SDG progress ‘in danger’ of going backwards without change in direction, new UN report reveals

11 September 2019
SDGs


The current worldwide sustainable development model is threatening to reverse years of progress, if strategies don’t drastically change, an independent group of scientists has concluded in a major new report launched on Wednesday.


The UN report will be at the centre of discussions during the UN summit on the SDGs later this month.

Worsening inequalities and potentially irreversible damage to the natural environment on which we all depend, demands concerted action, the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), urged in a statement on the report findings, compiled by a team of 15 UN-appointed experts.

“Achieving human well-being and eradicating poverty for all of the Earth’s people—expected to number 8.5 billion by 2030—is still possible,” they highlighted, “but only if there is a fundamental—and urgent—change in the relationship between people and nature.”

The report, “The Future is Now: Science for Achieving Sustainable Development,” points to understanding the relationships between individual SDGs and the “concrete systems that define society today” to devise a plan to ameliorate global instability.

At the request of countries to evaluate progress of the 2030 SDG Agenda, adopted in 2015, the Global Report on Sustainable Development (GDSR) consists of surveys on scientific findings from ocean livelihoods, to sustainable consumption, production, and disaster risk management, among other issues.
Science-backed recommendations


The current roadmap for development has generated prosperity for “hundreds of millions,” the scientists said, but at the cost of other resources and a growing inequality that undermines global growth.

Boosting economies via increasing consumption for example, is exhausting the planet’s materials and creating toxic by-products which threaten to overwhelm the world. At the current rate of consumption, “use of material is set to almost double between 2017 and 2060, from 89 Gigatons to 167 Gigatons”, resulting in consequential “increased levels of greenhouse gas emissions, and other toxic effects” from resource extraction, they stressed.

The status quo must change, scientists said, in order to eschew further loss in “social cohesion and sustainable economic growth,” curb biodiversity losses, and save a “world close to tipping points with the global climate system.”

For this to happen, all sectors must come together in coordinated action, the report urges. Increasing investment in science for sustainability, is one key approach, and acknowledging that achievement of the SDGs requires economic growth be divorced from environmental degradation, while reducing inequalities.

The experts noted that “the extensive transformation that is needed will not be easy, and the report suggests that a deep scientific understanding is needed to anticipate and mitigate the tensions and trade-offs inherent in widespread structural change.”
Key points of intervention

According to the report, there are 20 points of intervention that can be used to accelerate progress toward multiple goals and targets in the next ten years.

Among these, basic services must be made universally available—healthcare, education, water and sanitation infrastructure, housing and social protection— as a prerequisite” toward eliminating poverty.

In addition, ending legal and social discrimination, scaling up trades unions, nongovernmental organizations, women’s groups and other communities will “be important partners in efforts to implement the 2030 Agenda”, the experts said.

Inefficient food and energy systems are depriving some 2 billion people of food security, while 820 million are undernourished, and 2 billion adults are overweight. Production processes are causing severe environmental impact.

Transitioning to renewable energy systems could help reduce the 3 billion who rely on pollutants for cooking, and avoid premature deaths, estimated at 3.8 million each year, they cited. Meanwhile, the energy access gap has left close to one billion without access to electricity at all. Increases in renewable energy supply in the past decade have corresponded with price drops in clean fuel technology—around 77 per cent for solar power and a 38 per cent drop for onshore wind.

With an estimated two-thirds of the global population projected to live in cities by 2050, the experts said achieving the 2030 Agenda will require “more compact and efficient” urban areas that will be nature-based in infrastructure—but the ecosystem’s services and resources “must be safeguarded.”

What the scientists call “the global environmental commons” - the rainforests, oceans, and atmosphere - need support from governments, international actors and the private sector to ensure good practices.

The full report and its recommendations will be presented during the High-Level Political Forum at the 2019 SDG Summit that will convene heads of State and Government in New York on 24 and 25 September.

https://news.un.org/en/story/2019/09/1046132

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Глава МИД Азербайджана призвал поддержать кандидатуру Баку для проведения «ЭКСПО – 2025»

Фото ООН

Министр иностранных дел Азербайджана Эльмар Мамедъяров выступил в Генассамблеи ООН


28 сентября 2018

ООН


Азербайджан поддерживает инициативы главы ООН по предупреждению войн и поддержанию мира, привержен выполнению Целей устойчивого развития и продвигает идеи мультикультурализма. Об этом заявил министр иностранных дел Азербайджана Эльмар Мамедъяров, выступая в ходе общих прений 73-й сессии Генассамблеи. При этом он напомнил об «оккупации Арменией» одной пятой территории Азербайджана и призвал международное сообщество «усилить давление на Ереван, чтобы добиться выполнения соответствующих резолюций Совета Безопасности».

Министр иностранных дел Азербайджана рассказал с трибуны Генассамблеи об успехах его страны в развитии экономики и ее участии в многочисленных региональных проектах – строительстве транспортных коридоров, объектов инфраструктуры и создании высокотехнологичных коммуникационных магистралей.

По его словам, устойчивый экономический рост позволяет Азербайджану оказывать помощь развивающимся странам, а также государствам, которые справляются с последствиями стихийных бедствий. Азербайджан, по его словам, борется с коррупцией и активно сотрудничает с правозащитными механизмами ООН.

Глава МИД Азербайджана сообщил, что Баку претендует на проведение международной выставки «ЭКСПО – 2025» и призвал страны, которым в ноябре предстоит определить победителя, поддержать кандидатуру Азербайджана. «Страны Восточной Европы, Кавказа и бассейна Каспия никогда не принимали у себя ЭКСПО», - сообщил Мамедъяров, подчеркнув, что избрание Баку позволит расширить географию проведения выставки.

По словам министра, Азербайджан как «один из признанных центров мультикультурализма» провел многочисленные международные мероприятия, направленные на укрепление межкультурного диалога. «Представители всех этнических и религиозных групп проживают в Азербайджане в мире и гармонии», - подчеркнул он.

Вместе с тем, глава МИД Азербайджана напомнил, что пятая часть территории его страны находится «под оккупацией со стороны Армении», а «один из девяти жителей страны является беженцем или внутренним переселенцем». Он призвал международное сообщество оказать давление на власти Армении, чтобы добиться немедленного выполнения соответствующих резолюций Совета Безопасности ООН.

«Новое руководство Армении должно понимать, что его обещания армянскому народу о превращении Армении в экономически развитое и процветающее государство невозможно выполнить, не установив мир и добрые взаимоотношения с соседями, не уважая их суверенитет и территориальную целостность», - подчеркнул Эльмар Мамедъяров.

Как заявил министр, в Азербайджане считают, что не существует «альтернативы миру, стабильности и взаимовыгодному региональному сотрудничеству».

https://news.un.org/ru/story/2018/09/1339582

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В ООН представили предварительную глобальную повестку дня на период после 2015 года

04.12.2014 — В четверг Генеральный секретарь ООН Пан Ги Мун представил государствам-членам предварительный текст обобщенного доклада о целях устойчивого развития на период с 2015 по 2030 годы. Он называется «Путь к достойной жизни: покончим с голодом, преобразуем жизнь всех людей и защитим планету». Глава ООН призвал начать новую эру устойчивого развития, в центре которого был бы человек, защита его прав и сохранение планеты, на которой мы живем.

«В следующем году у нас появится беспрецедентная возможность предпринять далеко идущие действия по обеспечению нашего благополучия, необходимость в которых назрела уже давно», - заявил Пан Ги Мун, представляя новые предложения на суд государств-членов ООН. Они станут основой для переговоров, которые должны увенчаться принятием глобальной повестки дня на следующие пятнадцать лет, начиная с 2015 года.

В этот период человечество должно добиться выполнения 17 задач в таких областях, как ликвидация нищеты, борьба с голодом, охрана здоровья, обеспечение гендерного равноправия, борьба с изменением климата, стимулирование экономического роста и создание рабочих мест, улучшение доступа к современным источникам энергии, расширение услуг в области водоснабжения и санитарии.

Они придут на смену Целям тысячелетия в области развития, которые мировые лидеры приняли в 2000 году. Тогда они поставили восемь конкретных задач в области сокращения бедности, материнской и детской смертности, обеспечения доступа к образованию, водоснабжению и санитарии, борьбы с инфекционными заболеваниями и защиты окружающей среды.

Генеральный секретарь напомнил делегатам, что процесс разработки новых целей носил беспрецедентно инклюзивный характер, и добавил, что в его докладе содержатся «контуры универсальной революционной глобальной повестки дня, в центре которой находятся люди и планета, которая опирается на права человека и глобальное сотрудничество».

«В том, что касается развития, мы находимся на пороге самого важного года, начиная с создания самой Организации Объединенных Наций, - говорится в докладе Генерального секретаря. - Мы должны придать новый смысл обещанию «вновь утвердить веру в основные права человека, в достоинство и ценность человеческой личности», и вывести мир на путь устойчивого развития. Нам дана историческая возможность - и обязанность - срочно предпринять смелые и решительные действия с тем, чтобы наполнить достоинством жизнь всех людей, никого не оставляя за бортом».

В течение ближайших месяцев государствам предстоит договориться об окончательных параметрах повестки дня на период после 2015 года. Пан Ги Мун приветствовал усилия Открытой рабочей группы, которая сформулировала 17 целей в области устойчивого развития и 169 конкретных показателей, достижение которых поможет покончить с бедностью, достичь всеобщего благоденствия и защитить планету.
http://www.un.org/russian/news/story.asp?NewsID=22793#.VIEPw9KsVv5
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Security Council Renews for One Year Mandate of European Union-led Stabilization Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Unanimously Adopting Resolution 2757 (2024)

9774th Meeting (PM)

SC/15884

1 November 2024

The Security Council today extended until 2 November 2025 the authorization to establish a European Union-led stabilization force in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as the 15-member Council reviewed the political, security and economic situation in the Western Balkan country.

Acting under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations, the 15-member Council unanimously adopted resolution 2757 (2024) (to be issued as document S/RES/2757(2024)) and, in so doing, authorized the Member States acting through or in cooperation with the European Union to establish, for another 12 months, a multinational stabilization force, or EUFOR-Althea.  EUFOR-Althea is mandated to help implement the military aspects of the 1995 General Framework Agreement for Peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is also known as the Dayton Agreement.

Speakers welcomed renewal of European Union-led Mission and support Bosnia and Herzegovina’s bid to join regional bloc

In the debate that followed, delegates welcomed the renewal of the authorization of EUFOR-Althea, hailing it as vital in safeguarding peace and security in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as in maintaining stability in the region.  They also commended the country’s positive strides, including the peaceful conduct of the 6 October local elections, despite the severe floods and landslides that struck the country on 3 October.

Among them was the representative of France, penholder on the file, who noted that, according to the observer mission of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), those elections were competitive and efficiently managed, despite several shortcomings.  “The future of Bosnia-Herzegovina, and of the entire Western Balkans, is in the European Union,” he underscored, welcoming the bloc’s 21 March decision to open accession negotiations with the country.  He called on the Bosnian authorities to work together to implement the eight key measures and make progress on the appointment of a chief negotiator, to move the country forward in its accession process.

The European Council’s decision to open accession negotiations with the country is a critical step in citizens’ pursuit of socioeconomic development, underscored Guyana’s representative.  They will benefit from the free flow of goods, services and people in the region, and this in turn will contribute to the economic growth and stability of the country and the wider Balkan region, she added. However, echoing Switzerland’s representative, she voiced concern about the persistently low level of women’s participation in political life in Bosnia and Herzegovina.  They urged more concrete measures to address that troubling trend and to enhance women’s political participation and leadership in the country — an appeal also made by the delegate of Switzerland.

Delegates concerned secessionist rhetoric and actions could threaten development

Several speakers echoed their support for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s commitment to achieving European Union membership, while voicing concern about secessionist rhetoric and actions that could threaten the country’s development.  Malta’s representative stressed that:  “Secessionist rhetoric and actions are still rife and pose serious obstacles towards economic and social development, as well as putting the stable, but fragile, security situation at risk.”  Slovenia’s representative warned that the Republika Srpska’s secessionist rhetoric not only threaten Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and constitutional order; they could endanger the country's path to the European Union.  He urged all relevant stakeholders to refrain from such acts and to demonstrate tolerance and engage actively in inter-ethnic dialogue towards reconciliation.

Similarly, the speaker for Ecuador voiced concern about positions that challenge the authority of State institutions and the peace agreement’s framework.  “Comprehensive implementation of the General Framework for Peace is essential to ensure the strengthening of an inclusive and democratic system that represents all its citizens,” he emphasized.

Warnings political divisions will delay reconciliation process

Algeria’s representative echoed that view and warned that political divisions and differences in opinion could delay the reconciliation process.  All parties must choose a unified dialogue that considers different points of view, instead of isolationism and divisions that could lead to deadlock, he emphasized. China’s representative called on groups to actively engage in dialogue and safeguard national, political and social stability.  Meanwhile, the international community must adopt a fair, balanced and prudent approach to the situation, he added.

Focus on creating culture of peace

Sierra Leone’s representative underscored that while legal frameworks can set the stage for peace, it is the social cohesion that sustains lasting harmony.  “True peace extends beyond legal agreements, requiring the cultivation of a culture of peace and tolerance, bridging ethnic divisions, and embedding these principles in the fabric of society,” he said.  Collaboration amongst the leaders of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska is the cornerstone for its stability and development, added Sierra Leone’s representative.

The representative of the European Union underscored that secessionist rhetoric, legislation and initiatives in the Republika Srpska entity run counter to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s path toward the European Union. The country’s territorial integrity, constitutional order and international personality must be respected, he emphasized, warning that:  “Any action against these principles will lead to serious consequences.”  All political actors must focus on dialogue and key priorities while intensifying efforts to deliver expected reforms, he stressed.

Russian Federation’s speaker points to inappropriate interference in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s internal affairs

The representative of the Russian Federation, however, earlier in the meeting stressed that:  “The European forces should not interfere in the political affairs of a sovereign State.” He criticized the General Assembly’s consideration on 23 May of a “flawed draft resolution” on an international day to commemorate the events in Srebrenica in July 1995, pointing to fait accompli policies to undermine the Dayton Agreement to centralize Bosnia and Herzegovina and turn it into a fully Western-controlled unitary State.

Turning to the Office of the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, he said its completely inappropriate interference in the country’s internal affairs is doing colossal damage to the process of post-conflict settlement.  That Office has “long exhausted its functions and become an instrument of colonial policy” and must be shut down as quickly as possible, he stressed, calling on Council members to send a clear signal about the “unacceptability” of that Office’s stance and “the fact that there is no alternative to an inter-Bosnian dialogue”.

Other speakers support role of High Representative

However, several speakers, including the representative of the United States, disagreed with that view.  High Representative Christian Schmidt plays a crucial role in strengthening and promoting reforms essential to the security and prosperity of the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina, regardless of ethnicity, he emphasized, voicing support for his ability to exercise all necessary authority, including the Bonn Powers until the 5+2 Agenda has been fulfilled.  The Bonn Powers complement the European Union accession process and facilitate reform efforts “along the EU path”.  “The United States will continue to use all tools in our toolbox, including sanctions, to push back against those who seek to undermine Dayton,” he added, encouraging others to do the same.

Also spotlighting his country’s efforts was Japan’s representative, who noted that, as a member of the Peace Implementation Council, Japan has worked with Bosnia and Herzegovina to achieve post-conflict development and maintain peace and stability.  More specifically, it has provided assistance in a wide range of fields, including anti-personnel mine action and medical and health care.

Chairman of Bosnia and Herzegovina Presidency points to destructive policies of Republic of Serbia’s leadership

Denis Bećirović, Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, however, warned about destructive policies of the leadership of the Republic of Serbia, which are followed by the authorities of the Republika Srpska entity.  They have recently introduced into the curriculum of primary schools content that glorifies convicted war criminals Radovan Karadžić and Ratko Mladić. Additionally, they publicly advocate for the unilateral destruction of the Dayton Agreement and the destruction of the State of Bosnia and Herzegovina, he said, detailing other threats to the Dayton accord.

“The essential goal of the leadership of Serbia is the gradual Anschluss of the Republika Srpska entity to Serbia,” he underscored, calling on the international community, especially the European Union, to “condemn the reactivation of the Greater Serbia project”.  Voicing concern about an enormous proliferation of “offensive weapons” in the neighbouring countries, he stressed that Bosnia and Herzegovina should be enabled to have the necessary defence capacities in accordance with international and national law.  This is a joint obligation of both Bosnia and Herzegovina and the international community, he added.

Serbia’s representative stresses commitment to cooperate with Bosnia and Herzegovina

The representative of Serbia said his delegation is committed to overall cooperation with Bosnia and Herzegovina and with its entities.  Moreover, Serbia unreservedly supports the territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina and its stability.  Dialogue and agreement on ongoing and long-standing issues are the best way for them to be resolved.  “Practice has shown that progress in overcoming differences is achievable only if solutions are acceptable and, therefore, implementable,” he stressed.  It is in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s best interest that all its laws agree with its Constitution, as part of the Dayton Peace Agreement.

Croatia’s representative expressed regret that the sixty-sixth report of the country’s High Representative showed no “major progress in the area of European integration”, especially because the country had implemented some important reforms in a previous period.  He voiced hope that following the elections, Bosnia and Herzegovina will refocus on its reform and European agenda.  Echoing other speakers, he said:  “We sincerely believe that European integration offers the best development opportunity for Bosnia and Herzegovina and its citizens.

Call to honour Dayton Peace Agreement

The international community must create an environment in which the country can progress on reforms and advance its European ambitions and thus must continue to promote domestic responsibility and accountability, underscored the representative of the United Kingdom, Council President for November, who spoke in her national capacity earlier in the meeting.  The provisions of the Dayton Peace Agreement should be fully honoured and the interests of Republika Srpska respected. “Bosnia and Herzegovina is and must remain a single, sovereign and multi-ethnic country,” she stressed, encouraged all politicians to put aside their differences and work with political courage towards a more stable and prosperous future for all citizens

Security Council Adopts Presidential Statement, Expresses Deep Concern about Challenging Situation in Central African Region

SC/15883

1 November 2024

The Security Council today unanimously adopted a presidential statement on the Central African region, introduced by the representative of the United Kingdom, President for November, expressing deep concern about the challenging security situation in the subregion.

By the text (to be issued as document S/PRST/2024/7) — and noting the key role of the United Nations Regional Office for Central Africa in the region — the Council cited the threat of armed conflicts, the spread of terrorism and violent extremism conducive to terrorism, and transnational organized crime, strongly condemning continued violations of international humanitarian law, including those involving attacks against civilians and civilian objects. The 15-member organ further voiced deep concern regarding the persistent violence perpetrated by armed groups in some countries of the subregion against civilians, including humanitarian workers and United Nations peacekeepers, and at violations of international humanitarian law and violations and abuses of human rights.

Also by the statement, the Council expressed particular concern at the continuing terrorist activities of terrorist groups in the Lake Chad Basin, strongly condemning all such attacks in parts of the subregion, which have resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction — reiterating that terrorist groups continue to pose a significant security risk to civilians, undermining stability and development in the affected countries. Further, the increasing use of explosive ordnances, including improvised explosive devices and landmines, used by armed groups and terrorist groups, disproportionately affect civilians, pose risk to peacekeeping and security forces and hinder humanitarian efforts. The Council stressed the need to further investigate and combat this threat, as well as expressing concern regarding piracy and armed robbery at sea in the Gulf of Guinea as set out in resolution 2634 (2022).

The Council further expressed grave concern at the devastating humanitarian consequences of ongoing violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, and conflict in parts of the subregion, including food insecurity and water scarcity, health emergencies and the threat of epidemics such as yellow fever and mpox, and increased numbers of internally displaced persons and refugees. The statement also noted with concern the cross-border impacts of the conflict in Sudan, including large-scale displacement and refugee crises that are straining already fragile host communities in the subregion, and posing significant humanitarian challenges.

However, the Council also cited planned elections across the area in the upcoming period of the Regional Office’s mandate and emphasized the need for national stakeholders to work together to facilitate the timely preparation for, and the holding of, free and fair elections conducted in an inclusive, transparent, peaceful and timely manner. The 15-member organ expressed serious concern at the unconstitutional changes of Governments in parts of the subregion, welcoming efforts to prevent and fight against unconstitutional changes of Government, and encouraged the Regional Office to continue its support to States of the subregion in this regard

https://press.un.org/en/2024/241101_sc.doc.htm

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Press Conference by Security Council President on Programme of Work for November

1 November 2024

The Security Council’s programme of work in November will feature three signature events, addressing the world’s three biggest conflicts, each raging in a different continent, its President for the month told reporters at a Headquarters press conference today.

Barbara Woodward of the United Kingdom, which holds the 15‑member organ’s rotating presidency for November, said that the three signature events would address the devastating war in the Middle East, the appalling conflict in Sudan and the Russian Federation’s war against Ukraine, adding that the event on the latter led to her counterpart from Moscow’s blocking of this month’s programme of work.  Therefore, her delegation would not post a formal version online, she said, requesting reporters to look for daily updates on Twitter.

Elaborating on the signature events, two of which would be held on 18 November, with United Kingdom Foreign Secretary David Lammy presiding, she noted that the briefing that morning would focus on the situation in the Middle East, while the afternoon’s would tackle the situation in Ukraine, ahead of the thousandth day anniversary of the Russian Federation’s war against that country.  On the former, she underlined the need for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, as well as de-escalation, adding:  “Ultimately, the only way to secure a lasting ceasefire is the two-State solution, and looking into the pathway to rebuilding Gaza as part of a viable Palestinian State living side-by-side with a secure Israel.”  On Ukraine, she emphasized her country’s “iron-clad support”, adding that where there is “death and chaos” in the world, “[Russian Federation President Vladimir V.] Putin is not far behind”.

The third signature event, on Sudan, would take place on 12 November, she went on, and it would be chaired by the United Kingdom’s Minister for Africa, Ray Collins.  She voiced alarm that, 19 months into the war in Sudan, with both sides committing egregious human rights violations, and half the population confronting severe food insecurity, the warring parties persisted in fighting one another instead of famine and suffering.  The meeting would therefore focus on scaling up aid delivery and the protection of civilians, she said, adding that a draft resolution is presently circulating among Council members to this end.  Pointing out that the event would take place ahead of the expected expiration of the authorization for the Adre border crossing on 15 November, she underscored the need for it to stay open, so aid could reach 9 million people suffering in Darfur.

Responding to a smattering of questions on the Middle East, including about whether there would be a Council product tackling the situations there, she said, “happily, my answer is yes.”  A draft focusing on the appalling situation in Gaza and Lebanon, from which refugees were fleeing into Syria, is being circulated by the Council’s elected members, she said, adding that while she has not seen the text yet, she is mindful of the organ’s responsibility to “drive forward action and have productive meaning on the ground”.

On a follow-up question about arms embargos on Israel and Iran, she stated that her country cut 30 items from its arms exports to west Jerusalem, to which it “responded vociferously”.  Iran is already covered by “a raft of UN sanctions under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action”, she said, pointing to Council resolution 2231 (2015).  Iran’s arms transfers to the Russian Federation are of great concern, as they are killing Ukrainians, she added.

On Lebanon, and the implementation of Council resolution 1701 (2006), she noted her country’s support for the role and courage of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which is directly under attack. Her country supports the Lebanese Armed Forces, she said, citing its training of 34,000 troops, and reiterates the need for an immediate ceasefire.  On a follow-up query on whether Council resolution 1559 (2004) is “on the table”, she said, “obviously the situation in Lebanon is not conducive to that, and in our discussions with Prime Minister [Najib] Mikati we have focussed on how to support Lebanon in the future”, noting that putting in place Council resolution 1701 (2006) or a successor would be prioritized first.

Responding to further questioning, including her country’s [prior] opposition to arrest warrants issued by the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to Israeli leaders, she said, “we support the ICC and its independence and will uphold its decisions”.  Replying to a follow-up question from the same correspondent about why each of her speeches at the Council began with invocations of 7 October, when her country would be aware of a more pertinent — and imminent — date to cite:  2 November, when, 107 years ago, her country’s then-Foreign Secretary, Arthur Balfour, “helped create the monstrous country”, she replied, “my interventions are three or three and a half minutes long, and they focus on the issues of the day.  That’s why we start with 7 October.  Since then, we held more than 100 Council meetings in six months, on an issue which is usually only discussed four times a year.”  Her delegation will try to secure a ceasefire, the release of the hostages and a long-term political settlement, she stressed.

To a question about whether a meeting will be held on the latest launch of a missile by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, she responded that a briefing on the matter is scheduled for 4 November, given the “unprecedented scale” of the launch and its implications for regional and national security.  On Myanmar, she deplored the appalling increase in violence, and stated that a private meeting is being planned towards the end of November, between the Special Envoys on the country from the United Nations and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), adding that the meeting would be held on the back of October’s ASEAN Summit, during which a communiqué adopted reinforced the need for both organizations to work together.

Replying to a query about the outcome of the United States elections, she noted her country’s “long-standing special relationship” with Washington, D.C., adding that her Government would work with whomever is elected to the White House.

On Ukraine, she underscored her country’s iron-clad support, amounting to almost $4 billion a year.  Her country is Ukraine’s largest contributor for weapons, and it is up to them as to how they use them, she said, adding:  “It is important that we do not have detailed technical discussions, as that plays into Putin’s hands, and puts security at risk.”

Responding to a question about a comment by the UN Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Francesca Albanese, about the possibility of suspending Israel’s UN membership over its treatment of Palestinians, she said the United Kingdom is not considering such an action and does not believe that it would be constructive to do so.  “Wars are solved by diplomacy, and being able to talk in New York is important.”

https://press.un.org/en/2024/241101_sc.doc.htm

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Security Council Extends UN Mission for Referendum in Western Sahara by One Year, Adopting Resolution 2756 (2024) by Vote of 12 in Favour, with 2 Abstentions

9771st Meeting (PM)

SC/15882

31 October 2024

The Security Council today voted to extend by an additional year the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), emphasizing the need to reach a political solution based on compromise and the importance of aligning MINURSO’s strategic focus and UN resources toward that end.

Authorizing the Mission’s continued operations until 31 October 2025, the 15-member organ adopted resolution 2756 (2024) (to be issued as document S/RES/2756) with 12 votes in favour, zero against and two abstentions (Russian Federation and Mozambique).  One State, however, did not participate in the vote.

Through the text, the Council called upon the parties to negotiate under the Secretary-General’s auspices without preconditions and in good faith, encouraging the continuation of consultations between his Personal Envoy and Morocco, Frente Popular para la Liberación de Saguía el-Hamra y de Río de Oro (Frente POLISARIO), Algeria and Mauritania to build on progress achieved. It reaffirmed its commitment to assist the parties to achieve a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution, based on compromise which will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara.

By other terms, it called on the Secretary-General to apply to MINURSO the comprehensive and integrated UN peacekeeping performance policy framework set out in resolution 2436 (2018) and for the safe and regular resupply of MINURSO team sites to ensure the sustainability of the Mission’s presence.

It also strongly urged enhancing cooperation with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), including through facilitating visits to the region, and strongly urged Member States to provide new and additional contributions to fund food programmes to ensure the refugees’ humanitarian needs are adequately met.

Algeria’s speaker says its positions were ‘deliberately ignored’

Algeria’s representative, whose country had earlier proposed two amendments to the resolution, said his delegation did not participate in the vote because of “the attitude of the penholder”.  His country’s views and positions, despite having been “well-founded” in consonance with the Council’s processes, were “deliberately ignored”.  He regretted that the penholder did not demonstrate objectivity or impartiality, but circulated a text that did not “at all” contain elements of prior agreements.  “The vote on this resolution changes nothing on the fundamental crux of this issue,” he said.  Algeria believes that the right to the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara belongs only to the Saharawi people, and as such will “strive to speak out” on all matters thereon.

Members reject two amendments to resolution

Presenting the proposed amendments before the vote, both of which were not adopted, he said his delegation “has been forced to submit to you these two amendments quite simply because the penholder decided to impose its own draft resolution, and to put it in blue yesterday at 5:30 p.m.”.  The Council risks being accused of double standards to the detriment of the people of Western Sahara.  “It is the legitimacy of the Council on the subject of human rights that is in question here,” he added.  By denying the people of Western Sahara the legal protection that is guaranteed for them under international law, “we will have lost a great deal of his Council’s legitimacy,” he said.

On the first amendment to insert a new paragraph after preambular paragraph 19, the Council voted six in favour (Algeria, China, Guyana, Mozambique, Slovenia, Switzerland) to zero against, with nine abstaining (Ecuador, Japan, France, Malta, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Sierra Leone, United Kingdom, United States).

Similarly, the second amendment which sought to insert a new paragraph after operative paragraph 13, saw five members (Algeria, China, Guyana, Mozambique, Slovenia) voting in favour, none against and 10 abstaining.

Mozambique’s delegate, who voted in favour of the amendments, said he did so because they were consistent with previous Council decisions and valid on their own merit, because they relate to human rights.  “The resolution in its current form, without the Algerian amendments will not assist the parties in achieving a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution,” he said.  On the contrary, it entrenches the trend of a gradual departure from the Mission’s original mandate.

The representative of the Russian Federation, who abstained on the both the United States-prepared draft resolution and on Algeria’s proposed amendments, stressed:  “The resolution, in our opinion, does not reflect the real situation on the ground and is hardly going to help facilitate achieve a mutually acceptable solution to the conflict.”  A series of proposals and suggested additions to the texts made by his Government and other delegations were ignored.  “Our request to clearly delineate in the text of the document the two sides of the conflict, Morocco and the Polisario Front, was also not given necessary attention,” he said, adding:  “American penholders have once again forced us to think seriously about whether they are able to act as an impartial participant in the discussions on the subject of Western Sahara.”

Delegates support MINURSO’s critical role in maintaining regional stability

Several members saw renewing MINURSO’s mandate as key to the region’s well-being.  “We think this is critical to maintaining stability in the area,” Ecuador’s delegate said.  Recalling that his country was part of the Security Council in April 1991 when the Mission was established, he hoped that by the next time Ecuador takes up membership, both parties would act towards each other with political will, good faith and the support of the international community.

Adding to that, the speaker for Sierra Leone urged all parties to the conflict to return to a ceasefire without delay and resume round-table engagements.  Further, MINURSO’s operational activities should be continually expanded through increased ground patrols and the resumption of full demining operations east of the Berm for the first time since 2019.  Highlighting the international momentum for the Moroccan Autonomy Initiative, he urged an exploration of “this option”.

Also calling for a cessation of hostilities and a return to a ceasefire, France’s speaker said:  “the low-intensity hostilities should not make us forget the risks that this conflict poses to the stability of the region and to the local populations.”  He welcomed the resumption of refuelling operations at its observation sites east of the Berm, underscoring the importance of respecting MINURSO’s freedom of movement.  He added that his delegation did not vote on Algeria’s proposed amendment because it believes that the mandate in its current form is adapted to the situation in Western Sahara.

The representative of the United States said it is more urgent than ever to reach a political solution for Western Sahara and that Council members should lend all possible support for a solution that is just, lasting and mutually acceptable. “The people of Western Sahara and the region are counting on us,” he said.  “Today is an important step, which now should be reflected in urgent action consistent with the resolution we just adopted.”

“This resolution reaffirms the Council's commitment to assisting the parties in achieving a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution based on compromise,” added the United Kingdom’s representative. Slovenia’s representative echoed that sentiment, noting that he also voted in favour of the amendments presented by Algeria because “we believe that as a cross-cutting matter, UN Missions are strengthened by having human rights responsibilities”.  This benefits the local population and contributes to a more sustainable peace.

Rounding out the meeting, Switzerland’s speaker, in her capacity as Council President for October, said it is “absolutely critical” to support a consensus that “can allow this mandate to be discharged”.  Her delegation voted on the amendment stating that OHCHR didn’t get to the region for the ninth consecutive year, she said, adding that her country is “strongly attached to the protection of human rights in all contexts,” including Western Sahara.  Because the Mission’s mandate provides strong support to the work of the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy and Special Representative for a fair, mutually acceptable political solution, her delegation abstained on the second amendment to ensure continuity for the Mission’s work.

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https://press.un.org/en/2024/sc15882.doc.htm

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