вторник, 30 апреля 2024 г.

Secretary-General Calls for Peaceful, Inclusive, Transparent Process, ahead of Presidential Election in Chad


SG/SM/22208

Secretary-General Calls for Peaceful, Inclusive, Transparent Process, ahead of Presidential Election in Chad

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

Ahead of the first round of the presidential election in Chad on 6 May, the Secretary-General calls on all Chadian stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, inclusive, transparent and credible electoral process.

The Secretary-General encourages all political leaders to refrain from any acts or discourse that could undermine a peaceful process, to overcome any disagreements through dialogue and to address complaints that may arise through established legal channels.

The Secretary-General reiterates the commitment of the United Nations to continue to support Chad in its effort to build a peaceful and prosperous future.


https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

Twenty Years on, Security Council Must Implement Resolution 1540, Secretary-General Urges, as Threat of Non-State Actors’ Using Mass Destruction Weapons Looms Large


SG/SM/22206

Twenty Years on, Security Council Must Implement Resolution 1540, Secretary-General Urges, as Threat of Non-State Actors’ Using Mass Destruction Weapons Looms Large

Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message to mark the twentieth anniversary Security Council resolution 1540 (2004):

The idea of terrorists and criminals wielding weapons of mass destruction is a nightmarish prospect.  Twenty years ago, countries came together to shield us from that threat. Security Council resolution 1540 (2004) requires Governments to take action to prevent non-State actors from getting their hands on nuclear, chemical and biological weapons.

Yet the threat still looms large.  In the two decades since the resolution was passed, dangers have grown.  Developments in science and technology are racing ahead — threatening to create a new generation of weapons of mass destruction that are easier to access and simpler to use.

As we mark the twentieth anniversary of Security Council resolution 1540 (2004), I urge countries to redouble their efforts to work together and to bolster national action in order to implement the resolution urgently and in full.  I also ask them to support our proposed New Agenda for Peace at the Summit of the Future later this year, which specifically recommends strengthening measures to prevent non-State actors acquiring weapons of mass destruction.

Together, let’s stop weapons of mass destruction falling into terrorist hands and build a safer world for us all.



https://press.un.org/en/2024/sgsm22206.doc.htm

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

Security Council Renews United Nations Mission in South Sudan for One Year


9620TH MEETING (PM)
SC/15687

Security Council Renews United Nations Mission in South Sudan for One Year

(Note:  Due to the financial liquidity crisis affecting the United Nations and the resulting constraints, the full press release will be published at a later date.)

The Security Council today extended the mandate of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for one year to prevent a return to civil war and an escalation of violence in the African country.

Adopting resolution 2729 (2024) by a vote of 13 in favour to none against, with two abstentions (the Russian Federation and China), the Council decided to renew the Mission’s mandate until 30 April 2025 and maintained its force levels with a troop ceiling of 17,000 personnel and a police ceiling of 2,101 personnel, including 88 justice and corrections advisors.



https://press.un.org/en/2024/sc15687.doc.htm

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

UN official urges South Sudan to lift taxes halting aid



29 April 2024

Humanitarian Aid

The UN’s top humanitarian official in South Sudan has urged the government to lift newly imposed taxes and charges that are causing aid deliveries to be suspended, affecting tens of thousands of people.

Since February, authorities have imposed a series of new taxes and charges at border crossings and within the country.

These measures have impacted over 60,000 people, particularly in remote areas where humanitarian operations are already limited. This number is expected to rise to 145,000 by the end of May if the measures remain in place.

Anita Kiki Gbeho, the Humanitarian Coordinator for South Sudan, underscored the urgent situation, stating that UN agencies have been forced to halt lifesaving airdrops of food assistance due to dwindling fuel supplies.

“We call on the Government of South Sudan to uphold all agreements with humanitarians, including our NGO [non-governmental organizations] partners, and immediately remove new taxes and fees so that we can continue to support people in need,” she said on Sunday.

Tweet URL
OCHASouthSudan

Her office further noted that the new taxes contravene the Status of Forces Agreement signed by individual agencies with the South Sudanese Government as well as Section 7 of the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the UN, which exempts the UN from all direct taxes and duties on imports of supplies for its official use.

Funds for saving lives

According to the Humanitarian Coordinator’s office, the new measures would increase the cost of food assistance and the UN Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) operations by $339,000 per month.  

This amount could otherwise be used to feed over 16,300 people for a month.

“It is vital that our limited funds are spent on saving lives and not bureaucratic impediments,” she stressed.

Government assurances

Ms. Gbeho acknowledged assurances by many members of the Government of South Sudan that humanitarians are exempt.  

However, there have been no written commitments to date, her office added.

Humanitarian situation

The humanitarian situation in South Sudan remains dire, with approximately nine million people, including 1.6 million children, requiring assistance and protection due to ongoing insecurity and conflict.

Since the war in Sudan began in April 2023, coupled with violence and the cessation of food distribution in parts of Ethiopia, thousands of people have returned to South Sudan, often arriving in underdeveloped areas as highly vulnerable populations.

Despite increasing needs, funding for humanitarian efforts remains inadequate. The $1.8 billion Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan for 2024, aimed at supporting six million of the most vulnerable, is currently only 18.5 per cent funded.


https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/04/1149111


https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

воскресенье, 28 апреля 2024 г.

РФ предоставила БАПОР площадку для разъяснения ситуации в Газе странам БРИКС



Генеральный комиссар Ближневосточного агентства ООН для помощи палестинским беженцам и организации работ (БАПОР) Филипп Лаззарини прибыл в Москву для участия во встрече БРИКС по Ближнему Востоку. По его словам, РФ предоставила для организации площадку для разъяснения ситуации в секторе Газа.

БАПОР — созданное в 1949 году учреждение ООН, в котором работает свыше 30 тыс. сотрудников. Подавляющая часть из них — палестинцы. Организация помогает палестинским беженцам в секторе Газа, на Западном берегу реки Иордан, в Сирии и Ливане, в том числе предоставляя им образование и социальные услуги.

«Я нахожусь в Москве, чтобы принять участие во встрече БРИКС по Ближнему Востоку на уровне заместителей министров иностранных дел или специальных посланников. Я получил приглашение выступить на мероприятии и для этого прилетел из Нью-Йорка»,— сказал господин Лаззарини ТАСС.

Глава БАПОР предупредит страны БРИКС, что запрет деятельности организации в зоне конфликта ограничит возможности реагировать на «беспрецедентный гуманитарный кризис». Он отметил, что БАПОР сталкивается с давлением израильского правительства, которое призывает расформировать агентство.

«В Газе все самое худшее случается в превосходной степени: самое большое количество жертв среди мирного населения, включая детей; самое большое количество уничтоженных медучреждений; самое большое количество вынужденно перемещенных людей. А сегодня к этому еще присоединяется угроза рукотворного голода в анклаве»,— добавил господин Лаззарини.

По мнению главы БАПОР, некоторые страны хотят ликвидации агентства из политических соображений. Это может подорвать усилия по созданию Палестинского государства. Господин Лаззарини призвал ООН противостоять этому давлению.

Подробнее о работе организации — в материале «Ъ» «Ближневосточное агентство благих намерений».

Леонид Уварчев


 https://www.kommersant.ru/doc/6678821?from=top_main_3



https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

Sudan: Security Council members call for immediate halt to military escalation in El Fasher

Children walk to their shelter at an IDP camp near El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, Sudan. (file)
© UNICEF/Shehzad Noorani
 
Children walk to their shelter at an IDP camp near El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, Sudan. (file)


27 April 2024

Peace and Security

UN Security Council members on Saturday called on the warring parties in Sudan to immediately halt the military build-up and take steps to de-escalate the situation in El Fasher, the provincial capital of North Darfur.

The call comes amid reports of an imminent offensive by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and their allied militia against the city, which could threaten the lives of hundreds of thousands of displaced persons currently sheltering there.

At least 43 people, among them women and children, have been killed in fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and RSF – backed by their respective militia – since 14 April, when the RSF began its push into El Fasher, according to the UN human rights office (OHCHR).

The office added that civilians trapped in the city – the only one in Darfur still in the hands of the SAF – are afraid of being killed should they attempt to flee. The dire situation is compounded by a severe shortage of essential supplies as deliveries of commercial goods and humanitarian aid have been heavily constrained by the fighting and access challenges through RSF-controlled territory.

Plunged into turmoil

Sudan has been plunged into turmoil since fighting erupted between SAF and paramilitary RSF, last April.

More than 14,000 people have been killed and thousands more wounded, amid reports of abhorrent sexual and gender-based violence.

The war has also displaced over six million civilians within Sudan and a further 1.8 million across its borders, against a backdrop of a massive crisis that has left 25 million people in need of humanitarian aid and protection.

End military build-up

In a statement, Security Council members called on SAF and RSF to end the build-up of military forces and to take steps to de-escalate the situation and comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law.

Council members also repeated their call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, leading to a sustainable ceasefire.

They urged all Member States to refrain from external interference that seeks to foment conflict and instability and instead to support efforts for a durable peace.

They also reminded all parties to the conflict and Member States to adhere to their obligations to comply with the arms embargo measures as stipulated in resolutions 1556 (2004) and 2676 (2023).



https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/04/1149101


https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

пятница, 26 апреля 2024 г.

UN updates on probe into allegations of staff collusion during 7 October attacks


Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, briefs reporters at UN Headquarters (file).
UN Photo/Manuel Elías
 
Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, briefs reporters at UN Headquarters (file).


26 April 2024


UN Affairs

A UN Office investigating Israeli accusations that 12 staff members from UN Palestine relief agency UNRWA were involved in the 7 October Hamas-led attacks has closed one of the cases because Israel had not provided any supporting evidence, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said on Friday. 

“We are exploring corrective administrative action to be taken in that person’s case,” he said, speaking during the daily press briefing in New York. 

Meanwhile, eight staff remain under investigation by the UN’s internal oversight body, OIOS, which also suspended three cases “as the information provided by Israel is not sufficient for OIOS to proceed with an investigation.” 

UNRWA is now also considering what administrative action to take in those three cases.  

Immediate action taken 

The accusations surfaced in January when Israel informed UNRWA of the alleged involvement of the staff members in the brutal assault on its territory. Some 1,200 people were killed and another 250 were taken to Gaza as hostages. 

Of the 12 people implicated, UNRWA immediately identified and terminated the contracts of 10, while two were confirmed dead.  

The UN Secretary-General immediately ordered OIOS to investigate, while an independent panel was appointed to conduct a separate assessment into whether UNRWA is doing everything to ensure neutrality and to respond to allegations of serious breaches when they arise. 

The panel, headed by former French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, published its report on Monday which found that “the set of rules and the mechanisms and procedures in place [at UNRWA] are the most elaborate within the UN system”. 

Seven more cases 

Mr. Dujarric said the UN subsequently received information from Israel about seven more cases - five in March and two in April. One case has also been suspended pending receipt of additional supporting evidence and OIOS are investigating the remainder. 

“OIOS has also informed us that its investigators had travelled to Israel for discussions with the Israeli authorities and will undertake another visit in May. These discussions are continuing and have so far been productive and have enabled progress on the investigations,” he said. 

No alternative to UNRWA 

The initial Israeli allegations prompted 16 countries to stop contributing to UNRWA, which mainly relies on donations to fund its operations across five locations in the Middle East, including Gaza.  

The agency is the largest humanitarian organization in besieged Gaza, where more than 34,000 Palestinians have been killed since 7 October, according to the authorities.

This week, Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said several donor countries “have come back”, and UNRWA has sufficient funding to keep operations running until the end of June. 

Separately, UNRWA announced a $1.2 billion appeal to meet urgent needs in Gaza and the West Bank, where violence is increasing. 

“The past months proved that there is no replacement or alternative to UNRWA,” Mr. Lazzarini said on Wednesday announcing the appeal. 



https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/04/1149081


https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

Security Council Concludes Open Debate on Role of Young Persons in Addressing Mediterranean Challenges


9606TH MEETING (RESUMED) (AM)
SC/15684

Security Council Concludes Open Debate on Role of Young Persons in Addressing Mediterranean Challenges

(Note:  Due to the financial liquidity crisis affecting the United Nations and the resulting constraints, this meeting was not covered.)

The Security Council met this afternoon to continue its open debate on the situation in the role of young persons in addressing security challenges in the Mediterranean.

For coverage of the first part of the debate, please see Press Release SC/15667 of 17 April.



https://press.un.org/en/2024/sc15684.doc.htm


https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

Security Council Hears Briefings on Nord Stream Gas Pipelines


9619TH MEETING (AM)
SC/15683

Security Council Hears Briefings on Nord Stream Gas Pipelines

(Note: The final summary of this meeting will be available at a later time.)

The Security Council met this morning on the topic of threats to international peace and security.  Briefing the Council were Miroslav Jenča, Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and Americas, Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations; Oguljeren (Jerena) Niyazberdiyeva, Chief of the Office of the Under-Secretary-General, United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism; Larry C. Johnson, political commentator and expert in the field of counter-terrorism.

THREATS TO INTERNATION PEACE AND SECURITY

Briefings

MIROSLAV JENČA, Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and Americas, Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, said that the destruction of the Nord Stream gas pipelines in September 2022 has sparked widespread speculation that risks further fuelling tensions among Member States.  Noting that his briefing is based “solely on information that is publicly available”, he underscored that the UN has no additional details regarding the events and is not in a position to verify or confirm claims or reports made regarding the incident.  He added that the full extent of its environmental impact, including on marine and local wildlife, is yet to be grasped.

After leaks in the pipelines were reported, the Danish, German and Swedish authorities announced the launch of separate national investigations, he recalled, pointing to their 10 July 2023 joint letter to the Council President (document S/2023/517) indicating that the leaks were caused by the use of explosives.  However, the Russian Federation expressed concern over these national investigations and called for “comprehensive and objective proceedings”.  In February 2024, the Danish and Swedish authorities informed the Council about the closure of their respective investigations.  In March 2024, Moscow reiterated its concerns, calling for an international commission to investigate the Nord Stream incidents further.

While stating that any intentional damage to critical civilian infrastructure should be condemned and investigated, he urged all actors to exercise restraint and wait for the conclusion of the remaining investigation.  He added:  “We strongly encourage Member States to continue cooperation and sharing of information to ensure the security of all international waters — including the Baltic Sea, which is critical for regional commerce, security and stability.”




https://press.un.org/en/2024/sc15683.doc.htm


https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

четверг, 25 апреля 2024 г.

Syria crisis intensifies in shadow of Gaza war

The humanitarian situation in Syria remains dire amid escalating tensions across the Middle East.
© UNOCHA/Ali Haj Suleiman
 
The humanitarian situation in Syria remains dire amid escalating tensions across the Middle East.

25 April 2024

The war in Gaza continues to cast a dark shadow over the wider Middle East region, in particular Syria where a series of strikes and attacks are exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation, the UN Special Envoy for the country said on Thursday.

Briefing ambassadors on the Security Council, Geir Pedersen called for a regional de-escalation, starting with an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

In addition to the regional spillover effects, he expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict within Syria itself.

“There are in fact no signs of calm in any of Syria’s theaters – only unresolved conflicts, bubbling violence, and sharp flares of hostilities, any of which could be the kindling for a new conflagration,” he stated.

Special Envoy Pedersen briefs the Security Council.

Humanitarian situation

Highlighting the bleak humanitarian situation, Mr. Pedersen stressed the need for greater access and generous donor support to alleviate the suffering of millions.

At the same time, the economic situation remains equally troubling, with food prices doubling within the past year and the Syrian Pound witnessing a 15-fold fall in its value compared to the United States Dollar since 2020.

“The unending suffering borne by Syrians carries knock-on effects for the most vulnerable,” he continued, “many interlocutors tell my office about increasing gender-based violence, as well as negative coping mechanisms such as early marriage or women forced into prostitution.”

He said there needs to be a new and comprehensive approach to address the multifaceted challenges facing Syria, adding he remained resolute in his commitment to finding a path towards peace in Syria.

Explosive remnants of war

Echoing the dire assessment, Ramesh Rajasingham, Director of Coordination, at the UN humanitarian affairs office (OCHA), emphasized the risks facing aid workers.

In late March, a World Health Organization (WHO) staffer working on water and sanitation assistance in Deir ez-Zor, in eastern Syria, was killed when an airstrike hit his building.

The OCHA official also noted the impact of unexploded ordinance, landmines, and other such weapons on civilians.

OCHA official Ramesh Rajasingham briefs the Council on the humanitarian situation.

“Agricultural land is particularly impacted, with significant consequences for food production and livelihoods,” he said, noting that often, children form the majority of the casualties.

Deadly diseases

Mr. Rajasingham added that with the approaching summer, the risk of drought, heatwaves, cholera and other health risks will increase, amid already limited water and sanitation services.

“This will in turn increase sexual and reproductive health and protection risks for women and adolescent girls, who tend to be exposed to higher levels of gender-based violence due to lack of privacy at and around sanitation facilities, and the need to venture further to retrieve water,” he warned.

 

More to come



https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/04/1149016


https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

UN coordinator in Gaza announces new plan to deliver lifesaving aid


Sigrid Kaag, UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza, briefs the Security Council.
UN Photo/Loey Felipe
 
Sigrid Kaag, UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza, briefs the Security Council.


24 April 2024
Humanitarian Aid

A new mechanism for getting lifesaving aid into Gaza will start in the coming days, UN Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator Sigrid Kaag announced in a briefing to the Security Council on Wednesday.

“The operationalisation of the mechanism will allow for pipeline prioritisation, predictability, visibility and tracking of supplies to Gaza,” she told ambassadors.

The new plan stemmed from Security Council resolution 2720, adopted in December, which established Ms. Kaag’s position and requested her to forge a UN mechanism to accelerate aid deliveries into the war-torn enclave, which now faces looming famine.

Since Hamas-led attacks in southern Israel in October that left 1,200 people dead and 250 taken hostage, Israeli military operations have killed more than 34,000 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, as UN and other humanitarian agencies continue to report long delays by Israeli authorities to allow lifesaving aid in at a scale that meets ever growing needs.

“As the resolution intended, the mechanism is designed to facilitate and support the work of all humanitarian partners on the ground,” Ms. Kaag said.

Monitoring in Gaza starts ‘as soon as possible’

The mechanism will initially be applied to the Cyprus and Jordan aid routes, and technical consultations will soon be finalised with Egypt on its route, she said, adding that she has informed Israel about the operationalisation of the mechanism.

“Verification and monitoring inside Gaza will commence as soon as possible,” she explained. “In the coming weeks, my office in Gaza will also be operational.”

In addition, a database and notification system will go online for all cargo destined for Gaza along supply routes, with the approval for placing international monitors at crossings, inspection and supply points having been requested from relevant authorities, she said.

Children climb over the ruins of a property in Deir Al-Balah in the central Gaza.
© UNRWA
 
Children climb over the ruins of a property in Deir Al-Balah in the central Gaza.

Paradigm shift needed now

The UN coordinator underlined “the importance of a paradigm shift” to continue to meet the immense needs of the civilian population in a safe and secure manner.

That means a further scale up in the quality and quantity of assistance and distribution alongside irreversible steps to enable safe, secure and unhindered delivery inside Gaza as well as planning and timely preparations for early recovery and reconstruction.

“There is no substitute for political will to sustain these efforts,” she said, emphasising that aid agencies must be able to move food, medicine and other supplies safely and via all possible routes and crossings, into and throughout every part of Gaza.

Effective humanitarian operations cannot be reduced to counting trucks,” she said. “This is a false metric for gauging whether humanitarian assistance is sufficient, let alone whether it responds to the basic humanitarian requirements.”

In this vein, she said the UN agency for Palestine refugees, UNRWA, is “irreplaceable and indispensable as a humanitarian lifeline and must be allowed to deliver on its mandate”.

Israel’s commitments to ramp up aid deliveries

Israel has taken a number of steps to improve aid delivery since it made commitments on 5 April in response to requests by the UN and the international community, the UN Coordinator said.

That included an increase in the volume of aid cleared, inspected and crossed into Gaza, the temporary opening of the Erez crossing and the opening of the Ashdod port for humanitarian goods as well as repairing the Nahal Oz water supply line.

“Whilst implementation of some measures is ongoing, further definitive and urgent steps are needed to set the course for a sustained flow of humanitarian and commercial goods into Gaza in terms of volume, need and reach,” she said. “Given the scale and scope of destruction and the extent of human suffering every day counts.”

A bakery in Gaza supported by the UN World Food Programme (WFP) reopens after 170 days following a delivery of fuel and flour.
© WFP
 
A bakery in Gaza supported by the UN World Food Programme (WFP) reopens after 170 days following a delivery of fuel and flour.

Implementation is urgent

In this regard, she said the UN is in contact with the Israeli Government on other measures that need urgent or continuous implementation, including issues pertaining to checkpoint procedures, road repairs and timely clearances to allow humanitarian convoy movements to take place as scheduled.

“Implementation is urgent,” she said, adding that her office is establishing a monitoring framework to determine the progress and impact of respective measures taken.

Delivering aid at scale requires a functioning humanitarian notification system and improved and direct communications between humanitarians and military decisionmakers on the ground, she said. “Effective and credible deconfliction is vital for all humanitarian actors on the ground.”

Air and maritime corridors

While air and sea aid deliveries can never be a substitute for land transportation, she said the Cyprus maritime corridor provides for additionality of humanitarian aid to Gaza. UN monitors have been deployed to Cyprus as part of the mechanism outlined in resolution 2720.

At the same time, preparations for building a floating port and pier on the shores of Gaza are advancing, with the involvement of the US and other Member States, she said, adding that the UN has outlined the parameters under which it can play a meaningful role in the distribution of aid via this corridor.

She said her office proposed a multi-donor funding mechanism in addition to providing Secretariat support to the maritime corridor to ensure full coordination with the operations on the ground in Gaza, noting that several Member States have indicated their intent to phase out air drops in conjunction with scaling up assistance via land and sea.

Northern Gaza lies in ruins after months of bombardments.
© WFP/Ali Jadallah
 
Northern Gaza lies in ruins after months of bombardments.

Reconstruction plans

The extent of the destruction and the devastating impact of this war on the entire population call for an ambitious and comprehensive plan of support with commensurate investments, Ms. Kaag said.

The recent UN, European Union and World Bank interim disaster assessment illustrates the scale of the damage and the magnitude of investments required across all sectors, including rebuilding and repairing of the more than 84 per cent of destroyed health facilities.

Echoing the UN Secretary-General’s message, she said the Palestinian Authority has a critical role to play in Gaza, adding that “the international community must work toward enabling its return, strengthen its governance capacity and prepare it to reassume its responsibilities” in the enclave.

Israeli operation in Rafah would compound ongoing catastrophe

Ms. Kaag echoed the UN’s grave concern over the prospect of an Israeli operation in Rafah, where at least 1.2 million people are seeking shelter following evacuation orders months ago.

“Such action would compound an ongoing humanitarian catastrophe, with consequences for people already displaced and enduring severe hardships and suffering,” she said.

In addition, “the UN’s ability to deliver will be constrained,” she added.

“Let us remember that behind every statistic is a human story of loss and suffering,” she concluded. “It isour duty to provide protection, support and therefore hope to the Palestinian population in Gaza. It is also our duty to advocate for lasting peace between Israel and a fully independent, viable and sovereign Palestinian State.”

Ambassador Barbara Woodward of the United Kingdom addresses the UN Security Council.
UN Photo/Loey Felipe
 
Ambassador Barbara Woodward of the United Kingdom addresses the UN Security Council.

Scale up implementation: United Kingdom

United Kingdom Ambassador Barbara Woodward said her country joins Ms. Kaag’s important efforts to prevent the situation in Gaza from deteriorating even further.

She welcomed Israel’s commitment to increase aid flows into Gaza, including through the Ashdod port, the Erez checkpoint and by extending the opening hours of the Kerem Shalom crossing.

“We now need to see more implementation. There has been some welcome progress in this regard, but much more needs to be done,” she said.

Deputy Permanent Representative Robert Wood of the United States addresses the UN Security Council.
UN Photo/Evan Schneider
 
Deputy Permanent Representative Robert Wood of the United States addresses the UN Security Council.

Protect civilians and aid workers: United States

United States Deputy Permanent Representative Robert Wood noted that the humanitarian situation is more than disastrous in Gaza and that President Joseph Biden has called on Israel to take concrete and measurable steps to protect civilians and ensure the safety of humanitarian personnel. 

He said Israel must do more immediately to prevent more casualties, and the positive steps taken so far are insufficient. Israel must take immediate steps to open checkpoints into northern Gaza and immediately implement its commitments regarding the delivery of humanitarian aid through the port of Ashdod.

He said the plan outlined by Ms. Kaag is vital to ensuring aid reaches Gaza on a large scale.

Geng Shuang, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of China, addresses the UN Security Council.
UN Photo/Evan Schneider
 
Geng Shuang, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of China, addresses the UN Security Council.

China: ‘Hunger cannot be used as a weapon’

The Deputy Permanent Representative of China, Geng Shuang, said the worsening humanitarian disaster remains alarming, despite three Council resolutions and the decision of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which were never implemented due to the numerous restrictions deliberately imposed on aid deliveries. As such, the new mechanism will play an important role in removing obstacles to the arrival of aid.

“Now, it is up to the occupying Power to act to ensure the arrival of aid; hunger cannot be used as a weapon,” he said. Urging all countries to resume funding for UNRWA and refrain from using false pretexts to inflict additional collective sanctions on the Gazan population, he said Israel’s allegations of terrorism against UNRWA are simply baseless.

Brett Jonathan Miller, Deputy Permanent Representative of Israel, addresses the Security Council.
UN Photo/Evan Schneider
 
Brett Jonathan Miller, Deputy Permanent Representative of Israel, addresses the Security Council.

Israel expects to see ‘higher numbers’ of aid deliveries

Israel’s Deputy Permanent Representative, Brett Jonathan Miller, said Israeli authorities are working on opening more aid crossings, and its humanitarian efforts have already brought substantial improvements on the ground, with more than 25,000 trucks entering the enclave since October.

“We expect to see higher numbers in the future,” he said.

Raising other concerns, Mr. Miller said the “UN must find solutions” to logistical issues to keep pace with the speed Israel is clearing aid shipments. He also said the Council must “step up its own efforts” to bring home the 133 hostages held captive since October.

For a full summary of this and other meetings of major UN bodies, visit UN Meetings Coverage in English and French.


https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/04/1148956



https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

среда, 24 апреля 2024 г.

Russia vetoes Security Council draft resolution on a weapon-free outer space


A view of the Earth and a satellite as seen from outer space.
© NASA
 
A view of the Earth and a satellite as seen from outer space.


24 April 2024

Peace and Security

Russia used its veto to quash a draft resolution aimed at keeping weapons out of outer space.

The Security Council rejected the draft resolution, introduced by Japan and the United States, by a vote of 13 in favour to one against, with one abstention (China), that would have had the 15-member organ call on “all States, in particular those with major space capabilities, to contribute actively to the objective of the peaceful use of outer space and of the prevention of an arms race in outer space.”

Also by the draft, the Council would have called on all nations “to refrain from actions contrary to that objective and to the relevant existing treaties in the interest of maintaining international peace and security and promoting international cooperation”.

Council rejects amendment tabled by China and Russia

Members also rejected an amendment tabled by China and Russia, by a vote of seven in favour to seven against, with one abstention, failing to reach the required nine votes for an adoption.

The amendment suggested an additional paragraph, which would have had the Council call on “all States, and above all those with major space capabilities, to take urgent measures to prevent for all time the placement of weapons in outer space and the threat or use of force in outer space, from space against Earth and from Earth against objects in outer space, and to seek through negotiations the early elaboration of appropriate reliably verifiable legally binding multilateral agreements.”

For a full summary of this and other meetings of major UN bodies, visit UN Meetings Coverage in English and French.



https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/04/1148951


https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

вторник, 23 апреля 2024 г.

Amidst Recent Tensions, Establishing Community of Serb-Majority Municipalities Could Advance Normalization, Kosovo Mission Head Tells Security Council


9612TH MEETING (AM)
SC/15673

Amidst Recent Tensions, Establishing Community of Serb-Majority Municipalities Could Advance Normalization, Kosovo Mission Head Tells Security Council

While tensions have simmered in recent months due to an inability to address long-standing issues through dialogue, the senior United Nations official in Kosovo told the Security Council today that the establishment of a community of Serb-majority municipalities could provide a solution to normalization, as speakers also urged Belgrade and Pristina to recommit to European Union-facilitated dialogue.

Caroline Ziadeh, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), recalled a common observation from consultations she held with political actors in Pristina and Belgrade — dissatisfaction with progress achieved through political dialogue.  While highlighting recent tensions — including those surrounding the 21 April recall process for mayors elected in northern Kosovo in 2023 — she recalled that the parties met five times in 2023 and 2024 under the auspices of the European Union.  “We should remain hopeful that a solution can be reached,” she said.

Emphasizing that the establishment of a community of Serb-majority municipalities could provide a solution towards normalization, she said that the final form of such will encompass financial and institutional guarantees for the Kosovo Serb community.  Also noting European Union-facilitated agreements on matters related to vehicle license plates, the “energy road map” and customs, as well as UNMIK’s work to build trust between communities, she observed:  “Progress is born from actions undertaken with the willingness to forge compromises.”

Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu of Kosovo said that, 25 years after the intervention by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Kosovo “shines as a resounding success and advocate for democratic values”.  Its legal and institutional structures advance the rights of the Kosovo Serb community and promote an inclusive society, also granting that community unparalleled legislative influence.  However, Serbia’s consistent efforts to disrupt the integration process undermine Kosovo’s security and constitutional order.

Aleksandar Vučić, President of Serbia, however, said that Serbs have been completely ex-communicated from the political and economic system of “the so-called Kosovo” since 2021.  Moreover, Pristina organized shameful elections, which Serbs boycotted due to the violation of their rights, he said, adding that the model project for a liberal, multi-ethnic and multicultural democracy in “the so-called Kosovo” is galloping today towards monoethnic despotism cleansed of all minorities.

In the following discussion, many Council members voiced concern over Pristina’s recent decisions that affect minority populations — particularly its enforcement of central bank regulations restricting the use of the Serbian dinar for cash transactions in Kosovo.  Against that backdrop, several speakers praised UNMIK’s efforts to enhance dialogue between communities and institutions.  Many also urged Pristina and Belgrade to recommit to European Union-led dialogue.

The representative of France observed that Serbian authorities’ constructive participation in that dialogue allowed for progress on issues relating to license plates and energy.  Progress towards the normalization of Kosovo-Serbia relations is necessary for the European rapprochement that both parties have chosen, he said.  Adding that this is the purpose of the of the 2023 Ohrid Agreement — the most ambitious agreement to date between the two parties — he stressed:  “We need to ensure its full implementation.”

In that vein, Japan’s delegate called on both parties to recommit to existing agreements, stressing: “Fomenting distrust is not a constructive approach.”  Emphasizing that the Western Balkans’ accession to the European Union will contribute to regional stability and prosperity, she recalled that Tokyo launched its “Western Balkans Cooperation Initiative” in 2018 to support economic and social reforms towards that end and to promote regional cooperation.

For his part, the Russian Federation’s delegate stressed that NATO’s aggression against the former Yugoslavia became a watershed in global history and gave rise to the “spirit of confrontation” in international relations.  Further, he said that, instead of good-faith mediation, Washington, D.C., and Brussels are “supplanting” resolution 1244 (1999) to “amputate the southern province from Serbia”.  If Council members fail to seek compromise, “latent” conflicts in the Balkans may metastasize into a full-blown conflagration, he stressed.

On that, the representative of China voiced concern over Kosovar authorities’ announcement to abolish the Serbian dinar, as well as over violent searches targeting ethnic Serbs.  Urging Pristina to revoke unreasonable decisions and cease unilateral actions that exacerbate tensions, he recalled that the establishment of an association of Serb-majority municipalities was an important part of the 2013 Brussels Agreement and joined others in calling on Kosovar authorities to honour this commitment.

Guyana’s representative, noting that progress achieved through dialogue in 2023 was “encouraging”, also called on the parties to re-examine any actions that could disrupt the economic and social wellbeing of minority communities.  “It is essential that the human rights of all of the people living in Kosovo are upheld,” she stressed, urging both sides to recommit to the European Union-led dialogue process.

Stressing that the future of the whole region lies with the European Union, Slovenia’s representative nevertheless observed that challenges persist, as Kosovo Albanians and Kosovo Serbs remain divided communities. While noting that “one can find a lot of pain in Kosovo”, he pointed out that focusing on the past can prevent seeing better prospects for the future.  “And the future for all communities lies in multi-ethnic, multicultural Kosovo, at peace with itself and Serbia,” he said.

SECURITY COUNCIL RESOLUTIONS 1160 (1998), 1199 (1998), 1203 (1998), 1239 (1999) AND 1244 (1999)

Briefing

CAROLINE ZIADEH, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), recalled a common observation from consultations she held with political actors in Pristina and Belgrade — dissatisfaction with progress achieved through political dialogue.  Tensions have simmered in recent months due to an inability to address long-standing issues through dialogue — both between Pristina and Belgrade and between the Kosovo Serb communities and the Pristina central authority.  In December 2023, Kosovo Serbs in Leposavić, North Mitrovica, Zubin Potok and Zvečan collected enough signatures to begin recalling the mayors elected in those towns in April 2023 by less than 4 per cent of total registered voters, a low turnout due to Kosovo Serbs’ decision not to participate.  This process aimed to reduce tensions resulting from these elections, which included violent protests around several municipal premises in northern Kosovo in May 2023, she noted.

However, representatives of the Kosovo Serb community in the north claimed that conditions for recalling the mayors do not allow for full participation to that end, she said.  While reporting that the recall process took place on 21 April without any security incidents, she noted that only 253 out of 46,556 registered voters cast their votes — setting the stage for “protracting and prolonging a fragile and unresolved issue”. She recalled the security incident in Banjska in September 2023 and called for accountability, adding:  “This is both a judicial matter, and also a political necessity.”  She went on to report that, under the facilitation of the European Union, the parties met five times in 2023 and 2024, adding:  “We should remain hopeful that a solution can be reached.”

The establishment of a community of Serb-majority municipalities could provide a solution towards normalization, she said, noting that the final form of such will encompass financial and institutional guarantees for the Kosovo Serb community.  Noting European Union-facilitated agreements on matters related to vehicle license plates, the “energy road map” and customs, she also commended Pristina for affirming the property rights of the Visoki Dečani Monastery.  Turning to UNMIK’s work to build trust between communities, she reported that the Barabar Centre has conducted 70 activities engaging more than 4,000 individuals from all Kosovo communities, also noting that the Mission conducted the second United Nations Kosovo Trust-building Forum in November 2023.  On matters of transitional justice and the right to truth, she welcomed the resumed meeting of the Working Group on Missing Persons on 31 January and urged that such direct engagement continue.

She also reported that UNMIK continued extending support to the Kosovo Law Institute, conducted a specialized training for young Kosovo Serb lawyers and sponsored law students at a legal clinic promoting multi-ethnic media work.  In support of the youth, peace and security agenda, the sixth United Nations Youth Assembly in Kosovo in May will serve as a platform to gather young activists and leaders from communities in Kosovo and around the region.  She further noted that, to achieve progress in Kosovo and fulfil UNMIK’s mandated goals effectively, issues must be understood and treated as part of a wider regional context.  Expressing appreciation to major multilateral partners — particularly the Kosovo Force (KFOR) — she added:  “Progress is born from actions undertaken with the willingness to forge compromises.”

Statements

ALEKSANDAR VUČIĆ, President of Serbia, said that the 11 years that have passed since the April 2013 adoption of the Brussels Agreement have been, for all the Serbs living in Kosovo and Metohija — and for all in Serbia — “11 years of undelivered promises, daily excuses and untruths and 11 years of accidental or intentional ability of the EU [European Union] as the guarantor of the respective agreement to move things from square one”.  Despite Albin Kurti’s February assurance to the Council of a three-month transition period regarding the use of the Serbian dinar, these measures are being implemented immediately.  They are preventing Serbs and other non-Albanian populations in Kosovo from getting their pensions, salaries, child allowances and other payments.  Schools and other institutions have been disrupted, and people fear being arrested on false charges.  Meanwhile, the Kurti regime — instead of being sanctioned — is being rewarded.

He reported that, since the Council’s February meeting on the matter, 16 new ethnically motivated attacks against Serbs have taken place, including continuing unjustified detentions and intrusions by Pristina’s police forces into Serbian pharmacies.  Detailing several issues with UNMIK’s report, he said that — while it maintains factual precision — it fails to capture interconnected events that, when analysed together, paint a stark picture of the reality on the ground.  Moreover, the methodology used has remained consistently superficial, and the report is missing information on concrete measures that the Special Representative has taken to discourage, disable or sanction Pristina’s violence and persecution of Serbs and non-Albanians — or an explanation as to why she failed to take such measures, if that is the case.  The report enumerates individual cases, but lacks a clear context of the persecution that civilians face daily, he emphasized.

Serbia has been publicly warning that Serbs in Kosovo have been subjected to widespread, systematic attacks by the Kurti regime, he continued, adding that Serbs have been completely ex-communicated from the political and economic system of “the so-called Kosovo” since the autumn of 2021.  “No one wanted to listen to our pleas to stop the terror,” he stressed.  Moreover, Pristina organized shameful elections, which Serbs boycotted due to the violation of their rights.  Although only 0.029 per cent of Serbs voted in those elections despite constituting 95 per cent of the relevant population, new Albanian municipal authorities were illegitimately appointed and confirmed.  Addressing the countries who supported the independence of “the so-called Kosovo”, he said their model project for a liberal, multi-ethnic and multicultural democracy is galloping today towards monoethnic despotism cleansed of all minorities.  Nevertheless, Serbia is fully devoted to peace, international public order and European Union-facilitated dialogue and will do its best to maintain tranquillity in the region, he concluded.

VJOSA OSMANI-SADRIU of Kosovo underscored that the intervention by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was about protecting the sanctity of human life and the right of all people to live free from fear of destruction and persecution.  “Twenty-five years later, Kosovo shines as a resounding success and advocate for democratic values, embracing diversity, promoting multiethnicity and advancing human rights for all,” she said, also noting her country’s promising economic prospects.  Stating that Serbia’s allegations of ethnic cleansing and the persecution of Kosovo Serbs are “baseless and politically motivated”, she said that Kosovo’s legal and institutional structures actively advance the rights of the Kosovo Serb community and promote an inclusive society where all citizens are encouraged to thrive.  Kosovo Serbs — around 4 per cent of the population — are granted unparalleled legislative influence, such as veto power over constitutional amendments and laws concerning education, religion, local governance and human rights.  Further, domestic law ensures that the Serb language is recognized and used as an official language across Kosovo.

Highlighting Serbia’s ongoing destabilization efforts, however, she said that Belgrade has escalated its constant aggression towards Kosovo over the past year.  “Serbia’s consistent efforts to disrupt the integration process in Kosovo, using both criminal and terrorist tactics to exert control and spread fear”, undermine Kosovo’s security and constitutional order, she stressed.  Opposing President Vučić’s propaganda and “revisionism based on Russia’s playbook”, she said that “all massacres around Kosovo showed that [former President of Serbia Slobodan] Milošević and his then-propaganda minister, today sitting in the chair of a President”, sought to wipe all Kosovo Albanians off the face of the Earth and destroy all evidence of doing so.

Yet, they failed, she stressed, detailing stories of survivors who — despite living through horror — “have chosen action over despair”. Among them was Vasfije Krasniqi Goodman, who was only 16 years old when former President Milošević’s forces raped her.  Now, she is amplifying the voices of wartime sexual violence survivors in Kosovo and beyond. Emphasizing the need to hold perpetrators accountable for these heinous acts, she added that Serbia has not put any perpetrators of wartime rape behind bars.  Moreover, over 1,600 persons from Kosovo remain in mass graves in Serbia.  Despite agreeing in Brussels to open the relevant archives, President Vučić constantly rejects implementation.  “The forcible disappearance of our citizens, many of whom were children, represents one of the most monstrous crimes of Milošević’s genocidal regime,” she said.  “Defending the truth, fighting history revisionism and rejecting genocide denial is the only way towards long-lasting peace and reconciliation,” she stressed, adding that “no attempt by Serbia to deny war crimes or revise history will succeed as long as we still have a voice”.

Point of Order

Mr. VUČIĆ (Serbia), taking the floor a second time in reference to the composition of the Kosovo delegation, emphasized that it is a “sort of a political theater and set-up for Serbian delegation”.  What the Council listened to was like a “war trial process” for something that happened 25 years ago with “not a single word” about the report, he said. Addressing the Council President, he asked:  “Why did not you inform us who was going to be a member of each delegation?”

The representative of Malta, Council President for April, noted “with regard to the delegation from Kosovo — we have nothing to do with it”.  She added that the Protocol and Liaison Service deals with accreditation matters.

The representative of the Russian Federation, noting the people seated behind Ms. Osmani-Sadriu, then emphasized that she was invited under Rule 37 of the Council’s Provisional Rules of Procedure as a briefer for today’s meeting.  As such, her participation does not provide for the presence of any delegation alongside her.  This is a clear breach of procedure that must be duly addressed, he stressed.

The representative of Malta, Council President for April, said that members of civil society do bring delegation members under Rules 37 and 39 of the Council’s Provisional Rules of Procedure. “This is how they were accredited,” she pointed out.

Ms. OSMANI-SADRIU said that the four women seated behind her — apart from being great advocates for justice — are members of her cabinet and are present in an advisory capacity.

The representative of the Russian Federation responded:  “Madame Osmani, in our view, has no cabinet.”  Moreover, she was invited to join the Council’s meeting as a private person, he emphasized.

Statements

The representative of the United States, while highlighting “the enormous progress in the region”, voiced concern over escalatory actions by both Serbia and Kosovo.  It has been seven months since the Serb paramilitary attack on the Kosovo Police in Northern Kosovo, he observed, adding that Serbia has made no progress towards holding the perpetrators accountable.  He further expressed concern over recent actions taken by Pristina, including its enforcement of central bank regulations concerning cash operations that are inconsistent with Kosovo’s commitment to European Union-facilitated dialogue.  “These actions undermine the path of normalization between Kosovo and Serbia,” he asserted, underlining the need to solve the currency issue and work towards the establishment of an association of Serb-majority municipalities.

The representative of Guyana underlined the importance of collaboration between a wide spectrum of UN agencies, Pristina and civil society in executing UNMIK’s mandate. She also expressed concern over interference with the Mission’s premises and assets — including vandalism of its offices — calling on relevant Kosovar authorities to ensure protection of these premises.  Noting that progress achieved through dialogue in 2023 was “encouraging”, she also called on the parties to re-examine any actions that could disrupt the economic and social well‑being of minority communities.  “It is essential that the human rights of all of the people living in Kosovo are upheld,” she stressed, urging both sides to recommit to the European Union-led Belgrade-Pristina dialogue.

The representative of China voiced concern over Kosovar authorities’ announcement to abolish the Serbian dinar, as well as over violent searches targeting ethnic Serbs.  He therefore urged Pristina to revoke unreasonable decisions and cease unilateral actions that exacerbate tensions.  The establishment of an association of Serb-majority municipalities is an important part of the 2013 Brussels Agreement, and Kosovar authorities — who have made explicit commitments in that regard — should honour them in good faith, he said.  Further, the parties must engage within the framework of resolution 1244 (1999), reach a mutually acceptable solution through dialogue, and during this process, fully respect Serbia’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.  Pristina should ensure the safety of UNMIK personnel and premises, he added.

The representative of Ecuador encouraged all parties to engage constructively with the European Union-facilitated dialogue, noting the fragile security situation in northern Kosovo.  Condemning any act of violence that threatens peace and security in the region, he urged all parties to act with maximum responsibility and avoid actions or rhetoric that could reverse progress achieved so far.  As well, human rights and the rule of law must be respected and the protection of all communities ensured, he stressed, drawing particular attention to the freedoms of expression and the press.

The representative of France said that progress towards the normalization of Kosovo-Serbia relations is necessary for the European rapprochement that both countries have chosen.  It is also the purpose of the 2023 Ohrid Agreement — the most ambitious agreement to date between the two parties.  “We need to ensure its full implementation,” he stressed, adding that France will continue supporting European mediation towards a definitive, comprehensive and legally binding agreement.  Serbian authorities’ constructive participation in European Union-led dialogue allowed for progress on issues relating to license plates and energy.  However, the establishment of an association of Serb-majority municipalities “has been expected from the Kosovo authorities for far too long” and remains an obstacle to the country’s European prospects, he stressed.  In this context, new mayoral elections must be organized quickly in north Kosovo with the participation of all communities.

The representative of Switzerland said that the political leaders of Kosovo and Serbia must lay the foundation for cooperation and common understanding to set an example for their populations.  Calling for clear, increased commitment to European Union-facilitated dialogue, she emphasized that outstanding issues — including the consequences of implementing monetary regulations in Kosovo — must be resolved through that process.  “More than a year after the promising decisions taken under the Brussels and Ohrid Agreements, it is high time to move from commitments on paper to deeds,” she stressed.  She called on Serbia, for its part, to remove any ambiguity about its commitment to those agreements and to refrain from opposing Kosovo’s membership in international organizations.  To Kosovo, she urged the immediate establishment of an association of Serb-majority municipalities, recalling that a commitment to do so was made in 2013.

The representative of Algeria voiced concern over incidents that disturbed the already-tense situation in North Kosovo, including the security incident in Banjska that led to a loss of life, as well as the unilateral decision regarding cash transactions.  Such developments raise interethnic tensions and impact the security and socioeconomic rights of non-majority communities.  Accordingly, he underlined the need to refrain from any action that could lead to escalation and ethnic tensions in Kosovo and urged that Serbs be adequately represented in local institutions.

The representative of the Republic of Korea expressed hope for reconciliation, peace and prosperity in the Western Balkans.  He expressed regret, however, that discussions on implementing the 2023 agreement to normalize relations based on the European Union’s proposal have not made progress.  Turning to the Central Bank of Kosovo’s regulation on currency transactions, he said that this measure will negatively impact Serbian residents in Kosovo.  Reiterating support for the European Union’s mediation efforts, he also stressed the importance of the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo in consolidating the rule of law in Kosovar institutions. He further emphasized the need for a review of UNMIK’s mandate, noting that the European Union Mission and KFOR are currently carrying out some of UNMIK’s tasks.

The representative of Sierra Leone urged authorities in Pristina and Belgrade to remain mindful of their unparalleled role in preventing an upsurge of conflict.  He also called on the Privatization Agency of Kosovo to reconsider its approach towards assuming control of properties and condemned any attempt by non-State actors to deter access to, burgle, deface or cause destruction to private property — particularly those occupied by UNMIK — as well as religious and cultural sites across Kosovo.  Highlighting the importance of engendering a multi-ethnic society, he reiterated the call for authorities in Belgrade and Pristina to deepen their cooperation, particularly with respect to finalizing the establishment of an association of Serb-majority municipalities in Kosovo.

The representative of Slovenia said that, while “one can find a lot of pain in Kosovo”, focusing on the past can prevent seeing better prospects for the future.  “And the future for all communities lies in multi-ethnic, multicultural Kosovo, at peace with itself and Serbia,” he stated.  The future of the whole region lies with the European Union, he said, adding that this is what citizens of the region want and expect.  However, challenges persist, as Kosovo Albanians and Kosovo Serbs remain divided communities.  Stating that the European Union-facilitated dialogue is “the only established forum for the normalization of relations between Serbia and Kosovo”, he underlined the need to support it in “every possible way”.  Also, he emphasized that security concerns between the two parties must be addressed, including by preventing arms smuggling and holding perpetrators of illegal activities accountable.

The representative of the Russian Federation stressed that NATO’s aggression against the former Yugoslavia became a watershed in global history and gave rise to the “spirit of confrontation” in international relations. Recalling procedural votes to prevent the conduct of a Council meeting twice requested by Moscow on this subject, he said this was done to “sweep those years under the rug” as part of the United States’ and the European Union’s policy of pressure on Serbia.  Instead of good-faith mediation, Washington, D.C., and Brussels are “supplanting” resolution 1244 (1999) to “amputate the southern province from Serbia”, and the United Kingdom has “thrust forward” the idea of using the 1998 Belfast Agreement as a model for resolving the issue, he said.  Meanwhile, he observed that “Orthodox sites are being proclaimed Catholic, Serbs are being labelled as occupiers and the history of the province is brazenly being falsified”.  If Council members fail to seek compromise, “latent” conflicts in the Balkans may metastasize into a full-blown conflagration, he stressed.

The representative of Mozambique, voicing concern that tensions between Serbia and Kosovo could escalate into a broader armed conflict, called on all national, regional and international stakeholders to exercise prudence and foresight in their decisions to safeguard hard-earned progress in Kosovo.  Restrictions on freedom of movement and economic activities must be addressed promptly, and he urged the leadership of both parties to actively promote reconciliation among their respective communities and refrain from any actions that may incite violence or exacerbate tensions.  He also welcomed the recent law on domestic and gender-based violence in Kosovo and praised UNMIK’s efforts to foster stability, rebuild trust and enhance dialogue between communities and institutions.

The representative of Japan, noting her country’s engagement in the Balkans, acknowledged positive rule-of-law developments in Kosovo since its independence along with relative stability in the region.  However, she expressed concern over the situation on the ground, stressing that the Banjska attack in September 2023 must be fully investigated.  Calling on both parties to recommit to existing agreements, she stressed:  “Fomenting distrust is not a constructive approach.”  She therefore urged the parties to further engage in European Union-facilitated dialogue, emphasizing that the Western Balkans’ accession to the bloc will contribute to regional stability and prosperity.  To that end, Japan launched its “Western Balkans Cooperation Initiative” in 2018 to support economic and social reforms towards European Union accession and to promote regional cooperation.

The representative of the United Kingdom encouraged both sides to engage constructively in European Union-facilitated dialogue and deliver on their respective obligations, including establishing an association of Serb-majority municipalities.  Further, Kosovo should exercise its sovereign powers in a way that reflects its multi-ethnic population and demonstrates sufficient regard for Kosovo’s non-majority communities.  Urging both parties to identify technical solutions to ongoing challenges relating to new regulation on foreign currencies, he stressed that Srpska Lista and other Kosovo Serb political actors should not stand in the way of Kosovo Serbs exercising their democratic rights.  He also emphasized that the perpetrators of the shocking events in Banjska in September 2023, as well as attacks on KFOR personnel in May 2023, must be held to account.

The representative of Malta, Council President for April, spoke in her national capacity to welcome positive steps taken by Serbia and Kosovo, including those concerning the property of the Visoki Dečani Monastery.  Noting that terrorist attacks on the Kosovo Police in September 2023 threaten escalation, she stressed:  “Dialogue remains the only tool available.”  On the local referendum in Kosovo’s northern municipalities, she expressed regret that conditions led to another boycott.  Also expressing regret over the lack of progress in forming an association of Serb-majority municipalities, she said that the decision to ban cash transactions using the Serbian dinar – although seemingly well-intentioned — will negatively impact Serb minorities.  Reiterating Malta’s commitment to both parties’ ambitions for European Union accession, she urged them to pursue reforms leading towards this integration.

The representative of the United States, taking the floor a second time to respond to the representative of the Russian Federation’s statement, said that NATO’s 1999 Operation Allied Force was necessary and legitimate to drive former President Milošević’s forces from Kosovo and end ethnic cleansing. It was an option of last resort, following the failure of diplomatic efforts and concerns over regional stability and increased displacement.  Regarding the proposed Council meeting on NATO’s operations 25 years ago, he said that Council members issued their verdict on this attempt to politicize the organ by objecting to the holding of such a meeting.

Mr. VUČIĆ (Serbia), re-taking the floor, underscored that the action against Serbia was illegitimate, taken without his country’s consent and without the Council’s decision.  On the election process in Kosovo, he said that “no one can vote freely”. Responding to the claim that around 4 per cent of Serbs live in Kosovo, he said that this figure was 7.5 per cent just two years ago.  This reflects that ethnic cleansing is Pristina’s only aim, he added.

Ms. OSMANI-SADRIU said:  “What President Vučić has just stated is entirely false.”  She also said that the “Kosovo of today” is “shaped by the pains of the past”, urging President Vučić to tell the Council whether he regrets belonging to a regime that caused more than 150,000 civilian deaths.  She added:  “The victims of that regime are standing right here.  Take a moment and apologize to them.  Show everyone whether you have even a little bit of a glimpse of humanity.”


https://press.un.org/en/2024/sc15673.doc.htm


https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

UN envoy urges international solidarity with Haiti as gang violence spirals


A man hangs onto the back of a bus in the troubled Delmas neighbourhood of Port-au-Prince.
© UNOCHA/Giles Clarke
 
A man hangs onto the back of a bus in the troubled Delmas neighbourhood of Port-au-Prince.


22 April 2024

Peace and Security

As gang violence increases in Haiti, the international community must continue to stand in solidarity with the population, the UN Special Representative for the country told the Security Council on Monday.

“Today, it pains me to note that all speeches and callings had not avoided that some of the worst scenarios for Haiti have become realities in recent months and weeks,” said Maria Isabel Salvador, who also heads the UN mission in Haiti, BINUH.

Speaking from the capital, Port-au-Prince, she said it was impossible to overstate the increase in gang activity in the city and beyond, along with the deterioration of the human rights situation and the deepening of the humanitarian crisis.

Tweet URL
UNDPPA

Last October, the Security Council authorized the deployment of a Multinational Security Support mission (MSS) to assist Haiti’s embattled police force.  

Although more than five million people, roughly half the population, are going hungry and hundreds of thousands have been displaced,  a $674 humanitarian appeal for Haiti is less than nine per cent funded.

Attacks and confrontations

Ms. Salvador recalled that in early March, gangs mounted coordinated attacks against key state infrastructure, including several police stations and two of the main prisons in Port-au-Prince, as well as educational and health facilities, and religious sites. 

They also launched several attacks against the Presidential Palace, sparking violent clashes with the Haitian National Police (HNP), leading to multiple casualties. Furthermore, gang confrontations around the international airport have forced all commercial airlines to halt services.

She noted that roughly 2,500 persons were killed or injured due to gang violence during the first quarter of the year. This represents a 53 per cent increase over the previous reporting period, making it the most violent quarter since BINUH began recording statistics two years ago.

Deploy Multinational Support Mission

Ms. Salvador said the national police - assisted by Haiti’s “modest” Armed Forces of Haiti and advised by BINUH and other international partners - have deployed immense efforts to contain the violence while being targeted by armed gangs. 

“Nevertheless, the severity of the current crisis underscores the gaps in capacity within the national structures and the urgent need for international assistance, namely through the immediate deployment of the MSS,” she said.

On the political front, she noted that Haitian stakeholders have worked to put their differences aside to find a common path towards restoring democratic institutions, including establishing a Transitional Presidential Council following the resignation announcement by President Ariel Henry in March. 

Security critical for progress

A number of other bodies are also expected to be established, including a National Security Council and a Provisional Electoral Council “which is urgently required to set plans in motion for the organization of elections.”

Ms. Salvador noted that despite the recent positive developments on the political front, improving the security situation remains a condition sine qua non for further progress. 

“I cannot stress enough the need to assist Haiti with its efforts to reestablish security,” she said. 

“One and a half years since Haiti requested assistance to enhance security and more than six months since this Council authorized the deployment of the MSS, we must continue to stress the importance of its urgent deployment.”

Catherine M. Russell, Executive Director of the United Nations Fund for Children (UNICEF), briefs the Security Council meeting on the question concerning Haiti.
UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe
 
Catherine M. Russell, Executive Director of the United Nations Fund for Children (UNICEF), briefs the Security Council meeting on the question concerning Haiti.

Children in the crosshairs

Catherine Russell, head of the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), appealed for greater support for the humanitarian plan for Haiti.  Of the roughly 5.5 million Haitians who need assistance, three million are children.

She said boys and girls are being injured or killed in the violence each day. Some are being recruited, or join armed groups out of sheer desperation. Recent UNICEF data indicates that anywhere from 30 to per 50 cent of armed groups have children in their ranks.

"Women and girls continue to be targeted with extreme levels of gender-based and sexual violence,” she added.

“Last year, thousands of cases of sexual violence were reported, many of which were perpetrated against children. The true number of cases is likely much higher.”

Humanitarian activities have also fallen victim to the violence as access to the port in the capital has been cut off because of armed group operations in the area.

Ms. Russell said nearly 300 containers of humanitarian supplies are now stranded, including 17 UNICEF containers loaded with nutrition supplements, as well as neonatal, maternal and medical supplies. 

Ghada Waly (on screen), Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, briefs the Security Council meeting on the question concerning Haiti.
UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe
 
Ghada Waly (on screen), Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, briefs the Security Council meeting on the question concerning Haiti.

Stand with Haiti

The Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Ghada Waly, said the violence "is made possible by the continued influx of guns into Haiti and is supported by corruption."

Recent events also suggest concerning signs of collusion between different gangs, she added.

The latest wave of violence saw reported fighting between gangs, but also signs of collaboration between certain groups to carry out attacks.

Furthermore, the attacks targeting key infrastructure were another reminder of the significant increase in firepower that the gangs possess, as weapons continue to flow into Haiti.

“We must stand with Haiti’s institutions and citizens in confronting violence, corruption, and chaos, and in working for a more stable and secure future for the people of Haiti,” she said.



https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/04/1148861


https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode

понедельник, 22 апреля 2024 г.

Secretary-General calls for UN 2.0 to tackle 21st century challenges


The Sustainable Development Goals projected onto UN Headquarters, in New York.
UN Photo/Cia Pak
 
The Sustainable Development Goals projected onto UN Headquarters, in New York.
22 April 2024

UN Affairs

Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday emphasized the need for a “strengthened and updated” United Nations to better reach and support people around the world.

Amid multifaceted crises ranging from conflicts to climate, and poverty and inequality, the world looks to the UN “to help deliver the better, safer and greener world we need,” Mr. Guterres said.

“But we cannot solve 21st century problems with 20th century tools – we need a UN 2.0,” he stressed, in a message opening the UN 2.0 week.

The transformation in skills and culture, encapsulated in the UN chief’s vision of a UN 2.0, is focused on fostering cutting-edge capabilities in data, digital solutions, innovation, foresight and behavioural science – to deliver stronger results and help countries accelerate efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Secretary-General’s vision is elaborated in a policy brief launched last September.

‘Forward-thinking culture’

In his message on Monday, Mr. Guterres also emphasized the need for a “forward-thinking culture” at the Organization, powered by rapid technological advances.

He added that this was particularly important given the fundamental changes proposed in Our Common Agenda, his vision for global cooperation and getting the SDGs back on track, as well as the Summit of the Future, which will be convened on 22-23 September in New York.

“We’re already seeing what is possible: From online resources for remote schools, to humanitarian aid based on real-time data, and technology that helps countries forecast and build resilience to disasters,” the UN chief said.

“Ultimately, UN 2.0 will make us better partners for countries as they achieve results for their people.”

UN 2.0 Week High-Level Opening

What is UN 2.0

Also speaking at the opening, Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed explained that UN 2.0 is the Organization’s response to how “we will pivot and meet the world where it is at and where it needs to go”.

“Thinking about what that means for investing in our staff, but also attending to many of the ‘quintet of change’ issues,” she added, noting the five topics – data, digital solutions, innovation, foresight and behavioural science.

She expressed hope that the transformations will make the UN more fit for purpose.

“That we can actually get out there and raise the ambitions, and be more responsive for the needs,” she added.

UN 2.0 Week

Taking place from 22 to 26 April, UN 2.0 Week showcases a series of virtual events including panel discussions and best practice sharing dialogues. Over 40 speakers from across the UN system and partner organizations are slated to speak.

Click here to find out more about and sign up for the UN 2.0 Week events



https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/04/1148806


https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/legalcode