YouSaid · the spoken record

Zaayman

lines on the record: 91
first: 2015-05-27
most recent: 2018-08-29
sittings or episodes: 13
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

“Finally, my delegation emphasizes that the Security Council should continue to support regional mechanisms, including the African Union Peace and Security Council, and prioritize consultations with African mediators in specific conflict areas. Those individuals should be called upon, where possible, to briefthe Security Council to deepen its understanding of those particular conflict situations under consideration, as well as the process of mediation and its specific nuances and challenges in different contexts.”
2018-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8334 (2018) · source
“South Africa recently hosted the fourth annual Gertrude Shope Annual Dialogue Forum on Conflict Resolution and Peacemaking, which took place under the theme "Celebrating a legacy of liberation by the pan-African women: taking forward the struggle for gender equality". That theme is particularly apt as 2018 commemorates the centenary of the birth of Albertina Sisulu - a guiding light and champion of human rights and democracy in South Africa. That initiative serves as a valuable platform for women to discuss issues relating to African peacebuilding and development and to reflect on their personal experiences in that regard.”
2018-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8334 (2018) · source
“That will be part of our priorities during our membership of the Council as an elected member beginning in 2019. As the Security Council deliberates on this important topic, I wish to emphasize the vital role that women play in mediation, peacemaking, peacebuilding and post-conflict reconstruction and development efforts. In particular, we believe that the Security Council's continued support for the development of female mediators, and specifically women from countries and regions affected by conflict, is imperative. Without the adequate representation of women in those efforts, the credibility of those processes is undermined. We are confident that greater representation of women in mediation efforts will correspond to a greater chance of success.”
2018-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8334 (2018) · source
“That is born out of our historical experience in successfully and peacefully transitioning to a constitutional democracy based on respect for the human rights of all persons, following decades of oppression and discriminatory governance under the apartheid regime. As a strong proponent of the peaceful resolution of conflict, including through mediation, South Africa fully agrees with the Secretary-General's call for a surge in diplomacy for peace, in which he calls upon the Security Council to make greater use of Chapter VI of the United Nations Charter. We therefore support the promotion of the peaceful resolution to conflict through mediation, peacemaking, peacebuilding and reconstruction efforts. United Nations peacekeeping should not be a means to an end, but instead complement those essential tools of peacemaking.”
2018-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8334 (2018) · source
“The settlement of disputes through those means has the added advantage of assisting parties to the conflict to recognize and address its root causes and embark on a process of negotiation, thereby fostering a spirit of trust and cooperation. In its consideration of its mandate in the maintenance of international peace and security, the Council has at its disposal a wide range of tools and resources, which should be utilized to address conflict situations to ensure that they do not occur and, if they do, that they are dealt with effectively. The promotion of the peaceful resolution of conflict is a cornerstone of South Africa's own foreign policy.”
2018-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8334 (2018) · source
“It also, importantly, requires the Council to strengthen its own instruments for the pacific settlement of disputes, in accordance with Chapter VI of the Charter. The Charter, for good reason, precedes the powers conferred to the Security Council under Chapter VII of the Charter. Before considering the use of force in Chapter VII, we must consider a peaceful political solution to the conflict, as envisaged in Chapter VI. Article 33 of that Chapter of the Charter specifically states that parties to a dispute shall first of all seek a solution through political means, including negotiation and mediation.”
2018-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8334 (2018) · source
“Reflecting on the work of the Security Council, the Council has arguably been most effective in dealing with conflicts through the deployment of peacekeepers and the imposition of measures under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. That may at times be tantamount to putting a bandage on a festering wound. What we ought to be doing is to prevent the wound from occurring in the first place and, ifit does, to ensure that the necessary measures are in place to deal with it. It is for that reason that we believe that our efforts should be directed towards conflict prevention and sustaining peace. That requires the Security Council to support local and regional efforts in that regard.”
2018-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8334 (2018) · source
“South Africa joins other Member States in expressing our appreciation to the Permanent Mission of the United Kingdom for convening this open debate focused on mediation and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. We thank the Secretary-General and the Archbishop of Canterbury, in his capacity as a member of the Secretary-General's High-level Advisory Board on Mediation, for their contributions to this debate. History has taught us that the use of military force is far too costly as a means of achieving one's political objectives. The destruction of infrastructure, loss of life and environmental impact of Violent armed conflicts are never worth the price of attaining one's ends. Furthermore, the Security Council's ability to make peace in conflicts while they are under way is also a costly exercise.”
2018-08-29 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8334 (2018) · source
“South Africa concurs with the international community that the only way to bring about genuine and lasting peace between Israel and Palestine is through comprehensive and unconditional negotiations dealing with all final-status issues, including the unrelenting expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied territories of Palestine, the lifting of the illegal Gaza blockade and the continuing occupation of Palestinian territory. That will contribute immensely towards peace and security throughout the wider Middle East region.”
2018-07-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8316 (2018) · source
“The Council has a fundamental role to play in de-escalating tensions and encouraging the resumption of peace talks between the parties in an increasingly difficult political and security context, defined by inflammatory rhetoric, distrust, escalating violence, ongoing settlement activity and the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In conclusion, we strongly believe that the situation on the ground cannot be allowed to continue unchanged and remains a blight on the conscience of the international community.”
2018-07-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8316 (2018) · source
“Besides the practical impediment that those settlements pose, we also agree with the Secretary-General's view that the construction of further settlements constitutes a flagrant violation of international law, in accordance with resolution 2334 (2016). The Palestinian people continue to look to the United Nations, specifically the Security Council, to assist them in realizing their right to self-determination. The assumption of the Council's responsibilities under the Charter of the United Nations to maintain international peace and security, particularly in terms ofthe long-standing Palestinian-Israeli conflict, is long overdue.”
2018-07-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8316 (2018) · source
“We therefore appeal to all Member States to continue and increase their vital humanitarian assistance and support to the Palestinian people and UNRWA, which, beyond humanitarian aid, also provides for the preservation of the dignity and rights of the Palestinian people. South Africa remains committed to continuing its support for UNRWA through its financial contributions. My delegation is deeply concerned about the continuation ofillegal Israeli settlement activity which, as outlined in the Secretary-General's report, continues unabated and undermines the hope of establishing a viable Palestinian State. The decision by Israel to advance, approve and tender some 3,500 housing units in the occupied West Bank - the largest single batch of advancements in 2017 - only serves to further obstruct the possibility ofa two-State solution.”
2018-07-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8316 (2018) · source
“In that regard, I wish to stress that South Africa remains committed to the belief that there can be no military solution to the conflict and that peaceful negotiations are the only means of ensuring lasting peace, security and stability in the region. We must take note of the stark realities outlined in the most recent report of Secretary-General on the situation (S/2018/614). The fact that Gaza experiences power cuts for up to 22 hours per day severely undermines providing essential services. In addition to that dire situation, water is available to households for only a few hours every four to five days. Such severe conditions are exacerbated by the unprecedented $250-million budgetary shortfall that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) presently faces.”
2018-07-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8316 (2018) · source
“The escalation of violence typified by the exchange of mortar and rocket fire between Gaza and Israel and the excessive use of force by the Israeli military on 13 and 14 July is of serious concern to South Africa. We further lament the recent tightening of the restrictions on cargo crossing into Gaza through the Kerem Shalom border crossing and the retaliatory limitations placed on Gaza's fishermen, which we see as an act of collective punishment against the residents of Gaza. Such disproportionate and brutal acts constitute a grave violation of the Charter of the United Nations and international law while further exacerbating tensions in the region and hindering the possibility of any efforts to resume Palestinian-Israeli peace talks.”
2018-07-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8316 (2018) · source
“We join other Member States in expressing our appreciation to Sweden for having convened this open debate on the situation the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. It is our belief that these periodic debates are necessary to maintain the attention of the international community, specifically the Security Council, to assist both Palestine and Israel in finding a lasting solution to the conflict, which has seemed intractable for so long. However, it must be emphasized that these open debates should not be a substitute for the regular consideration by and deliberation of the Security Council on the matter, but should, rather, reinforce the work of the Council in moving the peace process forward.”
2018-07-24 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8316 (2018) · source
“It must be stressed that creating conditions conducive to delivering humanitarian assistance remains a core responsibility of mandated institutions and of the host country. Any act of aggression towards medical personnel and humanitarian workers is an act of war, and such violations need to be accounted for. I would like to conclude by commending all personnel involved in peacekeeping missions, as well as civil-society groups, for the service they perform. They are often inadequately resourced for the enormous challenges that they face on a daily basis. South Africa will continue to interact closely with them to allow them to perform their vital international role.”
2018-05-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8264 (2018) · source
“South Africa has argued, in line with resolution 1894 (2009), that, in order for United Nations peacekeeping operations to effectively carry out their protection-of-civilians mandates, they require the resources and capabilities necessary to assume a robust posture to implement their mandate. South Africa also sees a glaring violation of international law by armed groups in deliberate attacks on medical personnel, hospitals and installations. Such practices not only plunge civilian populations into crisis, but further threaten the mission of the Health Care in Danger project by endangering the lives of health workers, destroying their equipment, obstructing access to civilians in need of medical care and preventing the provision of other basic amenities for life.”
2018-05-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8264 (2018) · source
“We stress that the Security Council must uphold and respect the norms of international law, including humanitarian law and human rights law. While it is recognized that the primary responsibility for the protection of civilians lies with the host country, United Nations peacekeeping missions are often mandated with that task. Since 1999, the protection of civilians has become one of the central concerns of United Nations peacekeeping operations, yet neither policy nor practice have evolved quickly enough to achieve full and effective protection for civilians.”
2018-05-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8264 (2018) · source
“The Security Council, created following a catastrophic world war that saw millions of civilians being killed, has the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. All of us therefore have an obligation to work together to end the scourge of war, which is deeply felt by the civilian population in armed conflict. It is for that reason that the failure of the Council to act on the situation in Gaza, where a civilian population was deliberately targeted by a military force, is a matter of the utmost concern. It was left to the Human Rights Council to initiate an investigation due to the failure of the Security Council to carry out its mandate. We fully support that independent inquiry.”
2018-05-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8264 (2018) · source
“We wish to begin by commending troop- contributing countries and the sacrifices of their personnel, as well as international organizations such as the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, UNICEF, the International Committee of the Red Cross and Medecins Sans Frontieres, which are at the forefront of monitoring, mobilizing resources and assistance to the civilian populations affected by conflict. The theme of this debate is particularly important and timely, given the unfortunate events in recent weeks that have further illustrated in graphic detail the dangers that civilians face all around the world in conflict situations.”
2018-05-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8264 (2018) · source
“Let me commence by extending our congratulatory remarks and appreciation to the Polish presidency for the excellent work undertaken by your delegation, Madam President, during the period of your term. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by the representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries.”
2018-05-22 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8264 (2018) · source
“Although advisory opinions of the International Court of Justice are not binding, they are not without legal consequence, and failure to comply with them indicates a violation of whatever rule or law that the Court may have deemed to be at issue. Lastly, my delegation would like to reaffirm the importance of partnership and cooperation between the Council and regional and subregional organizations, in accordance with Chapter VIII, in supporting conflict prevention and peacebuilding activities, as well as forging greater regional and national ownership.”
2018-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8262 (2018) · source
“The Security Council can play a role in the promotion of the rule of law by regularly requesting advisory opinions from the International Court of Justice. We are pleased that the General Assembly has been ready to use that prerogative to request advisory opinions, and we encourage the Council to follow suit when faced with questions of legal complexity. The Security Council has an important role to play in the enforcement of decisions of the Court in accordance with Article 94 of the Charter. We believe that responsibility applies equally, though differently, where the implementation of advisory opinions is concerned.”
2018-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8262 (2018) · source
“The vital link between the promotion of justice and the attainment of a peaceful world is inherent in the building blocks of the United Nations. The establishment of the International Court of Justice as a principal organ of the United Nations reflects the recognition of that link. We continue to encourage the Council to make better use of the International Court of Justice, the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, by making requests for advisory opinions when confronted with complex legal questions. It would confirm that notwithstanding the primary role of the Security Council in the maintenance of international peace and security, the Council operates within the framework of international law in all its actions.”
2018-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8262 (2018) · source
“The evolution of global threats to international peace and security has seen significant innovation in the design and imposition of United Nations sanctions. The rational for sanctions has expanded to include the protection of civilians and the prevention of human rights atrocities, by thwarting the development of unconventional arms and their delivery systems and the financing of conflict through the exploitation of natural resources and criminal activities. As the focus of United Nations sanctions has narrowed to target specific goods and services, as well as specific individuals and entities, we should ensure that those sanctions are reconciled with the rule oflaw, especially with regard to due process and human rights.”
2018-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8262 (2018) · source
“The fight against impunity, and efforts to ensure accountability for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and other egregious crimes, have been strengthened through work on those crimes and their prosecution in the international criminal justice system, in ad hoc and mixed tribunals as well as specialized chambers in national tribunals. The Council is also increasingly recognizing the contribution that national justice systems are making to combating impunity for serious violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law. The importance of strengthening national accountability mechanisms, with full respect for due process and the rights of the defence, including building investigative, prosecutorial and witness- protection capacities in post-conflict countries, should be recognized and nurtured.”
2018-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8262 (2018) · source
“It is important to note that a proactive approach, involving dissemination and education, should be the primary focus, rather than a reactive one in which action is taken only following grave breaches of international humanitarian law. The way forward also lies in States adopting, ratifying and codifying in national laws the various conventions and protocols on the law of armed conflict, and assuring their implementation on the ground. Just as national Governments have the primary responsibility for ensuring the safety and protection of their civilians, national courts also have a clear obligation to bring to justice those accused of grave breaches of international humanitarian law and national laws based on it.”
2018-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8262 (2018) · source
“Security Council resolutions on specific country situations, as well as on thematic issues, have reiterated that link on numerous occasions. The Council should continue promoting compliance with the principles and rules of international humanitarian law by parties to armed conflicts. The United Nations could play at least two important roles with regard to the implementation of international humanitarian law. First, during times of peace, it is important for the United Nations to assist Member States, at their request, with the dissemination and effective domestication of international humanitarian law instruments. Secondly, the United Nations should continue to play a vital role in monitoring adherence to and prosecution of international humanitarian law violations during times of armed conflict.”
2018-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8262 (2018) · source
“Without that, the fabric of international law will lack credibility. We should not selectively condone breaches of international law, including non-compliance with Council resolutions, because of the political reluctance of a few. In our consideration of the upholding of international law, we must start with the resolutions of the Council, which are at times ignored or deliberately breached. The Council should ensure that there is accountability for its decisions, or they will be rendered worthless. Respect for human rights and international humanitarian law is an essential component of the rule oflaw, particularly in conflict situations, and it plays a crucial role in the maintenance of international peace and security.”
2018-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8262 (2018) · source
“I congratulate the delegation of Poland on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of May and for organizing this timely open debate on upholding international law within the context of the maintenance ofinternational peace and security. My delegation aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. Let me be clear. The law in itself does not protect. It is only effective implementation of the law and respect for it that protect. We want to stress that in order to uphold international law, the international community must be governed by a system in which all players are accountable to laws that are equally enforced and independently adjudicated.”
2018-05-17 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8262 (2018) · source
“In conclusion, we have the potential to make meaningful change through investing in our young people and giving them a voice to determine their futures. We see today's open debate as just such an opportunity and look forward to an outcome that strengthens the resolve of the Security Council to maintain international peace and security by lifting up and harnessing youth in the pursuit of international peace and security.”
2018-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8241 (2018) · source
“We should therefore ensure that the outcomes of today's meeting reinforce the work being done to implement resolution 1325 (2000) and subsequent resolutions on women and peace and security. Ultimately, we need to create an environment that can enable young people to contribute positively in society. We see young people as having the potential to be engines for growth and stability on our continent and in the rest of our world. An investment in them is an investment in future peace and prosperity and a guard against the interests of belligerent forces such as terrorist groups. We must harness young people's dynamism and positivity and build up their resilience in the face of sentiments that promote resorting to violence as a way to achieve misguided interests.”
2018-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8241 (2018) · source
“In that regard, South Africa is harnessing the potential of our young people and drawing them closer to the country's economic activity by launching the Youth Employment Service initiative. We have also established a youth working group that will ensure that all representatives of young people will have a say in the policies and programmes that are meant to promote their interests at the highest possible level. My delegation has noted with concern that youth programmes tend to give priority to the roles of young men over those of young women in society, a problem that is only emphasized by the fact that young women are disproportionately targeted by sexual and gender-based violence.”
2018-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8241 (2018) · source
“South Africa has acknowledged the role played by the youth as agents of change. as they were instrumental in advancing the goals of the broader struggle for liberation and democracy in our country. Young people who were often at the front lines of the battle for freedom are also now at the forefront of combating poverty, inequality and unemployment in South Africa. The South African Government has therefore made the empowerment of youth central to its development agenda and has set up programmes dedicated to their education, job creation and development. President Ramaphosa has also identified our country's most pressing challenge as youth unemployment.”
2018-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8241 (2018) · source
“The progress study on youth, peace and security reveals the variety of ways in which young people contribute to sustaining a broader concept of peace that entails not just the end of violence, but the strengthening of societies susceptible to the resurgence of violent conflict, and their addressing their political grievances through legitimate and peaceful political channels. In that regard, South Africa supports the recommendation that, in order to fully harness and support the innovation of young people's contribution to peace, there is a need to invest in young people's capabilities, redress the structural barriers that limit youth participation in peace and security, and emphasize partnerships and collaborative action, where young people are viewed as equal and essential partners for peace.”
2018-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8241 (2018) · source
“It underscored the importance of youth as active positive agents in the maintenance of international peace and security, and not reactive elements fuelling conflict. South Africa welcomes the independent progress study on youth, peace and security (see S/2018/86), and the sterling work of its lead author, Mr. Graeme Simpson, as well as the team constituting the Advisory Group of Experts. Of particular interest to our delegation was the emphasis placed on the positive role that youth can play in peacebuilding and sustaining peace as envisaged in resolution 2250 (2015) and subsequent resolutions, including resolution 2282 (2016). Those resolutions reaffirm the importance of youth in the deterrence and resolution of conflicts and their role in sustainability, inclusiveness and the success of peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts.”
2018-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8241 (2018) · source
“South Africa welcomes the convening of this meeting, and expresses its appreciation to Peru for furthering the debate on the important matter of youth, peace and security. My delegation aligns itself with the statement to be delivered by the representative of Azerbaijan on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. The role of youth in relation to peace and security is of particular importance to the African continent, where some estimates indicate that 60 per cent of the population on the continent are under the age of 25. South Africa recalls the initiative of Jordan, which, during its tenure in the Security Council in 2015, ushered in the landmark resolution 2250 (2015) - the first resolution on youth, peace and security.”
2018-04-23 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8241 (2018) · source
“The number of peacekeepers who are lost to disease during deployment remains too high, and it is in our hands to adopt and implement policies to prevent that from happening again. The year 2018 has been declared the year of Nelson Mandela in celebration of the centenary of his birth. Former President Mandela dedicated his life to the service of humankind and contributed immensely to the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world. It is my Government's hope that he will be remembered worldwide for his values and dedication to the service of humankind in the fields of conflict resolution, reconciliation and the promotion of peace, which is the ultimate goal of all peacekeeping missions.”
2018-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8218 (2018) · source
“When the very people charged with protecting civilians become the violators, the trust established between those communities and the United Nations missions is betrayed and the credibility of the United Nations is compromised. I wish to reconfirm that South Africa is fully committed to a zero-tolerance policy against sexual exploitation in peacekeeping operations. We will continue to take strong, immediate and decisive action against those found guilty of such abuses. In conclusion, South Africa would like to pay tribute to the men and women who continue to serve in United Nations peace missions, including those who paid the ultimate price in service of maintaining peace in the challenging and often dangerous environments.”
2018-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8218 (2018) · source
“The use of information, communication and technologies, including night-flying fighting capabilities, should be adopted in order to ensure that peacekeepers are ready to counter any attack by armed groups and able to fight in all conditions. The protection of civilians must be at the heart of peacekeeping missions. In some cases, that may require the use of force, in accordance with the mission mandate and in compliance with the applicable legal framework. In that regard, the deployment of the Force Intervention Brigade of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a credible example of what can be achieved to address potential threats to a peace mission. South Africa strongly condemns sexual exploitation and abuse by United Nations peacekeepers.”
2018-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8218 (2018) · source
“As peacekeeping continues to evolve, the United Nations must also evolve. That is important in view of the increasing asymmetrical threats and acts of terrorism directed against peacekeeping missions and violence towards innocent civilians. My delegation notes the recommendations of the report on improving security of United Nations peacekeepers, known as the Santos- Cruz report, and further requests that the Secretary- General consults troop- and police-contributing countries before and during the implementation of those recommendations. As the report states, peacekeepers need adequate equipment, especially modern technologies. We therefore believe that modern technology can help minimize harm and the loss of life of our troops deployed in fragile and dangerous environments.”
2018-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8218 (2018) · source
“South Africa wishes to reiterate that the use of United Nations assessed contributions will provide the most reliable, sustainable and predictable avenue of support for Security Council-mandated Africa Union peace operations. South Africa supports recommendations for more realistic, tailored and flexible mandates, which will contribute towards more efficient and effective peacekeeping operations, and, ultimately, to more successful outcomes in conflict resolution. Mandates should be drafted in consultation with those who are responsible for their implementation - for example, the troop- and police-contributing countries. The view of troop- and police-contributing countries should be heard, as they have a unique perspective being on the ground and understanding the specific challenges their peacekeepers face in a particular environment.”
2018-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8218 (2018) · source
“My delegation supports the implementation of the Joint United Nations-African Union Framework for an Enhanced Partnership in Peace and Security, signed between the Secretary-General and Chairperson of the African Union Commission, which emphasizes preventing and mediating conflict and sustaining peace; responding to conflict; addressing root causes; and the continuous review and enhancement of the partnership. While the primary responsibility for international peace and security lies with the Security Council, it is often regional organizations, such as the African Union, that deploy early in order to stabilize crisis situations.”
2018-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8218 (2018) · source
“As the organ entrusted with the deployment of United Nations peacekeeping operations, and in the context of new emerging threats aimed at our troops and United Nations personnel, the Security Council must ensure that operations are fully resourced, entrusted with the appropriate mandate to respond to the context- specific environment in which they are deployed and ensure that peacekeepers are adequately equipped to protect themselves and defend their mandates. Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations highlights the role of regional organizations in maintaining international peace and security.”
2018-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8218 (2018) · source
“Consequently, South Africa believes that global peace and stability will remain elusive if we do not address the nexus between security and development; one cannot be achieved without the other. Sustainable peace can be achieved only by building a just world in a rules-based international order that is inclusive and addresses the root causes of conflicts, such as poverty, injustice and discrimination.”
2018-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8218 (2018) · source
“Since the inception of the Organization, United Nations peacekeeping has provided essential security and much- needed hope to many people around the world, and the necessary support to countries emerging from conflict. Peacekeeping must be used to support political processes and solutions to any conflict situation. South Africa holds the view that we must undoubtedly aim to strengthen the tools at our disposal in addressing conflicts as they arise. We need to put emphasis on the preventative approach, including mediation, in addressing conflicts and their root causes so as to prevent them. Our efforts must also focus on preventing countries emerging from conflict from relapsing back therein. Conflict prevention must therefore begin with steps to prevent conflicts rather than to respond to them after violence has already occurred.”
2018-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8218 (2018) · source
“I thank the delegation of the Netherlands for organizing this timely open debate on the collective action to improve United Nations peacekeeping operations. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by the representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. In the 70 years since the establishment of the United Nations, the need for the Organization to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war has never been greater. In that regard, South Africa reaffirms that United Nations peacekeeping remains a flagship activity at the disposal of the United Nations to contribute to the ideal of peace, security and stability.”
2018-03-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8218 (2018) · source
“In conclusion, the threat of WMD proliferation can be dealt with effectively only through increased international cooperation and assistance as well as the strengthening of the relevant multilateral instruments and institutions. What is required is a faithful and balanced implementation of the various international legally binding instruments.”
2017-06-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7985Reprise1 (2017) · source
“South Africa's experience with the implementation of control regimes has demonstrated that the challenges of WMDs and their delivery systems can be addressed by, first, strengthening national legislation and implementation capacities; secondly, accelerating the provision of capacity-building and technical expertise, especially to developing countries, including in Africa; thirdly, strengthening international cooperation with other related international organizations; fourthly, ensuring adequate and predictable funding for the relevant international organizations and implementation support structures so as to enable them to implement their mandates; fifthly, strengthening cooperation between regional organizations and the relevant multilateral organizations; and, sixthly and finally, enhancing cooperation with civil society and the private sector.”
2017-06-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7985Reprise1 (2017) · source
“While dealing with the aforementioned challenges, it is imperative that unwarranted restrictions not be imposed on the inalienable right of Member States, particularly developing countries, to use any related materials, equipment and technologies for peaceful purposes. In this regard, the opportunities provided by nuclear technologies in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas such as food security, public-health technologies and clean energy, cannot be overlooked. Furthermore, the exchange of scientific information, equipment and materials for peaceful purposes is greatly needed in Africa to deal with the spread of infectious diseases, which could derail socioeconomic growth and development if not adequately addressed.”
2017-06-28 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.7985Reprise1 (2017) · source