YouSaid · the spoken record

Sven Jürgenson.

lines on the record: 527
first: 2020-03-31
most recent: 2021-06-28
sittings or episodes: 119
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

“Estonia remains a strong supporter of the role of the International Court of Justice in the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations. We recognize that, while the Court’s judgments are binding upon the parties concerned, its jurisprudence has a broader impact, including as guidance in the interpretation of international law. The seventy-fifth anniversary of the Charter, and the United Nations system more broadly, offers us the momentum to consider the role that the Security Council plays, and could play, in the peaceful settlement of disputes — a role that is complementary to the role of the International Court of Justice. The mandate of the Security Council in relation to the International Court of Justice is manifold.”
2020-12-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1286 (2020) · source
“We thank South Africa for organizing today’s open debate on an important topic. We also thank His Excellency Judge Abdulqawi A. Yusuf for his insightful briefing. The Charter of the United Nations is of irreplaceable importance to a rules- based international order. It has created a system of values, legal principles and political tools that help to stabilize the world. The Charter provides a framework for multilateral negotiations, conflict prevention and conflict resolution. It carried forward a valuable system for the settlement of disputes. The International Court of Justice contributes significantly to multilateralism by upholding and promoting the rule of law at the international level.”
2020-12-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1286 (2020) · source
“A sustainable political settlement is the only viable solution. We call on all sides to act swiftly, advance the peace process and fulfil their commitments to end violence and establish peace. We remain hopeful that the Government of Afghanistan and the Taliban can build on the current momentum. Finally, we would like to thank Germany and Indonesia for their diligent and professional work as Council co-penholders on the Afghanistan file. Together with Norway, we hope to be their worthy successors.”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“We are glad that the President of Afghanistan recently issued a decree establishing a high council for women, intended to support women’s empowerment and the implementation of the Government’s commitments regarding women’s rights. We strongly support the participation of various political and social constituencies in the peace negotiations, especially the meaningful participation of women, youth and minorities. Protecting and promoting their rights throughout the peace process is imperative. I have a question for the Afghan Youth Representative, Ms. Zadran. Two thirds of the population of Afghanistan is aged 24 years or under, and they are taking on the considerable task of rebuilding their country. In what ways are the youth represented in the peace negotiations, and are their voices being heard?”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“Human rights, particularly those of women and children, are inalienable and should be the highest priority on the agenda of the negotiations. The gains achieved over the past 19 years and guaranteed by the Afghan Constitution should be preserved and further strengthened during the course of the talks. I would like to recall the sanctions regime on the Taliban and the mandate of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team supporting the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1988 (2011). Estonia is convinced that the review of the measures and the sanctions lists should remain conditions-based and be strict in its consideration of whether substantial progress has been made by the Taliban to reduce violence.”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“Today we once again reiterate our call for an immediate, permanent and comprehensive ceasefire to save the Afghan people from more meaningless suffering and create a conducive environment for sustainable peace in the country, as well as stability in the region. All parties, particularly the Taliban, must fulfil their commitments and work towards ending violence to save civilian lives. This year is momentous for Afghanistan. There is a historic opportunity for peace and stability for all Afghans after decades of immense human suffering. We welcome the agreement between the parties on the code of conduct, which unlocked the discussion of the agenda items of the peace negotiations. It is essential that the parties resume the peace talks without delay on 5 January, after their mutually agreed three-week break.”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“Another challenge is the humanitarian situation, with the number of people in need of humanitarian assistance having doubled to a record 18.4 million. Such circumstances are unprecedented. It is vital to support UNAMA’s efforts to improve the accessibility of humanitarian aid for people in dire need. At the donors’ conference held on 23 and 24 November, the international community, including Estonia, renewed its commitment to accompanying Afghanistan on its path towards peace, security, stability, democracy, prosperity and self-reliance. A global ceasefire has repeatedly been called for by the entire international community, the Secretary-General and the Council.”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“Armed clashes have increased by 38 per cent this year, and the conflict continues to take a heavy toll on the civilian population. There is absolutely no excuse for the deliberate attacks on health-care personnel, journalists and educational facilities. It is essential that such crimes be investigated and that the perpetrators be held accountable. We deplore the attacks on children in the strongest terms. UNAMA should have the necessary capacity to monitor and report on violations and abuses against children and should assist efforts to strengthen the protection of children. We share the Secretary-General’s view that it is critically important for all parties to the conflict to recognize and address the harm caused, while incorporating victim- centred justice into the peace process.”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“I would like to begin by thanking Special Representative Lyons and Ambassador Dian Triansyah Djani, as well as the Afghan Youth Representative to the United Nations, Ms. Shkula Zadran, for their comprehensive and insightful briefings. We commend the actions of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), particularly in promoting the role of women on the peace and security agenda, supporting transitional justice and the inclusion of civil society and protecting human rights under the challenging conditions in the country. Estonia strongly supports such efforts, and we are always open to explore ways in which the United Nations and the Security Council can further assist UNAMA in its endeavours. Speaking of challenging conditions, the security situation in Afghanistan remains deeply concerning.”
2020-12-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1274 (2020) · source
“I thank the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs for its continued efforts to bring relief to millions on the ground. Finally, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the Syria humanitarian co-penholders, Germany and Belgium, for reminding the Council of the humanitarian principles it must uphold. I ask them not to forget that 11 of us followed them through the most critical moments and only two looked the other way. I am sure that they will keep working on Syria, even after leaving the Council as elected members. Once again, I thank them and their teams for their dedication and professionalism.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1257 (2020) · source
“We regret the double vetoes of Russia and China against the cross-border mechanism this summer (see S/PV.8697), which went directly against the wishes of other Council members and the interests of the Syrian people. Thirteen members were in favour and two against — we heard those words more than once last year. The promises of replacing cross-border deliveries with cross-line aid have fallen short in their substance. Cross-line aid is dysfunctional, irregular and unreliable. That is a fact that cannot be overlooked. However, since Moscow does not believe in tears, humanitarians have been pushed to their limits, working tirelessly. Eight hundred trucks with vital aid are expected to enter Idlib from Turkey this month as winter preparations are conducted across the country.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1257 (2020) · source
“We remind the Syrian Government and its allies that the European Union will not support Syria’s reconstruction or lift sanctions until a genuine political process is firmly in place. I would also like to stress that the current economic crisis in Syria is mostly a result of widespread corruption, warlordism and a lack of good governance. At least 400,000 people have lost their lives during the conflict, while millions of others have been deprived of their homes and livelihoods. Unfortunately, the Security Council has not been able to take the necessary actions to end this tragedy. Instead, we continue to witness human rights violations, chemical attacks, air raids, torture and broken promises on the part of the Syrian regime. Here in New York, Russia makes sure that nothing meaningful passes through the Council to stop those atrocities.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1257 (2020) · source
“I thank Special Envoy Pedersen and Under-Secretary-General Lowcock for their briefings on the political and humanitarian situations in Syria. We cautiously welcome the conclusion of the Syrian Constitutional Committee talks in Geneva at the beginning of this month. That process remains an important pillar in reaching a political agreement to end the war in Syria. We look forward to the next session of the Committee, to be held in January, which will finally concentrate on the constitution itself. We hope that in future that process will also pave the way for discussions on other confidence-building measures between the Government in Damascus and its legitimate opposition.”
2020-12-16 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1257 (2020) · source
“We fully support the strategic priority of UNITAD to strengthen the capacity of Iraqi authorities and commend the significant progress made by UNITAD in collaboration with the Iraqi authorities in the identification and collection of new sources of evidence. We stress the importance of the continued work of UNITAD on issues of sexual and gender-based violence in the field of witness protection, as well as psychological support for witnesses and survivors to avoid secondary trauma, through the respective UNITAD special units.S/2020/1193”
2020-12-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1193 (2020) · source
“Estonia acknowledges the successful work done by the United Nations Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da’esh/ Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (UNITAD) during the reporting period despite the challenging circumstances in the political and security sphere, as well as the coronavirus disease restrictions. We remain concerned about the recent eruption of violence in Sulaymaniyah, which endangers stability in northern Iraq. Estonia welcomes the recent renewal of UNITAD’s mandate for another year. We value the continued efforts of UNITAD to contribute to ongoing accountability processes in Iraq, with full respect for the principles and best practices of the United Nations.”
2020-12-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1193 (2020) · source
“Rushing the withdrawal risks losing the significant gains made by UNAMID over the years. Lastly, I would like to express our deep appreciation to the Sudan for offering its generous support to the Ethiopian refugees who are fleeing the fighting and violence in the Tigray region. Those actions prove once again why we must invest S/2020/1183 in a stable, strong and prosperous Sudan, as it gives so much back to the region. The international community must spare no effort to offer its support for the aspirations of the Sudanese people to achieve democracy, peace and prosperity.”
2020-12-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1183 (2020) · source
“It is very important for that messaging to be communicated clearly and through meaningful action to the Sudanese people. Given the immense challenges that the Sudan is facing, it is crucial that UNITAMS have sufficient capacity and adequate resources and be fit for purpose to offer support in all areas in which the Sudan needs it. We also reiterate our call to have the Special Representative of the Secretary-General appointed at the earliest opportunity. Allow me now to turn to the topic of the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID). By the end of December, the Security Council will have to make a decision about the future of UNAMID. Estonia supports a responsible withdrawal that is not politicized but based on the needs on the ground.”
2020-12-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1183 (2020) · source
“Thirdly, it is critical for the Sudan to receive the support of UNITAMS in assisting with peacebuilding, the protection of civilians and the rule of law. In that regard, we welcome the willingness of the Sudan to address civilian protection head on, but also recognize some of the capacity constraints where the United Nations can be helpful. Fourthly, given the economic hardship that the Sudan has seen in 2020, it is crucial for UNITAMS, together with international financial institutions, to put their full weight behind supporting the economic recovery. We would also like to welcome the intention to remove the Sudan from the list of State sponsors of terrorism. UNITAMS was established with the sole purpose of supporting the Sudan during its historic transition.”
2020-12-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1183 (2020) · source
“First, it is crucial that the Sudan receive the support of UNITAMS in order to progress with the political transition to democracy. In that regard, the focus should be on institution-building, as strong institutions form the backbone of democracy. We would like to acknowledge the Sudan for the significant steps it has already taken and would encourage the country to continue on that path of reform and institution-building. Secondly, we congratulate the Sudan on the signing of the Juba peace agreement on 3 October. The implementation of the agreement now becomes key, and the support of UNITAMS in its implementation cannot be overemphasized. I would also like to underscore the importance of the inclusion of women in that process. In addition, we call on the parties that have not yet joined the peace agreement to do so urgently.”
2020-12-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1183 (2020) · source
“I join others in thanking the briefers for their insightful overviews. Allow me also to extend a very warm welcome to the new Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom, Her Excellency Dame Barbara Woodward. I look forward to working with her on the Sudan as well as on other matters on the Security Council’s agenda. Despite multiple challenges, including the coronavirus disease pandemic, the Sudan has made great efforts to succeed with its historic transition. It is therefore of the utmost importance that the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in the Sudan (UNITAMS) be fully operational at the earliest opportunity to support the country in its efforts, and particularly in the four mandated strategic areas.”
2020-12-08 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1183 (2020) · source
“We are also concerned that attacks by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) are steadily increasing. ISIL’s propaganda continues, targeting vulnerable populations, including those living in overcrowded refugee camps. In this regard, efforts by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs aimed at providing aid to millions of Syrians every month are crucial. Ahead of winter, preserving humanitarian access must be an imperative for the parties on the ground.”
2020-11-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1147 (2020) · source
“I reiterate Estonia’s position that resolving the issue of detainees and missing persons is a cornerstone for national reconciliation and for ending the conflict. More than 100,000 people remain detained or missing in Syria, largely at the hands of the Syrian regime. Releasing arbitrarily detained people and identifying those who have lost their lives is at the core of resolutions 2254 (2015) and 2474 (2019). The Russia-Turkey ceasefire agreement from March seems to be holding. This truce gives local populations a break from violence. This break is much needed in the light of the growing numbers of coronavirus disease infections around the country. Nevertheless, instability prevails in many parts of Syria. Estonia condemns in the strongest terms yesterday’s bomb attacks near Al-Bab and Afrin, which wounded more than 40 people.”
2020-11-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1147 (2020) · source
“I thank the briefers for their overviews of the political situation and of the many humanitarian challenges Syrians are facing before the upcoming winter. Looking at the political process, Estonia welcomes the announcement of the holding of the next round of Constitutional Committee talks at the end of this month in Geneva. Estonia calls on the parties to engage actively in these discussions, as this fourth meeting is already long overdue. We are cautiously optimistic about the overall political process, as there is also a preliminary agreement for the fifth round in January. The Committee’s meetings must become regular in order to build trust between the Syrian regime and its legitimate opposition.”
2020-11-25 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1147 (2020) · source
“The continued support to Iraq in its fight to counter terrorism is of the utmost importance. However, we would like to urge the Iraqi Government to halt the execution of prisoners under the anti-terrorism law. Finally, we commend the Iraqi Government’s efforts in preventing missile attacks on diplomatic missions and personnel. However, we remain concerned about the continued attacks by Shia militias.”
2020-11-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1144 (2020) · source
“The Government’s efforts to combat the coronavirus disease are welcome and we, the international community, have to support these efforts where that support is most needed. However, more attention should be paid to the impact of the crisis on vulnerable people, including women and children, who continue to be the most affected. It is a positive development that the number of attacks on demonstrators has decreased. However, it is worrisome that targeted killings of protesters have continued, as well as violations of freedom of expression, enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests and detentions of journalists and civil society activists. We urge the Iraqi Government to ensure the protection of human rights, including freedom of expression and assembly, and to take concrete steps to hold perpetrators to account.”
2020-11-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1144 (2020) · source
“We acknowledge the multiple steps the Iraqi Government has already taken towards the implementation of structural reforms. We also call the Government to implement urgently needed economic reforms, including those proposed in the Government’s white paper. The establishment of a permanent committee to investigate corruption is an essential step in countering corruption and enforcing the rule of law. Furthermore, additional measures to bring all armed forces under State control are necessary to increase stability in Iraq. We commend the Iraqi Government’s announcement of its intention to adopt a national development plan for women, as it exhibits the commitment of the Government to advancing women’s political, economic and social empowerment and participation.”
2020-11-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1144 (2020) · source
“I would like to thank Special Representative Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert for her briefing. Estonia supports the Iraqi Government in addressing the political, security and economic challenges that the country is facing. We also stress the need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq and call on all actors to refrain from military action, which would threaten the stability of Iraq. We welcomed the announcement of early parliamentary elections to take place in June 2021. The recent ratification of the new electoral law was an important development in the preparations and is a precondition for conducting free and fair elections. The continued support and technical assistance of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq is of critical importance.”
2020-11-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1144 (2020) · source
“Following the serious humanitarian situation resulting from the triple threat of the coronavirus disease pandemic, locust infestation and flooding, Somalia is again bracing for potential drought conditions in 2021. The routine spikes in humanitarian needs call for a more strategic approach. Strengthening the resilience of the Somali people must remain a priority. I would like to conclude by expressing Estonia’s gratitude to, and support for, the United Nations personnel in Somalia, the African Union Mission in Somalia and Somali security forces for their efforts, commitment and sacrifices to bring peace and stability to Somalia.”
2020-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1136 (2020) · source
“In that regard, we welcome the progress made by the Federal Government of Somalia in updating the transition plan, and we look forward to the final product, which should be realistic in its timelines, tasks and goals. We are also looking forward to the independent assessment and urge all key stakeholders to engage with the independent panel. Estonia emphasizes that a comprehensive approach to security is important — Al-Shabaab cannot be defeated through military means alone; institution-building and supporting activities alongside military operations therefore remain the key. Estonia is deeply concerned about the dire humanitarian situation.”
2020-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1136 (2020) · source
“In that regard, we reiterate the importance of establishing the Independent National Human Rights Commission, which has a key role to play in promoting and protecting human rights. We also remain deeply concerned about the sexual-intercourse-related crimes bill and reiterate our call on Somalia to respect its international human rights obligations and discuss the original sexual offences bill in Parliament. The security situation remains a major challenge, and I condemn in the strongest possible terms the continuing attacks by Al-Shabaab. The impact of conflict on civilians, including women and children, is devastating and a cause for grave concern. The coming months will be crucial in agreeing the way forward towards the end goal of Somalia taking full responsibility for its security.”
2020-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1136 (2020) · source
“While we welcome the progress that has been made, Estonia regrets that the upcoming elections could not be based on a one-person-one-vote model, as previously envisioned by the Somali authorities and the international community alike. In order to ensure that Somalia is making progress in its democratization process, we strongly support the development of an agreed pathway to one-person-one-vote elections in 2024-2025. Furthermore, in order for the democratization process to proceed, we would strongly support the institutionalization of the consultations between the Federal Government and the federal member states as a means of avoiding another impasse. Estonia also underscores the need to put in place measures and institutions to protect human rights.”
2020-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1136 (2020) · source
“I join others in thanking the briefers for their insightful overviews and welcome the Prime Minister of Somalia to today’s meeting. The coming months will be crucial for Somalia, and allow me to reiterate Estonia’s support for the country and its people. Estonia welcomes that an agreement has been reached on the modalities for the elections, and that it has been accepted by all key Somali stakeholders. Moving forward, we emphasize the importance of timely, secure, inclusive and transparent elections. Estonia urges the implementation of the 30 per cent female quota and that marginalized groups be included. In addition, as Somalia prepares for parliamentary and presidential elections, the freedoms of expression and the press must be protected, now more than ever.”
2020-11-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1136 (2020) · source
“While the international support and efforts in alleviating the humanitarian situation and civilian suffering should continue, it is clear that the political will and ownership of the region’s Governments is key in this regard. Concrete action on reducing poverty and marginalization of certain groups as well as empowering women and youth will help to achieve sustainable peace in the region.”
2020-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1126 (2020) · source
“We take positive note of the assurances that the Joint Force of the Group of Five for the Sahel and the region’s States have given when it comes to adhering to human rights principles and the international humanitarian law framework in conducting counter-terrorism operations. We welcome the steps that the Joint Force has taken so far and encourage further, concrete steps to be taken on the ground should violations occur. All human rights violations and abuses must be investigated and the perpetrators held fully accountable. No true peace will be achieved unless the root causes of instability are being addressed actively and in earnest.”
2020-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1126 (2020) · source
“I would like to stress the importance of coordination among the various actors operating in the region. We welcome the steps taken in this direction through the organization of joint meetings. From the Estonian side, we remain committed to the efforts and contributions that can help bring about security and stability in the Sahel region. We contribute personnel to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali, the French-led Operation Barkhane operation and the European Union Training Mission in Mali, and financially to the European Union Trust Fund for Africa. Estonia is also part of the recently launched Task Force Takuba, operating in the Liptako-Gourma area.”
2020-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1126 (2020) · source
“I would like to thank the briefers for their valuable contributions to today’s discussion. Estonia remains extremely concerned about the continued terrorist attacks on the national, regional and international security forces in the Sahel region. It is of utmost importance to concentrate all efforts on creating favourable conditions for the return of the State and security presence there, including the police and the judiciary. We commend the Joint Force of the Group of Five for the Sahel for their efforts and encourage them to continue taking ownership of making peace a reality in the Sahel. Besides that, the role of the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States in coordinating and mobilizing the joint counter-terrorist operations is crucial.”
2020-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1126 (2020) · source
“The only way forward is to allow for a Libyan-led and Libyan-owned political process to be implemented. Estonia remains concerned about the humanitarian situation in Libya. Migrants and asylum seekers are frequently subjected to violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, and access to health-care facilities remains very limited, especially in the light of the ongoing coronavirus disease pandemic. We call on the authorities to take concrete steps to allow aid to reach those most in need. Moreover, I would like to stress that all violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law must be thoroughly investigated, and those responsible must be held accountable.”
2020-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1129 (2020) · source
“The process that has ensued — the meetings on all three dialogue tracks: the military, political and economic tracks — is indeed encouraging. We call on all parties to continue on that path in order to fully implement the ceasefire agreement and abide by all the political and economic commitments. Equally important to the Libyan parties’ commitment is the support of the international community. That means putting an end to all foreign interference and the violations of the Libyan sanctions regime. In that connection, the European Union Naval Force Mediterranean Operation IRINI will continue to make an important contribution to those efforts. Support from the international community must also include ensuring the departure of all foreign fighters and mercenaries who are present in Libya, as set out in the ceasefire agreement.”
2020-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1129 (2020) · source
“I thank Acting Special Representative Stephanie Williams for her briefing on the latest developments in Libya. I would like to express Estonia’s sincere appreciation of, and support for, the United Nations Support Mission in Libya and Acting Special Representative Williams in having worked to facilitate the contacts and mediate between the Libyan parties. That has been especially apparent in the past few weeks, following the signing of the ceasefire agreement. The political process under the umbrella of the United Nations and the Berlin process remains the only acceptable international framework to support Libyans in achieving a lasting peace. We commend the Libyan parties for coming together and welcome the signing of the permanent ceasefire agreement on 23 October by the 5+5 Joint Military Commission.”
2020-11-19 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1129 (2020) · source
“We welcome the announcement by the Palestinian Authority on renewing its coordination with Israel. A full resumption of civil and security cooperation would be an important step towards restoring confidence and improving security on both sides. It would also be an important step from a humanitarian perspective, in the light of the coronavirus disease pandemic. It is hoped that the recent agreement by Palestinian factions on holding elections will soon materialize and that a date will be set for holding the elections throughout the occupied Palestinian territories. We also call upon all Palestinian factions to commit to the intra-Palestinian reconciliation process prior to the elections.”
2020-11-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1128 (2020) · source
“Turning to the situation on the ground, we call on all parties to refrain from any unilateral steps that undermine the viability of the two-State solution. We call on Israel to halt the continued settlement expansion and demolitions in the occupied Palestinian territories, including in East Jerusalem. The recent decisions to open the bidding process for the construction of housing units for a new settlement at Givat Hamatos and the planned construction of close to 5,000 housing units in the occupied West Bank are counterproductive moves. We also condemn all acts of violence against civilians, including acts of terror and acts of provocation, incitement and destruction. The two rockets fired from Gaza towards Israeli residential areas last weekend were the most recent example of the continued violence by Hamas and other terrorist groups.”
2020-11-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1128 (2020) · source
“We acknowledge the constructive role that the United States played in this regard. We hope that these regional developments will give impetus to reviving the Middle East peace process and encourage Israelis and Palestinians to take steps towards resolving the conflict and re-engaging in meaningful negotiations on all final-status issues. The only way to achieve lasting peace is a two-State solution through direct negotiations, while taking into account the legitimate aspirations of both parties and Israeli security concerns. We urge both sides to engage with the members of the Middle East Quartet, which continues to play an important role in efforts towards resuming negotiations, together with other regional players.”
2020-11-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1128 (2020) · source
“I would like to thank Special Coordinator Mladenov for his briefing. I would like to extend heartfelt condolences to the Palestinian people following the loss of the Secretary General of the Palestine Liberation Organization Executive Committee, Mr. Saeb Erekat, whose work and dedication showed the importance of peace negotiations and that Israel and Palestine can work together towards a lasting solution. Estonia remains convinced that, in order to reach sustainable peace and stability in the Middle East, there needs to be a just, lasting and comprehensive solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We have welcomed the normalization of relations between Israel and three Arab nations — the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and the Sudan. We believe that these are positive steps towards achieving peace and stability in the whole region.”
2020-11-18 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1128 (2020) · source
“It is most worrisome to hear the reports by United Nations agencies that Yemen is again on the brink of a food-security crisis and that acute malnutrition rates among children under 5 are the highest ever. We have noted that the funding situation of the humanitarian programmes has slightly improved, although significant gaps remain. Estonia has contributed to the World Food Programme in order to help alleviate the humanitarian situation. However, in order to respond to the humanitarian situation, including the famine, there is a need to strengthen Yemen’s economy and find a long-term solution to ensure the import of fuel and commercial items through the ports. We also stress the urgency of granting formal approval to the United Nations mission to access the FSO SAFER oil tanker, as such a decision by the Houthis is already long overdue.”
2020-11-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1109 (2020) · source
“As we have just passed the one-year anniversary of the signing of the Riyadh agreement, we reiterate our call on the Government and the Southern Transitional Council to implement the remaining elements of the agreement, which is an essential step, including on the path towards reaching a wider peace. Unfortunately, the fighting on the key front lines has not decreased but resulted in reportedly ever more civilian casualties. The targeting of civilian infrastructure, like the recent shelling of a hospital in Taiz, contravenes international humanitarian law and is completely unacceptable. Besides the direct impacts and suffering, the hostilities are also the primary reason for the worsening of the economic and humanitarian situation.”
2020-11-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1109 (2020) · source
“In this context, we remind all parties of their responsibility to comply with their obligations under international human rights law and international humanitarian law and to ensure accountability for all violations and abuses. The prisoner exchange was an important humanitarian measure that, hopefully, will also help build confidence between the parties in order to finally reach an agreement on the joint declaration. We reiterate our call on the parties for an immediate nationwide ceasefire and to agree to the United Nations proposal, thereby allowing for the meaningful resumption of peace talks, involving the full inclusion of civil society, including women.”
2020-11-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1109 (2020) · source
“I would like to thank Special Envoy Griffiths, Under-Secretary-General Lowcock and Executive Director Beasley for their briefings. I also look forward the presentation by Mr. Badokhon. At the outset, I would like to welcome the exchange of over 1,000 prisoners between the Government and the Houthis in mid-October. I commend the successful negotiations lead by the team of Special Envoy Griffiths and the International Committee of the Red Cross. This was an important moment of hope in the midst of this prolonged crisis. We call on the Houthi authorities also to unconditionally release the four remaining journalists who have been arbitrarily detained and are facing the death penalty.”
2020-11-11 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1109 (2020) · source
“Therefore, while assuring of its full support for the work of the ICC, Estonia urges all States, including States that are not party to the Rome Statute, to fully cooperate with the International Criminal Court to end impunity and establish justice for the victims in Libya.”
2020-11-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1108 (2020) · source
“This has meant that the three fugitives — Al-Werfalli, Al-Tuhamy and Al-Qadhafi — all accused of the serious crimes of murder, torture and inhuman and degrading treatment, remain at large. The execution of these arrest warrants is a requisite to upholding justice for the victims. There can be no long-term peace without stopping impunity. In the light of this, we call on all States to cooperate with the ICC in arresting the fugitives and surrendering them to the Court. In conclusion, let me recall that international criminal justice is a matter of collective effort and that, ultimately, it is up to the States to fulfil their obligations to cooperate with the Court arising from the Rome Statute and resolution 1970 (2011).”
2020-11-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1108 (2020) · source
“Estonia joins the Court in expressing gratitude to the authorities of the Government of National Accord for their cooperation with the Court during its latest missions and for its activities related to the preservation of evidence, including with regard to the ongoing investigations of the mass graves of Tarhouna. We further acknowledge the fruitful cooperation between the ICC and the European Police Office, including in the Libya matter. Estonia welcomes the very positive role played by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya in assisting and supporting the work of the ICC in the country. Estonia remains highly concerned about the fact that so far there has been no implementation of ICC arrest warrants in the case of Libya.”
2020-11-10 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/2020/1108 (2020) · source