeholders work in the same spirit and in the same direction, with clear and transparent rules of engagement. Those strong concerns and expectations were expressed on many occasions to the authorities of the Central African Republic during EU high-level visits in the last months.”
2021-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8882 (2021) · source
“That is a first positive signal in the fight against impunity; we now expect concrete follow-up and legal action against those responsible, including from outside the country. We are also deeply concerned by the human rights and international humanitarian law violations and abuses, including conflict-related sexual violence, attacks on the Fulani community and the increased use of explosive-ordnance devices and mines. International partners such as the European Union, France and MINUSCA have also been the victims of repeated attacks, aggressive campaigns, hate speech and disinformation, as we just heard from the Special Representative of the Secretary-General.”
2021-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8882 (2021) · source
“While we have seen those positive political developments in the country, since the most recent briefing to the Council (see S/PV.8802) we have also witnessed some developments on the ground that remain particularly worrying. In the last few months, we have received several reports of not only violations of human rights and international humanitarian law but also targeted abuse and stigmatization of ethnic and religious minorities committed by armed groups and national armed forces as well as so-called instructors. Such actions are unacceptable. The special commission of inquiry has an important role to play in that regard if its initial findings are taken forward appropriately.”
2021-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8882 (2021) · source
“Finally, we welcome President Touadera’s commitment to the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic, which is the only common and viable framework. The effective implementation of the recommendations made during its evaluation is of utmost importance. That process involves all the signatories and requires close coordination with the guarantors, facilitators and partners. The road map adopted at the Luanda mini- summit, including the swift implementation of the ceasefire provisions and the recognition that this is a shared obligation, will be especially important. Maintaining a positive and conducive environment for peacemaking will be crucial.”
2021-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8882 (2021) · source
“In that regard, we encourage continuous Government support for the Special Criminal Court and the Commission on Truth, Justice, Reparation and Reconciliation. We also welcome the installation of the organizing committee for the “republican dialogue” on 1 September. The dialogue itself has to be credible and inclusive, and set permanent structures to ensure long-term contact between the parties; that is the only way to bring about a lasting solution to the crisis. The participation of all relevant stakeholders, including the opposition, civil society, minorities, women and youth, is essential for that dialogue to be successful. The European Union is ready to continue to provide advice, support and expertise as part of our mediation support.”
2021-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8882 (2021) · source
“We have seen some positive political developments, and it is important that they be built upon to create a conducive environment for the critical processes that are unfolding A new Government committed to reforms has been appointed, and the electoral cycle was finalized in July. Those are two important milestones for the consolidation of democracy in the Central African Republic. With regard to reform priorities, we specifically note that the Government programme envisages concrete steps in the field of justice and the fight against impunity and corruption. There is recognition of the benefits of opening up the economy, revitalizing the peace process and fostering investments in human capital. We will need to see if those pledges lead to visible, concrete progress. Many challenges and high expectations among the population remain.”
2021-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8882 (2021) · source
“Our unique engagement has also included a substantive contribution to ensure credibility in the various recent electoral processes. First of all, let me emphasise that we encourage all regional efforts to achieve lasting peace in the Central African Republic, in particular the adoption of the Luanda road map. In that context, we welcome the important political gesture by President Touadera in announcing a ceasefire last Friday. And I want to acknowledge the presence of President Touadera at this meeting. All actors, without exception, should immediately cease armed actions. Today I would like to share our assessment of the progress made, as well as recall some worrisome developments that have persisted in the country since our previous briefing to the Council in June (see S/PV.8802).”
2021-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8882 (2021) · source
“Mr. Skoog: I am sure that Security Council members will not hear much discrepancy between my briefing and the one given on behalf of the African Union, given how closely we cooperate in this regard. I want to start by congratulating you, Sir, and Kenya for presiding over the Security Council. As all know, the European Union (EU) is a long- standing and trusted partner of the Central African Republic. We have mobilized all our available political, humanitarian, development cooperation, security and crisis management instruments through a dedicated security and defence mission whose role is explicitly recognized in the relevant Security Council resolutions. We have also supported peacebuilding activities and the democratic development of the Central African Republic.”
2021-10-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8882 (2021) · source
“In conclusion, let us make the best of the ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at a return by the United States to the JCPOA and a full implementation of the JCPOA by all sides. Continued perseverance, flexibility and pragmatism provide the basis for a solid and sustainable framework that is a cornerstone for effective multilateral diplomacy. The JCPOA continues to be a key component of the global non-proliferation architecture that helps reduce regional and global security risks.”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“Civil nuclear cooperation not only helps build a better understanding of Iran’s civil nuclear needs but also promotes cooperation in areas, such as nuclear safety, that are critical for the safety of Europe and the region. While the JCPOA addresses nuclear non-proliferation aspects, a series of events outside the nuclear domain are increasingly worrisome. The EU continues to urge all actors to refrain from activities and escalatory rhetoric that enhance regional and international tensions and fuel a military build-up in the region. The EU has repeatedly urged Iran to desist from activities that could deepen mistrust, such as ballistic missile tests and space vehicle launches, which are inconsistent with resolution 2231 (2015).”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“The eleventh report of the Joint Commission to the Security Council on the status of the Procurement Working Group’s decisions and on any implementation issues (see S/2021/578) provides evidence of the channel as an important confidence-building measure that gives assurances to Member States and private-sector actors that transfers of goods and services for civil nuclear purposes are fully in line with resolution 2231 (2015). The EU will continue to promote the use of the procurement channel, which, while enabling the trade of relevant items with Iran, ensures the consistency of relevant transfers with the JCPOA. At the same time, I am also pleased to note that EU- Iran cooperation in the civil nuclear field under annex III of the JCPOA, particularly in the area of nuclear safety, continues despite the challenges of COVID-19.”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“The work of the procurement channel remains important as an independent and transparent Security Council mechanism. I am pleased to note that the channel continues to be used and that one new proposal has been transmitted to the Security Council for decision and endorsement during the reporting period, while another proposal that was under review during the preceding reporting period has also been recommended for approval.”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“We need to acknowledge the strain put on the JCPOA by the lack of concrete economic benefits expected by Iran in exchange for agreeing and implementing the JCPOA. The United States withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018 and its reimposition of JCPOA-related sanctions created a significant challenge for Iran, as well as economic operators worldwide, to continue to engage in business relations, not least to maintain banking and payment channels. For its part, the EU lifted all its nuclear-related sanctions upon the conclusion of the deal in 2015 and spared no effort to maintain and promote economic and trade relations with Iran. That includes support for setting up and making operational the Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges, set up by European countries to allow for legitimate trade exchanges to continue.”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“In addition, Iran should fully and promptly cooperate with the IAEA on the four outstanding safeguards-related issues, which have been raised to the attention of the IAEA Board of Governors and provide the necessary clarifications. Let me stress the EU’s deep appreciation for the work and the professionalism of the IAEA. Its impartial and technical work is of the utmost importance and is a cornerstone of the credibility of the JCPOA. We take note of Iran’s reaffirmed position that it is ready to return to full JCPOA implementation. I remain optimistic that sufficient space for diplomacy will continue to be granted in order to be able bring the JCPOA back on a path of full implementation in the very near future.”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“They also raise serious non-proliferation concerns, particularly following Iran’s decision to suspend the implementation of the Additional Protocol and JCPOA transparency provisions, which has substantially decreased access by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to key information about Iran’s nuclear programme. We therefore call on Iran to reverse such activities and return to the full implementation of its commitments without delay. It is crucial that Iran fully cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency. The necessary verification and monitoring activities, including transparency measures, foreseen under the JCPOA need to be restored.”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“In that context, the European Union (EU) welcomes the declared intention of the United States to rejoin the JCPOA, and we feel encouraged by its expressed readiness to lift the JCPOA-related sanctions, in line with the provisions of the nuclear deal. The EU remains fully committed to the JCPOA and is determined to continue working with the international community to preserve it. At the same time, we remain deeply concerned about Iran’s continued accumulation of low-enriched uranium in excess of the JCPOA thresholds. At the moment, Iran is the only non-nuclear- weapon State to produce 60 per cent enriched uranium. Also of particular concern are Iran’s continued research and development with advanced centrifuges, as well as activities with uranium metal. Those activities are inconsistent with the JCPOA.”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“Beyond that, the High Representative has spared no efforts and has been in close touch with all JCPOA participants and the United States, calling for the necessary flexibility to take the difficult political decisions needed to bring the JCPOA back on track. It is clear that time is not on our side and that what might be possible still today may prove impossible in the near future. We have a limited window ahead of us that we should not miss. The efforts of all relevant parties speak to the importance and the value of the JCPOA. They are solid evidence of the need to vigorously pursue diplomacy and to sustain and support multilateral agreements and institutions.”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“Since our last discussion on the implementation of resolution 2231 (2015) in the Council, our efforts to ensure the full implementation of the JCPOA by all sides have intensified. To that end, we welcome the engagement of all JCPOA participants since early April in Vienna under the auspices of the Joint Commission, which the High Representative coordinates, as well as the separate contacts with the United States. Let me also take this opportunity to thank the Austrian authorities for providing the facilities and a conducive environment for our diplomatic efforts, in line with all the necessary coronavirus disease (COVID-19) protocols.”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, now almost six years of age, is the fruit of effective multilateralism and a token of the important work done by members of the international community and by this Chamber in particular. The JCPOA has withstood significant pressure over the past years since the withdrawal of the United States from the agreement in 2018 and the reinstatement of sanctions, as well as the successive steps by Iran inconsistent with the agreement. During that time, the remaining JCPOA participants have demonstrated their conviction to work diplomatically to preserve the deal. However, the agreement is still at a critical stage and needs to be urgently restored and fully implemented. That is a common responsibility that needs to be nurtured and protected by all of us.”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“Rosemary DiCarlo and the Secretariat, for their steadfast dedication and professionalism in preparing the eleventh report on the implementation of the Security Council resolution 2231 (2015) (S/2021/582). I also want to express my appreciation to Ms. Geraldine Byrne Nason, Ambassador of Ireland, for her work as Facilitator for the implementation of resolution 2231 (2015) and for the excellent cooperation during the past period, and I look forward to our continued collaboration. Since my previous statement, six months ago (see S/2021/1324), a new level of optimism can be discerned given that the diplomatic environment surrounding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action has improved. At the same time, there are serious concerns despite that new optimism.”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“Mr. Skoog: This is the first time I address the Security Council during the Estonian presidency, Sir. Protocol holds that I should congratulate you on assuming the presidency, Mr. President, but given that today is the last day of your presidency, I should congratulate you, Sir, on a very successful presidency. It is an honour to be addressing the Council today on behalf of the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Mr. Josep Borrell Fontenelles, in his capacity as Coordinator of the Joint Commission of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). I also want to thank the Secretary- General, Mr. António Guterres, and Ms.”
2021-06-30 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8811 (2021) · source
“That is a good example of regional cooperation in the context of counter-terrorism in Africa. The EU is acting with the full range of policy, security and stabilization measures, development cooperation and humanitarian aid. In conclusion, the European Union is fully committed to continuing to support and work with its partners in Africa and beyond. We look forward to the outcome of the African Union’s extraordinary summit on counter-terrorism, to be held in South Africa in May.”
2020-03-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8743 (2020) · source
“For example, we work with the Office for Counter-Terrorism to support the Sudan’s efforts towards reform and reinforcement of the country’s counter-terrorism structures. That includes assisting the transitional Government’s counter-terrorism efforts and contributing to normalization of relations with the international community. We are also expanding contacts with the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate, with the aim of strengthening our own understanding of the African region and better tailoring EU programming to local needs. More focus is needed on diagnosis of the root causes of violent extremism. An integrated approach is key. The Pau summit of 13 January brought together the members of the Group of Five for the Sahel and launched the coalition for the Sahel.”
2020-03-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8743 (2020) · source
“In that regard, the European Union supports the efforts of its African partners to address the full spectrum of challenges that terrorism brings. The broad and growing range of our programmes in the field of preventing and countering terrorism and violent extremism have focused on the Horn of Africa, the Lake Chad basin and the Sahel regions. We are deepening our support to African peace efforts, with a focus on a holistic and integrated approach to conflict and crises, investing in prevention, the fight against radicalization, building stabilization and better linking humanitarian, development, peace and security efforts. We also continue to strengthen our cooperation with United Nations agencies with regard to counter- terrorism and prevention measures in African countries and regions.”
2020-03-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8743 (2020) · source
“Terrorism is a transnational issue. As stressed by the African Union Commissioner for Peace and Security, Smaïl Chergui, terrorists have globalized their means and have a “new modus operandi”. The globalization of terrorism calls for more coordinated and integrated responses. Terrorists benefit from various factors, including weak Government institutions, poor governance and border porosity, all of which foster corruption, illicit trafficking and exploitation of natural resources. The nexus between organized crime and the expansion of violent extremist ideologies further endangers the stability of fragile States, whose resilience needs to be enhanced in a comprehensive manner, as many around the table have said this morning.”
2020-03-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8743 (2020) · source
“The twenty-fifth report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team submitted pursuant to resolution 2368 (2017) concerning ISIL (Da’esh), Al-Qaida and associated individuals and entities (S/2020/53), issued in January, emphasizes the spread of the threat in West Africa as well as to new areas, including in East Africa. I want to make a crucial point of departure in this entire discussion. In all our counter-terrorism efforts, respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law has to be the basis. That must go hand in hand with gender- and child-sensitive measures. The failure to comply with human rights contributes to increased radicalization and further violence and fosters a sense of impunity. All our counter-terrorism efforts must therefore be framed in a human rights- based approach.”
2020-03-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8743 (2020) · source
“Mr. Skoog: I thank you, Mr. President, for organizing this very important debate. I also thank the briefers this morning. I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union (EU) and its member States. The candidate countries Turkey, the Republic of North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Albania, as well as Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Moldova, align themselves with this statement. Countering terrorism is a shared priority for Africa and Europe. In partnership, we remain committed to tirelessly mitigating this scourge. African partners have paid a huge price. I want to express our full solidarity with the victims of the recent terrorist attacks in Africa. Despite tremendous efforts, the threat has not been curbed.”
2020-03-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8743 (2020) · source
“I will just add final word to reiterate our commitment to a solid partnership with the United Nations and the African Union, as shown by, among other things, our joint trilateral high-level mission to the Central African Republic. I would like to stress that the recent campaigns of manipulation and disinformation against international partners in the country, notably against MINUSCA, are a matter of serious concern to us. I want to reiterate our full support for the work of the Mission and praise the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, who is here today. The Central African Republic has the potential to turn into a success story for the Council and, most important, for the people of the country itself, but that will require that we remain united, engaged and mobilized.”
2020-02-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8728 (2020) · source
“Likewise, the support of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) for security and logistics remains of critical importance. The constitutional calendar needs to be respected. The EU is deploying a civilian mission — the European Union Advisory Mission in the Central African Republic — to support reform and deployment of the internal security forces. The EU Advisory Mission will complement the valued work done by our European Union Military Training Mission in the Central African Republic (EUTM-RCA). The EUTM-RCA continues to work in full transparency, coordination and cohesion with MINUSCA and others.”
2020-02-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8728 (2020) · source
“(spoke in English) That brings me to the role of the European Union. We stand by our commitment to working with the Government and the people of the Central African Republic and all other stakeholders. Our commitment is also clearly attested by the European Union’s significant support for the upcoming elections. The EU will shoulder roughly half of the estimated budget and plans to deploy electoral experts. We hope that other donors will follow our example, and we echo the appeal made earlier by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in that respect. Elections are essential to consolidating democracy and democratic institutions. Postponement is not an option. Political leaders must show responsibility by contributing to a peaceful, transparent and inclusive electoral process.”
2020-02-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8728 (2020) · source
“The fight against impunity must be pursued and centred on justice. That is one of the key provisions of the agreement, which is critical to supporting the population. In addition, the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration process must be stepped up and carried out simultaneously with the establishment of the special mixed security units. In that regard, the specific criteria for demobilization, disarmament, verification and training must be followed to the letter. Unfortunately, we note that some armed groups are not meeting those criteria, although they are well defined. Instead of committing to their obligations, several leaders are trying to renegotiate the terms. Once again, we urge the guarantors and facilitators of the agreement to take the appropriate measures necessary.”
2020-02-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8728 (2020) · source
“One year after the signing of the agreement, several armed groups continue to fail to uphold their commitments. The violence that erupted on Sunday in Birao between two armed groups was unfortunately not an isolated incident. It was a planned operation carried out to undermine the peace agreement. At the end of the day, the local populations are the main victims and the work of the humanitarian actors is prevented. Nothing justifies that violence. The European Union urges the parties to honour their word. We also call on the Government and the guarantors and the facilitators of the Bangui agreement to act and to seriously consider imposing sanctions against those responsible for those acts. This intolerable situation must end. The violence is also the result of a culture of impunity that has gone on for far too long.”
2020-02-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8728 (2020) · source
“We also see progress in setting up the special mixed security units, which benefit from significant EU support. We are witnessing the first encouraging signs of State authority returning to some regions, and as the deployment of the national Armed Forces is progressing, we should ensure that the process receives the necessary support in order to be sustainable and credible. By now, all stakeholders should realize that, despite its imperfections, the Bangui agreement remains the only joint and viable framework for peace, whereby everyone — signatories, facilitators, civil society, political actors, and partners of the country — has a role to play in making it work. (spoke in French) Let me also talk today about the next steps and the challenges that we must face.”
2020-02-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8728 (2020) · source
“This is not a minor achievement, it needs to be consolidated, and confidence in the agreement needs to be maintained and strengthened. This will best done through its effective implementation. This result is largely owing to the determination of President Touadera and his Government to maintain a courageous and conciliatory posture. We welcome the appeasing approach adopted in dealing with the former Presidents’ return to the country. They have to become part of the process. We also commend the Government for pursuing the dialogue with other stakeholders, including former high-level officials, armed groups and the region. Holding bilateral joint commissions with neighbours of the Central African Republic helps to build confidence and solidify peace.”
2020-02-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8728 (2020) · source
“Mr. Skoog: I am truly honoured to brief the Security Council on behalf of the European Union (EU). As of today it has been 12 months since the Government of the Central African Republic and 14 armed groups signed the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic in Bangui. The report of the Secretary- General (S/2020/124) gives a clear picture of the accomplishments in the implementation of the peace process, as well as of the remaining challenges. I will focus on those areas in which the European Union sees the greatest need for all stakeholders now to act with resolve. Let me mention what we see as positive developments. First, this is the only one among the many earlier agreements signed in the Central African Republic that is holding.”
2020-02-20 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8728 (2020) · source
“We stand ready to further engage on the subject and hope that today’s deliberations mark only the beginning of a deeper conversation, as it touches upon so many different topics that are on the agenda of the Security Council, ranging from mediation to children and armed conflict, among others.”
2020-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8723Resumption1 (2020) · source
“Supporting transitional justice requires specific expertise. We have therefore set up a flexible instrument that enables the EU to deploy transitional justice experts on the ground to provide assistance upon request. We are also ready to engage over the long term, through our missions on the ground or our dedicated financial instruments. Finally, I would like to pay tribute to the crucial role that civil society organizations have played in so many transitional justice processes. They have often been the driver behind numerous initiatives, giving a voice to millions of victims.”
2020-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8723Resumption1 (2020) · source
“In recent years, the EU has made considerable efforts to translate our policy commitments into more concrete action on the ground, while always working closely with, and in support of, the United Nations. In Syria, we support the International Commission on Missing Persons in setting up mechanisms and partnerships for data collection and the systematic compilation of information from the families of missing persons. In Colombia, we stepped up our support immediately after the peace accord was signed in order to help overcome the obstacles that might occur during the early implementation of the agreement. In the Central African Republic, we also support the Special Criminal Court as a critical body to fight impunity. We collaborated with UN-Women to strengthen the integration of the gender dimension in transitional justice processes.”
2020-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8723Resumption1 (2020) · source
“The European Union recognizes that accountability and justice are most successful if the justice system functions effectively and independently, thereby enabling the International Criminal Court to play its intended role, while complementing national jurisdictions. Victims and affected communities should be at the centre of all efforts. Transitional justice is a complex issue, and is therefore best considered from the start of any peace support efforts, ranging from mediation to restoring peace and security in countries emerging from conflict. It also requires a truly integrated approach. The active advisory role of the Peacebuilding Commission in support of the Security Council could be further drawn upon to ensure that appropriate attention is paid to transitional justice and reconciliation at all stages of the conflict cycle.”
2020-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8723Resumption1 (2020) · source
“In our policy framework, we underline that all transitional justice processes have to be nationally owned and context-specific. Each situation requires a tailor-made approach. Since it is a whole-of-society endeavour, special attention needs to be paid to tailoring inclusive transitional justice processes, while promoting the participation and influence of women and young people in decision-making at all levels, in all areas. Criminal justice, accountability, the establishment of truth, reparations and institutional reform are all possible entry points for ending impunity, providing redress to victims, fostering trust and strengthening the rule of law.”
2020-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8723Resumption1 (2020) · source
“Transitional justice is also a means to achieve reconciliation. Only by dealing meaningfully with the past can a society move forward without being taken hostage by its own history. The European Union, in its very essence, is the product of a collective vision and commitment to overcome the past and build a sustainable peace through reconciliation and the establishment of free democratic societies in which human rights and the rule of law are upheld. We adopted a comprehensive policy framework on support to transitional justice in November 2015, becoming the first regional organization to do so. Since then, we have witnessed several positive developments. We welcome the African Union’s transitional justice policy, adopted last year.”
2020-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8723Resumption1 (2020) · source
“Mr. Skoog: I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union (EU) and its member States. The candidate countries Turkey, the Republic of North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Albania, as well as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova and Georgia, align themselves with this statement. Out of respect for the many speakers who wish to take the floor, I will give an abbreviated version of it. First, let me express my appreciation to Belgium for initiating this debate, and my thanks to the excellent briefers. Transitional justice is often described as dealing with the aftermath of conflicts or atrocities. However, it is not only a matter of providing meaningful justice, but also an essential building block for sustaining peace and avoiding relapse into conflict.”
2020-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8723Resumption1 (2020) · source
“The EU and its members are will consistently put cooperation over confrontation and multilateralism over isolationism, stick to our commitments and willingly help others stick to theirs.”
2020-01-09 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8699 (2020) · source