About the book

The texts of my statements and speeches below are taken from official United Nations (UN) documents (minutes of meetings) available in the Dag Hammarskjöld Library in New York and are reproduced as they appear, without the protocolar references commonly used in such circumstances and instances. They are used with the permission of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, as sought by me.

As is recognised in international law, the will of the State, an international legal entity, is expressed through its representatives, physical persons occupying special positions within the State and giving a face to its organs. So, I made these interventions to express the position of the Republic of South Africa on the issues under consideration. It is indeed in my capacity as Permanent Representative of South Africa that I was called upon to make these interventions.

The work is devoid of any theoretical or doctrinal claim. Therefore, it is not accompanied by doctrinal commentaries, nor, consequently, by references to scientific references. It is neither objective observation of a researcher nor my detailed reflections on my time in the Council, the subject of my memoir already under development. It is intended rather to provide a comprehensive picture of the nature, character, and strategic orientation of the formal inputs by South Africa in various debates that came before the United Nations without further intervention by me. This is during a period in which matters of peace and security dominated, but issues of development and justice also became crucial in international diplomacy. The work helps the reader connect the various inputs in the hope that this will demonstrate a few golden threads that run through the diplomatic activity of an important African actor at the UN.

The book does not aspire to be exhaustive in its scope, covering all major debates and themes that came before the UN during my time as a permanent representative. Instead it provides a comprehensive enough picture of issues and nuances my interventions addressed. To make it a practical and easy-to-use tool, the chronological classification by organ has been preferred to the thematic classification.

In the United Nations’ archiving system, interventions before the Main Committees other than the First Committee are not reproduced in full. Only a simple summary is offered. These summaries are also contained in this work and are recognisable by the fact that my name is quoted at the beginning of the summary. The same applies to interventions made before the Economic and Social Council.

The work is divided into four parts: the first focuses on statements made before the General Assembly, the second concerns the statements before the Economic and Social Council, the third, statements before the Security Council.

It is our hope that this work will go some way to familiarising students of diplomacy and international relations about the kinds of debates that happen at the UN and how African countries like South Africa position themselves. It would help the readers to also pick up the language of diplomacy, some etiquette and protocols involved and how speeches move from offensive to defence posture without breaking this etiquette. It might be of interest to some readers to read how the inputs included reveal something of a nuance about how African diplomacy is practically prosecuted.

This field of study, we know, remains thin with very little material about African diplomacy at the United Nations and very little coming from African diplomats. While analytical work interpreting the activities of African diplomats is in great demand, and must happen, the raw voices of African diplomats should go some way towards providing the material needed for this academic work.

The last part gathers the Presidential statements made during the South African presidency of the Council and the resolutions adopted by the Council after South Africa’s sponsorship.

It is hoped that as a coffee table book, this collection will help enrich research and discussion about African contributions to the content of multilateralism at the United Nations.

The photos inserted at the end of the work show a slice of my life and activity during my stay in New York. While they are also in the public domain, they come from my private collections, unless otherwise stated in the caption of each photo.

The thorough consideration of these interventions that I made will, therefore, not only allow me to lay my stone in the attainment of the objectives of this august institution, but also and above all to demonstrate my commitment to these ideals and understand at the same time my thoughts and position on the other problems of the world. Without forgetting that, posterity will be able to draw from the quintessence of this experimental legacy, the elements of affirmation of international leadership and particularly in the promotion of peace.

The usefulness and particularly historical value of this work are, therefore, not to be overemphasised. Indeed, this work provides the administrations concerned like the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or institutions and other universities, research frameworks par excellence in international relations, a basis on which they can rely for the operation of their services, but above all, elements of research and analysis of the foreign policy of South Africa.

This unprecedented work of archiving and analysis in this field, finds its rightful place not only on the websites of these administrations but, also, in their sometimes-empty archives and therefore, allows various teachers, researchers, students, and other historians interested in having materials from which to carry out their work. As diplomacy is codified in its use and expressions, young diplomats will also be able to draw inspiration from it and note, in a fairly precise manner, the necessary expressions, methods and orientations in the use of official documents and more particularly of the reports of the UN Secretary-General. This document will, therefore, serve as a basis for their future statements, within the various committees and bodies and will, thereby enable them to unequivocally express the opinions and positions of their country.

Moreover, this compilation could be otherwise useful in South Africa and even for future generations because it will make it possible, we can never say it enough, to preserve the statements and the thoughts expressed by South Africa on the international scene.

Indeed, since admission of South Africa to the UN as founding member, major questions and problems have been addressed by the United Nations: The reform of the Security Council and the Organization as a whole; the responsibility of the Security Council and the Organization in the maintenance of international peace and security; situations and crises in various countries; the role of the Organization in the prevention of armed conflicts, and in the economic and social development of States; the numerous threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts; the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question; human rights, particularly women’s rights, etc. In addition to these crises and situations, some of which are still ongoing, real challenges of the 21st century, the objectification of certain goals has been a constant: to make multilateralism prevail and promote the San Francisco Charter.

On all these issues, South Africa has been led by its highest authorities, guarantors of its diplomacy, to take a stand and assert its opinion based on the guiding principles of its foreign policy, thus displaying since its independence its vision and conception of international relations and promoting its strategy of multilateral diplomacy. This work, although partially, will enable the country to structure, perpetuate, capture, and preserve his position and voice, and at the same time protect it and avoid possible distortions and damaging setbacks.

This is also the ambition of this collection, which is no less a working tool like we said, for other researchers, historians and students of international relations who are and will be interested in South Africa’s position, thinking and vision of international life and its major issues. This collection reveals the ambitions, concerns, aspirations, questions, positions, and pleas of South Africa. In addition to the crises and situations it addresses, these statements offer, for example, several ways of reading South Africa’s action and position on the international scene.

An overall brainstorming should, therefore, be initiated, on the basis of this document, for a more complete archiving of all of the statements of South Africa at the UN and why not in other international fora.

Ambassador Jerry M. Matjila

With the assistance of Mr Njém Iboum Pierre Barry

Part I: Interventions at the General Assembly

United Nations General Assembly Sixty-Fifth Session

Official Records: A/C.3/65/SR.25 Third Committee

Summary Record of the 25th Meeting Held at Headquarters, New York, on Thursday,

21 October 2010, at 3 P.M. Agenda Item 68:

Promotion and Protection of Human Rights

(B) Human Rights Questions, Including Alternative

Approaches for Improving the Effective Enjoyment of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms

(C) Human Rights Situations and Reports of Special Rapporteurs and Representatives

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that his delegation agreed with Mrs. Margaret Sekaggya, Uganda’s former special Rapporteur of UN that non-State actors also had a responsibility to respect human rights, in addition to that borne by Governments. He asked the Special Rapporteur what recourse human rights defenders whose own rights had been violated by transnational corporations might have in the event that such corporations refused to cooperate with proceedings aimed at holding them to account.

United Nations General Assembly Sixty-Fifth Session

Official Records: A/C.3/65/SR.29 Third Committee

Summary Record of the 29th Meeting Held at Headquarters, New York, on Monday,

25 October 2010, At 3 P.M. Agenda Item 68:

Promotion and Protection of Human Rights

(B) Human Rights Questions, Including Alternative

Approaches for Improving the Effective Enjoyment of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms

(C) Human Rights Situations and Reports of Special Rapporteurs and Representatives

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that the report by the former Special Rapporteur (SR) on the Rights to Education Mr. Vernor Muñoz Villalobos was indeed very controversial, especially as issues of health did not fall within the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the right to education. The right to education was a national priority for South Africa, given the critical need to achieve all of the Millennium Development Goals by 2015, and its efforts in that area would be guided by existing human rights instruments in the field. The Government had introduced HIV and sex education as part of the wider Life Orientation curriculum for schools, which included topics such as diversity, democracy and human rights.

The quality of education was also fundamental to the right to education; however, the shortage of classrooms, laboratory equipment, poor sanitation, and learning materials in developing countries, in particular in Africa, was a cause for serious concern. He therefore asked the new Special Rapporteur Mr. Kishore Singh how he intended to address the question of financial resources in the realisation of the right to education.

United Nations General Assembly Sixty-Fifth Session

Official Records: A/C.3/65/SR.31 Third Committee

Summary Record of the 31st Meeting Held at Headquarters, New York, on Tuesday,

26 October 2010, At 3 P.M. Agenda Item:

Human Rights Situations and Reports of Special Rapporteurs and Representatives

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) asked what solution would Mr. John Ruggie, the United Nation’s Special Representative on Business and Human Rights, propose to address corporate human rights abuses in conflict zones, in particular in Africa, and what recourse victims might have.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-First Session

Official Records: A/C.6/71/SR.1 Sixth Committee

Summary Record of the 1st Meeting Held at Headquarters, New York, on Monday,

3 October 2016, At 10 A.M. Agenda Item 108:

Measures to Eliminate International Terrorism

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa), speaking on behalf of the African Group, said that the African States condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including State terrorism, by whomever and against whomever committed. The African Group appreciated the work done thus far to prepare a comprehensive convention on international terrorism and continued to attach importance to the early finalisation of that instrument. It remained willing to work with others to achieve consensus on the draft convention and to continue refining the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. The proposal to convene a high-level conference under the auspices of the United Nations to decide on an international response to terrorism should be given serious consideration.

Africa had long recognised the need for concrete measures to combat terrorism, as reflected in the Organization of African Unity Convention on the Prevention and Combatting of Terrorism, which had come into force in 2002, the preparation in the same year of a plan of action at an intergovernmental high-level meeting on the subject, and the establishment in Algiers of the African Centre for Studies and Research on Terrorism.

The financing of terrorism was a matter of great concern, particularly as one of its main sources was the payment of ransoms. The African Group therefore urged Member States to cooperate in addressing the issue of payment of ransoms to terrorist groups. In view of the need to promote international cooperation and assistance, the Group welcomed the Trans-Sahara Counterterrorism Partnership, developed with the assistance of the United States, and the Madrid Declaration and Plan of Action on strengthening the legal regime against terrorism in West and Central Africa. Africa always endeavoured to comply with its international counter-terrorism obligations, but many African States were hamstrung by inadequate resources and capacities, and they appealed to the international community for assistance in that regard.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-First Session

First Committee

3rd Meeting

Tuesday, 4 October 2016, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/C.1/71/PV.3 Agenda Items:

General Debate on all Disarmament and International Security Agenda Items

My delegation would like to congratulate you, Sir, H.E. Ambassador Sabri Boukadoum of Algeria on your appointment as Chair of the First Committee and wishes to assure you of our full support and cooperation. We would also like to associate ourselves with the statements delivered previously on behalf of the Group of African States, the Non-Aligned Movement and the New Agenda Coalition (see A/C.1/71/PV.2).

As we meet again for yet another session of the First Committee, this platform provides us with an opportunity to reflect on the progress achieved during the past year. While we welcome the progress made in some areas, we are deeply aware of the daunting work that still remains in strengthening international security and disarmament in general. We remain concerned about the continuing impasse in the disarmament machinery. The 20-year stalemate in the Conference on Disarmament and the lack of agreement in the Disarmament Commission for many years have had a negative impact on multilateralism and the multilateral system of governance.

It is evident that the lack of progress on nuclear disarmament in particular is a source of growing frustration amongst the vast majority of the States’ Members of the United Nations. Achievements in the area of nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation remain especially uneven. The regime established by the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) is constantly reaffirmed by the majority of the international community, and many creative measures have been introduced to strengthen nuclear non-proliferation. Yet nuclear disarmament obligations and commitments continue to be subjected to reinterpretation and further conditions. That is not acceptable. The argument that nuclear weapons are indispensable for the security of some States but not for others is not only illogical but lacks credibility. The resistance of the States possessing nuclear weapons to fulfilling their disarmament obligations and commitments has caused serious divisions amongst States and created a credibility crisis in the nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation regime.

The Open-ended Working Group taking forward multilateral nuclear disarmament negotiations provided an inclusive platform for us all to seek effective measures to achieve and maintain a world free of nuclear weapons. Despite the concerted efforts of virtually all participants to achieve a consensus outcome, one State regrettably decided to break consensus on the report (see A/71/371). In the end, the Group adopted its report by an overwhelming majority. Amongst other important recommendations, the report recommends that the General Assembly convene a conference in 2017 to commence negotiations on a treaty prohibiting nuclear weapons. Such a treaty is a practical and achievable interim step to fill a glaring gap in the international legal architecture pertaining to the legality of nuclear weapons.

In the area of chemical weapons, South Africa welcomes the progress made by the relevant States’ parties to destroy their chemical weapons stockpiles, abandoned chemical weapons, and old chemical weapons. We remain deeply concerned about the reported use of chemical weapons in the Syrian Arab Republic. In the area of biological weapons, South Africa looks forward to the upcoming Review Conference, which we hope will achieve an outcome that would strengthen the Biological Weapons Convention and its implementation. No cause could ever justify the use of any weapon of mass destruction, anywhere, by any actor, under any circumstances.

Regarding conventional weapons, South Africa, as a State party to the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention and the Convention on Cluster Munitions, will play its part on the journey towards a world free of both anti-personnel mines, and cluster munitions. We encourage the States that have not yet done so, in particular those possessing such weapons, to join the aforementioned instruments without delay. We call on the States in a position to do so to assist requesting States in their national implementation efforts and to provide assistance to the victims of such weapons.

South Africa continues to believe that the United Nations’ Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects represents the central, universally agreed set of undertakings to prevent, combat, and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. Apart from national implementation efforts, the full implementation of the entire Programme of Action, including those provisions related to international cooperation and assistance, remains of critical importance. Likewise, we welcome the outcome of the second Conference of State Parties to the Arms Trade Treaty and look forward to the full implementation of the Treaty in regulating international trade in conventional arms and in contributing to curbing illicit transfers.

My delegation stands ready to participate actively in the work of this year’s First Committee and to join you, Sir, and other delegations in making a success of our work.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-First Session

Official Records: A/C.4/71/SR.6

Special Political and Decolonisation Committee (Fourth Committee)

Summary Record of the 6th Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Friday, 7 October 2016, at 3 P.M. Agenda Item 58:

Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting

of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples

(Territories not Covered under other Agenda Items)

(Continued)

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that his government stood in solidarity with the government and people of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic in their struggle to attain self-determination, thus fulfilling the dream of their late leader, Mohamed Abdelaziz.

Given that democratic South Africa had been founded on the basis of the right to self-determination, it attached great importance to the issue of decolonisation and believed in a people’s legitimate right to free themselves from the yoke of colonialism. It remained seriously concerned that Western Sahara was the last colony on the African continent still listed as a Non-Self-Governing Territory by the United Nations despite the fact that the General Assembly had consistently recognised the Sahrawi people’s inalienable right to self-determination and independence under General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV). The fact that Morocco was an occupying power was not debatable and had been settled by both the General Assembly in various resolutions and the International Court of Justice in its 1975 advisory opinion. The Organization must act upon its various decisions and bring about the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara without further delay.

The liberation of the Sahrawi people remained a priority for Africa. It had been consistently reaffirmed by the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council and various AU Assemblies of Heads of State and Government that, without the successful resolution of the situation in Western Sahara on the basis of international law, tensions would persist in the territory and efforts to promote integration in the Maghreb would be futile. The AU had also called for the observance of human rights in Western Sahara, and the halting of the exploitation of the territory’s natural resources which, in a 2002 legal opinion by the then Legal Counsel of the United Nations, had been declared illegal if such activities did not benefit the people and respect their wishes. The illegal exploitation of natural resources in Western Sahara by Morocco had recently been denounced in an address to the United Nations Security Council by the African Union Special Envoy for Western Sahara, H.E. former President Joaquim Chissano of Mozambique was the AU special Envoy for Western Sahara who had also warned that the Moroccan decision to expel the civilian personnel of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) following the Secretary-General’s visit to the region, carried a risk of military escalation; had called for a date to be set for the mandated referendum; and had requested inclusion of the protection of human rights in the mandate of MINURSO. It was important for MINURSO, as it gradually returned to full functionality, to do so in compliance with Security Council resolution 2285 (2016).

The attempts by the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General for Western Sahara, H.E. Ambassador Christopher Ross (US) to travel to the region had been continuously impeded by the Moroccan authorities since May 2016. This would have a negative impact on his briefings to the Security Council and the Secretary-General. Reports of violations of the ceasefire agreement in the Guerguerat area were also a matter of great concern, and all parties must adhere to their obligations to prevent an escalation of tensions. Cooperation between the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General and the AU Special Envoy, called for by the Security Council, would certainly help resolve the conflict in Western Sahara. The Third International Decade for the Eradication of Colonialism must not be allowed to pass without the people of Western Sahara being afforded their inalienable right to self-determination. Member States must no longer remain indifferent to the plight of those who sought the same freedoms they themselves enjoyed.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-First Session

42nd Plenary Meeting

Monday, 7 November 2016, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/71/PV.42 Agenda Item 122:

Question of Equitable Representation on and Increase in the Membership of the Security Council and Other Matters Related to the Security Council

I thank you, Mr President, (H.E. Ambassador Peter Thomson of Fiji, President of the 71st session of the UN General Assembly), for giving my delegation the opportunity to express our views on the important agenda item before the General Assembly. South Africa aligns itself with the statements delivered by the Permanent Representatives of Sierra Leone and Saint Lucia, who spoke on behalf of the African Union Member States and the L.69 group of countries, respectively. I wish to make the following additional remarks in my national capacity.

In participating in today’s debate, South Africa remains mindful of the urgent need for Security Council reform. We encourage all Member States and groups to work hard to move the process forward on the basis of the gains made in previous sessions. We commend the President for convening this debate early in the 71st session. I would also congratulate Ambassador Ion Jinga, Permanent Representative of Romania, and Ambassador Mohamed Khaled Khiari, Permanent Representative of Tunisia, on their appointments as co-Chairs of the intergovernmental negotiations, and assure them of South Africa’s commitment to working with them to advance the comprehensive reform of the Security Council.

The Charter of the United Nations confers on the Security Council the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. Through its Charter mandate, the Council is given important and far-reaching powers to act on behalf of the broader membership of the United Nations. It is therefore crucial that the Security Council be reformed to reflect the realities of the 21st century in order to make the Council more democratic, legitimate, representative, responsive, and transparent in its working methods and decision-making processes.

In 1945, the United Nations had 51 Member States; today it has 193. At that time, there were only four African Member States: Egypt, Ethiopia, Liberia, and the Union of South Africa. Africa today has 54 Member States. The historical injustice against the African continent, as reflected in the structure of the Security Council should finally be corrected. We believe that the Organization would benefit greatly from our continent’s full participation in the Security Council. Therefore, my delegation calls on the President and the Chairs of the intergovernmental negotiations to spare no effort in this session to give priority to and expedite the reform process.

South Africa is of the view that the main obstacle to achieving any movement in our ceaseless discussions is that the process itself is flawed. In spite of their name, the intergovernmental negotiations are not negotiations. Rather, they are debates comprising endless repetition of decades-old positions from groups and States. That is why South Africa and so many other Member States have called for the commencement of text-based negotiations. We support expansion of the Council in both the permanent and non-permanent categories, and we express the need for reform now.

Like many other States, South Africa was hopeful that the 70th session would build on the significant achievements of the 69th. We were bitterly disappointed that the process stalled once again. Fortunately, we are at the beginning of a new session and therefore wish once again to make our position on the process clear. South Africa reiterates its call for efforts to build on the progress achieved in previous sessions, especially the 69th session and on the basis of decisions 62/557 and 69/560, as well as the framework document and its annex circulated by the President of the General Assembly at its 69th session, on 31 July 2015. To achieve such progress, we propose that the intergovernmental negotiations of the 71st session be primarily focused on developing a road map with a clear implementable framework.

To achieve that, we further propose that the intergovernmental negotiations adopt a different format this year, replacing the debate format that has become our routine with vigorous engagement on the framework document and how to move it forward. As we also believe that the process will benefit from bloc meetings, we propose that the Chairs schedule a few concurrent days per element to allow for interactive exchange and negotiations amongst Member States. We have seen over the past years that one-day meetings with long lapses of time between them only result in general statements repeated ad nauseam, thus threatening to turn the process into an endless working group that never achieves reform. We also wish to call for the use of the full calendar of the session. We should therefore start as soon as possible and continue for as long as possible and not let several months go by without scheduling any related activities, as happened in previous sessions. South Africa does not believe that the adoption of such a practical process will undermine the principles of all-inclusiveness and transparency, to which we are fully committed.

In conclusion, my delegation is well aware that the road ahead is going to be challenging, but the Assembly can rest assured that South Africa, working with other like-minded Member States, intends to walk it to its successful conclusion. We would like to reassure Member States of our commitment to working with the President and the Chairs to move the process of the reform of the Security Council forward during the 71st session.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-First Session

46th Plenary Meeting

Wednesday, 16 November 2016, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/71/PV.46 Agenda Items:

Integrated and Coordinated Implementation of and Follow-Up to the Outcomes of the Major United Nations Conferences and Summits in the Economic, Social and Related Fields Reports of the Secretary-General (A/71/345 And A/71/534)

Notes by the Secretary-General (A/71/177 and A/71/363)

Draft Resolution (A/71/L.10)

Follow-Up to the Outcome of the Millennium Summit Reports of the Secretary-General (A/71/345 and A/71/534)

(A) Strengthening of the United Nations System

(B) Strengthening of the United Nations System

Central Role of the United Nations System in Global Governance Report of the Secretary-General (A/71/378) United Nations Reform: Measures and Proposals

South Africa supports the implementation of resolution 67/289, entitled “The United Nations in global economic governance”, adopted on 9 July 2013. We thank the Secretary-General for his report (A/71/378) on that important matter.

Many countries, particularly developing countries, continue to lag behind in development owing to, inter alia, the current global economic governance and trading system, which continues to fail to adequately address the needs of developing countries. There is therefore an urgent need to reform the global economic governance and trading system.

We believe that the availability of adequate financing is key to the development of countries. However, the systemic fragilities and imbalances in the international financial system have had negative consequences on the flow of financing to developing countries. The insufficiency of institutional arrangements for global economic governance highlights the need to address the inadequacy of the international monetary, financial, and trading systems.

It is critical to address systemic issues so that Member States can better achieve their development goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals. The world financial and economic crises of 2008 and 2009 had a negative impact on the functioning of the international financial system. The adverse impact of the world financial and economic crises, including on development, and the subsequent uneven, fragile, and slow recovery of the global economy persist, with developing countries being the most affected.

In addition, the world financial and economic crises have raised pertinent questions about the suitability of the international financial system for the contemporary international political economy, including the governance structures of the international financial institutions themselves. That requires reforming the Bretton Woods institutions in the areas of representation of and participation by developing countries in decision-making processes. South Africa believes that there should be enhanced international commitment to assisting all countries to achieve sustainable development in its three dimensions in a balanced and integrated manner. South Africa has consistently advocated for a fundamental reform of the international financial institutions, relating to their mandates, representation, scope, governance, responsibility, responsiveness, and development orientation, in order to ensure that they are democratic, responsive and accountable, reflecting the realities of the 21st century.

We welcome the International Monetary Fund (IMF) quota reforms of 2010, including the inclusion of the Chinese yuan in the basket of currencies for special drawing rights. However, South Africa continues to call for the improved representation of Africa on the IMF Board of Governors, as well as additional measures required outside the quota-formula discussions.

Furthermore, South Africa believes that the appointment of the heads of the IMF and the World Bank should be based on merit, without regard to nationality. Also, the Bretton Woods institutions should further strengthen the diversity of their staff in all its dimensions, including nationality, gender, and developing-country experience.

We would like to reaffirm that international trade is an important engine for inclusive growth and poverty eradication. The international community needs to recommit to combatting protectionism in all its forms.

It is our firm view that World Trade Organization (WTO) members need to redouble their efforts to promptly conclude the negotiations on the Doha Development Agenda. Development concerns form an integral part of the Doha Development Agenda, which places the needs and interests of developing countries at the heart of the Doha Work Programme. Furthermore, we urge WTO members to accelerate the accession of all developing countries engaged in negotiations for WTO membership.

South Africa recognises the significant potential of regional economic integration to promote inclusive and sustainable development. With regard to Africa, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development reinforces the continent’s development blueprint and Agenda 2063 and its First Ten-Year Implementation Plan.

The realisation of an equitable and democratic global economic governance structure cannot be further delayed. South Africa therefore urges the international community to view issues relating to global economic governance in a spirit of inclusiveness and to commit to advancing that priority with a sense of vigour and great determination.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-First Session

Official Records: A/C.3/71/SR.53 Third Committee

Summary Record of the 53rd Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Monday, 21 November 2016, At 10 A.M.

Agenda Item 63:

Report of the Human Rights Council

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that his country’s position was determined by its constitution. The question of discrimination was close to its heart; after more than 350 years of painful struggles, during which many people had lost their lives or had been imprisoned, the people of South Africa, black and white, straight and not straight, had come together to bury discrimination once and for all. The nation’s Bill of Rights made it very clear what type of South Africa they had fought for: a country without discrimination. South Africans did not want to see anyone suffer discrimination for any reason whatsoever and would fight it every time.

No one should be discriminated against because of their lifestyle or sexual orientation. On that issue, it was no secret that South Africa had a difference of opinion with most of the other countries on the African continent. South Africa would fight discrimination even if it had to do so alone. It was still healing deep wounds caused by racial discrimination and did not wish to add fresh wounds. It would vote in accordance with its constitutional imperative.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-First Session

59th Plenary Meeting

Friday, 9 December 2016, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: A/71/PV.59 Agenda Item 31:

Prevention of Armed Conflict Draft Resolution (A/71/L.39)

H.E. Ambassador Peter Thomson Presided over

Unga Plenary (2016-2017) as the President of the General Assembly

We welcome the convening of this meeting on the situation in the Syrian Arab Republic. My delegation continues to be very concerned about the devastating human tragedy unfolding in that country. Our highest priority remains stopping the killing and ending the suffering of innocent civilians. There should be an immediate end to the violence, and talks should begin to reach a Syrian-led political transition that reflects the will of the Syrian people as a whole.

South Africa condemns all human rights abuses, in particular violations of the rights of vulnerable groups such as women, children, and ethnic minorities. South Africa calls for unhindered access to humanitarian assistance for the people of Syria as a whole. During the recent Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) Summit held in Goa, India, the BRICS leaders called on all parties involved: “[t]

o work for a comprehensive and peaceful resolution of the conflict, taking into account the legitimate aspirations of the people of Syria, through inclusive national dialogue and a Syrian-led political process based on the Geneva communiqué of 30 June 2012, and in pursuance of United Nations Security Council resolutions 2254 (2015) and 2268 (2016) for their full implementation”.

For us, it is essential that a political path be supported by unity and cohesion and by international efforts towards Syrian-led negotiations and a political transition aimed at establishing a pluralistic society in which minorities are protected.

South Africa abstained in the voting on resolution 71/130 earlier today as we remain concerned that some countries may be using this opportunity, under the guise of providing humanitarian assistance, for political grandstanding, advancing their own political interests and effecting regime change at a time when the people of Syria are relying on the United Nations to save them from the scourge of war. What is required from the international community is unity of purpose and common action, rather than divisive statements and actions that benefit only those who want the conflict to continue and so undermine any efforts towards negotiated peace.

My government remains convinced that in a complex and diverse society such as Syria’s there can be no military solution to the conflict. In this context, we reject any calls for regime change, external interference or any action that is not in line with the Charter of the United Nations. If the crisis in Syria continues to be fuelled with weapons -especially from external sources -it is ultimately the people of Syria who will pay the heaviest price, as we have witnessed in similar situations elsewhere in the world.

The Security Council has failed the people of Syria owing to its paralysis. The structural deficiencies of an archaic and outdated body, where national interests trump international responsibilities and obligations, once again reflect the urgent need for reform of the Council. This failure is also manifested in the double standards; we know of other cases where civilians have continued to die, such as in Libya, Iraq, Yemen, and Palestine.

It is not acceptable to South Africa for the General Assembly, especially the sponsors of the resolution we have just adopted, to be silent about the immense human suffering in Yemen, Libya, and elsewhere in the region. The conflict has now resulted in well over 6 million Syrian refugees. In this regard, South Africa calls on the States’ members of the European Union and Syria’s regional neighbours to utilise all relevant domestic entities, multilateral forums and bilateral mechanisms to assist Syrian refugees, in full accordance and compliance with all human rights laws.

According to an African saying, any child is my child. A Libyan child is my child. A Yemeni child is my child. A Syrian child is my child. As the United Nations and as the Security Council, we cannot discriminate against others’ children. All those children -our children -and their mothers deserve the assistance of all the States’ Members of the United Nations.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-First Session

61st Plenary Meeting

Monday, 12 December 2016, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: A/71/PV.61 Agenda Item 88:

Report of the International Atomic Energy Agency Note by the Secretary-General (A/71/322)

Draft Resolution (A/71/L.35)

Let me first start by thanking the outgoing Secretary-General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon, for his sterling work at the helm of the United Nations. I also welcome Mr. António Guterres and pledge our support and commitment to working with him as he leads the Organization.

We fully welcome the statement you made, Mr. President, at the outset of today’s proceedings, which ably underscored the importance of the General Assembly and its role in the world today. I would also like to express my delegation’s sincere appreciation to the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Mr. Yukiya Amano, for his succinct presentation of the IAEA 2015 report (see A/71/322) and for providing valuable updates on the Agency’s 2016 activities.

South Africa fully supports the priorities and work of the IAEA, including the progress achieved by the Agency during the 2015 period. In that regard, South Africa has always maintained that the Agency’s nuclear applications in areas such as agriculture, crop production, food security, human health, water resource management, nuclear technology, and animal health contribute to achieving socioeconomic development in developing countries, which assist those countries

-particularly African States -in their efforts to implement the Sustainable Development Goals. In that context, South Africa reiterates the support shared by many Member States for the IAEA to continue to assist developing countries, particularly in Africa, to enhance the benefits that could be derived from the peaceful use of nuclear science and technology. Furthermore, South Africa wishes to underscore the central role played by the Agency in implementing its Safeguards verification system, which plays an essential role in verifying the peaceful nature of nuclear energy programmes. As the only country to voluntarily dismantle its nuclear-weapons programme, with the assistance and under the guidance of the IAEA, South Africa can attest to the indispensable role of the Agency’s Safeguards system.

South Africa is extremely honoured to chair the Board of Governors of the IAEA this year, represented by Mr. Tebogo Seokolo, our Ambassador based in Vienna. It is my pleasure, under agenda item 88, to introduce to the General Assembly the draft resolution entitled “Report of the International Atomic Energy Agency” (A/71/L.35). My delegation conducted two consultations, one in Vienna on 21 November and the other in New York on 29 November. The draft resolution is presented with only technical updates from last year’s resolution 70/10. This draft resolution, which is adopted by the General Assembly annually, is based on a longstanding cooperation agreement between the United Nations and the Agency, which was entered into in 1957. It is my delegation’s view that the purpose of the discussion today -the current draft resolution -gives the general membership of the United Nations a unique occasion to be kept abreast of the activities the Agency has undertaken during the reporting year, as well as an opportunity to pledge their support for the continued work of the Agency.

In conclusion, the draft resolution, inter alia, takes note of the decisions adopted by the IAEA General Conference at its 60th annual regular session, from 26 to 30 September. The draft resolution further reaffirms the indispensable role of the Agency in encouraging and assisting in the development and practical application of atomic energy for peaceful uses, in technology transfer to developing countries and in nuclear safety, verification and security matters. Lastly, the draft resolution calls on Member States “to continue to support activities of the Agency”.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-First Session

63rd Plenary Meeting

Thursday, 15 December 2016, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/71/PV.63 Agenda Item 127:

Global Health and Foreign Policy

Notes by the Secretary-General (A/71/601 And A/71/598) Draft Resolution (A/71/L.41)

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Foreign Policy and Global Health Network, which consists of Brazil, France, Indonesia, Norway, Senegal, Thailand, and my own country, South Africa.

Ten years ago, our foreign ministers agreed to put health at the centre of foreign policy. United in the recognition that policy coherence is paramount in preventing and addressing health issues, they acknowledged the important role that foreign ministers have to play in global health, transcending the North-South divide. That led to the adoption of the Oslo Ministerial Declaration on “Global Health: a pressing foreign policy issue of our time”, which recognised that there are technical and political dimensions to the protection and promotion of global health and human security that belong not just to ministries of health and the World Health Organization but also require intergovernmental and inter-agency coordination, as well as collaboration with businesses and civil society.

The Network is premised on the understanding that health is one of our most important yet still widely neglected long-term foreign-policy issues. As such, investing in health is fundamental to economic growth and development. That understanding has guided our work in the General Assembly and our approach to global health challenges. With the support of our like-minded partners, we have witnessed the Assembly’s successful adoption of eight authoritative annual resolutions on health.

Today we have the honour to present our ninth draft resolution (A/71/L.41) on the theme of health employment and global health. The theme was inspired by the High-level Commission on Health Employment and Economic Growth, co-chaired by President Jacob Zuma of South Africa and President François Hollande of France. It follows up on resolution 70/183, on global health and foreign policy, which in its 19th preambular paragraph recognised, amongst other things, “that investing in new health workforce employment opportunities may also add broader socioeconomic value to the global economy and national economies and contribute to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda”.

In its operative paragraph 22, it further requested the Secretary-General to “explore steps to meet the global shortfall of trained health workers, including the possibility of establishing a high-level commission on future health employment and economic growth”.

The Commission issued its report on 20 September, and it is our hope that its recommendations, which would require stronger action and cooperation with non-health sectors such as finance, education, labour, social welfare, and research and development, will be taken on board by all Governments, civil society, and business. The success of the Commission will not be measured by its report alone but by the extent to which cross-sectoral coordination takes place at the regional and global levels towards a substantially increased global health workforce. The report’s recommendations will remain mere proposals unless we actively advance them and help to bring them to the attention of all Member States.

My delegation had the privilege of presiding over the negotiation process for this year’s draft resolution, which was once again marked by vibrant yet constructive engagements. The flexibility shown by delegations again reaffirmed the commitment and dedication embodied in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Goal 3, regarding the health of our populations. Notwithstanding some divergent views, there was a shared understanding amongst Member States that 21st-century health challenges related to demographic, epidemiological, and technological changes will require a health workforce geared towards health promotion, disease prevention, people-centred community-based health services and personalised long-term care.

We welcome the critical role played in this area by women and girls, who are in the majority in the health and social sector workforce, and recognise that too much of their work is in the form of unpaid and informal care. We are also aware that such unpaid, informal care is likely to continue to be performed in homes and within families in the future. In that context, we would like to recall the commitment we made in the 2030 Agenda to recognise and value unpaid care work and to promote shared responsibility for it within the household and the family.

We are pleased that Member States concur with the recommendations of the report, in particular that investments in the health sector should enhance women’s economic empowerment and participation in the health sector. Such investments could transform unpaid and informal care roles into decent work and promote opportunities for skills enhancement and measures to retain and promote women into leadership positions through policies and strategies that eliminate gender biases and inequality.

Several initiatives have flowed from past General Assembly resolutions on global health and foreign policy. Recent examples are the Secretary-General’s High-level Panel on the Global Response to Health Crises and the High-level Panel on Access to Medicines, as well as the United Nations’ high-level meetings on HIV and AIDS and on antimicrobial resistance. We look forward to the serious consideration by Member States of the recommendations of the reports, as well as the Political Declaration, in furtherance of achieving universal health coverage with emphasis on resilient health systems and access to medicine.

We are convinced that universal health coverage will not be achieved without access to innovative treatments for all. In this regard, we are of the view that the international community must continue to build on creative solutions to make this goal effective, such as the International Drug Purchase Facility, and we take note of the initiatives and discussions on this issue.

We welcome the decision of the General Assembly to hold a high-level meeting in 2018 on the fight against tuberculosis. South Africa is amongst those countries with a particularly strong interest in this issue, as we face a triple burden of antimicrobial resistance, namely: drug-resistant tuberculosis, drug-resistant HIV, and antibiotic resistance. Tuberculosis remains the leading cause of death amongst patients living with HIV/AIDS. We are therefore confident that the outcome of the high-level meeting in 2018 will have a lasting impact in the fight against tuberculosis.

In conclusion, as our Network approaches the next decade of its existence, we wish to reiterate our unwavering commitment to continuing to advance global health issues in the broader United Nations framework and beyond, in particular by maintaining and utilising the item “Global health and foreign policy” on the agenda of the General Assembly.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-First Session

66th Plenary Meeting

Wednesday, 21 December 2016, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: A/71/PV.66 Agenda Item 31:

Prevention of Armed Conflict Draft Resolution (A/71/L.48)

We would like to thank you, Mr. President, for enabling the General Assembly to discuss the situation in Syria today. South Africa condemns all abuses of human rights -particularly violations of the rights of vulnerable groups, such as women and children -everywhere, including Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Libya, and Palestine. It is more important than ever that we affirm our commitment to the protection of human rights and to the people affected in all of those crisis areas.

Draft resolution A/71/L.48 throws the entire United Nations’ system into crisis. It deepens divisions and polarises our Organization. It is a bad ending for 2016. When we are dealing with people’s lives, we should make room for extensive dialogue and consultations. After all, just a few days ago the Security Council adopted resolution 2328 (2016) on Syria. South Africa is opposed to the selective way that issues are being dealt with in the General Assembly, and we believe that these one-sided draft resolutions that continue to be presented to the Assembly are not helping to resolve the conflict in Syria. We believe that the draft resolution under discussion will not help the parties to the Syrian conflict to reach a lasting peace, and South Africa will therefore vote on it accordingly.

We are concerned that some Member States may be using this as an opportunity to advance their own geopolitical interests and achieve certain outcomes that may not fall within the mandate of the General Assembly. In our view, the draft resolution seeks to oblige the Assembly to do the work of the Security Council. We cannot risk letting it encroach on the Council’s mandate when the Charter of the United Nations clearly states that the responsibility for maintaining peace and security lies with the Security Council. We also believe that the draft resolution’s process was not transparent and is procedurally flawed.

Article 12 of the Charter clearly states that “[t]he Secretary-General, with the consent of the Security Council, shall notify the General Assembly at each session of any matters relative to the maintenance of international peace and security which are being dealt with by the Security Council and shall similarly notify the General Assembly, or the Members of the United Nations if the General Assembly is not in session, immediately the Security Council ceases to deal with such matters.”

The Assembly has not received any such notification. Furthermore, the Article implies that the Assembly cannot deal with an issue that is before the Security Council unless it is authorised to do so by the Council. I am not sure that we have been given the communication to do so.

Secondly, the way in which this process was undertaken runs the risk of setting an erroneous precedent. This kind of decision should be reached only with the consent of the Member States directly involved, and that principle was not followed. South Africa believes that peace is a fundamental condition for the protection and promotion of human rights in Syria. We will continue to urge the parties to the conflict to turn to the Security Council themselves and collectively find a road map for a sustainable Syrian-led political solution to the crisis. The General Assembly, this parliament of the people of the world, should put more effort into reaching the goal of a durable political settlement in Syria.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-First Session

Official Records: A/C.5/71/SR.29 Fifth Committee

Summary Record of the 29th Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Monday, 1 May 2017, At 10 A.M. Agenda Item 132:

Financial Reports and Audited Financial Statements, and Reports of the Board of Auditors

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that delays in the preparation of documentation prevented the Advisory Committee and the Fifth Committee from adequately examining reports.

In line with the recommendations of recent high-level reviews of peace operations, prevention and mediation should be prioritised in peace and security efforts, particularly given the high cost of peacekeeping and humanitarian responses and the need to protect development gains. Political solutions should also remain the ultimate objective of United Nations’ peacekeeping operations. Such operations nevertheless played a critical role in maintaining international peace and security through supporting political and peace processes authorised by the Security Council. They should therefore be given the necessary resources, entrusted with appropriate mandates and adequately equipped to protect themselves and discharge their mandates. Thus, while his delegation stood ready to consider the related budget proposals, it would not support arbitrary efficiency gains or forced budget reductions that compromised the effectiveness, efficiency, and credibility of peacekeeping operations.

He welcomed the progress made in strengthening the partnership between the United Nations and the African Union, in particular the signing of the Joint United Nations-African Union Framework for an Enhanced Partnership in Peace and Security, which recognised that preventing and resolving peace and security challenges in Africa exceeded the capacity of any single organisation. He also looked forward to the submission of the Secretary-General’s report on options for joint planning, mandating and financing of African Union peace support operations by the African Union and the Security Council, in line with Security Council resolution 2320 (2016), and reiterated that assessed contributions were the most reliable and sustainable source of support for such operations. The commitment to meaningful cooperation between the United Nations and the African Union reflected in Security Council resolutions 1809 (2008) and 2033 (2012) should be maintained and translated into practical steps to ensure that peacekeeping missions in Africa had the capacity required to fulfil their mandates.

He paid tribute to the men and women serving in United Nations’ and African Union peacekeeping operations, in particular those who had made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of peace and security. In order to ensure that troops operated in secure environments, they should be able to use all available resources, including technology, to enhance their effectiveness in responding to asymmetrical threats. The deployment of the United Nations Force Intervention Brigade by the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) provided a credible example of success in that regard.

In line with its commitment to mainstreaming gender in conflict prevention, resolution and mediation, South Africa had increased the number of women that it deployed in peacekeeping operations, in particular in senior leadership positions. He encouraged all Member States to contribute more female personnel to peacekeeping missions and to strengthen gender mainstreaming in leadership positions in the Secretariat. Lastly, his delegation attached high importance to the zero-tolerance policy against sexual exploitation and abuse in peacekeeping operations and had taken timely and decisive action against the perpetrators of such abuses.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-First Session

96th Plenary Meeting

Friday, 8 September 2017, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: A/71/PV.96 Agenda Item 62:

New Partnership for Africa’s Development: Progress in Implementation and International Support

(A) New Partnership for Africa’s Development: Progress in Implementation and International Support

Draft Resolution (A/71/L.70/Rev.1)

We align ourselves with the statement made by the African Group on resolution 71/320, on the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD).

Africa has since 2002 been committed to a bold and ambitious development path, recognising that while it may not be able to change its past, it can and must shape its future and construct a new economic and development paradigm.

In this light, Africa embarked on a multi-tiered process of economic renaissance. The elaboration of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development reflects a commitment to bringing the continent into a new age of peace, security, stability, economic growth, and sustainable development. With this commitment, Africa received a promissory note of commitment and support globally, including from all development partners. This support is also manifested by the United Nations in this important annual resolution, which seeks to address the continent’s development and growth challenges and commits to initiatives to realise these agreed objectives, with the collaboration and partnership of the international community.

Over the past two years, the international community has committed to a number of unprecedented and bold agreements, all of which embody the notion of partnership, with the overarching priority of poverty eradication. The resolution outlines the actions taken by African countries and organisations in pursuit of the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as well as Africa’s Agenda 2063, together with a response by the international community. This entails the creation of an enabling environment through the availability of means of implementation, with continued support for measures to address the challenges of poverty eradication, hunger and malnutrition, job creation, and sustainable development, including, as appropriate, debt relief, improved market access, fulfilment of official development assistance commitments, increased flows of foreign direct investment, technology transfer, capacity-building and support for the private sector, and entrepreneurship on mutually agreed terms.

Since 2002, the African continent has enjoyed and appreciated the unequivocal support of the international community expressed in the adoption of this annual resolution by consensus. I take this opportunity to thank all delegations for their support and constant engagement during the informal consultations and for joining the consensus on the resolution just adopted. My delegation further expresses appreciation to the coordinators for their commitment and to the Office of the Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on Africa for its assistance.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Second Session 28th Plenary Meeting

Tuesday, 3 October 2017, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/72/PV.28 Agenda Item 110:

Report of the Secretary-General on the Work of the Organization (A/72/1)

H.E. Minister Miroslav Lajčák (Slovakia) became the

President of the United Nations General Assembly and Presided Over 72nd Sessions (2017-2018)

I would first like to convey our heartfelt condolences to those affected by the massacre in Las Vegas this past weekend. Our thoughts and prayers go to the families of the victims, and we wish those who were injured a speedy recovery.

At the outset, I would like to thank the Secretary-General for his first report on the work of the Organization (A/72/1). It reflects his clear vision and firm determination to enhance multilateralism and strengthen the authority and role of the United Nations. This is indeed an organisation like no other. We agree with the Secretary-General, H.E. António Guterres of Portugal, that the world we live in presents a mixed picture of progress, challenges and opportunities. The United Nations has a unique role and responsibility to assist and empower all Member States and regional organisations to achieve the global goals that we have collectively identified and included in the Charter of the United Nations, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the landmark agreements of 2015 on climate change and sustainable development.

The triple challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality are not unique to South Africa. They are present across all regions of the world and can be seen even between States. We need to be creative in finding ways to establish a more equal and just socioeconomic world order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. As President Zuma noted during the general debate,

“The current structure of the global economy continues to deepen the divide between the Global North and Global South ... Even within the developed countries, the gap between rich and poor remains wide and is of serious concern” (see A/72/PV.9, p. 15).

South Africa is committed to working with the United Nations to ensure that our efforts can put the world on a trajectory that will enable us to attain the Sustainable Development Goals, eradicate poverty, combat discrimination, and uphold equality for all. “Leaving no one behind” should not become an often repeated but meaningless phrase, for it is a call to action. In that regard, we note that the implementation phase of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has seen a drop in the means of implementation for supporting developing countries and a decline in financial contributions to the relevant multilateral bodies dealing with development and environmental issues. There has also been a concerted attempt to shift the burden of development assistance away from the commitments made by developed countries. South Africa counts on the leadership and good offices of the Secretary-General to mobilise adequate financial support, and thanks him for his commitment to maintaining a relentless focus on the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

South Africa is continuing its commitment to ensuring respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and their promotion, protection, and fulfilment. South Africa’s commitment to human rights and to the promotion of human dignity and equality is unwavering, and respect for human rights has been the defining feature of its political history. In his report, the Secretary-General notes that human rights are “Investments which bring both immediate and long-term benefits in building resilience, redressing grievance, reducing inequality, and advancing sustainable development” (A/72/1, para. 92).

South Africa emphasises the importance of the global realisation of economic, social, and cultural rights and remains committed to helping the Organization to make concrete and tangible progress in that regard, including by drafting a convention, within the human rights family of instruments, on the right to development. That should be the case for all kinds of rights, including the right to self-determination.

South Africa deplores the ongoing denial of the right to self-determination for the peoples of Palestine and Western Sahara, which is a matter of serious concern to the people of South Africa. Those issues have become even more critical, given the current global instability and the increased number of conflicts.

We are grappling with a multiplicity of new threats to the maintenance of international peace and security.

South Africa has long been an unwavering advocate for a more deliberate and focused use of United Nations’ conflict-prevention capacities, including early engagement with parties in disputes that could potentially become violent. In addition, the United Nations should not lose focus once initial stability has been achieved and should continue to work in support of finding lasting political solutions. Too often we see a relapse into conflict after initial peace processes have been implemented. With that in mind, South Africa fully supports the vision of the Secretary-General to establish, as he says, a culture of prevention within the Organization, including by identifying and addressing the root causes of conflict. That is a process that requires coordination across the three pillars of the United Nations: peace and security, human rights, and inclusive development.

South Africa remains convinced that peace and stability in the world will remain elusive if we do not address the nexus between security and development. We look forward to the joint United Nations-World Bank flagship study on how development and political processes interact for the prevention of violence. We support a United Nations that is agile and able to deliver results in complex environments. We look forward to the forthcoming report of the Secretary-General on sustaining peace and holistic approaches to the peace spectrum. Sustainable peace requires not just changes to the structures and mindset of the Organization but also sustainable and predictable financing for all the Organization’s mechanisms across the peace spectrum.

We welcome the Secretary-General’s prioritisation of partnerships with regional organisations, in particular the Framework for a Renewed United Nations-African Union Partnership on Africa’s Integration and Development Agenda 2017-2027. We welcome the continued support for the efforts of the African Union to resolve conflicts on our continent through the promotion of African solutions to African problems. South Africa will also look favourably on the proposals for sustainable, predictable, and flexible financing for African Union peace-support operations, based on an understanding of the comparative advantage of African Union missions and the added value to the United Nations. We remain concerned that arbitrary cuts to the peacekeeping budget will limit the ability of the Organization to respond to the multitude of global peace and security threats and the ability of our troops to deliver on their mandate.

We welcome the Secretary-General’s commitment to a universally desired goal of a nuclear-weapon-free world. South Africa is pleased that the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons has been signed by more than 50 Member States, and we call on all Member States to join the momentum to prohibit all weapons of mass destruction. As President Zuma declared during the general debate, “there are no safe hands for weapons of mass destruction” (A/72/PV.9, p. 16).

South Africa believes that the United Nations needs to be effective, efficient, transparent, accountable, and people-centred. In that regard, we have welcomed the inclusive and consultative processes led personally by the Secretary-General, such as the establishment of the Office of Counter-Terrorism earlier in the year. Meaningful reform of the Secretariat requires ownership on the part of the entire membership of the Organization. Gender parity and greater geographical balance at all levels of the Secretariat are goals that we should already have achieved after 72 years. We look forward to constructive engagement on the proposals in the relevant committees. However, the reform of the Organization remains incomplete as long as the entire continent of Africa is excluded from its most powerful principal organ.

In conclusion, South Africa shares the view of the Secretary-General that “Multilateralism is not optional. It is the most effective vehicle, whether regional or global, for achieving the goals of peace, inclusive sustainable Development, and human rights for all.” (A/72/1, para. 14) We wish to thank the Secretary-General and the Secretariat for their services to the Organization and look forward to working with the Secretary-General and all Member States to build a stronger, more effective, and equitable United Nations that will deliver for all the peoples of the world.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Second Session First Committee

3rd Meeting

Tuesday, 3 October 2017, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/C.1/72/PV.3 Agenda Items:

General Debate on all Disarmament and International Security Agenda Items

My delegation hereby congratulates Mr. Bahr Aluloom on his election as Chair of the First Committee at this session and wishes to assure him of our full support and cooperation.

We further wish to associate ourselves with the statements delivered on behalf of the Group of African States, the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries and the New Agenda Coalition (see A/C.1/72/PV.2). In the interests of time, this statement will be limited to general comments on key issues that will be covered more extensively in our statements during the thematic debates.

As we meet again for yet another First Committee session, this platform provides us an opportunity to reflect on progress achieved during the past year. While we welcome the progress made in some areas, we are deeply aware of the daunting work that remains in strengthening international security and disarmament, in general. We remain concerned about the continuing impasse in the United Nations’ disarmament machinery. The 20-year stalemate in the Conference on Disarmament has impacted negatively on multilateralism and the multilateral system of governance.

The disarmament and international security landscape has seen progress over the past year with the adoption and opening for signature of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. This is indeed an achievement and demonstrates the resolve of the international community to see the early entry into force of the Treaty. On behalf of South Africa, President Jacob Zuma signed the Treaty on 20 September 2017. However, more still needs to be done, particularly by nuclear-weapon States, in the area of nuclear disarmament. The argument that nuclear weapons are indispensable to the security of some States but not to others lacks credibility.

We call upon all States’ parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons to honour all their obligations and to faithfully and without precondition implement all commitments agreed to in 1995, 2000, and 2010, including the 1995 resolution on the establishment of a zone in the Middle East, free from nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction. Those obligations need to be honoured. We will also endeavour to prevent the weaponisation of outer space, which could destroy strategic balance and stability, undermine international and national security, and disrupt existing arms-control instruments.

In the area of chemical weapons, South Africa welcomes the progress made by the relevant possessor States to destroy their chemical-weapons stockpiles, abandoned chemical weapons and old chemical weapons. We also commend the work of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in deploying fact-finding missions to Syria, Iraq, and all countries where alleged use of scheduled chemicals has been reported. In the area of biological weapons, South Africa is concerned that the Review Conference that took place in December 2016 did not achieve an outcome that would strengthen the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction and its implementation.

Regarding conventional weapons, South Africa, as a State party to the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production, and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on Their Destruction and the Convention on Cluster Munitions, will play its part on the journey towards a world free of anti-personnel mines and cluster munitions alike. We encourage those States that have not yet done so, particularly those possessing such weapons, to join those instruments. We also call on those States in a position to do so to assist requesting States in their national implementation efforts and to provide assistance to the victims of these weapons.

South Africa continues to believe that the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects represents the central, universally agreed set of undertakings to prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons. Apart from national implementation efforts, the full implementation of the entire Programme of Action, including those provisions related to international cooperation and assistance, remains of critical importance. Likewise, we welcome the outcome of the third Conference of States’ Parties to the Arms Trade Treaty and look forward to the full implementation of the Treaty in regulating international trade in conventional arms and in contributing towards curbing illicit transfers.

My delegation stands ready to participate actively in the work of this year’s session of the First Committee and to join the Chair and other delegations in making our work a success.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Second Session

Official Records: A/C.3/72/SR.8 Third Committee

Summary Record of the 8th Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Thursday, 5 October 2017, At 3 P.M.

Agenda Item 28: Advancement of Women

(A) Advancement of Women

(B) Implementation of the Outcome of the Fourth World

Conference on Women and of the Twenty-Third Special Session of The General Assembly

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa), speaking on behalf of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), said that, in keeping with the principle of non-discrimination enshrined in the SADC founding treaty, its Member States had committed in the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development to empowering women, eliminating discrimination, and achieving gender equality and equity. More recently, they had taken steps to implement and mainstream those objectives through the SADC Programme of Action and Community Building Initiative and the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan.

However, despite those and other efforts, women, especially rural women, continued to face many challenges in their region, including with respect to access to and ownership of resources, social and economic exclusion, intersecting and multiple forms of discrimination, gender-based violence, inadequate investment in social protection, and limited funding for women’s economic empowerment. Furthermore, women and girls were disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS in Southern Africa, which remained at the epicentre of the epidemic. The Member States were continuing the initiatives launched under the SADC HIV and AIDS Strategic Framework, which included condom promotion and distribution, campaigns to encourage HIV awareness and behavioural change, HIV testing and counselling, promotion of safe medical conditions, prevention of mother to child transmission, HIV treatment, and home-based care.

Even working together, the SADC Member States did not have the means to tackle all of the challenges facing Southern African women. They appreciated the support of their development partners and the international community and called for more and stronger partnerships for the advancement of women in the region.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Second

Session

Official Records: A/C.2/72/SR.15 Second Committee

Summary Record of the 15th Meeting Held at Headquarters, New York, On Friday,

13 October 2017, at 3 P.M. Agenda Item 16:

Information and Communications Technologies for Development (A/72/64-E/2017/12)

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that the spread of ICT meant that more people than ever before had access to the Internet and mobile telephone services. However, the figures in the Secretary-General’s report testified to the persistence of the global digital divide. Developing and least-developed countries in particular, lagged behind in access to broadband networks. The African continent remained the least-connected region, and was in need of investment, technology transfer, technical assistance, and capacity-building tailored to the specific needs of each country.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Second Session

Official Records: A/C.2/72/SR.22 Second Committee

Summary Record of the 22nd Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Wednesday, 25 October 2017, at 10 A.M.

Agenda Item 24: Operational Activities for Development

(A) Operational Activities for Development of the

United Nations System (A/72/124-E/2018/3 and A/72/61-E/2017/4)

(B) South-South Cooperation for Development (A/72/297)

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that a scaled-up and significantly strengthened role for the operational activities for development in assisting countries to achieve their development goals was of crucial importance. His country welcomed the efforts to address gaps and overlaps in the United Nations’ development system as it attempted to work more efficiently, transparently, and inclusively at country level in line with core principles of the quadrennial comprehensive policy review of ownership and leadership of national Governments in the realisation of sustainable development.

The reform of the United Nations’ development system must be guided by the resolutions on the quadrennial comprehensive policy review, and the resident coordinator system must be informed by national plans, policies, and priorities and remain under the leadership and ownership of national Governments. The indivisibility of the Sustainable Development Goals must be upheld, and the development system must not depart from its core mandate to support development; recognition of the mutually reinforcing relationship between peace and development should not adversely affect resources for development. More emphasis would have to be placed on enablers for development, such as capacity-building, technology transfer, and a fair international environment, in order to be more effective in assisting programme countries to eradicate poverty in all its forms, as the highest priority, and fundamental objective of the United Nations’ development system. The fragmentation of UN entities at country level would also require attention.

The increasing imbalance between core and non-core resources, which hindered programming at the country level, remained a serious concern. South Africa would appreciate further information on the proposed funding compact, particularly on its impact on core resources.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Second Session 38th Plenary Meeting

Wednesday, 1 November 2017, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/72/PV.38 Agenda Item 42:

Necessity of Ending the Economic, Commercial, and Financial Embargo Imposed by the United States of America Against Cuba

Report of the Secretary-General (A/72/94) Draft Resolution (A/72/L.2)

Before I deliver my national statement on behalf of the South African Government, I would like to convey our heartfelt condolences to the United States of America, Argentina, and Belgium for the tragic event that took place yesterday in lower Manhattan. Our hearts and prayers go to the bereaved families and those still fighting for their lives.

We welcome the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba, His Excellency Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, to this important debate, which seeks to end the longstanding embargo.

South Africa aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representative of Ecuador, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China; the representative of Gabon, on behalf of the Group of African States; and the representative of Venezuela, on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement.

We take note of the Secretary-General’s report A/72/94, of 26 July 2017, which describes the current state of affairs under the United States’ economic, commercial and financial embargo against the sister country of Cuba and its people. South Africa has also taken note of the announcement made on 16 June 2017 regarding a new United States policy towards Cuba, which signalled a shift from the reconciliation and improved relationship that had been initiated between Cuba and the United States under the Obama Administration and reaffirmed the United States’ statutory embargo on Cuba. I want to express our disappointment that the current United States Administration has chosen a path of regression in the normalisation of relations with Cuba that reinforces the isolation of the Cuban people and further harms them.

South Africa has a long-standing position of support for the resolution on the necessity of ending the embargo against Cuba. The South African Parliament adopted a resolution in August 2014 calling upon the then President of the United States to lift the blockade immediately and engage Cuba more decisively. It is a position that reflects the sentiment of South Africans and the people of Africa.

We therefore urge the international community to work together to free Cuba from the political, economic, commercial, and financial shackles under the embargo that the United States has imposed upon that country for more than half a century. We believe that the United States’ embargo was, and is, a travesty of justice, which should not continue to be in place in these modern times, particularly since the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The adverse effects of unilateral, coercive measures by the United States on crucial sectors in Cuba -such as public health, nutrition and agriculture, banking, trade, investment, and tourism -deprive the Cuban people of their basic human rights. They also hinder Cuba’s well-documented efforts to achieve sustainable development, including the Sustainable Development Goals.

South Africa and Cuba enjoy solid bilateral and diplomatic relations. Our diplomatic relations over the 23 years since the dawn of democracy in 1994 in South Africa serve as a successful and exemplary model of South-South cooperation. It is a contribution to international relations and understanding. Our cooperation, supported by a set of bilateral agreements covering a wide range of areas, has a direct impact on the people of both countries. It influences their livelihood, development, and understanding of one another, and it will be further enhanced once the embargo is lifted.

The unilateral and illegal total blockade of Cuba by the United States also affects bilateral trade between South Africa and Cuba, as the extraterritorial application of the sanctions on any of the third-party countries besides USA and Cuba has prevented South African businesses from pursuing trade and investment opportunities with Cuba. South Africa therefore joins the international community in condemning this unilateral action and calls on the United States of America to implement measures to immediately repeal those inhumane actions.

Those actions are contrary to the purposes, principles, and spirit of the Charter of the United Nations, especially the principles of the sovereign equality of States and non-interference in the domestic affairs of Member States. The severe economic and financial restrictions that are stifling the economic and social development of Cuba and thereby further exacerbating the hardships and suffering of the people of Cuba are unacceptable.

It is in that context that the Republic of South Africa reiterates its unconditional support for the implementation of this draft resolution. We appeal once again to the international community to redouble its efforts to promote a constructive and transparent dialogue between the two countries with a view to achieving the objectives of all the relevant United Nations resolutions already adopted on this matter, and to ensure the sustainable progress of the people of Cuba. We would like to request third-party countries to also support Cuba and its people by repealing all domestic laws and regulations that contribute to hampering their development.

Let us join hands together in global solidarity to end the embargo and let us vote in support of the draft resolution to end the embargo on Cuba, as we did overwhelmingly in 2016. We cannot afford to lose this historic opportunity. Now is the time.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Second Session 42nd Plenary Meeting

Tuesday, 7 November 2017, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: A/72/Pv.42 Agenda Item 122:

Question of Equitable Representation on and Increase in the Membership of the Security Council and other Matters Related to the Security Council

My delegation and I welcome the commitment that the President of the General Assembly, H.E. Miroslav Lajčák, has thus far demonstrated to the long-outstanding process aimed at the reform of the Security Council. We appreciate that he has identified the reform of the Security Council as a key priority of his presidency. I therefore take this opportunity to reassure him of my delegation’s unwavering support in that endeavour and trust that through his leadership, considerable progress will be made in moving the process forward.

Allow me also to congratulate the incoming co-Chairs, Mrs. Lana Zaki Nusseibeh and Mr. Kaha lmnadze, the Permanent Representatives of the United Arab Emirates and Georgia, respectively, for assuming the co-Chairship of the intergovernmental negotiations. South Africa urges the co-Chairs to devote all their efforts to reinvigorating the negotiations process, with the aim of achieving the momentum needed to move discussions on reform forward. South Africa firmly believes that continued, direct and enhanced engagement by Member States is required.

South Africa aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representatives of Sierra Leone, on behalf of the Group of African States, and of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, on behalf of the L.69 group of developing countries (see A/72/ PV.41). I wish to make the following additional remarks in my national capacity.

The reform of the Security Council remains of the utmost importance for South Africa. In 2005, with the adoption of the Ezulwini Consensus, Africa made its position clear with regard to the reform of the Security Council. The goal is

“to be fully represented in all of the decision-making organs of the United Nations, particularly in the Security Council, which is the principal decision-making organ of the United Nations in matters relating to international peace and security”.

That remains our primary goal. The African Common Position is also very clear in its call for the expansion of the Security Council in both the permanent and the non-permanent categories of membership in order to address the current inequality in its composition, and for new permanent Members to be afforded the same privileges as the current permanent Members.

I also wish to stress that, while Africa remains the most marginalised continent with regard to the composition of the Council, the underrepresentation of Latin America and Asia remains a challenge as well and also needs to be urgently addressed. The 2005 World Summit called for the speedy and urgent reform of the Security Council, and South Africa can only express its concern that 12 years after the Summit, the process is still in its infancy. Furthermore, my delegation expresses concern at the lack of meaningful progress in the intergovernmental negotiations, and we reiterate our view that it is only through text-based negotiations that progress can be achieved by identifying points of convergences and agreement, thereby providing the opportunity to bridge our differences.

The framework document that was unanimously adopted at the 69th session and the convergence issues identified at the 71st session, as well as the food-forthought document of 2017, entitled “Elements of commonality and issues for further consideration on the question of equitable representation and increase in the membership in the Security Council and related matters”, which was produced during the 71st session, all offer a solid basis for text-based negotiations. However, in order for those documents and agreements to produce meaningful results, we need to adapt the way in which we have been doing business in the Organization. South Africa is disappointed that the intergovernmental negotiations have turned into another open-ended process with no real urgency to its work and Member States falling into the practice of issuing statements and restatements of previously stated positions.

It is appropriate to underline the significant Security Council reform efforts that have been advanced throughout the history of the United Nations. This year marks 72 years since the Security Council was established in 1945. It has been 52 years since the first and, sadly, only expansion of the Security Council. In little over a month from today, 11 December, will mark the 25th anniversary of the adoption of resolution 47/62, which initiated the process of considering in the General Assembly the agenda item dealing with the Security Council reform and the question of equitable representation on and the increase in the membership of the Security Council. Next year will mark exactly a decade since the start of the intergovernmental negotiations process. It will also mark 13 years since the World Summit of 2005, which produced a unanimous agreement on an early reform of the Security Council. It is with deep regret that, despite those efforts and processes regarding reform of the Security Council, no significant results have been produced. It is for that reason that South Africa wishes to propose the following:

Firstly, we should discuss and agree on the programme of work of the intergovernmental negotiations process during the current session. We suggest that attention should be given to developing a road map with clear, implementable time frames for the immediate start of text-based negotiations. Addressing practicalities that are in line with United Nations’ procedures does not undermine the principle of transparency and inclusivity. It is important to underscore the fact that 164 out of 193 countries of the United Nations want the immediate commencement of text-based negotiations. That overwhelming number amounts to more than 80 per cent of the membership. The 164 countries encompass all regions of the United Nations: Africa, the Group of Western European and other States, the Latin American and Caribbean Group, the Asia-Pacific Group, and the Small Island Developing States (SIDS), as well as some of the members of the permanent five. That vital point should not be ignored by anyone.

Secondly, South Africa would welcome the idea of having a block of time -even a week -allocated per element. That block of time would allow delegations to have sufficient time to engage in interactive discussions, which is the only way to achieve progress.

Thirdly, the idea of ending the work of the intergovernmental negotiations in June, as has been the case in the previous two sessions, does not promote the efficient utilisation of time and denies the process an adequate opportunity for full discussions. It also creates the impression that there is no urgency to the very important and long-outstanding process of Security Council reform.

In conclusion, I would like to reaffirm my delegation’s commitment to working with the President and other Member States to ensure that the current session of the intergovernmental negotiations is a success. We reiterate our call for the current session to produce a fair and progressive outcome, so as to restore the credibility and the legitimacy of the Council as one of the critical organs of the United Nations.

Having said that, my delegation would like to emphasise and reiterate the urgent need for the speedy reform of the Security Council. The world and the work of the Council have changed over the past 70 years. The structure runs the risk of losing legitimacy, credibility, and acceptance should we fail to affect the necessary and required reforms. The current stalemate in the Council and its glaring failure to carry out its historic mandate of maintaining international peace and security are largely attributed to its current configuration. That is why South Africa calls for urgent practical steps to be taken during the 72nd session of the General Assembly.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Second Session

Official Records: A/C.5/72/SR.19 Fifth Committee

Summary Record of the 19th Meeting Held at Headquarters, New York, on Monday,

4 December 2017, At 3 P.M. Agenda Item 134:

Review of the Efficiency of the Administrative and Financial Functioning of the United Nations (Continued)

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that the inclusive consultations led by the Secretary-General H.E. António Guterres and Deputy Secretary-General, H.E. Amina Mohammed should continue as the reforms were implemented. His delegation welcomed the Secretary-General’s vision and detailed proposals on the budget, organisational structure, and funding mechanisms. The Secretary-General’s reports reflected his determination to enhance multilateralism and strengthen the authority of the United Nations. South Africa would work with the Organization to achieve sustainable development, eradicate poverty, combat discrimination, uphold equality, and prevent crises by adopting a culture of prevention. His government welcomed the essential role of the 2030 Agenda in the proposals, which should be further aligned with Agenda 2063 of the African Union.

The United Nations must be effective, efficient, transparent, accountable, people-centred, fit for purpose, responsive, and able to fulfil its mandates in complex environments. It should reduce waste and duplication and streamline cumbersome administrative and budgetary procedures. Adequate, predictable and sustainable financial and human resources were essential to timely mandate implementation; his government supported proposals to simplify programme plans and budgets and would consider the impact those proposals would have on transparency, accountability, and oversight by Member States. Reforms that affected reports and the presentation of information must improve the capacity of intergovernmental processes to ensure proper planning, monitoring, evaluation, strategic planning, and resource allocation. The lessons learned from previous reforms and during the implementation of the current reform must be applied. While the reform was being implemented, mandates must continue to be fulfilled and, if the General Assembly approved the reform, his delegation looked forward to receiving a proposal that would ensure a smooth transition. Management reform should not be viewed in isolation from other reform initiatives. The voice of African and developing countries should be strengthened; only by employing staff from such countries could the Organization understand, predict, and react to events there and elsewhere. His delegation welcomed the Secretary-General’s system-wide strategy on gender parity and looked forward to the strategy on geographical representation.

United Nations General Assembly

Emergency Special Session 38th Meeting

Wednesday, 13 June 2018, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: A/ES-10/PV.38 Agenda Item 5:

Illegal Israeli Actions in Occupied East Jerusalem and the Rest of the Occupied Palestinian Territory Draft Resolution (A/Es-10/L.23)

Draft Amendment (A/Es-10/L.24)

Allow me to thank you, Mr. President, for reconvening this important 10th emergency special session of the General Assembly to consider the issue of the protection of Palestinian civilians, especially children. South Africa believes that today’s debate and action on draft resolution A/ES-10/L.23 is urgent and timely. The deteriorating situation in the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, cannot be allowed to continue and remains a blight on the conscience of the international community.

It is unacceptable that the Security Council has once again failed to act in response to the escalating violence in Gaza and to protect the civilian population of the occupied Palestinian territories against the illegal and disproportionate use of force by the Israeli Defence Forces. The General Assembly must therefore now take on the moral and legal obligation to act effectively to protect the people living in Palestine and the other occupied territories and assume its responsibilities by taking urgent measures to remedy the situation.

Over the past few weeks, we have witnessed a violent act of aggression carried out by the Israeli armed forces along the Gaza border, leading to the death of dozens of civilians who were taking part in a peaceful protest against the inauguration of the United States’ Embassy in Jerusalem. The inability of the Security Council to agree on action to protect civilians in Gaza should not absolve the United Nations’ membership as a whole from that responsibility. The General Assembly, as the most representative organ of the United Nations, should act as the moral conscience of the international community and should not shrink from acting when the organ entrusted with the maintenance of international peace and security has been unable to act, as has been the case.

We therefore believe that it is imperative that the Assembly vote in favour of the draft resolution before us today. South Africa believes that the draft resolution rightly condemns the escalation of violence as well as the loss of civilian lives, including casualties amongst children, caused by the Israeli forces.

Furthermore, the draft resolution is based on international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law, as well as the relevant Security Council and General Assembly resolutions on the question of Palestine. The draft resolution makes reference to the protection of civilians, including children, in armed conflict, as well as the protection of humanitarian personnel and journalists. We also fully support the request to the Secretary-General to submit a report containing proposals on ways and means to that end, as well as to make recommendations regarding an international protection mechanism.

South Africa reiterates that the only way to bring about genuine and everlasting peace between Israel and Palestine is by engaging in comprehensive and unconditional negotiations to deal with all final-status issues, including the issue of Jerusalem, the unrelenting expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied territories of Palestine, the lifting of the illegal Gaza blockade and the ongoing occupation of the Palestinian territory. It is clear that peace and security throughout the Middle East will not be attained without peace between Israel and Palestine.

We reaffirm that the central responsibility for attaining peace lies primarily in the hands of the Palestinian and Israeli people. As part of the international community, we should support and encourage the parties in that endeavour. The international legal framework for those negotiations has been set. They include the relevant General Assembly and Security Council resolutions, the Madrid Principles, the Arab Peace Initiative, and the Quartet Road Map, to name just a few.

In conclusion, while the parties and the international community dither, the humanitarian situation, particularly in Gaza, is further deteriorating. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) represents one of the concrete steps that the Organization has taken to alleviate the suffering of the people on the ground. We therefore appeal to the international community to support UNRWA. That will ensure that the Agency continues to provide its services, especially in the light of the severe and recurring financial shortfalls that continue to affect its programmes. We would like to emphasise that funding for UNRWA should be sustainable, predictable and sufficient.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Third Session

First Committee

2nd Meeting

Monday, 8 October 2018, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/C.1/73/PV.2 Agenda Items:

General Debate on all Disarmament and International Security Agenda Items

H.E. Ambassador María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés of

Ecuador Assumed the Presidency of the UN General Assembly 73rd Session (2018-2019)

I, Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila have the honour to speak on behalf of the New Agenda Coalition (NAC) members, namely, Brazil, Egypt, Ireland, Mexico, New Zealand, and my own country, South Africa.

At the outset, NAC would like to congratulate you, Sir, H.E. Ambassador Ion Jinga of Romania on your assumption of the Chair of this year’s First Committee and to assure you of NAC’s full cooperation and support with a view to the successful conclusion of our deliberations during the next four weeks.

As we have done in the past, NAC will present a draft resolution to the Committee, which will be introduced during the thematic debate on the cluster “Nuclear weapons”. This year marks the centenary of the birth of Nelson Mandela, who, in an impassioned speech to the General Assembly on 21 September 1998 (see A/53/PV.7), called on the nuclear-weapon States to make a firm commitment to the speedy, final, and total elimination of nuclear weapons and nuclear-weapon capabilities and announced that NAC would be submitting a draft resolution to the First Committee for consideration by the General Assembly. The draft resolution, entitled “Towards a nuclear-weapon-free world: the need for a new agenda” and adopted as resolution 57/59, was intended to contribute to the elimination of those weapons.

This year also marks 20 years since the founding of NAC, in 1998, when the NAC countries considered the continued threat to humankind represented by the prospect of the indefinite possession of nuclear weapons by the nuclear-weapon States, as well as by those nuclear-weapons-possessing States that were not parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the attendant possibility of the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons.

Throughout the past 20 years, the NAC has advocated for the implementation of concrete, transparent, mutually reinforcing, verifiable, and irreversible nuclear disarmament measures and the fulfilment of obligations and commitments within the framework of the NPT. Although some progress has been achieved over this period, it is far from sufficient, and we are deeply concerned that new challenges in international security may continue to be cited as justifications for slow progress. For NAC, the global security environment is not an excuse for inaction; rather, it reinforces the need for urgency. What is lacking are not favourable conditions but political will and determination.

Last year saw the successful conclusion of the United Nations’ conference to negotiate a legally binding instrument to prohibit nuclear weapons, leading towards their total elimination. The adoption, on 7 July 2017, of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons expressed the desire of the overwhelming majority in the General Assembly for urgent action. That urgency grew from our increased knowledge of the growing risks and catastrophic humanitarian consequences, including their strong gendered impact, of a nuclear-weapon detonation.

Considering that any use of nuclear weapons would be contrary to the principles and rules of international humanitarian law and the fact that their consequences cannot be constrained within borders, the continued reliance upon them in security doctrines and concepts is indefensible and fosters proliferation. Nuclear disarmament is not only an international legal obligation but also a moral and ethical imperative.

Regrettably, in spite of the growing international consensus regarding the illegitimacy of nuclear weapons, an estimated 15,000 nuclear devices still exist. Those weapons remain at the heart of the security doctrines of the nuclear-weapon States and those party to alliances with the nuclear-weapon States. Far from strengthening international peace and security, that state of affairs serves to weaken it, aggravating international tensions and conflict and jeopardising the collective well-being of all States and peoples, as well as the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Given that almost five decades have passed since the entry into force of the NPT, the status quo on nuclear disarmament is unacceptable. The NAC believes it is time for States to finally deliver on their commitments to the elimination of nuclear weapons, in line with NPT obligations, and to safeguard future generations from the danger posed by nuclear weapons. That is the only way to maintain the integrity and sustainability of the nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation regime.

The NAC shares a firm commitment to the NPT, which is the cornerstone of the nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime. It is fundamental to bear in mind that the NPT was adopted and indefinitely extended on the basis of a grand bargain. The nuclear-weapon States legally committed themselves to pursuing and achieving nuclear disarmament, in return for which non-nuclear-weapon States legally committed themselves not to develop nuclear weapons. The presumption of indefinite possession of nuclear weapons runs counter to the object and purpose of the NPT and threatens to erode its credibility and effectiveness.

The Action Plan agreed at the 2010 NPT Review Conference provided an important opportunity to put the process towards a nuclear-weapon-free world back on track. The nuclear-weapon States reaffirmed their unequivocal undertaking of the 2000 Review Conference to accomplish the total elimination of their nuclear arsenals leading to nuclear disarmament and committed to accelerating progress in that regard. The 2010 Action Plan reaffirmed the decisions taken in 1995 and 2000, including the 13 practical steps to advance the implementation of article VI of the NPT.

The NAC reaffirms the significant contribution of nuclear-weapon-free ones to nuclear disarmament efforts and achieving the goal of a nuclear-weapon-free world, and reiterates in that regard the importance of the early implementation of the 1995 resolution on the Middle East. The inter-Korean dialogue and summits are positive signs towards the denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula. The New Agenda Coalition again calls for and expects the implementation by the nuclear-weapon States of their nuclear disarmament commitments -both qualitative and quantitative -in a manner that enables States’ parties to regularly monitor progress, including through their use of a standard detailed reporting format. That would enhance confidence and trust amongst not only the nuclear-weapon States but also between the nuclear-weapon States and non-nuclear-weapon States.

The implementation of the NPT’s article VI is a legal obligation binding on all States’ parties. It was on that basis that the NAC welcomed the adoption, on 7 July 2017, of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, (TPNN), which is an effective legal measure contributing to the implementation of article VI. Additional measures, however, are still needed in order to fully implement article VI of the NPT. We must uphold and preserve the NPT, and the best way to protect it is to implement it. The current review cycle of the NPT presents an opportunity for States’ parties to undertake a comprehensive review and assessment of the current status of the Treaty, the implementation of various obligations and commitments within its framework, and the challenges facing its full implementation.

It is now time for the international community to translate words into concrete action, backed by clear and agreed benchmarks and timelines. Bearing in mind the special responsibility that lies with the nuclear-weapon States, the NAC believes that those States should not only implement their existing commitments but also strive to build further on them in order to accelerate fulfilment of their obligations under the NPT.

As a cross-regional grouping, the NAC works actively for concrete progress on nuclear disarmament. Achieving and maintaining a world without nuclear weapons remains the NAC’s primary goal. The NAC urges all States to seize the opportunity of the First Committee to make a difference on nuclear disarmament.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Third Session

Official Records: A/C.4/73/SR.2

Special Political and Decolonisation Committee (Fourth Committee)

Summary Record of the 2nd Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Monday, 8 October 2018, at 3 P.M.

Agenda Item 63:

Implementation Of The Declaration On The Granting Of Independence To Colonial Countries And Peoples (Territories Not Covered Under Other Agenda Items) (A/73/23 (Chaps. VI)

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that it was unacceptable that, at a time when much of the world was grappling with modern-day issues, 17 Non-Self-Governing Territories continued to face the primary challenge of exercising their right to self-determination. The situation in Western Sahara remained a painful thorn in the side of an African continent striving to promote unification in order to overcome the legacy of colonialism. Unable to exercise their right to self-determination, the Sahrawi people were being robbed of the opportunity to prosper and realise their full potential. South Africa condemned the illegal exploitation of the natural resources of the Sahrawi people and welcomed judgements by the Court of Justice of the European Union and the High Court of South Africa that had upheld the sovereignty of Western Sahara and its ownership of domestic resources, including in its territorial waters. He hoped that the international legal precedent would deter foreign entities from further illegal exploitation, thereby contributing to resolving the impasse.

Sincere and uninhibited negotiations must be conducted without preconditions and in good faith, under United Nations’ auspices and with African Union support. To that end, the African Union had recently established the African Union Troika to lend support to United Nations’ efforts. Those efforts must ultimately pave the way for a free and fair referendum to enable the Sahrawi people to express their will in a legitimate, democratic manner.

He commended the Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy, as well as the African Union Special Envoy, for their efforts to bring about a political solution to the situation in Western Sahara and expressed the hope that the return of Morocco as a member to the African Union would open new avenues to that end. In the interim, the United Nations Mission for the Referendum on Western Sahara (MINURSO) must remain in place with a secure mandate. His delegation therefore urged the Security Council to extend the Mission’s mandate and to expand its role in ensuring respect for human rights in Western Sahara.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Third Session

Official Records: A/C.5/73/SR.1 Fifth Committee

Summary Record of the 1st Meeting Held at Headquarters, New York, on Tuesday, 9 October 2018, at 10 A.M. Agenda Item: Organisation of Work

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that, at the current session, his delegation would emphasise the need for the Organization to have adequate resources to fulfil mandates effectively. To ensure geographic diversity and gender parity, his delegation would examine the proposals related to the global human resources strategy, which must reflect the vision on which the Secretary-General’s reforms were based. A 1948 report of the Secretary-General to the General Assembly (A/652), the Secretary-General had stated that the cardinal principle of geographical distribution was that the administration should be satisfied that the Secretariat was enriched by the experience and culture that each Member nation could furnish, and that each Member nation should, in its turn, be satisfied that its own culture and philosophy made a full contribution to the Secretariat.

Seventy years later, the Secretariat was far from multicultural and diverse, to the detriment of the Organization. The progress made by the current Secretary-General, H.E. António Guterres in achieving gender parity and greater geographic diversity in his senior appointments showed that the Organization’s policies were not obstacles to such progress. His delegation would emphasise the importance of the principle of capacity to pay in establishing the scales of assessment for the regular budget and peacekeeping and would pay particular attention to the funding of the United Nations’ development system, construction projects, special political missions, the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) and the restructuring of the Economic Commission for Africa.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Third Session

Official Records: A/C.2/73/Sr.8 Second Committee

Summary Record of the 8th Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Thursday, 11 October 2018, At 10 A.M.

Agenda Item 19:

Follow-Up to and Implementation of the Outcomes of the International Conferences on Financing for Development (A/73/86- E/2018/68)

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that it was clear that the Sustainable Development Goals would not be achieved without adequate funding. South Africa was encouraged by the international community’s reinvigorated implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. However, it was concerned at the widening funding gap caused by a move away from multilateralism and a deviation from traditional international cooperation. Those countries that had not honoured their Official Development Assistance (ODA) commitments should do so.

Systemic and structural global challenges impeded delivery of the 2030 Agenda. International trade was an engine for development. For globalisation to benefit all countries, the international community must promote a universal, rules-based, open, transparent, predictable, inclusive, non-discriminatory, and equitable multilateral trading system under the World Trade Organization (WTO). South Africa was disappointed with slow progress on international trade negotiations and supported the revival of the Doha Development Round. It also strongly supported regional economic integration and trade but saw the need for more meaningful global market access for developing countries via WTO.

Industrialisation, which remained crucial to inclusive growth within and amongst countries and Africa’s achievement of the Goals by 2030, promoted development by increasing value creation in an economy and generating further activity along value chains. An enabling and just global environment was required to complement national and regional efforts in achieving inclusive and sustainable industrial development.

Member States should develop a multilateral body under the United Nations to meaningfully address the scourge of illicit financial flows, which continued to undermine development in developing countries, particularly in Africa.

South Africa was concerned at the recent retreat of certain Member States from multilateralism and urged them to reconsider. A more insular approach might satisfy short-term needs but was ultimately short-sighted and counter-productive.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Third Session

29th Plenary Meeting

Wednesday, 31 October 2018, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/73/PV.29 Agenda Item 43:

Necessity of Ending the Economic, Commercial and Financial Embargo Imposed by the United States of America Against Cuba

Report of the Secretary-General (A/73/85) Draft Resolution (A/73/L.3)

Draft Amendments (A/73/L.9 through A/73/L.16)

Before I address the issue at hand, allow me to convey South Africa’s heartfelt condolences to the United States of America following the tragic mass shooting that took place in Pittsburgh a few days ago. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the bereaved families and to those who are still fighting for their lives. That incident serves to underscore once more the need for all of us to stand united against all forms of hatred and violence.

I would like to recognise the presence of His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba, at this important debate, which seeks an end to the injustice of the embargo on Cuba.

Turning to the important issues under consideration, South Africa aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representatives of Egypt, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, the Kingdom of Morocco, on behalf of the Group of African States, and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries.

South Africa welcomes the Secretary-General’s report (A/73/85) on the implementation of resolution 72/4, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba.” Cuba continues to demonstrate its commitment to South-South cooperation by sharing its experience, knowledge and human resource development, amongst other things, with other developing countries as a manifestation of solidarity amongst the peoples and countries of the South. It can never be overemphasised that the ties of friendship and camaraderie between South Africa and Cuba are deep-rooted and enduring. At great sacrifice, Cuba made a significant contribution to the liberation of South Africa from apartheid, for which we remain eternally grateful.

Those bonds of friendship have continued and deepened under South Africa’s democratic system, with South Africa and Cuba enjoying excellent bilateral relations across a wide range of sectors in pursuit of our mutual quest of lifting up our peoples and others all over the world from the terrible burdens of poverty, socioeconomic marginalisation and deprivation.

South Africa remains steadfast in its long-standing support for the annual resolution on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America on Cuba. The imposition of unilateral coercive measures by a major economy such as the United States on one of our fellow developing countries and one of its geographically closest neighbours has done immeasurable damage to the development of the people of Cuba and as ever remains unjustified. Indeed, the United States itself recognised that fact during the Obama Administration, when it began to pursue the normalisation of diplomatic relations and a gradual relaxation of the embargo. Regrettably, that progressive step has since been reversed and the people of Cuba are once again faced with monumental obstacles to the fulfilment of their basic human rights, including the right to development and the realisation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

South Africa also remains deeply concerned about the extraterritorial application of the unilateral and illegal embargo of Cuba by the United States, a regressive policy that prevents any of the third countries besides USA and Cuba from pursuing normal trade and investment opportunities with Cuba, further undermining our collective sustainable development efforts. It is a testament to the fortitude of the Cuban people that despite those odds, Cuba has continued to make significant strides in addressing its people’s socioeconomic and development challenges. One of those achievements is Cuba’s commendable health sector, which rivals that of many developed countries. South Africa continues to benefit from a wide range of cooperative arrangements with Cuba in this area, as well as others.

South Africa rejects draft amendments A/73/L.9 through A/73/L.16, introduced by the United States, to this year’s draft resolution (A/73/L.3), which clearly represent an attempt to divert attention from the serious human rights violations that the embargo inflicts on the people of Cuba. South Africa urges the United States to resume cordial diplomatic relations with a view to advancing the end of the deplorable Cuban embargo, a relic of a bygone era that undermines the spirit of the Charter of the United Nations that as Member States of this Organization we are all committed to. It therefore goes without saying that South Africa will once again vote in solidarity with Cuba, and calls on all Member States, including the developed countries, which seem very quiet right now, to voice their condemnation and vote in favour of the draft resolution in question, urging the international community to work together to free Cuba from the political, economic, commercial, and financial shackles of an embargo that has been in place for more than half a century.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Third Session

Official Records: A/C.4/73/SR.21

Special Political and Decolonisation Committee (Fourth Committee)

Summary Record of the 21st Meeting Held at Headquarters, New York, on Monday, 5 November 2018, At 3 P.M. Agenda Item 57:

Comprehensive Review of Special Political Missions

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that special political missions were a crucial component of the Secretary-General’s preventive diplomacy agenda and required an inclusive approach to be successful. As a result, there must be strong partnerships between special political missions and regional and subregional organisations. South Africa welcomed initiatives to strengthen the relationship between the United Nations Security Council and the Peace and Security Council of the African Union, such as conducting joint field missions and allowing special envoys from each organisation to brief both Councils. Regionally mandated envoys could also be used by the United Nations to enhance the role of special political missions.

Women brought a unique perspective to mediation and negotiation efforts and could stimulate discussions that led to breakthroughs; therefore, they should be included in peace negotiations and be appointed to serve as special envoys. His delegation welcomed the decision taken at the July 2017 Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union to establish the Network of African Women in Conflict Prevention and Mediation and hoped that the United Nations could tap into that expertise to augment its mediation and conflict resolution efforts.

Special political missions must be streamlined to complement peacekeeping missions, particularly police and civilian components. Such cooperation could foster a culture of prevention and increase consultative engagements with all stakeholders, thereby laying the foundation for smoother transitions from traditional peacekeeping operations to special political missions or interventions by United Nations country teams. In that connection, his delegation welcomed the reforms of the Secretary-General to restructure the peace and security pillar. In order to take a more holistic, inclusive approach, special political missions must be seen as part of the greater peace support process.

Consistent and predictable funding for special political missions was vital. The recent budget cuts to peacekeeping missions threatened their efficiency and implementation, forcing them to downsize. His delegation hoped that the work of special political missions would not be undermined, as that would negatively affect the progress achieved. The proposal to unify the Departments of Peacekeeping Operations and Political Affairs should allow progress on financing. Alternative financing options for special political missions should also be explored, including the establishment of an independent account, which would increase sustainability and transparency.

Lastly, his delegation paid homage to the special representatives and special envoys of the Secretary-General, as well as the United Nations’ staff serving in special political missions, often at great personal sacrifice.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Third Session

36th Plenary Meeting

Tuesday, 20 November 2018, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/73/PV.36 Agenda Item 124:

Question of Equitable Representation on and Increase in the Membership of the Security Council and other Matters Related to the Security Council

We welcome the convening of the timely and relevant debate on the question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council and other matters related to the Security Council. We appreciate, Madam President,

H.E. María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés that you have identified the reform of the Security Council as one of the key priorities of your presidency. I would therefore like to assure you of my delegation’s unwavering support in that endeavour and trust that, through your leadership, considerable progress will be made in moving the intergovernmental negotiations process forward.

Allow me also to congratulate the incoming co-Chairs, Mrs. Lana Nusseibeh and Mr. Christian Braun, on assuming the important and challenging role of facilitating the intergovernmental negotiations during the 73rd session. The incoming co-Chairs can once again count on my delegation’s full support and cooperation.

My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representatives of Saint Vincent and Grenadines on behalf of the L.69 group and of Sierra Leone on behalf of the Group of African States, respectively. We wish to make the following additional remarks.

This year marks 53 years since the first and only expansion of the Security Council. That limited expansion led to an increase in the non-permanent membership category only, while the vast majority of our Organization’s members remained excluded from the Council’s permanent membership category. It has been 26 years since the adoption of resolution 47/62, which initiated the General Assembly process for dealing with the reform of the Security Council in the comprehensive manner that we had set out to undertake. This year marks exactly one decade since the start of the intergovernmental negotiations process and 13 years since the 2005 World Summit Outcome, which unanimously agreed on the early reform of the Security Council. It is with deep regret that, despite those efforts, the reform process of the Security Council has not produced any results.

South Africa urges all Member States to redouble their efforts and to exercise the necessary political will in order to reinvigorate the negotiations with the mandated aim of achieving the reform of the Security Council in an inclusive manner. In that regard, South Africa firmly believes that continued, direct, enhanced and constructive engagement by all Member States is required.

In that context, we would like to propose the following. Firstly, we join other Member States in calling for the start of text-based negotiations and the establishment of a road map with clear and implementable time frames for the immediate normalisation of the intergovernmental negotiations process. It is important to underscore the fact that out of the 193 countries of the United Nations, 164 want the immediate commencement of text-based negotiations. That overwhelming number represents more than 80 per cent of the Organization’s membership and comprises all the regions of the United Nations, the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and some of the members of the permanent five. That vital point cannot be ignored.

Secondly, the intergovernmental negotiations process need not be reinvented. The current revised document on the negotiations, produced during the 72nd session of the General Assembly, is a positive step on which we could build. In our view, the revised document is not definitive, but it is a step closer towards the next logical step of give-and-take negotiations. South Africa would welcome the accurate inclusion of the Ezulwini Consensus in the revised document, in line with the overwhelming support that the Common African Position has received thus far. We also strongly advocate for the expansion of both the permanent and the non-permanent membership categories in order to ensure that all the regions are represented on the Council on an equitable basis.

Thirdly, ending this year’s intergovernmental negotiations in June, as in the two previous sessions, would not be an effective use of time and would not provide an adequate opportunity for full discussion. It would also create the impression that there is no urgency to this very important and long-standing process. The vast majority of our Organization’s membership continues to hold the view that reform of the Council is long overdue.

My delegation therefore wishes to emphasise and reiterate its urgent call for the speedy reform of the Security Council. The world and the work of the Council have changed markedly over the past 73 years, with an ever-increasing focus on developments on the African continent. It is therefore our steadfast belief that it remains an anomaly that the more than 1 billion people on our continent remain without a voice in the permanent membership category of the Council, a central and global organ of the United Nations. That cannot be justified. The prolonged present composition of that organ since the inception of this debate years ago will continue to undermine the legitimacy, credibility, and high standing that we accord it, should we fail to urgently implement the necessary and required reforms.

The current stalemate in the Council on many of the key issues on its agenda and the glaring failure of the Council to carry out its mandate, pursuant to the Charter of the United Nations, of maintaining international peace and security can be largely attributed to its current configuration. It is for that reason that South Africa calls for urgent practical steps to be taken during the current 73rd session.

In conclusion, I would like to reaffirm my delegation’s commitment to working with you, Madam President, and other Member States to ensure that this session of the intergovernmental negotiations is a success. We reiterate our call for this session to produce a fair and successful outcome in order to restore the credibility and legitimacy of the Council as one of the critical organs of the United Nations.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Third Session

79th Plenary Meeting

Wednesday, 24 April 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: A/73/PV.79 Commemorative Meeting on the Occasion of the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace Agenda Item 15: Culture of Peace

At the outset, I would like to join other delegations in thanking the President H.E. Ambassador María Fernando Espinosa Garcés for convening this meeting to mark the first-ever special International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace, following the adoption of resolution 73/127.

My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by the representative of Venezuela on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (see A/73/PV.78).

Resolution 73/127 designates 24 April as the annual International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace, which is a reaffirmation of the Charter of the United Nations and its principles in resolving disputes amongst countries through peaceful means. The observance of this Day complements the Assembly’s adoption of the political declaration (resolution 73/1) at the Nelson Mandela Peace Summit, on 24 September 2018 in this Hall, where we, as States’ Members of the United Nations, committed to redoubling our efforts to build a just, peaceful, prosperous, inclusive, and fair world, and to revive the values for which Nelson Mandela stood. We also committed to furthering understanding and reconciliation amongst the nations and peoples of our world. We recognised that the world has changed significantly since the founding of the United Nations and acknowledged that global peace eludes us to this day. We therefore have a responsibility to find sustainable solutions to bring lasting peace and address threats to global peace and security, including challenges to the primacy of multilateralism. At the apex of multilateralism is the United Nations’ system, the global centre of power and inter-State relations.

Since 1994, South Africa’s foreign policy has been inspired by its history and guided by its ethos and principles, foremost of which is the desire for a just, humane, and equitable world. In the conduct of our foreign policies and international relations, we attach the utmost importance to the promotion of human rights, democracy, justice, and the rule of international law. Those principles of necessity place multilateral institutions, specifically the United Nations, at the centre of our foreign-policy activities, and that is why part of our duty is to protect and defend multilateralism. The multilateral system can also assist all of us in managing complex and new issues, as well as new international threats such as terrorism, climate change, pandemic and epidemic disease, food-insecurity, disarmament, including nuclear disarmament, migration, protectionism, inequality, poverty, unemployment, and other challenges. Common problems can no longer be solved without the collective efforts of all members of the international system, acting together through multilateral institutions.

The centrality of the United Nations to South Africa’s international relations strategy is therefore based on a strong belief in a rules-based international system of global governance. As we did 74 years ago, when we became a founding member of the United Nations, today, as we stand on the verge of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, we still believe that the multilateral system should be an indivisible construct based on common and shared values. It should set norms and standards that find universal application, without exception. The normative framework flowing from the multilateral system should be at the service of humankind and not the parochial interests of the few. My delegation therefore believes that the initiative of the Non-Aligned Movement to recognise this Day on an annual basis acknowledges the use of multilateral decision-making and diplomacy as the right tools for achieving the peaceful resolution of conflicts amongst nations.

That is also in line with Chapter VI of the Charter of the United Nations, which promotes the pacific settlement of disputes. That non-aggressive and pacifist approach reinforces the three pillars of the United Nations -sustainable development, peace and security, and human rights. Those pillars are indivisible, interdependent, and interrelated. They support each other and should be treated equally.

My delegation believes that if conflicts are not settled through multilateral diplomacy, such situations will lead to wars or threats of war and will ultimately result in the suffering and disenfranchisement of millions of people. Women and children are amongst the people most affected during those conflicts. The United Nations, through the Charter, can bring nations together to avoid such catastrophes, which are often man-made. The global geopolitical challenges that humankind faces are complex and multifaceted. No single country, no matter how powerful and wealthy, can seek to assume for itself the global unilateral monopoly on seeking solutions to all of the world’s problems. Most regional conflicts require a multilateral approach and high-level diplomacy.

South Africa, as a founding Member of the United Nations, always stands for respect for the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, which includes recognising the rule of law and the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all States’ Members of the United Nations.

In conclusion, we reaffirm our support for multilateralism and diplomacy as the best way for States to resolve conflicts and respect international institutions and agreements as guiding principles in relations amongst States. Multilateralism is particularly important today because of increased global and regional economic interdependence, the emergence of new major systemic changes affecting the global distribution of power, and the enhanced role of civil society. The best safeguard for the security and prosperity of us all is to consolidate rather than erode the rule of law and embed the principles of cooperation over conflict and collaboration over confrontation. The challenge therefore is to expedite efforts to transform global politics from a power-based hierarchical construct to a rules-based system of international society.

As we reform the United Nations’ system to make it fit for purpose in our times, we should also speed up the reform of the Security Council to make it more representative and to include Africa in its special permanent category.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Third Session

92nd Plenary Meeting

Tuesday, 25 June 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: A/73/PV.92 Agenda Item 124:

Question of Equitable Representation on and Increase in the Membership of the Security Council and other Matters Related to the Security Council

At the outset, I would like to thank you, Madam President, H.E. Ambassador María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés for convening this meeting and for the diligence with which you, your Chef de Cabinet, Kwabena Osei-Danquah, the Chief-of-Staff in the office of H.E. María Emma Mejía Vélezin in Ghana, and your excellent team have conducted our deliberations on the rollover decision 73/554 that we have just adopted. We also want to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to the co-Chairs, Ambassador Lana Nusseibeh of the United Arab Emirates -whom we wish well with her project -and Ambassador Christian Braun of Luxembourg, for the highly professional way in which they facilitated the intergovernmental negotiations.

I take the floor to explain my delegation’s vote on the rollover decision (decision 73/554) that we have just adopted and to register our priorities as we come to the end of this urgent meeting. My delegation joined the consensus on the rollover decision because we believe that this forum, as the chief deliberative organ of the United Nations, is still the most appropriate platform for addressing the challenges facing multilateralism today, including the comprehensive reform of the Security Council.

We welcome the decision of the President of the General Assembly on a separate operative paragraph 3 in order to spotlight the need to continue negotiations for the early reform of the Security Council. We further welcome the fact that the rollover decision refers only to two important documents, namely, the framework document and the final revised document of the 73rd session. These two documents are critical if we are to make meaningful progress in the intergovernmental negotiations going forward.

We wish to express our concern about the lack of progress in the intergovernmental negotiations, and we call on the General Assembly to demonstrate the much-needed leadership and commitment necessary to conclude this agenda item as soon as possible.

There was a total of five intergovernmental negotiations meetings this session, which were very helpful in enriching one another’s positions and intergovernmental negotiations priorities, but, unfortunately, there remain deep-seated divergences amongst Member States on how to take the intergovernmental negotiations forward. My delegation wishes to point out that there is an anomaly in the reasoning of those who believe that the time is not right for Council reform, even though they joined the consensus decision in 1993 to embark on this process of transforming the central organ of our Organization to reflect the realities and structures of the current global configuration.

Since this is the last plenary meeting under this agenda item for this session, it is only fitting that I join the overwhelming majority of Member States in reiterating the following points.

Firstly, there is an urgent need to move the intergovernmental negotiations towards text-based negotiations. Again, a total of 164 countries, more than 80 per cent of the United Nations membership, have called for text-based negotiations throughout the period. A normalisation of the intergovernmental negotiations process is the only option towards meaningful progress. It is only through a giveand-take process of negotiations that we will break the 11-year stalemate of the intergovernmental negotiations and give confidence to the people outside the United Nations system.

Secondly, we are satisfied that the language in the final revised document on the Common African Position, as enshrined in the Ezulwini Consensus, has been strengthened, but we still maintain our view that the reference to the Ezulwini Consensus should indeed be included in the comments section of the document. During the five meetings of the intergovernmental negotiations, we did not hear any delegation oppose the proposal. We remain disconcerted by the fact that that proposal, which is supported by the overwhelming majority of Member States here, as it was earlier, has not been considered.

Thirdly, we are still convinced that the intergovernmental negotiations session needs to be extended beyond June in order to reassure the international community that we are committed to the early implementation of the 2005 mandate of our Heads of State. We do not believe that because there are still divergences of views, we must simply conclude the intergovernmental negotiations session, as we have just done.

South Africa strongly believes that not only is it incumbent on us to do so, but we also have an obligation to humankind and the marginalised majority of the world population to make the Council representative. In that vein, my delegation remains of the view that the only way to make concrete progress in this debate is to obtain a future mandate through a General Assembly resolution, as we believe that the open, oral decision taken in this body will simply serve to perpetuate the stalemate and lead to further inaction.

The time will be ripe during the upcoming session to put these discussions into the form of a resolution, based on the Common African Position on Council reform and taking into account the position of other interest groups. In conclusion, Madam President, we look forward to the 74th session and have no doubt that your colleague, Mr. Tijjani Muhammad Bande, the incoming President of the General Assembly, will build on the progress made thus far in the intergovernmental negotiations. For us, the success of the intergovernmental negotiations during the 74th session would be a fitting tribute and a perfect gift for the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, next year.

The challenge before us is to muster the necessary political will and realise meaningful progress with a view to concluding a comprehensive reform of the Security Council.

Finally, South Africa would like to thank all Member States for the professional way in which they presented their views, including my friends in other groups, who are present now. We had a robust discussion, but we also had good times.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Fourth Session 27th Plenary Meeting

Wednesday, 6 November 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/74/PV.27 Agenda Item 39:

Necessity of Ending the Economic, Commercial, and Financial Embargo Imposed by the United States of America against Cuba

Report of the Secretary-General (A/74/91/Rev.1) Draft Resolution (A/74/L.6)

H.E. Ambassador Prof Tijjani MuhammadBande(Nigeria) assumed the Presidency of the

United Nations General Assembly at its 74th Session (2019-2020)

Allow me to acknowledge the presence of the honourable Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba, His Excellency Mr. Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla, at this important debate, which seeks to end the injustice of the embargo against Cuba.

South Africa aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representative of the Republic of Azerbaijan, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries; The observer of the State of Palestine, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China; and the representative of Tunisia, on behalf of the Group of African States. We welcome draft resolution A/74/L.6 and the report of the Secretary-General entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba” (A/74/91), which once again clearly reflect the overwhelming support of the States’ Members of the United Nations for an end to this injustice.

The imposition of these unilateral coercive measures by the United States contravenes the spirit of the Charter of the United Nations, to which we all are committed as Member States. It has clearly caused immeasurable damage to the development of the people of Cuba and can surely no longer be justified.

Relations between South Africa and Cuba date back to well before the historic 1994 South African democratic elections. The friendship and solidarity between South Africa and Cuba are deep-rooted and enduring. At great sacrifice, Cuba made a significant contribution to the liberation of South Africa, for which we are eternally grateful. In that regard, we pay special homage to the fallen Cuban combatants who sacrificed their lives for the attainment of a free and democratic South Africa, particularly as we celebrate our country’s 25th anniversary of freedom.

South Africa will therefore continue to support the Cuban people in their struggle to end the economic, financial, and commercial blockade unilaterally imposed by the United States against Cuba. That is a principled position that is supported by the vast majority of the States’ Members of the United Nations.

The window of opportunity that opened up briefly for the normalisation of diplomatic relations and a relaxing of the embargo under the previous United States Administration has been regrettably reversed, with the imposition of further stringent sanctions against Cuba. As a result, the Cuban people are once again faced with a monumental obstacle to the fulfilment of their national development goals and the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

In that regard, South Africa has noted with concern the escalation of United States’ aggression against Cuba and the region and the rolling back of the previous United States Administration’s policy of engagement with Cuba. South Africa condemns the activation, as announced on 3 April, of Title III of the 1996 Helms-Burton Act, which allows legal action through United States’ courts for reparations following the nationalisation of properties in Cuba in 1959.

The intensification of the extraterritorial application of the embargo through the activation of Title III of the Helms Burton Act is strongly rejected by South Africa, as third-party countries are increasingly being discouraged from pursuing normal trade and investment opportunities with Cuba.

South Africa is also concerned at the new restrictions on American citizens travelling to Cuba on group educational visits known as “people to people” trips; the prohibition of cruises, private yachts, fishing, and oil vessels from docking in Cuba; and the recent announcement that the United States Department of Commerce will restrict Cuba’s access to commercial aircraft and expand sanctions to include more foreign goods containing United States’ content. More alarmingly, the punitive actions of the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the United States against countries undertaking financial and business transactions with Cuba will further undermine the Cuban people’s aspirations to develop their country fully.

The severe economic and financial restrictions threaten to be further increased, compounding the hardship and suffering of the Cuban people. South Africa calls on all countries to support Cuba and its people by scrapping any domestic laws or regulations that continue to hamper the development of Cuba and its people, in accordance with resolution 73/8.

The policies imposed by the United States on Cuba remain the biggest obstacle to the Cuban people’s fulfilment of their basic human rights, infringing on their right to development. They stifle Cuba’s economic and social development and further undermine collective efforts towards sustainable development.

In conclusion, in solidarity with Cuba and with the support of the vast majority of States’ Members of the United Nations, South Africa will once again vote in favour of the draft resolution to be adopted by this organ of the United Nations. South Africa therefore urges the United States Government to reconsider its policies on Cuba and calls on the entire international community to scrap any domestic laws or regulations that continue to hamper the development of Cuba and its people. The current embargo on Cuba is indefensible and should be lifted in order to ensure the Cuban people’s right to development and to facilitate Cuba’s quest to achieve its national development goals and priorities, including the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Fourth Session 33rd Plenary Meeting

Monday, 25 November 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/74/PV.33 Agenda Item 122:

Question of Equitable Representation on and Increase in the Membership of the Security Council and other Matters Related to the Security Council

We welcome the convening of this important and highly relevant debate on the agenda item entitled “Question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council and other matters related to the Security Council.”

We appreciate that the President, H.E. Prof Tijjani Muhammad-Bande identified the reform of the Security Council as one of the key priorities of his presidency.

We look forward to the early appointment of the co-Chairs in order to start the intergovernmental negotiations as soon as possible. I would therefore like to reassure the President of my delegation’s unwavering support in this endeavour. I trust that, through his leadership, considerable progress will be made in moving the intergovernmental negotiations process forward.

My delegation aligns itself with statements delivered by the representative of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, on behalf of the L.69 group, and by the representative of Sierra Leone, on behalf of the Group of African States. We wish to make the following additional remarks.

This year marks 74 years since the Security Council was established in 1945, as well as 54 years since the first and, sadly, the most recent expansion of the Council took place. In a little under two weeks from now, on 11 December, we will mark the 27th anniversary of the adoption of decision 47/62, which initiated the process for the Assembly’s consideration of the agenda item dealing with the reform of the Security Council. This year is exactly 11 years since the start of the intergovernmental negotiations process, and 14 years since the World Summit of 2005, where we unanimously agreed on an early reform of the Security Council. It is with deep regret that, despite those efforts, the process of the reform of the Security Council has not produced any significant results.

Speaking from this very rostrum on 28 September 2019, Minister Naledi Pandor of South Africa called for the negotiations on reforms to be invigorated (see A/74/PV.11). It is with that in mind that South Africa urges all Member States, under the leadership of the President of the General Assembly, to take full advantage of the 75th anniversary consultation processes, as well as the upcoming intergovernmental negotiations session, to spare no effort to reinvigorate the negotiations process with the aim of achieving the momentum needed for moving the negotiations on the reform of the Security Council forward to their logical conclusion. South Africa firmly believes that continued, direct and results-oriented engagement by Member States is urgently required. In that context, we would like to propose the following.

Firstly, we join other Member States that have called for us to explore options for moving the intergovernmental negotiations process forward, including through the immediate normalisation of negotiation modes within the intergovernmental negotiations process and the establishment of a road map with clear implementable time frames for the reform agenda.

Secondly, we reiterate the view that we do not need to reinvent the proverbial wheel in the intergovernmental negotiations process. The current revised document produced during the 73rd session is a positive step that we could build on. In our view, the revised document is not perfect, but it is a step towards the next logical stage of give-and-take negotiations. South Africa would welcome an improved reflection of the Ezulwini Consensus in the revised document in line with the overwhelming support that the Common African Position has received across the United Nations’ membership.

Likewise, we also strongly advocate for the expansion of permanent and non-permanent membership to ensure that all five subregions are represented in the Council. The reformed Council should have at least 26 seats. Furthermore, my delegation welcomes with appreciation the unwavering support for the Ezulwini Consensus voiced by the Heads of State and Government of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (NAM) during its 18th Summit, held in Baku last month, and as reflected in the Baku outcome document. The Movement is commended for joining the overwhelming support for the Common African Position. We therefore request all States’ members of NAM to relentlessly advocate this aspect of the NAM position during the intergovernmental negotiations.

Thirdly, the idea of ending the work of the intergovernmental negotiations before June, as was the case in the previous three sessions, does not utilise time efficiently and denies the process adequate opportunity for full discussions. The ending of the intergovernmental negotiations four months before the session ends creates the impression that there is no urgency to this very important and long-outstanding process.

In the light of what I have said here, my delegation would like to emphasise and reiterate the urgent need for the speedy reform of the Security Council. The world and the work of the Council have evolved and become more complex, and indeed more pressing, over the past 74 years. The unreformed structure of the Security Council runs the risk of losing legitimacy, credibility, and acceptance if the General Assembly fails to urgently implement the necessary and required reforms. The current stalemate in the Council and its glaring failure to carry out its historical mandate of maintaining international peace and security is largely attributed to its current configuration. It is for that reason that South Africa calls for urgent practical steps to be taken during the 74th session.

In conclusion, I would like to reaffirm my delegation’s commitment to the comprehensive reform of the Security Council. In that regard, we remain committed to working with the President and other Member States to ensure that this session of the intergovernmental negotiations is indeed a success. We reiterate our call for this session to produce a fair and progressive outcome to restore the credibility and the legitimacy of the Council as one of the critical organs of the United Nations. We must seize this moment to finally realise the mandate given by Heads of State in 2005 to urgently reform the Council. Making progress on the comprehensive reform of the Security Council would be a fitting tribute to our diamond jubilee celebrations next year.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Fifth Session

3rd Plenary Meeting

Monday 21 September 2020, 9 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/75/Pv.3 Agenda Item:

High-Level Meeting to Commemorate the Seventy-Fifth Anniversary of the United Nations

H.E. Volkan Bozkir (Turkey) was Elected the President

of the UN General Assembly and Presided over this 75th Session (2020-2021)

It is my singular honour and privilege to introduce to the General Assembly during the occasion of this high-level meeting marking the 75th anniversary of the United Nations the pre-recorded message by His Excellency Mr. Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa and current Chairperson of the African Union.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Fifth Session

4th Plenary Meeting

Tuesday, 22 September 2020, 9 A.M. New York

Official Records: A/75/PV.4 Agenda Item 8: General Debate

It is my honour and privilege to introduce at the General Assembly on the occasion of its virtual debate a pre-recorded message of His Excellency Mr. Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, delivering the statement in his capacity as the Chairperson of the African Union.

United Nations General Assembly Seventy-Fifth Session

28th Plenary Meeting

Monday, 16 November 2020, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: A/75/PV.28 Agenda Item 127:

Question of Equitable Representation on and Increase in the Membership of the Security Council and other Matters Related to the Security Council

We welcome the convening of today’s important and highly relevant debate on the question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council and other matters related to the Security Council. We appreciate that the President, H.E. Volkan Bozkir has identified the reform of the Security Council as one of the key priorities of the presidency.

We would like to congratulate Ambassador Joanna Wronecka of Poland and Ambassador Alya Ahmed Saif Al-Thani of Qatar on their appointments as co-Chairs of the intergovernmental negotiations process on Security Council reform. I would like to reassure them of my delegation’s unwavering support for the reform of the Security Council and trust that, through their leadership, progress is possible in moving the intergovernmental negotiations process forward towards a tangible delivery of reform of the Council.

My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representative of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on behalf of the L.69 Group and the representative of Sierra Leone on behalf of the Group of African States (see A/75/ PV.27). We wish to make the following additional remarks. This year marks the 75th year since the Security Council was established in 1945.

It also marks 55 years since the only expansion in the membership of the Security Council, which was limited to the non-permanent membership category only. In a little less than a month, on 11 December, we will mark the 28th anniversary of the adoption of resolution 47/62, which initiated the process in the General Assembly of the agenda item dealing with Security Council reform.

This year also marks 12 years since the start of the intergovernmental negotiations process in the hope that it would invigorate the Open-ended Working Group on the Question of Equitable Representation on and Increase in the Membership of the Security Council that presented it, as well as 15 years since the 2005 World Summit, which unanimously agreed on an early reform of the Security Council.

It is with deep regret that, despite those efforts and dates we just mentioned in the intergovernmental negotiations process of reform, the Security Council has not produced any significant results. The 75th anniversary of the United Nations is a milestone in the history of the world. The theme of this year is the only option to deliver on the resolve of the Organization’s collective membership to shape “The future we want, the United Nations we need”.

Let us be clear -the Council of today is not reflective of the current realities of the world we live in. A broader membership has for over half a century rightfully reached a point where it demands to be represented in all organs of United Nations in a fully representative and equitable manner, which includes developing countries having a voice in both membership categories of the Security Council. Given the reality that most peace and security issues on the Council’s agenda relate to our continent, Africa cannot remain unrepresented and excluded from being represented in the permanent membership category of this organ of the United Nations.

Speaking from this very rostrum during the 74th session, on 28 September 2019, Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor underscored South African’s priorities, when she made the following observations,

“[w]e remain gravely concerned that 74 years after the founding of the United Nations, key decisions on peace and security are the de facto domain of only five countries. Twenty years of discussions on reform of the Security Council have yielded no movement towards a more representative and inclusive body.

“We believe that the time has come for the broader membership to heed the overwhelming call for Africa to obtain at least two permanent seats, with all the prerogatives of permanent membership, as well as five non-permanent seats, as embodied in the Common African Position, adopted in the Ezulwini Consensus.

In that regard, we must see an invigoration of the negotiations on reform at the intergovernmental negotiations, including by ensuring that we move to text-based negotiations.” (A/74/PV.11, p. 46).

It is with that in mind that South Africa urges all Member States, under the leadership of the co-Chairs, to take full advantage of the intergovernmental negotiations process during the 75th session of the General Assembly to exert all their efforts towards achieving reform of the Security Council. We join other Member States that have called for us to explore options for moving the negotiations process forward, including the start of text-based negotiations and the establishment of a road map with clear time frames for the immediate normalisation of the intergovernmental negotiations process.

South Africa believes that the time has come for the intergovernmental negotiations process to adopt the rules of procedure of the General Assembly, which would normalise the process and bring it into conformity with all other negotiations processes undertaken by this very important organ at some time in the Assembly Hall so that, in the end, Member States -not co-facilitators -own the outcome document and conclusions. That is normal.

We reiterate the view that we do not need to reinvent the proverbial wheel in the intergovernmental negotiations process. The current revised document, produced during the 71st session of the intergovernmental negotiations process, is a positive step that we could build on. In our view, the revised document is far from perfect but is a move towards the next logical step of give-and-take negotiations. We believe that we will fulfil our mandate to reform the Security Council only when we are able to negotiate in an open and transparent manner, on the basis of a comprehensive operational text.

South Africa will also welcome an improved reflection of the Ezulwini Consensus in the revised document and an accurate articulation of the overwhelming support that the Common African Position has received. In a letter from the co-facilitators to the President of the General Assembly, they stated that,

“[t]here was a growing support expressed to redress the historical injustice against Africa and to ensure better African representation in the reformed Council in line with the Common African Position”.

And I would add -in line with the Ezulwini Consensus. We will also continue to advocate for the expansion of permanent and non-permanent membership to ensure that all five subregions of Africa are represented in the Council. The reformed Council should have at least 26 seats.

Furthermore, my delegation welcomes with appreciation the unwavering support for the Ezulwini Consensus, voiced by more than 120 Heads of State of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (NAM) during the 18th NAM summit, held in Baku last year, as reflected in the Baku outcome document. The movement, which comprises almost two-thirds of all Member States of the United Nations and the General Assembly, is to be commended for joining the overwhelming support for the Common African Position, which includes the expansion of the permanent category.

We also call on the President to extend the intergovernmental negotiations process until August 2021, to make up for the loss suffered during the previous session when the process was so unceremoniously cut short due to the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. By not utilising our time efficiently, we deny the process an adequate opportunity for the full discussions that can help us to deliver the United Nations we need. The ending of the intergovernmental process four months before the session ends creates the impression that there is no urgency to this very important and long-standing process. It is therefore imperative that we invest time in the future we want and the United Nations we need.

The intergovernmental negotiations process should be concluded with a concrete outcome in the form of a formal General Assembly resolution, as opposed to continuously subscribing to an oral rollover decision that only perpetuates the state of inaction experienced in the intergovernmental negotiations.

Having said the aforementioned, my delegation would like to emphasise and reiterate the urgent need for a speedy reform of the Security Council. The world and the work of the Council have evolved and have become more complex, and indeed more pressing, over the past 75 years.

The unreformed structure of the Security Council runs the risk of losing legitimacy if the Assembly fails to urgently implement the necessary reform. The current stalemate in the Council and glaring failure of the Council in carrying out its historical mandate on the maintenance of peace and security is largely attributable to its current configuration, which is outdated. To put it simply, it no longer reflects the United Nations we need. It is for that reason that South Africa calls for urgent, practical steps to be taken during the 13th session of the intergovernmental negotiations process.

In conclusion, I would like to reaffirm my delegation’s commitment to the comprehensive reform of the Security Council. In that regard, we remain committed to working with the President and other Member States to ensure that this session of intergovernmental negotiations is indeed a success. We reiterate our call to restore the credibility and legitimacy of the Council as one of the critical organs of the United Nations. We have an obligation to deliver on the mandate given to us by the Heads of State in 2005 with regard to the reform of the Security Council. There can be no greater achievement during the 75th anniversary of the United Nations than to have text-based negotiations.

United Nations General Assembly

Thirty-First Special Session 2nd Plenary Meeting

Friday, 4 December 2020, 6 P.M. New York

Official Records: A/S-31/Pv.2 (Resumption 1) Agenda Item 7:

General Debate

Closing Segment

I would like to thank you, as President of the General Assembly, H.E. Volkan Bozkir for inviting South Africa, in its capacity as President of the Security Council, to address the special session of the General Assembly on this important issue, namely, responses to the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It is an honour for us to do so.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shaken the foundations of our collective social, economic and political systems. It is a global crisis that has put immense pressure on national health systems and is ravaging lives globally and threatening livelihoods. Therefore, we cannot stand apart in our responses. Rather, we must strengthen our resolve to coordinate efforts through greater national, regional and international cooperation.

There are no better means of defeating the pandemic than by enhancing and strengthening the multilateral system’s capacity to address global health emergencies. In that regard, we reaffirm the key coordinative role of the United Nations in coordinating the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The threat to lives, livelihoods, and social stability posed by the COVID-19 pandemic has significant consequences for global peace and security. We note with concern the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on women and girls, children, refugees, internally displaced persons, older persons, and persons with disabilities.

The Security Council has recognised that the peacebuilding and development gains made by countries in transition and post-conflict countries could be reversed in the light of the COVID-19 outbreak. While COVID-19 poses a challenge to the maintenance of international peace and security, it also provides the opportunity to decisively end violence and hostilities.

In July this year, the Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 2532 (2020), which expressed grave concern about the devastating impact of COVID-19 across the world. It supported the Secretary-General’s call for a global ceasefire and acknowledged the launch of the Global Humanitarian Response Plan for COVID-19 by the United Nations, which puts people at the centre of the response. The solution demands a general and immediate cessation of hostilities in all situations on the agenda of the Security Council. With resolution 2532 (2020), it was hoped that the pandemic would be utilised as an opportunity to end conflicts. We are encouraged by some countries that heeded the Secretary-General’s call for a global ceasefire. However, we regret the fact that some parties to the conflict have not seized this opportunity. We call on all parties to intensify efforts to fully implement resolution 2532 (2020).

The Security Council held three public meetings on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on peace and security in April, July, and September, respectively. The meeting in September considered progress on the implementation of resolution 2532 (2020).

The pandemic has reminded us and confirmed the extent of our interdependence. In that context, we need to continue to collaborate and act in the best tradition of international cooperation and solidarity in order to fight the pandemic and ensure that no one is left behind.

Part II: Interventions at the Economic and Social Council

H.E. Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila was Elected

the Vice-President of the Economic and Social Council, and Chaired its Humanitarian Segment (2017-2018)

H.E. Ambassador Marie Chatardová, Permanent Representative of Czech Republic was Elected

President of the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (2017-2018)

United Nations Economic and Social Council Official Records: E/2016/SR.39

High-Level Segment Summary Record of the 39th Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Wednesday, 20 July 2016, at 3 P.M.

Agenda Item 5: High-Level Segment General Debate

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that the 2030 Agenda provided an opportunity to complete the unfinished business of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and to address the wide range of global challenges that threatened to reverse the development gains achieved in recent decades. In view of the mutually reinforcing nature of sustainable development and peace and security, efforts should be undertaken to harness the potential of the Sustainable Development Goals to prevent conflict and bolster the efforts of United Nations and African Union peacekeeping operations to support post-conflict reconstruction and peacekeeping. In particular, concerted efforts should be made to ensure the integrated implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the African Union Agenda 2063 in order to reverse the conditions contributing to violence in areas of potential or existing conflict and to promote post-conflict reconstruction on the African continent.

National efforts in support of the 2030 Agenda and African Union Agenda 2063 had focused particularly on addressing poverty, inequality, and unemployment, while ensuring that all stakeholders were empowered to contribute to the implementation process. In line with the Sustainable Development Goals, South Africa’s Vision 2030 development plan mandated all relevant stakeholders to contribute to building a democratic, prosperous, and inclusive society, free of racial and gender-based discrimination. Building on his country’s achievements in the area of social and economic development since 1994, the plan had resulted in significant gains in the areas of poverty reduction, education and skills development, healthcare, access to basic services and the provision of social security benefits to various segments of the population.

Meaningful collaboration in support of development, particularly in the area of technology, would be essential to end poverty within a generation, promote a dignified life for each individual, and safeguard the planet, including by combating climate change. To that end, Member States must capitalise on, inter alia, the tools identified by the multi-stakeholder forum on science, technology, and innovation for the Sustainable Development Goals and the research of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on the peaceful use of technology. Lastly, the high-level political forum should encourage all Member States and relevant international bodies to contribute to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

United Nations Economic and Social Council

Summary Record of the 12th Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Wednesday, 28 February 2018, At 3 P.M.

Official Records: E/2018/SR.12 Agenda:

Operational Activities for Development Segment

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila (South Africa) said that strengthening the role of the United Nations’ development system and its capacity to help developing countries to achieve their development goals was crucial to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. He was encouraged by the Secretary-General’s efforts to address gaps and overlaps within the system and to ensure that its activities at the country level were more efficient, transparent and inclusive.

Operational activities for development needed adequate, predictable, and stable funding. The growing imbalance between core and non-core resources hindered programming at the country level. The rapid increase in the use of earmarked funds contributed to the fragmentation of United Nations entities at the country level. Furthermore, while the United Nations’ development system was increasingly expected to do more; it was not being provided with the necessary funding to fulfil its mandate. Proposed partnerships at the country level should therefore provide for government engagement and match local needs. At the global level, partnerships should be flexible and focus on the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals, giving them all equal weight. The United Nations’ development system should pursue its core mandate to support demand-driven development efforts in which Governments played a leadership role for the achievement of the Goals.

United Nations Economic and Social Council

27 July 2017 to 26 July 2018 Integration Segment

Summary Record of the 24th Meeting Held at Headquarters, New York, on Thursday, 3 May 2018, at 10 A.M. Official Records: E/2018/SR.24

Agenda Item 8: Integration Segment

Session 5: Panel Discussion on “Leveraging Technology and Innovation to Support Resilience and Inclusiveness in Africa in the Context of the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063” (President)

The President said that he would like to hear more about how technology could be used to assist the disabled in Africa. He was also interested to know if weather data could be used by urban planners to improve conditions in slums and other informal settlements by guiding decisions on whether informal settlements should be made permanent or moved to safer and more hospitable locations. The cities of Africa were growing and expanding at a rapid pace and some rational planning was needed.

United Nations Economic and Social Council

2018 Session

27 July 2017 to 26 July 2018 Humanitarian Affairs Segment Summary Record of the 36th Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Tuesday, 19 June 2018, At 3 P.M. Opening of the Segment

Official Records: E/2018/SR.36 Agenda Item 9:

Special Economic, Humanitarian, and Disaster Relief Assistance (President)

H.E. Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila Presided over

the Special Economic Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Assistance Session at the United Nations

The President, H.E. Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila, opening the humanitarian affairs segment on the theme “Restoring humanity, respecting human dignity, and leaving no one behind: working together to reduce people’s humanitarian need, risk, and vulnerability”, said that the segment was a unique forum for promoting a better understanding of the complex nature of humanitarian needs and the operational challenges faced in delivering humanitarian assistance. It also provided a major opportunity for Member States and humanitarian partners to discuss how to further strengthen the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance to respond to record levels of need and how to overcome obstacles to reaching those in need. Three high-level panels would be held during the course of the segment:

the first would address the impact of armed conflict on children and ways to strengthen the response to meet children’s needs; the second would reflect on the challenges, risks, and impacts of extreme weather events and climate change on the most vulnerable; and the third would focus on ways to strengthen local capabilities for sustainable outcomes and local resilience and the contribution of humanitarian action in that regard.

Humanitarian partners delivered assistance to some of the most vulnerable people on the planet. Human dignity was an important component of humanitarian action, the aim of which was not just to save lives but to empower people to live their lives with dignity and give them an opportunity to rebuild their resilience. In line with the 100th anniversary of the birth of Nelson Mandela and the importance that his own country, South Africa, attached to the issue of children, he wished to show a short video highlighting the centrality of children in Nelson Mandela’s work, in the hope that it would inspire concrete action.

United Nations Economic And Social Council

2018 Session

27 July 2017 to 26 July 2018 Humanitarian Affairs Segment Summary Record of the 37th Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Wednesday, 20 June 2018, at 10 A.M.

Official Records: E/2018/SR.37 Agenda Item 9:

Special Economic, Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Assistance (Continued)

High-Level Panel Discussion: “Addressing the Impact of Armed Conflict on Children - Strengthening the Response to Meet Children’s Needs” (President)

The President, Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila said that the number of children living in conflict zones had been steadily increasing since 2000. They faced grave risks, including a lack of proper nutrition, medical care, safe water and sanitation, an increased risk of violence, exploitation and abuse, disrupted education, and protracted displacement. The objective of the high-level panel discussion about to begin was to reflect on the vulnerabilities and risks that children faced in armed conflict and to explore good practices in protecting children and meeting their specific needs, including through ensuring respect for international humanitarian and human rights law. He hoped that participants would come away with practical steps that could be implemented. The protection of children in armed conflict must be a priority; indeed, his own country, South Africa, firmly believed that, by working together, the international community could make a difference for those children.

A video presentation based on real-life drawings by children affected by armed conflict was shown.

The President said that the drawings in the video, which demonstrated how children reflected on their daily experiences in conflict situations, caused viewers to contemplate the dangers to which children were exposed. The international community must reflect deeply on what should be done to save those children and prepare them for the future. He hoped that the African saying “any child is my child” could help guide that reflection.

United Nations Economic and Social Council

2018 Session

27 July 2017 to 26 July 2018 Humanitarian Affairs Segment Summary Record of the 38th Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Wednesday, 20 June 2018, at 3 P.M.

Official Records: E/2018/SR.38 Agenda Item 9:

Special Economic, Humanitarian, and Disaster Relief Assistance (President)

Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila

The President said that the panel would explore how the humanitarian system could better address the challenges related to extreme weather events and climate change and their humanitarian impacts.

Participants would discuss how to improve preparation for and response to slow-and sudden-onset disasters and climate change, and identify strategies, best practices, and lessons learned that could be harnessed to ensure prevention, resilience, and the protection of vulnerable persons. The panellists would assess the implications of the disaster landscape and climate horizon for humanitarian action and opportunities for collaboration with development and climate actors. They would share their experiences at the national and regional levels, including responses to recent major disasters such as the Atlantic hurricane season of 2017 and the El Niño event of 2015/2016. Although in both cases, the collective response had been better than in the past, gaps, challenges, and opportunities needed to be addressed in order to improve preparedness for future events.

United Nations Economic and Social Council

2018 Session

27 July 2017 to 26 July 2018 Humanitarian Affairs Segment Summary Record of the 39th Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Thursday, 21 June, At 10 A.M. Official Records: E/2018/SR.39

Agenda Item 9:

Special Economic, Humanitarian, and Disaster Relief Assistance (President)

The President, Ambassador Jerry Matjila said that the international humanitarian response system had not always kept pace and exercised sufficient flexibility to adapt mechanisms and funding to growing local, national, and regional capacities. International engagement should be based on a good understanding of existing local response capacity and critical gaps. It should be predictable, sustainable and suited to the context.

The President, Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila said that first of all, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development should be central to all discussions of humanitarian issues. It was essential to ensure that countries and regions could move ahead on the 2030 Agenda once temporary relief had ended. Second, in economically or politically integrated regions, humanitarian action should aim to build regional capacity and resilience; for example, items for emergency relief should be inventoried and stockpiled at the regional level. Third, data and information from the previous 50 years could be used to identify patterns and prepare for future disasters. In that connection, it was unfortunate that a speaker’s credentials sometimes became an issue, as the woman associated with ActionAid had made a valid point: it should be possible to learn from the past and perhaps benefit from her input in future. Fourth, new financing solutions such as resilience bonds and disaster risk insurance should be explored. Fifth, in conflict situations, every effort should be made to capacitate neutral local organisations so that they could serve as fulcrums in no-go areas. Moreover, donors should have differentiated response plans for conflict and non-conflict situations. Lastly, companies sometimes destroyed surplus production to create markets or maintain prices. Instead, they should be able to donate surpluses to emergency supply warehouses. Perhaps the United Nations’ humanitarian apparatus could inventory all of the food- and equipment-producing companies and set up a donation bank.

United Nations Economic and Social Council

2018 Session

27 July 2017 to 26 July 2018 Humanitarian Affairs Segment Summary Record of the 40th Meeting

Held at Headquarters, New York, on Thursday, 21 June 2018, at 3 P.M.

Official Records: E/2018/SR.40 Agenda Item 9:

Special Economic, Humanitarian, and Disaster Relief Assistance Closing of the Segment

The President, Ambassador Jerry Matjila reviewing the panel discussions held during the segment, said that children were amongst the most vulnerable to the impact of climate change and conflict, and their humanitarian needs were inadequately addressed. Millions were malnourished or faced severe food-insecurity, and their inability to attend school adversely affected their prospects.

Better solutions were needed to counter the growing impact of climate-and disaster-related crises. In 2017, the impact of natural disasters had caused the second-largest economic loss in history. Natural disasters affected over 100 million people annually and were exacerbated by climate change. Every year, livelihoods were eroded or erased by such crises. In order to better prepare for such events, the international community needed to shift from managing crises to mitigating and managing risk. New anticipatory approaches to reducing humanitarian needs were encouraging. In addition, cooperation with local communities and authorities to develop solutions based on existing local mechanisms improved the effectiveness of aid delivery processes.

Throughout the panel discussions, there had been a clarion call for promoting human dignity, restoring humanity, reinforcing local actors, and communities and driving change through the new way of working. It was crucial that those discussions continued and were translated into concrete actions.

Part III: Interventions at the Security Council

South Africa was Elected a Non-Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council for Two Years (2019-2020). The Security Council is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations. It mandated to take primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. The 15 Member States that constitute the Council include 5 permanent Members and 10 non-permanent Members elected every two years from amongst Members of the Un General Assembly. The Member states of the UN are, under the Charter of the UN, obligated to abide by the decisions of the Security Council. In cases of conflicts or disputes, it often calls for a peaceful settlement or recommends adjustment of existing settlement or impose sanctions or authorise the use of force to restore peace.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-First Year 7736th Meeting

Tuesday, 12 July 2016, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.7736 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question Japan assumed the Presidency of the UN Security Council for July 2016

At the outset, Mr. President (of the Council), H.E. Koro Bessho, Permanent Representative of Japan, we would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you and your country on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month and ensuring sustained attention in the debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

South Africa fully supports the Security Council’s convening of regular open debates on this matter, as it allows all Member States an opportunity to express their views and to inject greater impetus into the negotiations, as this is one of the most protracted matters on the Council’s agenda. We also express our appreciation to Japan’s predecessor, the French Republic, for the manner in which it led the deliberations of the Council during the month of June, as well as its continued commitment to finding a lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

While we reiterate that the central responsibility for achieving peace is primarily in the hands of Palestinians and Israelis, the international community does have a responsibility to support and encourage the parties towards that endeavour. South Africa is of the opinion that the basis of the negotiations, which has been the two-State solution, is being threatened by the increasing construction of illegal settlements in occupied territories, as well as by heightened tension and sporadic acts of violence between Palestinians and Israelis.

The French initiative endorsed by the international community in Paris in June is welcome as an effort to resuscitate the peace process and thereby prevent the two-State solution from slipping away. As South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation stated at the Paris meeting, “this initiative is like the first raindrop after a long drought, and we hope it will nourish the peace process”.

South Africa would like to highlight the views of the participants in Paris, stressing that both sides should demonstrate their commitment to the two-State solution and resolve all permanent status issues through direct negotiations based on resolutions 242 (1967) and 338 (1973). We also welcome the Paris communiqué, recalling relevant Security Council resolutions, further highlighting the importance of the Arab Peace Initiative and the key role of the Quartet, and welcoming the French offer to coordinate an international conference before the end of the year. It is essential that the General Assembly and Security Council resolutions, the Madrid Principles, the Arab Peace Initiative, and the Quartet Road Map constitute the international legal framework of those initiatives.

The Quartet report that was released last week was eagerly anticipated to provide leadership and direction for moving the peace process forward. The report rightfully calls upon each side to “independently demonstrate, through policies and actions, a genuine commitment to the two-State solution and refrain from unilateral steps that prejudge the outcome of final status negotiations”.

However, the reaction of the parties, in particular the Palestinians, is indicative of some level of disenchantment with the Quartet.

For a long time, our responsibility has been deferred to the Quartet, to which the United Nations provides moral legitimacy. In the light of the Quartet’s recent report, the international community must assert its moral and legal weight by insisting that the Israeli-Palestinian peace process take place in accordance with the international legal framework whereby the United Nations will play its role as neutral arbiter. The international conference proposed in Paris is an opportunity for the international community to play such a role.

The Security Council, in turn, must play its part in support of the international efforts. The Council has been known to support other peace processes with resolutions demanding compliance with international obligations. That approach has led to successful conclusions of conflicts as parties to the conflict recognised that non-compliance would result in punitive measures. The same is needed in the Israeli-Palestinian context.

We deplore the fact that four days following the release of the Quartet report, Israeli authorities announced plans to build additional housing units in the West Bank. That has detracted from any progress made in resolving the conflict.

As the Secretary-General, H.E. António Guterres has stated, the continuing construction of settlements “raises legitimate questions about Israel’s longterm intentions, which are compounded by continuing statements of some Israeli ministers calling for the annexation of the West Bank”.

The fact that Israel was able to make that announcement immediately following the call in the Quartet report for a halt in settlements further undermines the effectiveness of the Quartet.

The message emanating from Paris is that the time has come for the parties to resume negotiations with the full support of the international community, based on the existing international legal framework, and to work towards a two-State solution. The Council must play its part in dissuading unilateral measures that may impede the realisation of the two-State solution that has eluded the peoples of the region for too long. It is high time that the Security Council assume its full responsibility with respect to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-First Year 7740th Meeting

Tuesday, 19 July 2016, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.7740 Agenda:

Implementation of the Note by the President of the Security Council (S/2010/507)

Security Council Working Methods

Letter Dated 1 July 2016 from the Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2016/585)

I thank you, Sir, for organising this open debate on the working methods of the Security Council. I wish to commend Japan for its sustained efforts over the past 10 years in working to improve the working methods of the Security Council, particularly with regard to its work on strengthening presidential note S/2010/507. The note remains a useful guideline in improving the transparency, efficiency, and inclusiveness of the Council. The consistent implementation of the provisions of note 507 is key to ensuring its success. South Africa reiterates that the reforms to working methods, as reflected in note 507, as well as the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, should become permanent so that this organ can be held accountable and have predictable and transparent rules.

We wish to align ourselves with the statement delivered by the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). In addition to the proposals put forward by NAM, I wish to also focus on four practical suggestions, as requested by the concept note for this meeting (S/2016/585, annex), which South Africa believes can further contribute to creating a more effective Security Council.

Firstly, the Council has consistently agreed, including in note 507, to continue to expand consultation and cooperation with regional and subregional organisations, undertaking to invite relevant organisations to participate in its public and private meetings, when appropriate. Additionally, in note 507 the Council commits itself to continuing to informally consult with regional organisations when drafting, inter alia, resolutions, presidential statements and press statements, as appropriate.

During South Africa’s presidency of the Security Council in 2012, we championed strengthening strategic cooperation between the Security Council and the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council, as well as the promotion of the rule of law in conflict and post-conflict situations. The Security Council also adopted several outcomes, including resolution 2033 (2012), which recognises that regional organisations are well-placed to understand the nuances and complexities of conflicts and that their proximity to a given conflict allows them to directly influence its prevention or resolution. The resolution provides, amongst other things, concrete action for the Council to undertake to foster a more strategic relationship with the AU.

Currently there are processes under way in Africa to verify the readiness of the African Standby Force to enable the AU to intervene in conflicts within a short time. The AU has the political will and human resources to deploy troops anywhere in the continent, as reflected by the fact that the majority of peacekeeping troops in Africa originate from the continent itself. What is required is the consistent and regular strategic consultation and coordination between the Council and regional bodies, as well as assistance with regard to capacity-building.

Secondly, while there has been significant improvement in consultations between the Council and troop-contributing countries (TCCs), as called for in note 507, we believe that more can be done. In that regard, regular and timeous consultations and coordination between the Council and TCCs are required, specifically when considering new or the renewal of mandates.

Thirdly, the Security Council has committed itself in note 507 to seeking the views of Member States that are parties to a conflict and / or other interested and affected parties. That commitment should be uniformly applied. It would therefore be necessary for the Council, as a matter of principle, to always consult with all relevant parties to the conflict to ensure that the Council has at its disposal all relevant facts before deliberating on a matter.

Fourthly, briefings by the Council’s presidency to the general membership at the beginning and end of the month have become a regular occurrence. The Council has agreed that the Council presidency should provide substantive and detailed briefings to Member States in a timely manner, preferably shortly after informal consultations of the whole. We encourage members of the Council to ensure that they maintain this practice to promote transparency and keep Member States informed about its work.

This meeting is being held in the context of the implementation of seminal reforms related to the way in which the United Nations selects and appoints its Secretary-General. South Africa urges the Security Council to provide the membership with regular updates on its consideration of the candidates so as to ensure the transparency and credibility of the process.

In conclusion, the Council should continue to work towards increasing and improving its transparency and accountability, thereby ensuring the greater effectiveness and legitimacy of its work. Furthermore, superficial changes to the working methods do not detract from the fundamental need for a reform of the Council and the expansion of its membership in both the permanent and non-permanent categories. We must therefore speed up the reform of the Council if we are to avoid the further erosion of the legitimacy and credibility of this organ.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-First Year 7750th Meeting

28 July 2016, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.7750 Agenda:

Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peacebuilding in Africa

Letter Dated 1 July 2016 from the Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2016/586)

We commend you, Sir, H.E. Koro Bessho, Permanent Representative of Japan, for hosting this open debate of the Security Council on peacebuilding in Africa and for your country’s continual support for Africa’s development agenda.

The Security Council is charged with the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security, and conflict prevention and peacebuilding, particularly on the African continent, form part of that mandate and, indeed, the mandate of the United Nations in general. South Africa believes the key to sustainable peace consolidation lies in the strengthening of political approaches, including preventive diplomacy, conflict prevention and management, mediation, and peacebuilding. That would ensure that countries not only seek to avert conflict but also address the challenges that could prevent countries from sliding back into conflict.

Consequently, South Africa agrees with the assertion in the report of the Advisory Group of Experts for the 2015 Review of the United Nations Peacebuilding Architecture that peacebuilding

“must be the principle that flows through all the Organization’s engagements, informing all its activities -before, during and after violent conflicts -rather than being marginalized.” (S/2015/490, p. 3)

In some way or form, the majority of Member States have been affected by conflict. What prevents those conflicts from having a disproportionate impact on Member States is the capacity of States, economies, and societies to withstand such threats to their stability. That is the central tenant underlying the peacebuilding agenda: ensuring sustainable development and good governance in order to avoid relapses into conflict. Guarding against the spiralling of instability into full-blown conflict therefore becomes critical. In that regard, the sustained attention of the international community to countries emerging from conflict and the positive contributions from the international community to the stability, economic growth, and development of such countries are fundamental to the global peace and security agenda.

In order to strengthen States in the continent emerging from post-conflict situations, the African Union (AU) has developed a post-conflict reconstruction and development policy. It is a guide for the development of comprehensive policies and strategies that seek to consolidate peace and prevent a relapse into conflict violence. In 2014, the AU also launched its African Solidarity Initiative, aimed at mobilising support from within the continent for peacebuilding measures. All of those initiatives contribute to the ambition of the African Union’s “Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want” in promoting dialogue-centred conflict prevention, so that by 2020 all guns will be silent.

We welcome resolution 2282 (2016), as well as the identical General Assembly resolution 70/262, adopted in April, which considered the review of the United Nations peacebuilding architecture. Those resolutions recognise the important work of the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) as a body presiding over and ensuring strategic coherence in international peacebuilding efforts. As is always the case, the development of national policies in the aftermath of conflict will not succeed without the positive provision of adequate, predictable, and coherent funding, which in turn increases the possibility for sustainable peace.

South Africa, like other Member States, is intensely aware of the various challenges that the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) faces as a result of restricted funding. Therefore, the Security Council should welcome the announcement made by the African Union on Mandela Day, 18 July 2016, in Kigali, regarding the establishment of an African Union Peace Fund. We believe that that process will help balance and build on the actions of the PBC. The operationalisation of the AU Peace Fund will be complemented by the establishment of a 0.2 per cent levy on eligible imports so as to address the previous financial challenges faced by the AU. The AU Peace Fund will, amongst other things, address factors regarding mediation, preventive diplomacy, institutional capacity-building, and peace-support operations.

We must not lose sight of the sterling work that the Peacebuilding Commission and the Peacebuilding Fund have undertaken and continue to do. We are mindful of the fact that all of the countries on the PBC agenda are from Africa and that those countries have also received an estimated 80 per cent of the allocations granted by the Peacebuilding Fund between 2007 and 2014. Even at present, the Peacebuilding Fund is assisting in supporting the African Union Commission’s efforts to provide peacebuilding initiatives in Burundi, which serves as a practical example of an action that illustrates the strengthening of cooperation between the AU and the United Nations in sustaining peace.

The lack of State authority and weak State institutions are conditions conducive to conflict. South Africa therefore supports strengthening the governance institutions of countries emerging from conflict and the promotion of good governance. It should be noted that the AU has adopted an African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance, which sets out the continent’s vision for good governance, which, in turn, ultimately supports peacebuilding and sustainable peace. Finally, we call for the broadening of the concept of peacebuilding support to include not only financing for development, but also, in keeping with the idea behind the African Solidarity Initiative, in-kind support, such as the training and capacity-building of State institutions. Such in-kind initiatives will go a long way towards rebuilding State capacity to ensure peace, stability and development in a given country.

The idea of peacebuilding is based significantly on the understanding that peace cannot exist without development and that development cannot thrive without peace and stability. We believe that should underpin the United Nations’ approach to fulfilling its central mandate of the maintenance of international peace and security, which is strongly dependent on a prosperous and peaceful Africa.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-First Year 7758th Meeting

Tuesday, 23 August 2016, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.7758 Agenda:

Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction

Challenges in Addressing Proliferation of Weapons

of Mass Destruction, their Means of Delivery, and

Related Materials

Letter Dated 15 August 2016 from the Permanent

Representative of Malaysia to the United Nations

Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2016/712)

Malaysia Assumed the Presidency of the United Nations Security Council for August 2016. the PR of Malaysia Became the President of the Security Council for the Month of August 2016

South Africa welcomes the convening of today’s open debate on the challenges we face in addressing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs), their means of delivery, and related materials. The subject of today’s open debate is very important and relevant, particularly in the wake of the continuous threats to international peace and security posed by the continued possession, use, and threat of use of WMDs and their means of delivery. Such threats are further compounded by the ever-increasing chances that such weapons could end up in the hands of non-State actors.

South Africa associates itself with the statement made by the representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. I would like to share South Africa’s perspective on the topic before us.

Since 1994, South Africa has been steadfast in its commitment to multilateralism in addressing the peace and security challenges facing the global community, including the horizontal and vertical proliferation of WMDs and their means of delivery. South Africa reaffirms that no cause could ever justify the use or threat of use of weapons of mass destruction anywhere, by anyone or under any circumstances.

While significant progress has been achieved in the elimination of biological and chemical weapons through the universalisation and implementation of the conventions prohibiting biological and chemical weapons, progress towards a world free of nuclear weapons continues to lag behind. Significantly, nuclear weapons remain the only WMDs yet to be subject to a global prohibition. Regrettably, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which constitutes the foundation of the nuclear non-proliferation regime, continues to be subject to significant tensions resulting primarily from the non-implementation of the nuclear disarmament obligations under article VI of the Treaty and the related commitments made at the 1995, 2000, and 2010 NPT Review Conferences.

The three international Conferences on the Humanitarian Impact of Nuclear Weapons held since 2012 and the Open-ended Working Group of the General Assembly to develop proposals to take forward multilateral nuclear disarmament negotiations for the achievement and maintenance of a world without nuclear weapons, which was convened in Geneva this year, provided inclusive platforms for the international community to explore options for taking forward multilateral nuclear disarmament negotiations aimed at achieving and maintaining a world without nuclear weapons. In that context, the Open-ended Working Group has now recommended to the Assembly that it convene a conference in 2017 to commence negotiations on a treaty prohibiting nuclear weapons. While such a treaty may not achieve immediate results, it could, as an interim step, address a glaring gap in the international legal architecture on the legality of nuclear weapons. Such a treaty would also strengthen the NPT and underline the urgency of accelerating the implementation of nuclear disarmament obligations and related commitments.

With regard to biological and chemical weapons, South Africa remains committed to the universalisation of the relevant instruments and to the full implementation of all legally binding obligations. With the upcoming 2016 Review Conference of the Biological Weapons Convention, South Africa will work constructively towards an outcome that would strengthen the Convention and its balanced implementation, including through an enhanced inter-sessional process and an appropriately resourced implementation-support unit.

In terms of the Chemical Weapons Convention, South Africa welcomes the progress made towards the destruction of chemical weapons around the globe. In that regard, we welcome the progress made in the elimination of the Syrian chemical weapons and facilities. We furthermore welcome the progress made by the Russian Federation and the United States of America, which are scheduled to complete their destruction activities in 2020 and 2023, respectively.

We share the concern of the international community with regard to the threat posed by non-State actors acquiring weapons of mass destruction. In that regard, we remain committed to the strengthening of transfer controls, as called for in resolution 1540 (2004). We recognise the need for international assistance and cooperation, especially for States that may not have the requisite resources to give effect to their obligations.

South Africa participated in the formal consultations on the comprehensive review of resolution 1540 (2004), which were ably organised by Spain in June. We look forward to the review outcomes, which we hope will strengthen the resolution and provide an added dynamic in tackling the challenges of WMD proliferation, particularly with regard to non-State actors.

Over the years, South Africa has strengthened its implementation capability through comprehensive national legislation focused on WMDs and their means of delivery, which includes the establishment of the Council for the Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction. That Council is responsible for coordinating the national implementation of our international WMD obligations and regulations and for monitoring compliance across all the relevant stakeholders. Our domestic legislation is subject to continuous review, which takes into account new technological developments and experiences in national implementation. South Africa remains ready to continue to play its part in assisting countries in our region and beyond in strengthening national controls over sensitive items that may contribute to the development of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery.

While dealing with the challenges I have mentioned, it is imperative that no unwarranted restrictions be imposed on the inalienable right of Member States, particularly developing countries, to use any related materials, equipment and technologies for peaceful purposes. In that regard, the opportunities provided by nuclear technologies in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas such as food security, public health technologies, and clean energy, cannot be overlooked. Furthermore, the exchange of scientific information, equipment, and materials for peaceful purposes is greatly needed in Africa to deal with the spread of infectious diseases, which could derail socioeconomic growth and development if not adequately addressed.

South Africa’s experience with the implementation of WMD regimes has demonstrated that the challenges of WMDs and their delivery systems can be addressed through the following ways.

Firstly, we must strengthen national legislation and implementation capabilities.

Secondly, we need to accelerate the provision of capacity-building and technical expertise, especially to developing countries, including those in Africa.

Thirdly, we must strengthen international cooperation with other related international organisations.

Fourthly, we need to ensure adequate and predictable funding for the relevant international organisations and implementation-support structures to enable them to implement their mandates.

Fifthly, we must strengthen cooperation between regional organisations and the relevant multilateral organisations.

Sixthly, and lastly, we need to enhance cooperation with civil society and the private sector.

In conclusion, the threat of WMD proliferation can be dealt with effectively only through increased international cooperation and assistance and the strengthening of the relevant multilateral instruments and institutions. Non-proliferation is not a goal in itself, but a means towards the goal of a world free from the threat posed by weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery. Selectivity and discriminatory practices will not serve our collective interests in strengthening international peace and security. What is required is a faithful and balanced implementation of the various international legally binding instruments.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-First Year 7837th Meeting

Thursday, 15 December 2016, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.7837 Agenda:

Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction Preventing Catastrophe: A Global Agenda for Stopping the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction by Non-State Actors

Letter Dated 1 December 2016 from the Permanent Representative of Spain to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2016/1013)

Spain Assumed the Presidency of the UNSC for the Month of December 2016. Her Permanent Representative Became the President of the Council

My delegation joins others in thanking you, Sir, H.E. Román Oyarzun Marchesi, Permanent Representative of Spain to the UN for convening this timely and relevant open debate under the item “Preventing catastrophe: A global agenda for stopping the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction by non-State actors”.

My delegation welcomes and appreciates the leadership demonstrated by Spain as Chair of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1540 (2004) and as the facilitator of the 1540 comprehensive review process this year. South Africa is looking forward to the release of the report that we hope will strengthen the resolution and provide an added impetus in tackling the challenge of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). Allow me to share South Africa’s perspective on the theme before us.

South Africa is of the view shared by the majority of States’ Members that have expressed grave concern about the catastrophic consequences of use or the threat of the use of weapons of mass destruction, including by non-State actors. South Africa reaffirms that no cause could ever justify the use of WMDs anywhere, by anyone or under any circumstances.

In that context, since the dawn of our democracy in 1994, South Africa has remained steadfast in its commitment to multilateralism in addressing peace and security challenges facing the global community, including the horizontal and vertical proliferation of WMDs and their means of delivery. South Africa reiterates its view that, given the existential threats that I have described and that are succinctly outlined in the concept paper (see S/2016/1013, annex), the only guarantee that WMDs will never be used by anyone is their total elimination and the legally binding assurances that they will never be produced again. We therefore encourage all Member States to participate constructively in the United Nations Conference to begin in 2017, which will negotiate a treaty prohibiting nuclear weapons.

The global threats and challenges of the use and continued existence of WMDs can be addressed in a balanced, non-discriminatory and comprehensive manner within the relevant multilateral instruments and organisations, including those covered by resolution 1540 (2004). However, that requires the clear commitment and necessary political will of all States to faithfully fulfil their obligations in a non-selective manner. Furthermore, while dealing with the challenges posed by WMDs, it is imperative that no warranted restrictions be imposed on the inalienable right of States’ Members, particularly developing countries, to use any related materials, equipment, and technologies for peaceful purposes. In that context, the opportunities provided by such technologies, for example in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and particularly in such areas as food security, public health, and clean energy, cannot be overlooked.

Regarding the implementation of resolution 1540 (2004), over the years South Africa has strengthened its implementation capability through comprehensive national legislation focusing on WMDs and their means of delivery, which includes the establishment of the Council for the Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction, whose role is to coordinate the national implementation of our international WMD obligations and regulations, and to monitor compliance across all relevant stakeholders. The Council has also played an invaluable role in assisting countries of our region and beyond in strengthening their national controls, legislation and capacity over sensitive items that may contribute to the development of WMDs.

South Africa’s experience with the implementation of resolution 1540 (2004) has demonstrated that the challenges of WMD proliferation can be overcome by, firstly, strengthening national legislation and implementation capabilities, including export controls; secondly, building capacities and strengthening technical expertise, especially in developing countries, including in Africa; thirdly, strengthening international cooperation with other related international organisations and agencies; and fourthly, strengthening coordination with regional organisations, such as the African Union, that play a critical role in supporting the implementation of resolution 1540 (2004). Ultimately, South Africa’s experience has illustrated that the transparent, irreversible, and verified elimination of WMDs and measures prohibiting their production, transfer, and use remain the most effective means to address the threats posed by such weapons.

In conclusion, the challenges and threats posed by the proliferation of WMDs and their possible use by non-State actors require the increased cooperation of the international community. Equally important are the strengthening and increased capacity of relevant multilateral institutions and instruments. Non-proliferation is not a goal in itself, but a means towards a world free of WMDs and their means of delivery. Therefore, selective and discriminatory practices will not serve our collective interest in strengthening peace and security. What is needed is a balanced implementation of the various international legally binding instruments.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Second Year

7863rd Meeting

Tuesday, 17 January 2017, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.7863 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question

China Assumed the Presidency of the UNSC for

the Month of January 2017, and Her Permanent

Representative Became the President of the Council

We join other Member States in expressing our appreciation to Sweden for convening this open debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. It is our belief that these periodic open debates are necessary in order to mobilise the international community, especially the Security Council, and to assist both Israel and Palestine in finding a lasting solution to the conflict that continues to prevail in both of those countries.

As we engage in this important open debate, we need to reflect on resolution 2334 (2016), adopted in late December 2016. The Security Council’s decision is welcome and long overdue, bearing in mind that that was the first time since January 2009 that the Council was able to adopt a decision on the Middle East peace process. What is of specific relevance regarding resolution 2334 (2016) is the fact that it emphasises the illegal nature of the activities undertaken by the Government of Israel, which include the building of settlements, the confiscation of land, the demolition of Palestinian property, and the displacement of Palestinians. The resolution conveys the resolve of the Security Council not to recognise any changes to the internationally agreed lines of 4 June 1967 as the basis of a negotiated settlement.

My delegation wishes to highlight the fact that Israel, as a State Member of the United Nations, is obliged, under Article 25 of the Charter, to comply with the decisions of the Security Council.

In that regard, South Africa urges Israel to comply with all of its obligations under international law.

The reality, however, is that the illegal Israeli settlements continue unabated. They have led to the fragmentation of the West Bank and continue to threaten the viability and territorial contiguity of a future Palestinian State. The illegal and unilateral Israeli policies, practices and activities impede the peace process.

We also believe firmly that continuing the settlement activities will undermine Israel’s own immediate and long-term security prospects and help to radicalise the entire region.

Negotiations and dialogue are the only way forward, if we are to reach a lasting solution. The guidelines for the negotiations are based on an established international legal framework that includes the relevant General Assembly and Security Council resolutions, the Madrid Principles, the Arab Peace Initiative, and the Quartet Road Map, to mention only a few of its elements. South Africa supports all international efforts aimed at brokering a just solution to the Israeli-Palestine conflict. In that regard, we welcome the Middle East Peace Conference held in Paris this past weekend and align ourselves with the statement issued there. We regard it as a vehicle that can help to relaunch effective and serious peace talks between Israel and Palestine, leading to the creation of an independent, free, and sovereign Palestinian State coexisting side by side in peace and security with the State of Israel, based on the borders of 4 June 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

In conclusion, South Africa is of the opinion that negotiations between Palestine and Israel should take place within a clear, mutually agreed-on framework that includes a reasonable timetable and clear sanctions to be applied to parties that do not live up to their commitments. An open-ended approach and process are by now a luxury that the international community cannot afford, given the changing reality on the ground in Palestine, which poses an immense risk to the achievement of a viable, contiguous, and independent Palestinian State, as well as of an escalation in violence.

Fifty years of occupation is too long. South Africa would like to emphasise once again that, at the end of the day, the prime responsibility for peace falls squarely in the hands of both Palestine and Israel. As the international community, we can only support, encourage, advise, and thereafter reward.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Second Year 7898th Meeting

Wednesday, 15 March 2017, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.7898 Agenda:

Maintenance of International Peace and Security Trafficking in Persons in Conflict Situations: Forced Labour, Slavery, and Other Similar Practices

Letter Dated 7 March 2017 from the Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2017/198)

The United Kingdom Assumed the Presidency of the UNSC for the Month of March 2017, and Her Permanent Representative Became the President of the Council

I wish to thank you, Mr. President, H.E. Sir Matthew Rycroft, Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the United Nations and the delegation of the United Kingdom for having convened this timely open debate on trafficking in persons in conflict situations, forced labour, and other similar practices.

We wish to begin by commending the Secretary-General for his November 2016 report on the implementation of measures to combat trafficking in persons (S/2016/949) and the recommendations contained therein.

In almost every conflict situation throughout the world, human trafficking thrives. It has been established that illicit trafficking in drugs, stolen antiques, and small arms and light weapons often follows the same routes used by human traffickers. These activities threaten international peace and security, for instance by sustaining terrorism as well as criminal and armed groups. My delegation is mindful of the fact that one of the highest risks to displaced persons is the threat of being trafficked, especially refugees fleeing from conflict.

Trafficking operations often flourish in circumstances where institutions and law-enforcement capabilities are eroded and weakened by sustained conflict. This undermines the rule of law, which in turn contributes to the other forms of transnational organised crime, exacerbating conflict, and insecurity. This is a vicious circle that requires from us united, concerted, sustained, and cooperative efforts, whose ultimate objective is to address conflict, including its root causes. This requires that we address development challenges as well as external interventions, such as those we have recently witnessed in Libya, Iraq, and Syria, which have led to the proliferation of refugees and internally displaced persons.

Africa awaits with keen interest the appraisal of the United Nations Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons, which will follow in the wake of the international community’s efforts to implement the Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on trafficking in persons. These are important steps forward in galvanising our joint response to countering human trafficking, and we welcome them wholeheartedly.

South Africa also wishes to recognise and remind Member States of the role of the African Union, which has paid specific attention to the issue of trafficking in persons. In 1981, the African Union adopted the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights, which prohibits slavery and human trafficking. The Charter is further complemented by the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa, which make specific provisions for the protection of women and children against slavery.

Furthermore, the Ouagadougou Action Plan to Combat Trafficking in Human Beings, Especially Women and Children, adopted by the African Union in 2006, reaffirmed the provisions, provided for an international instrument on human trafficking and encouraged African States to adopt legislation and institutional measures to combat trafficking in human beings. South Africa has signed and ratified the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime and the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress, and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children. This Convention provided valuable guidance to South Africa in the creation of the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act of 2013, which is South Africa’s first comprehensive legislation on human trafficking, which amongst other things, seeks to implement South Africa’s international obligations with regard to this challenge.

In 2016, the Global Action to Prevent and Address Trafficking in Persons and the Smuggling of Migrants was launched internationally. South Africa was one of the first 13 countries identified to participate in this important initiative. On 22 September 2016, the South African Government and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime jointly launched this initiative, which strongly emphasised South Africa’s firm commitment to countering trafficking in persons and the smuggling of migrants.

In conclusion, I wish to reiterate that South Africa remains highly concerned and seized with the matter of human trafficking within our borders, but equally within our region, continent, and elsewhere in the world. The particular impact that the trafficking in persons in situations of armed conflict has on women and children, increasing their vulnerability to gender-based and sexual violence, is of particular concern. The fact that more people are presently displaced today than at any other time since the Second World War is a huge challenge, which exposes people worldwide to a range of human rights violations, including trafficking. Working within its mandate, the Security Council should take an assertive and decisive stance in their prevention so that even islands of terrorism, trafficking, and armed groups can no longer be allowed to profit in any way from human trafficking.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Second Year

8079th Meeting

Friday, 27 October 2017, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8079 Agenda:

Women and Peace and Security

Realising the Promise of the Women and Peace and Security Agenda:

Ensuring its Full Implementation, including the Participation of Women

Report of the Secretary-General on Women and Peace and Security (S/2017/861)

Letter Dated 20 October 2017 from the Charge D’Affaires A.I. of the Permanent Mission of France to the United Nations addressed to the Secretary-General

(S/2017/889)

France Assumed the Presidency of the UNSC

for the Month of October 2017, and Her Permanent Representative Became the President of the UNCS for that Month

My delegation wishes to express its appreciation to the Chef de Cabinet for the Secretary-General, Ms. Viotti, for her statement and for the annual report on the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) (S/2017/861). We also welcome the insightful contributions that were made by Ms. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Executive Director of UN-Women, as well as by Ms. Charo Mina-Rojas, representative of civil society, and Ms. Michaëlle Jean, Secretary-General of the International Organization of la Francophonie.

The year 2017 will mark the 17th anniversary of resolution 1325 (2000), which formally acknowledged the changing nature of warfare, in which civilians are increasingly being targeted and women continue to be excluded from participation in peace processes. The resolution remains a significant milestone in the progress towards women’s full enjoyment of their rights and equality throughout the world, a world in which for the first time, women are given a significant and necessary voice in the field of peace and security.

Despite that honourable objective, much more needs to be, and must be, done. Women remain excluded within peace processes, including in the drafting of peace agreements, and their involvement in United Nations’ peacekeeping within the military, police, and civilian components is limited. In addition, the contribution of women and girls to the peacebuilding process remains undervalued and under-resourced, leaving a vital tool regarding transformative change and sustainable peace underutilised.

South Africa is committed to contributing to the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000). My country’s history illustrates the relevance of the role that women play in achieving and maintaining peace and security in a post-conflict environment. South Africa’s women have been at the forefront of efforts to drive reform and to develop and advance responsible policies and legislation aimed at advancing the role of women in society. Today, at the level of political decision-makers, 42 per cent of South Africa’s representatives in Parliament and 41 per cent of the national cabinet are women. That illustrates the progress that is being made towards a 50-50 representation in both houses of Parliament and the Cabinet. Furthermore, both the speaker of the national Parliament and that of the house of Provinces are women.

South Africa provides training for women mediators in the African region. Such mediators will make up an African women mediators’ network that can assist in peace negotiations. In addition to that, the South African National Defence Force operates the Peacekeeping Training Centre in Pretoria, where women peacekeepers from South Africa and throughout the region receive training. It must be stressed that the National Defence Force is highly aware of the fact that gender issues need to be highlighted, which is reflected in the fact that at present 30 per cent of our National Defence Force comprises women.

Additionally, we recently held the third Gertrude Shope Annual Dialogue Forum on Conflict Resolution and Peacemaking in Africa. That initiative includes participants from across the African continent and inspires women to play more important leadership and peacebuilding roles than they have traditionally played, without necessarily being part of an official delegation. That Forum also provides a platform that women can use to share their experiences, reflect on existing policies and challenges, and thereafter make recommendations to national, regional and international institutions.

This year saw the adoption the historic Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons on 7 July 2017, and that South Africa was one of the first countries to sign that Treaty on 20 September. South Africa wishes to warmly congratulate the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons for being awarded the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize. That well-deserved and timely award is a clear recognition of the role played by civil-society organisations in the area of nuclear disarmament in pursuit of a world free of nuclear weapons. Allow me to pay special tribute to women’s organisations for their active role in the abolishment of nuclear weapons, including the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom based in Geneva.

In order to strengthen the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) and the resolutions that build upon it, including resolution 2242 (2015), my country continues to engage with representatives of civil society and academia to find ways to further empower women and remove obstacles that impede their participation in peacekeeping missions and mediation efforts on the African continent. Furthermore, we fully support the various solidarity missions to Africa that have been led by UN-Women and the African Union recently.

South Africa looks forward to further cooperation and the sharing of experiences with Member States, UN-Women, the Department of Peacekeeping Operations and other partners that seek to further incorporate gender perspectives and the concerns of women in order to enhance the sustainability of peace and security in all conflict situations. We support the slogan “HeforShe”.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Second Year

8082nd Meeting

Tuesday, 31 October 2017, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8082 Agenda:

Children and Armed Conflict

Report of the Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict (S/2017/821)

Letter Dated 20 October 2017 from the Charge D’Affaires A.I. of the Permanent Mission of France to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2017/892)

France Presided over the UNSC during October 2017

South Africa welcomes the convening of this special and crucial open debate on children and armed conflict, particularly given the increase in violations of the rights of children, not only in armed conflict but also in terms of emerging asymmetrical threats to global peace and security, such as terrorism. We also welcome the briefings by the Secretary-General and his Special Representative and commend Mr. Mubin Shaikh for his brave testimony and the advocacy role he has played in preventing children from being recruited into terrorist groups.

South Africa echoes the Secretary-General’s concern about the severity of the violations against children in situations of armed conflict. We are deeply concerned and appalled that more than 8,000 children were killed or maimed in conflict situations in 2016. Children are indeed the most vulnerable members of our society, as even in times of peace they require care, security, and a stable environment to ensure they reach their potential as positive contributors to society. The questions that we ought to ask ourselves in this debate is, Are we doing enough? Are the initiatives we are taking sufficient? What more should we do to ensure that we take on the responsibilities to protect the most vulnerable in our societies?

The work of the Working Group on Children and Armed Conflict is admirable. We applaud the delegation of Sweden, as Chair of the Working Group, for injecting much-needed impetus into the Group’s conduct and completion of its work. South Africa calls for greater resources to be devoted to the issue, especially with regard to assisting the Working Group in handling the volume of reporting and incidents in order to enable it to report back effectively in a timely manner.

We condemn in the strongest terms all violations of commitments related to the protection of children in armed conflict, including those against recruitment, the use of sexual violence, killing and maiming, attacking schools and hospitals, and abductions. We also call on all countries to work to ensure humanitarian access to civilians affected by violence. While we support the efforts of Member States that have taken measures to address their inability to adhere to these commitments, we also fully support accurate and credible reporting mechanisms, including the listing of those who commit violations, in order to dissuade them from such practices. Nevertheless, the main challenge lies not in our ability as Member States to adhere to these commitments, but rather how we address the issue of non-State actors who violate the rights of children and often do not respect the principles and goals of States’ Members of the United Nations in their pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous world. New strategies must be developed to counter this threat.

South Africa has been at the forefront of processes aimed at strengthening the commitments to the protection of children in armed conflict. The Cape Town Principles and Best Practices on the Prevention of Recruitment of Children into the Armed Forces and on Demobilisation and Social Reintegration of Child Soldiers in Africa, which were adopted in 1997, are indicative of our long-standing support for this process. They formed the basis for the Paris Commitments to protect children from unlawful recruitment or use by armed forces or armed groups and the Paris Principles and Guidelines on Children Associated with Armed Forces or Armed Groups, and we therefore call on all parties to pledge their firm and unwavering commitment to the Paris Principles. My delegation also reiterates its support for resolution 1612 (2005), on children and armed conflict. We welcome the findings of the report of Ms. Graça Machel on the impact of armed conflict on children (see A/51/306), in relation to General Assembly resolution 51/77, on the rights of the child. It signalled the start of a new consensus amongst Member States on the need for dedicated attention, advocacy and coordinated efforts to address the particular vulnerabilities and violations faced by children in conflict-related situations.

South Africa welcomes the recommendations and focus of the report of the Secretary-General (S/2017/821) on cooperation with regional and subregional organisations in coordinating efforts to address violations of the protection of children in armed conflict. In that regard, we also welcome the SecretaryGeneral’s call for Member States and regional and subregional organisations involved in negotiating the cessation of hostilities or peace agreements to include, from the outset, specific child-protection provisions in order to prioritise the prevention of grave violations. The Peace and Security Council of the African Union has held a number of open sessions based around the theme of children and armed conflict and has called for collective security efforts to deal with the scourges of terrorism, violent extremism and radicalisation in Africa, with a view to ensuring respect for child rights and welfare. In our own subregion, South Africa will be hosting a capacity-building programme for young leaders in the Southern African Development Community, as part of South Africa’s contribution to youth development in line with Security Council resolution 2250 (2015) on youth, peace, and security, which focuses on the role of young men and women in peacebuilding and countering violent extremism.

In conclusion, as our late President Nelson Mandela once remarked, “The true character of society is revealed in how it treats its children”. We believe the Security Council should take a firm and concerted stance in ensuring that our children, and young people in general, are shielded from the horrors of conflict and other violations that threaten to undermine our future prospects for the maintenance of international peace, security, and development.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Third Year

8175th Meeting

Tuesday, 6 February 2018, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8175 Agenda:

Implementation of the Note by the President of the Security Council (S/2017/507)

Working Methods of the Security Council

Letter Dated 24 January 2018 from the Permanent Representative of Kuwait to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2018/66)

Kuwait Assumed the Presidency of the UNSC for

the Month of February 2018, and Her Permanent

Representative Became the President of the Council

First, we would like to congratulate you, Mr. President, H.E. Mansour Ayyad Al-Otaibi, Permanent Representative of Kuwait to the United Nations and your delegation on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for this month. The matter of the working methods of the Council remains one of the most pertinent issues before the Council, as it relates to the manner in which the Council seeks to resolve crises affecting the entire globe. We therefore welcome this open debate, which itself is in keeping with the provisions of the note by the President S/2017/507, which calls for greater involvement by non-members of the Council in its work and for creating transparency.

From its inception, the structure of the Council has been contested particularly because it charges 15 of the United Nations States Members with the responsibility to pursue and maintain peace and security on behalf of 193. Furthermore, it allows for only five to prevent progress on any matter, thereby securing the interests of one at the expense of us all. Each Member State of the United Nations has very specific contextual circumstances and restoring or maintaining peace in each of our States and / or regions requires an awareness and account of the particular complexities entailed. Therefore, transparency and inclusiveness do not come as a matter of courtesy, but necessity, if the Council is to be effective.

The newest iteration of note 507, issued in 2017, further improves the work of the Council. However, the test is not what is in the concept note itself, but rather the test is whether the Council is willing to implement what is contained therein. South Africa stresses that note 507, as well as the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, should become permanent so that this organ can be more effective, accountable, and predicable, with well understood rules. It is our strong belief that the more the Council shares information, consults, and accepts the views from those relevant to a particular conflict, the more operative, accountable, and transparent it will be. Further to that, the more responsive the Council becomes, the better placed it will be to meet the challenges presented by a continuously more complex world.

In that regard, my delegation would like to thank Portugal, Argentina, Angola, and Japan for their sterling work in moving that matter forward as respective Chairs of the Informal Working Group on Documentation and other Procedural Questions. We welcome Kuwait in assuming that role, and we pledge our full support to Kuwait’s chairmanship of the Informal Working Group. I would like to highlight four practical suggestions that South Africa believes can help to develop a more effective Security Council.

Firstly, I would like to see the implementation of the commitment in note 507 for more regular consultations and coordination between the Council and troop-and police-contributing countries. That is specifically necessary when considering the renewal of mandates. Such consultations are vital mechanisms to ensure peacekeeping mandates are informed by the knowledge of realities on the ground that the troop-and police-contributing countries have and that expectations are realistic and well understood. Such consultations are also important throughout the life cycle of a mission, as well as in the planning and transition phases.

Secondly, the importance of annual joint consultative meetings and informal dialogues with the Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU) is quite essential. The Council has consistently agreed to continue to expand consultations and cooperation with regional and subregional organisations, including the African Union, as set forth in note 507, undertaking to invite relevant organisations to participate in the Council’s public and private meetings, when appropriate. Additionally in note 507, the Council commits itself to continue to informally consult with regional organisations when drafting, inter alia, resolutions, presidential statements and press statements, as appropriate.

The African Union and other regional bodies have the comparative advantage of a nuanced understanding of their own region and being able to respond quickly to crises as they occur. We should avoid a practice where the Council is selective in its approach and relationships with regional bodies are merely utilised in times of political convenience. The language in note 507 could therefore be strengthened to emphasise the necessity of such cooperation, in the light of Council resolutions, such as resolution 2033 (2012), adopted subsequent to the issuance of note 507, which provides an array of strategies that could ensure strategic coherence. We therefore thank Secretary-General António Guterres for putting more energy into strengthening the relationship between the United Nations and the AU on many fronts in order to deal with the issues of peace and security.

Thirdly, South Africa stresses the need to continue enhancing the relationship between the Council and the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC). In its advisory capacity, the PBC serves as a platform that contributes to improving coordination and enhancing coherence amongst the United Nations, the AU, and other international actors in the areas of sustaining peace in Africa and preventing the region from relapsing into conflict. We also believe that the Council could do more to draw on the expertise of the PBC, in particular during the renewal of mission mandates.

Fourthly, in note 507 the Security Council commits itself to seeking the views of Member States that are parties to a conflict and / or other interested and affected parties. That commitment should be applied uniformly. Therefore, it is necessary for the Council, as a matter of principle, to always consult with all the relevant parties to a conflict before deliberating on a matter, to ensure that it has at its disposal all the relevant facts.

In conclusion, while we fully support the implementation of working methods that improve the inclusivity and transparency of the work of the Council, those incremental changes do nothing to address the Council’s structural problems. While it still remains that the membership of the Council and the right to the veto are determined by long-outdated historical circumstances, no number of changes to its methods will prevent the interests of a few hindering the maintenance and pursuit of peace and prosperity for all. There needs to be a comprehensive reform of the Security Council. The goal of African countries is to be fully represented in all the decision-making organs of the United Nations, in particular in the Security Council. We must therefore stress the fundamental need to urgently reform the Council if we are to avoid further erosion of not only the legitimacy and credibility of this organ, but also its ultimate effectiveness in a world that is very different from the one that existed when the United Nations was founded, over 70 years ago.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Third Year 8305th Meeting

Monday, 9 July 2018, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8305 Agenda:

Children and Armed Conflict

Protecting Children Today Prevents Conflicts Tomorrow Report of the Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict (S/2018/465)

Letter Dated 21 June 2018 from the Charge D’Affaires

A.I. of the Permanent Mission of Sweden to the

United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2018/625)

Sweden Assumed the Presidency of the UNSC for the Month of July 2018, and Her Permanent Representative Became the President of the Council

Let me first congratulate you, Madam President, Olof Skoog the Foreign Minister of Sweden and the Swedish delegation on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of July. In the year of the centenary of the birth of our former President Nelson Mandela, it is instructive to draw on his wisdom when he remarked,

“Our children are our greatest treasure. They are our future. Those who abuse them tear at the fabric of our society and weaken our nation.”

Today’s debate is extremely relevant and timely, particularly given the rise in the incidence of violations of the rights of children not only in armed conflict but also in terms of emerging asymmetrical threats to global peace and security, such as terrorism. The debate should also be seen within the context of preventive measures and addressing the root causes of conflict. The involvement of children, the most vulnerable group of victims, in armed conflict is tantamount to sowing the seeds of war, which will bear insidious and destructive consequences in later years.

We commend the work of the Secretariat and the briefings by Ms. Gamba, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, Ms. Fore, Executive Director of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Ms. Londoño, former child soldier in the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia in bringing to the attention of the Council the grave violations that continue to be perpetuated by State and non-State actors alike. Indeed, it is a most vital responsibility of the Council to respond to those violations and hold those responsible to account.

The fact that those violations have increased is a matter of serious concern, which indicates that our efforts so far have not been completely effective. Nevertheless, the work of the Working Group on Children and Armed Conflict is admirable, and we applaud the delegation of Sweden, as the Chair of the Working Group, for its continued efforts in moving forward on the children and armed conflict agenda. However, we believe that more resources and attention could be assigned to the agenda.

Addressing the root causes of conflict, the effectiveness of long-term peacebuilding and the preventative diplomacy approach hinge strongly on the protection of children from the adverse influences and grave violations committed against them during armed conflicts. It is vital that we do not lose sight of the fact that today’s children could become future rebel leaders, who would have learned that in order to fend for themselves in an environment of little-to-no legitimate economic opportunities and political marginalisation, they would have to take up arms. Instead, we should create a conducive environment where today’s children can play a positive role in society.

In that regard, South Africa would like to emphasise the recommendation made in the report of the Secretary-General (S/2018/465) that the funding gap for the reintegration of children recruited by armed groups back into normal society be urgently addressed. We fully support the establishment of the multi-year funding mechanism, which will allow for the early release of children into long-term viable alternatives to military life.

South Africa underscores the importance of addressing the present problem of grave violations against children during war times as a critical prerequisite of future sustainable peace. In that regard, South Africa fully supports the strengthening of mechanisms for the protection of children in armed conflict. That could take the form of specific provisions in United Nations’ peacekeeping missions, as well as the engagement of the United Nations with armed groups on the matter. We also welcome adoption this morning of resolution 2427 (2018), which condemns the attacks and the threats of attacks, in contravention of international law, against schools and health centres. We need to ensure the safety of children in schools and health facilities during conflict. Therefore, we call for the urgent and imperative need to hold accountable all perpetrators of human rights violations and abuses and international humanitarian law violations, irrespective of their status or political affiliation.

To further that aim, South Africa welcomes the Secretary-General’s call for cooperation with regional and subregional organisations in coordinating efforts to address violations against children in armed conflict. We would also like to highlight the need for dedicated child protection capacities within regional mechanisms and to encourage further engagement with the United Nations to prioritise the development of tools to forestall grave violations, including through the adoption of prevention plans aimed at institutionalising preventive measures. In conclusion, we believe that the Security Council should take firm and concrete action to ensure that our children, and youth in general, are shielded from the horrors of conflict and other violations that threaten to undermine our future prospects for the maintenance of international peace, security, and development. That stance should be applied consistently, devoid of double standards, to ensure that children are protected no matter where and in what context they may find themselves.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Third Year 8395th Meeting

Friday, 9 November 2018, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8395 Agenda:

Maintenance of International Peace and Security Strengthening Multilateralism and the Role of the United Nations Letter Dated 1 November 2018 from the Permanent Representative of China to the United Nations addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2018/982)

China Assumed the Presidency of the UNSC for the Month of November 2018, and Her Permanent Representative Became President of the Council

I would like to congratulate your country, Mr. President, Ma Zhaoxu, Permanent Representative of the Peoples Republic of China to the United Nations on assuming the presidency this month and convening this open debate. The theme of the debate is indeed timely and crucial in the light of the growing geopolitical challenges with which we are faced.

The current multilateral system was imposed on us as a consequence of war. Seventy-seven years ago, on 9 June 1941, the allied representatives of Australia, Belgium, Canada, Czechoslovakia, France, Greece, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Yugoslavia met in St. James Palace, London. They declared that “[t]he only true basis of enduring peace is the willing cooperation of free peoples in a world in which, relieved of the menace of aggression, all may enjoy economic and social security. It is our intention to work together, and with other free peoples, both in war and peace, to that end”.

In 1945, 50 nations, including South Africa, formed the United Nations and collectively agreed to the Charter of the United Nations. The aspirations set out in the Charter are more important today than ever before. The increased threats to multilateralism undermine the principles to which we subscribed over 70 years ago, when the Organization was established. The complexities of conflict have evolved, and we are increasingly more interdependent as nations. That means that we are all affected in some way by conflicts that we might have thought were far away from us. The world is a significantly different place to what it was when the United Nations was founded, and the need for multilateral approaches to address our common challenges is even more necessary and pertinent today.

South Africa, like many other countries, has benefited from the support of the States Members of the United Nations, which, through the Organization, were able to mobilise the international community to help isolate and defeat the apartheid system. The United Nations was a beacon of hope that contributed to the transformation of our country. For that, we remain grateful.

Two months ago, during the Nelson Mandela Peace Summit of the General Assembly, our leaders reaffirmed their commitment to global peace, in honour of and to revive the values that leaders like Nelson Mandela stood for, by placing human dignity at the centre of our actions. They made a strong call to safeguard multilateralism, in recognition of the new challenges and threats that our nations face. Emerging threats to peace and security can threaten any nation, no matter how stable and prosperous it may be, and a coordinated and global response is needed to overcome those threats. Through the political declaration adopted at the Summit (resolution 73/1), our leaders committed to redoubling their efforts to build a just, peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive world. It is critical that we respect, safeguard, enhance, and implement the multilateral agreements constructed around the pillars of development, human rights, peace, and security. We recognise that the Security Council remains the primary multilateral body charged with the maintenance of international peace and security. However, the Council has been confronted with challenges where it has been prevented from acting due to structural impediments that, at times, undermine its ability to promote conflict prevention and protect the most vulnerable. It is therefore imperative that the Council continue to be united and steadfast in realising its multilateral commitment to achieving peace and tangible dividends for vulnerable people on the ground. The Council’s central mandate should not be undermined by narrow self-interest, which is the antithesis of multilateralism. Rather, it should draw on its strength of unity and diversity of perspective in finding real, proactive, and viable solutions to threats to international peace and security.

It is vital that the Security Council continue to work closely with regional organisations, in accordance with Chapter VIII of the Charter. That is fundamental in the light of the significant strides that have been registered in the continuously growing relationship with the African Union (AU) and the United Nations -particularly between the African Union Peace and Security Council and the United Nations Security Council -in support of a home-grown peace initiative. In that regard, we should ensure that the relationship is enhanced and becomes mutually beneficial to the aspirations of collective security, as well as to silence the guns on the African continent, as stated in the AU Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

Furthermore, we should act with determination in reforming the Council to ensure that it reflects current geographical realities and is fully representative of the peoples of the world today. In that context, we should redress the historical injustice against the 1.2 billion people of Africa. Similarly, improving the working methods of the Council would enhance the effectiveness of the work of this important body.

Efforts aimed at creating an enabling environment through the prioritisation of conflict prevention cannot be overstated. Consequently, addressing the root causes of conflict will enable us to better address issues related to terrorism and migration, amongst others. The absence of overt conflict, however, is not an end in itself, and peacebuilding and post-conflict reconstruction and development are essential. The implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is therefore key, as it aims to address poverty and development and lays the foundations for achieving sustainable peace.

In closing, we would like to reiterate the sentiment of the political declaration adopted at the Nelson Mandela Peace Summit, which captures the essence of multilateralism.

“It is clear that lasting peace is not realised just by the absence of armed conflict, but is achieved through a continuing positive, dynamic, inclusive, participatory process of dialogue and engagement that resolves all outstanding issues in a spirit of mutual respect and understanding, cooperation and long-term vision”. (resolution 73/1, para. 20)

It therefore supports what South Africa firmly believes -that the only route to a just and lasting peace is through multilateralism, which is exemplified by the achievements of the United Nations. Like many others, the African way is a multilateral way.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8441st Meeting

Wednesday, 9 January 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/Pv.8441 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

Report of the Secretary-General on Status of Implementation of Security Council Resolution 2451 (2018) (S/2018/1173)

Report of the Secretary-General on Status of Implementation of Security Council Resolution 2451 (2018) (S/2019/11)

Dominican Republic Assumed the Presidency of the UNSC for the Month of January 2019 and Her Permanent Representative became the President of the Council

Allow me first to thank the briefers -Special Envoy Martin Griffiths and Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Mark Lowcock -for their briefings. South Africa would like to make the following points with regard to the situation in Yemen.

South Africa remains concerned about the impact of the conflict in Yemen, which has resulted in a deteriorating humanitarian crisis. We support the need to address the political and security concerns as part of dealing with that humanitarian crisis. The conflict in Yemen has already led to unspeakable tragedy for millions of people. Innocent civilians, in particular women and children, have been most affected by the effects of that devastating war, which has become one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises.

We welcome the efforts of the Secretary-General and his Special Envoy, Mr. Martin Griffiths, to convene the meeting in Sweden last month. We are pleased that the Yemeni Government and the Houthis participated in the discussions that led to the Stockholm Agreement. We are also pleased that the Security Council was able to rapidly show unity of purpose following the Stockholm meeting and adopt resolution 2451 (2018).

We note the proposal by the Secretary-General regarding the modalities for the monitoring mechanism. We also note the report of the Secretary-General on the status of implementation of the resolution (S/2019/11). We are pleased that the Redeployment Coordination Committee has met, bringing together representatives of the Government and the Houthis. It is important that the parties agree on confidence-building measures to overcome the trust deficit that exists.

However, we are concerned that, during the reporting period, there were mutual allegations of ceasefire violations by both sides. It is imperative that the resolution and the Stockholm Agreement be implemented by all parties and that there be a cessation of hostilities. We wish to reiterate that the only sustainable solution lies in negotiations and a Yemeni-led political settlement that is inclusive and fair and that puts the interests and well-being of all the citizens of Yemen first.

We wish to remind the parties to the conflict that they have an obligation to fully facilitate sustained and unimpeded humanitarian access, as required by international humanitarian law. We further call on the parties to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers and of United Nations personnel, and we call for the speedy facilitation of visas and other logistical support. We welcome the granting of 56 visas as a positive step. However, that should not be a one-off event. We look forward to the meeting scheduled in Amman next week, as Mr. Griffiths indicated, to discuss the long-awaited exchange of prisoners by both sides.

In conclusion, we appeal to both sides to spare the lives of women and children in Yemen.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8442nd Meeting

Thursday, 10 January 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8442 Agenda:

Peace Consolidation in West Africa

Report of the Secretary-General on the Activities of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the SAHEL (S/2018/1175)

My delegation would like to express its gratitude to you, Mr. President, H.E. Ambassador José Singer Weisinger, for convening this important meeting. I also thank Mr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), for his briefing.

South Africa supports the efforts of the Secretary-General and his Special Representative in engaging in preventive diplomacy, good offices and political mediation and facilitation in the countries of West Africa and the Sahel. We welcome the positive developments in the region, as noted in the report of the Secretary-General (S/2018/1175). However, we are concerned that the instability and insecurity are spreading to other countries in the region. That would adversely affect the progress that has been made in recent years to seek stability in the region.

That concern is equally shared by the African Union, particularly with regard to the continued terrorist attacks in northern and central Mali, Burkina Faso, the Niger, and Nigeria. Moreover, the intensification of coordination amongst terrorist groups and the growing transnational organised crime are a cause for great concern for South Africa, since that will heighten the insecurity in the region. It is important that we also address the root causes of terrorism in order to curb its spread throughout the continent.

South Africa believes that UNOWAS is positioned to play an important role in overcoming the challenges faced by the region, particularly with regard to tackling the insecurity, instability, and terrorism, through its support of the Joint Force of the Group of Five for the Sahel and by addressing the root causes of conflict. Furthermore, the full implementation of the United Nations Integrated Strategy for the Sahel is vital.

We are of the firm view that the work of the Security Council should aim to support subregional and regional multilateral frameworks and the use of political dialogue in resolving the challenges faced by Peace consolidation in West Africa by the region. Furthermore, coordination amongst the Economic Community of West African States, the Group of Five for the Sahel, the African Union, and United Nations structures is crucial. That is key to providing a comprehensive approach in promoting peace and security in the Sahel region, where terrorism, extremist activities, and violent extremism pose a serious threat to its socioeconomic development.

The international community’s ongoing support for the funding of investment projects in the Sahel in particular remains a priority. The building of schools and health centres and improving access to water, for example, would positively contribute to preventing communities from falling under the influence of extremists.

Lastly, South Africa condemns in the strongest possible terms the attempted coup to overthrow the democratically elected Government in the Republic of Gabon. In that regard, we reaffirm the principle of the African Union, which rejects the notion of an unconstitutional change of power. We pledge our solidarity with the region, and we stand by it as it deals with the many challenges in improving the lives of its people.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8443rd Meeting

Friday, 11 January 2019, 9.30 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8443 Agenda:

The Situation Concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic Of The Congo (S/2019/6)

Let me join colleagues in thanking the briefers: Ms. Leila Zerrougui, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO); Mr. Corneille Nangaa Yobeluo, President of the Commission Électorale Nationale Indépendante (CENI) of the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Her Excellency Ms. Fatima Mohammed, Permanent Observer of the African Union to the United Nations; His Excellency Mr. Joseph Malanji, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Zambia, who spoke on behalf of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and Monseigneur Utembi Tapa, President of the Conférence Épiscopale Nationale du Congo (CENCO). We welcome Ambassador Ignace Gata Mavita wa Lufuta, Permanent Representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The Security Council’s involvement in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been one of the most protracted, heavily invested, and multi-phased engagements in the history of the United Nations. Today, we meet at one of the most critical junctures in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s process of consolidating democracy, nearly 60 years since its independence from Belgian colonial rule. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is larger than the entire Western Europe. It is less developed and has a far less developed physical and social infrastructure. The challenge to organise presidential, legislative, and provincial elections in such a vast country is therefore enormous.

South Africa welcomes the announcement of the provisional election results, and we commend the Commission Électorale Nationale Indépendante for its hard work under difficult circumstances. We further congratulate the Commission on managing the electoral process. The Commission Électorale Nationale Indépendante is the official legitimate authority mandated to manage and conduct the elections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is the delegated authoritative body to pronounce on the results of the elections and must be accorded the right to do so. It remains imperative that the Commission’s actions and declarations, including with regard to the outcome of the elections, should be respected by all, especially the Security Council.

South Africa calls on all parties to preserve the generally peaceful climate of the elections and to take up any reservations or disputes through the proper mechanisms and processes provided for in the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its electoral laws, thereby refraining from any violence or incitement thereof. We must ensure that, as members of the Security Council, our words and actions should contribute positively to the aspirations and collective will of the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is rich, but the Congolese people are poor. South Africa remains concerned about the continuous illicit exploitation of the natural resources of the country. Since its independence, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been subjected to interference in determining its future by external factors. The abundant resources with which the country is blessed have in many ways led to the scramble for those resources, to the detriment of the Congolese people. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, parts of the economy are informal and the sometimes-illicit links between politics and illegal economic activities have long existed. The estimated value of the illicit exploitation of natural resources in the eastern part of the country is billions of dollars annually.

South Africa has keenly supported efforts to ensure peace and stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In 1998, our late President, Nelson Mandela, hosted a historic meeting between the former leaders of Zaire/Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mobutu Sese Seko and Laurent-Désiré Kabila, off the coast of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and averted a potentially destructive civil war. In 2002, South Africa hosted the ground-breaking Inter-Congolese Dialogue, which led to drafting of the Constitution and the hosting of the first-ever inclusive multiparty democratic elections in that country. Such elections took place again in 2011, and now in 2018.

President Ramaphosa issued a statement in which he congratulated all the parties and stakeholders in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on ensuring peace and stability during the election process and urged all regional, international and interested parties to refrain from speculation and to allow the Commission Électorale Nationale Indépendante to complete the process. The President also urged all political parties and their supporters to allow the Commission to perform its legal and constitutional duties without interference or pressure. We expect the Security Council to be at the forefront of providing support to the Congolese authorities to maintain a peaceful and stable environment following the landmark elections, and to discourage any violence after the conclusion of the electoral process. That is necessary in order to facilitate the historic outcome of the first-ever democratic transfer of power in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. South Africa welcomes the reports of the Secretary-General’s Special Representative and the electoral observer missions of SADC and of the African Union and takes note of CENCO’s concerns.

We welcome their continued commitment to assisting the Democratic Republic of the Congo in achieving sustainable peace, security, and stability. The continued support and partnership of the United Nations, the African Union, SADC, and other regional and international actors are necessary for the consolidation of peace, stability and development in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

MONUSCO played an important role in creating a climate of relative peace for the conduct of the elections in some difficult regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The provision of timely logistical support assisted in containing the spread of the Ebola virus in parts of eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Intervention Brigade, which is part of the MONUSCO force, comprising brigades from South Africa, Malawi, and Tanzania, have successfully neutralised the threat posed by negative and belligerent armed groups in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

South Africa calls for greater inclusion of women peacekeepers and an increase in the civilian component of MONUSCO, increasing the role of women mediators in dealing with conflict mediation at the communal level in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We recall the role that women played at the Inter-Congolese Dialogue in South Africa.

We would like to pause and pay tribute to the men and women who paid dearly and made the supreme sacrifice in carrying out their international duty on behalf of us all around the table and in protecting the Congolese people.

The international community should not lose sight of the importance of addressing the peace and security challenges in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which preceded the election process about which we are talking. Addressing the root causes of conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo requires recognition of the nexus between development and peace. In that regard, South Africa emphasises the need for post-election support in the context of peacebuilding and for the Security Council to mobilise to the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) to provide the necessary support for the broader Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region. The PBC Framework is the most holistic peace mechanism for the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is guaranteed by the United Nations, the African Union, the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region, and the Southern African Development Community and has been signed by the Democratic Republic of the Congo and all the countries in the region.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has come a long way in its quest for peace and security.

The elections that have just taken place will lead to the first democratic transfer of power in the country’s history. The community of the Congolese people should be commended for this process. We therefore call on the international community and the Council in particular to continue to support the process with a balanced and measured approach. The road ahead may be difficult and long, but the journey to long-term stability, peace, and happiness for the Congolese people has begun. As a Council, let us accompany them.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8445th Meeting

Wednesday, 16 January 2019, 9.45 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8445 Agenda:

The Situation in Mali

Report of the Secretary-General on the Situation in Mali (S/2018/1174)

We would like at the outset to express our appreciation to you, Mr. President,

H.E. Ambassador José Singer Weisinger, for having convened this meeting. We wish also to express our sincere appreciation to Ms. Bintou Keita, Assistant Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, for her comprehensive briefing on the situation in Mali. It was enlightening and also highlighted the significant progress made and the amount of work that still needs to be embarked upon.

We also welcome the presence here with us of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Mali, Ms. Kamissa Camara, and look forward to her briefing.

I would like to focus my intervention on the four key pillars that underpin the peace process in Mali: the political process, the security situation, regional cooperation and economic development.

Firstly, on the political process, we are encouraged by the positive developments that have been undertaken in the implementation of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali, as registered in the report of the Secretary-General (S/2018/1174) and described in the briefing we heard today from Ms. Keita. We would also like to commend President Ibrahim Keita for his leadership and Prime Minister Maïga for his mobilisation in support of the implementation of the agreement. These are positive indicators of a direction towards peace.

The Council should make a positive appraisal of these encouraging developments in Mali and accompany the country in keeping a very tight time frame towards normalisation and elections later this year.

In this regard, South Africa calls on all parties to make every effort to fully implement the 2015 Mali peace agreement and the recently signed Pact for Peace, which provides an opportunity to reinvigorate the peace process in the country. As we know, this is not the first peace process in Mali, and we as the international community should provide the necessary support by creating an enabling environment to sustain peace.

We wish to recall that at its 31st Summit in Nouakchott, in July 2018, the African Union (AU) Assembly welcomed “the gains made in the implementation of the 2015 Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation” and urged “speedy progress as the only way to durable peace and security in the country”. The Assembly also welcomed the progress made by the Group of Five for the Sahel (G-5) Joint Force and reiterated the AU commitment to assist in the regionally coordinated response within the framework of the Nouakchott process and other regional frameworks.

Secondly, on the security pillar, we are encouraged by the progress made in the launch of the acceleration of the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration process as well as security-sector reform. Furthermore, we commend the measures taken by the Malian Government in improving the working conditions of the security services. My delegation is of the view that it is vital that Mali’s security forces be given the necessary capacity, equipped and strengthened in order to address the challenges faced by the country. We believe that this will bring sustainable peace and stability to the country. Furthermore, the Force should garner the trust of the Malian people as a whole.

South Africa also recognises the important work of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and the troop-contributing countries in supporting the implementation of the peace agreement as well as providing capacity-building to ensure the gradual restoration of State authority and services throughout Mali, including in the centre of the country.

Moreover, my delegation fully supports the unique partnership between MINUSMA and the G-5 Joint Force in the process of restoring peace and stability in Mali and the wider Sahel region. As has been recognised by the Council, that partnership represents positive cooperation between a United Nations’ peacekeeping operation and a regional peace operation in Africa.

Thirdly, regional cooperation is a critical element in the case of Mali, given the challenges it faces in terms of transnational crime and terrorist threats, which further highlights the fact that this is not only a Malian crisis. Threats to the broader region are imminent if the current challenges in Mali are not addressed and curtailed urgently. Consequently, the solidarity of the region is a critical ingredient in the creation of lasting peace throughout the Sahel.

The G-5 represents a concrete example of neighbouring countries contributing to the peace and stability of their own region. Therefore, every effort should be made by the United Nations, including the Council, and its Member States to ensure that the G-5 Joint Force is fully capacitated so that it can effectively implement its mandate. In addition, we take note of and support the Secretary-General’s recommendation that the Council establish a United Nations support office for the G-5 Joint Force.

The situation in Mali illustrates the severe asymmetrical threat faced by United Nations peacekeepers. In the context of these threats, such as terrorist attacks against United Nations personnel, the Security Council must ensure that these operations are, firstly, fully resourced; secondly, entrusted with the appropriate mandate to respond to the context-specific environments in which they are deployed; and, thirdly, adequately equipped to protect themselves and defend their mandate.

Fourthly, and lastly, I would like to underscore the need for economic development so as to sustain the peace we are trying to bring about in Mali. The people need to benefit from the peace dividends that result from the agreement. Ordinary people need to feel the change and be able to earn their livelihood.

It is key, therefore, that the international community support the people of Mali through economic and infrastructure investment that would help them to overcome the challenges currently facing them. This will contribute not only to a stable Mali and a stable region, but also to a peaceful and prosperous African continent.

We thank France for the press statement and reiterate that, as always, it has our support.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8446th Meeting

Thursday, 17 January 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/Pv.8446 Agenda:

Reports of the Secretary-General on the Sudan and South Sudan

We would like to thank you, Sir, H.E. Ambassador José Singer Weisinger for convening today’s meeting. We would also like to thank and pay tribute to Ambassador Joanna Wronecka for her briefing and leadership on this portfolio. And we welcome our colleagues from the Sudan to the Council today.

South Africa welcomes the improvements in the security situation in Darfur. The situation has improved dramatically over the past few years and the role of the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) should be commended. We salute Ambassador Jeremiah Mamabolo, Head of UNAMID, and his colleagues -all the Blue Berets and civilian components -for a job well done in Darfur. Notwithstanding its expected drawdown, as set out in resolution 2429 (2018), UNAMID must continue to ensure the protection of vulnerable civilians, especially the internally displaced and those in camps, and to prevent gender-based violence. South Africa also welcomes the gains made in advancing the Darfur peace process and in the implementation of the Doha Document for Peace in Darfur and calls on all parties to continue their commitment to the negotiations process, under the auspices of the African Union High-level Implementation Panel.

Through resolution 1591 (2005), the Council aimed to put pressure on the parties that were impeding the peace process, which we recognised as constituting a threat to stability in Darfur and the region. It also targeted those who had committed violations under international humanitarian law or human rights law, or other types of atrocities, or those who had violated measures agreed on in resolution 1556 (2004). Equally, as the Chair of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 1591 (2005) concerning the Sudan said, we should also respond to the progress that is being registered on the ground in normalising the situation in Darfur, which has driven the drawdown of the contingent numbers in the UNAMID mission from 17,000 to 4,000. With those positive developments in this area of the Sudan, it is important that the Council be able to recognise and acknowledge that progress has been made, thanks to the measures imposed in resolution 1591 (2005). The Council should be able to relax some of the previously imposed sanctions, and in that regard, we welcome the recommendation of the Chair of the Committee.

That does not mean that there are no more elements that require our attention. We remain concerned about the continued violations of the arms embargo, including the transfer of weapons to Darfur, which destabilises the situation on the ground. In that regard, we urge UNAMID, in accordance with resolution 2429 (2018), to continue to provide technical and logistical assistance to the Sudan Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission. We also remain concerned about the growing presence of Darfuri armed groups in Libya, as further violations of the embargo could potentially fuel the conflict in the region, undermining any progress towards stability and lasting solutions for peace and sustainable development. And women and children are the most affected by sexual violence, which has also increasingly become a weapon of war, affecting the long-term prospects for peaceful and prosperous communities. In that regard, we would like to commend the Government of the Sudan for its efforts to combat sexual violence in conflict.

In conclusion, South Africa hopes that as UNAMID continues to scale down its operations and vacate stable regions in Darfur, the Sudanese Government will establish administrative services and ensure normalcy in the hitherto troubled region of the Sudan. The Council should do everything possible to ensure that the 30 June cut-off and withdrawal of UNAMID is realised, since it would be a major boost to Africa’s call for silencing the guns by 2020.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8448th Meeting

Friday, 18 January 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8448 Agenda:

The Situation in Libya

Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (S/2019/19)

We would like first to add our voice in thanking you, Mr. President, H.E. Ambassador José Singer Weisinger of Dominican Republic for having convened this meeting today; Special Representative of the Secretary -General Ghassan Salamé for his comprehensive briefing to the Council; and the representative of Germany, as Chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011), concerning Libya.

This briefing is timely given the discussions that the Council has been holding this week on sanctions on Mali and the Sudan, wherein there has been recognition of the implications of the Libyan fiasco throughout the region.

The reason that the bloody Libyan crisis still haunts the Council, as others had predicted, is that although our organisation, the African Union (AU), had devised a continentally agreed road map to deal with the bloody Libyan crisis, it was not allowed to roll it out until the very end. This fiasco and the many that followed should remind our partners from outside the African continent that Africans are best placed to understand their problems and the solutions thereto. Africans must be allowed to provide solutions to African problems. Partners will be invited only if need be. I would like to focus my intervention on the political process and the humanitarian situation in Libya.

My delegation supports and encourages the efforts of Mr. Salamé, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, to work with all Libyan parties to reach an acceptable and lasting political solution. We welcome the efforts made by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in engaging with all relevant stakeholders in support of the implementation of the United Nations’ action plan and look forward to the convening of the national conference in order to move beyond the political transition phase and fully unite the country.

As a member of the AU High-Level Committee on Libya, South Africa will continue to support the United Nations and the African Union in their common cause of jointly coordinating activities that will contribute to a peaceful resolution of the Libyan crisis.

We wish to recall that at its 31st Summit, held in Nouakchott in July 2018, the African Union Assembly reiterated its

“deep concern over the persistent security situation in Libya, which continues to prolong the suffering of the Libyan people.”

The Chair of the AU High-Level Committee and the AU Commission Chair have reaffirmed their common desire to assist all stakeholders in overcoming the serious crisis facing Libya. In this regard, they have agreed to relaunch preparations for the national reconciliation conference with all relevant stakeholders, as provided for in the road map adopted by the Committee.

On the humanitarian front, my delegation is concerned about the deteriorating humanitarian situation, especially as some humanitarian actors have recently faced challenges restricting their access to parts of the country. We condemn the loss of civilian lives during the violence in Tripoli and support the SecretaryGeneral’s call for all commitments made under the September 2018 ceasefire agreement to be adhered to in order to maintain the calm and avoid further violence in the capital and elsewhere. We also call on all parties to fully respect international humanitarian law and to ensure that all possible measures are put in place to avoid further conflict.

We urge all parties to work constructively on a dialogue for a mutually acceptable negotiated agreement. As the Council, we must do all we can to assist and support all stakeholders in moving this process forward.

Lastly, my delegation welcomes the work of the Women’s Empowerment and Support Unit of the Presidency Council aimed at advancing gender equality and the full participation of women in the Libyan political and economic spheres. Including women in the political dialogue is essential to ensuring that all sectors of Libyan society are included in the process of charting their own futures, in a spirit of dedication to peace and security for Libya.

Through our own struggle for liberation, we South Africans know first-hand the importance of incorporating women in the peace process and the benefits that are derived from including the whole population.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8449th Meeting

Tuesday, 22 January 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8449 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question

First, I would like to thank colleagues for their condolences and solidarity in connection with the passing of Ambassador Dumisani Khumalo. Ambassador Khumalo used to sit where I am sitting and always contributed to finding solutions aimed at bringing about peace and security and stability, issues of which the Security Council is always seized with. Likewise, we would also like to convey our condolences to our brothers and sisters in Chad.

South Africa welcomes this quarterly open debate on the situation in the Middle East, focusing on the question of Palestine. We thank Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Nickolay Mladenov for his briefing. We also thank the observer of Palestine and the representative of Israel for their respective statements.

South Africa aligns itself with the statement to be delivered on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries by the representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

We want to begin this debate by congratulating the State of Palestine on assuming the chairmanship of the Group of 77 and China. We also welcome Retno Lestari Priansari Marsudi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Indonesia.

This is the first open debate in which South Africa is participating as a member of the Security Council during its current term as an elected member. We wish to use this opportunity to emphasise the importance of the Council, ensuring that it remains committed to meaningfully contributing to the resolution of one of its longest-standing agenda items -the question of Palestine -of which it has been seized for more than 70 years. While the Council’s monthly meetings and quarterly open debates afford an opportunity to have a significant influence on the Middle East peace process, this has not yielded the necessary results that it has the potential to lead to. The adoption of landmark resolution 2334 (2016) in December 2016 is one important such example of the potential outcome of Council deliberations on the matter. Unfortunately, there has been minimal effort to implement that resolution. That calls into question the credibility of the decisions of the Council, especially if it is the Council itself that does not take any action to ensure the implementation of its own decisions. In resolution 2334 (2016), we reaffirmed that Israeli settlements, which have steadily been expanding into Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, have no legal validity and constitute a violation of international law. Furthermore, resolution 2334 (2016) recognises that the settlements are a major obstacle to the achievement of the two-State solution and to a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East.

The recent upsurge in tensions between Israeli settlers and the Palestinian people in settlements such as Ofra and the broader cycle of violence resulting from those heightened antagonisms are indicative of the obstacles created by the illegal expansion of settlement activity to the peace process. According to the recent report of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, about 250 Israeli settlements have been established in the occupied West Bank since 1967, and approximately 611,000 Israelis -or 10 per cent of the Israeli population -have been pushed into Palestine and forcibly settled in flagrant violation of international law, including the Fourth Geneva Convention, thereby replacing 12 per cent of the Palestinian population, which is similar to the apartheid-era forceful removal of black people from their ancestral productive land to barren, unproductive wasteland in the middle of nowhere. South Africa therefore calls for the full implementation of resolution 2334 (2016), including the timely submission to the Council of written reports of the Secretary-General every three months in order for progress to be adequately monitored. The Council receives written reports on other matters with which it is seized, and the situation in Palestine should be no different. We must not allow the decisions of the Security Council to be undermined and blatantly violated in some areas.

Even more troubling is the deliberate targeting of children, the continued violation of human rights in the occupied territories and the continued imprisonment of Palestinian minors in military detention in Israel. The impact of such violations on the future of peace between the two parties cannot be underestimated. The fomenting of hatred and a culture of violence in the formative stages of development of those children will only make peace and reconciliation even more distant and unachievable. As long as the Council remains silent on such issues, a just peace becomes more and more out of reach. We cannot afford inaction and must instead inject much-needed urgency into resolving the conflict, including by safeguarding the gains made over decades of diplomacy and preventing any prejudging of outcomes on final-status issues, such as Jerusalem, security, and the return of Palestinian refugees.

I wish to reiterate South Africa’s support for a two-State solution. We would also like to reiterate that the primary responsibility for peace rests with the Palestinians and Israelis themselves. South Africa, as part of the international community, has always sought to encourage peace between the two parties. In that regard, we convened the Spier Presidential Peace Retreat in January 2002, to which we invited senior representatives of both Palestine and Israel with the aim of strengthening the peace camp in both Israel and Palestine, while sharing the South African experience in negotiations, peacemaking and the transition to democracy. We have also supported international peace efforts, in particular through the United Nations system. Those initiatives have demonstrated a spirit of commitment to dialogue and partnership for peace between the parties.

In line with the outcomes of the Spier Presidential Retreat, we continue to support and encourage the parties to work together towards peaceful dialogue and negotiation as the only way to find a lasting solution. The guidelines for those negotiations have been based on the established international legal framework, including General Assembly and Security Council resolutions, the Madrid

Principles, the Arab Peace Initiative, and the Quartet Road Map, amongst other things.

We wish to once again recognise the importance of the work of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which has provided crucial socioeconomic assistance to Palestinian refugees for decades. Cuts in the UNRWA budget threaten the lives of many vulnerable people and undermine any confidence in a resolution to the conflict. Punishing civilians by cutting humanitarian funding cannot in any way be conceived as moving the peace process forward; rather, it serves only to entrench animosity and heighten tensions between the parties.

South Africa is deeply concerned about reports of Israel’s plans to shut down UNRWA-run schools in East Jerusalem. Closing schools affects the most vulnerable refugee population -children, at their most vulnerable stage of development and in the formative years of their education. South Africa welcomes recent pledges made to support UNRWA. We affirm that such humanitarian support creates the conditions that contribute to easing the dire conditions of the Palestinian people.

The Council must do everything it can to remove all obstacles to peace between Israel and Palestine and no longer allow continued hatred, human rights violations, and disregard for international law. Generations of Palestinians and Israelis have known only conflict and violence. We must do all we can now to create a culture of peace and foster hope for a future free of conflict for both communities.

Any time Palestinians want to bring the issue of Palestine’s full membership of the United Nations to the Security Council, they will find South Africa ready to support them.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8450th Meeting

Wednesday, 23 January 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8450 Agenda:

Identical Letters Dated 19 January 2016 from the Permanent Representative of Colombia to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General and the President of the Security Council (S/2016/53)

Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (S/2018/1159)

We are honoured to have you, Mr. President, H.E. Danilo Medina Sánchez, Foreign Minister of Dominican Republic presiding over this important meeting, giving our friend Mr. José Singer Weisinger a bit of a break. I think he deserves a break. We are also honoured by the presence of the Foreign Minister of Colombia, His Excellency Mr. Carlos Holmes Trujillo García, and his delegation, as well as the Foreign Minister of Indonesia, Mrs. Retno Marsudi.

We welcome the extensive and informative briefing by Mr. Carlos Ruiz Massieu, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia. We furthermore acknowledge the role played by Cuba and Norway, as the guarantors and facilitators of the Colombian peace process.

At the outset, South Africa extends its deepest condolences to the Government of Colombia and its people following the attack that claimed more than 20 lives in Bogotá last week and injured many more. We condemn, in the strongest terms possible, this senseless violence, which must not be allowed to threaten and derail the hard-won and significant achievements of the peace process in Colombia.

Notwithstanding that regrettable and tragic incident, South Africa welcomes the report (S/2018/1159) of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia, which conveys a generally positive view of progress in achieving lasting peace in the country. However, the report also notes the killing of social leaders and human rights defenders, which is a major concern and presents an ongoing challenge.

In addressing those challenges, South Africa would like to emphasise, based on our experience, the importance of working to expand the State’s presence throughout its territory, which is particularly necessary in areas that have been affected by conflict and vacated by former combatants. It will also help to resolve the sensitive land question and restore much-needed basic services to all, including combatants who have surrendered and their families.

As Colombia commemorates the third anniversary of the 2016 Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace, it is important that we recognise and commend the Government of Colombia, led by President Iván Duque Márquez, for its significant efforts in encouraging dialogue and the implementation of the peace agreement. We take note, inter alia, of the Government’s launching in 2019 of its “Peace with legality” plan, which aims to provide concrete solutions to potential obstacles to the peace process.

South Africa also expresses its full support for Colombia’s Commission on Truth, Coexistence, and Non-repetition, known as the Truth Commission. Our very own Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa, as painful and imperfect as it may have been, was invaluable in allowing our people to confront our painful history and deal with the deep wounds that had divided us for a long time. Therefore, in order to foster healing, it is important that Colombia’s justice process, embodied in its Special Jurisdiction for Peace, receive the full support and cooperation of all the parties involved. Its independence and autonomy, as well as the judgements it arrives at, also need to be fully respected.

Furthermore, as pointed out by the Secretary-General in his most recent report, it is critical that the reintegration process in Colombia involve efforts to empower local communities, in close collaboration with the private sector, universities and other stakeholders, such as civil society organisations, women, victims of violence, and ethnic or indigenous peoples. On this point it is important to recognise the important pioneering efforts and achievements of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia in working specifically to address youth in the peace process. As the country’s future leaders, its youth and their futures are critical to the success of the peace process in Colombia. That pioneering work by the United Nations Verification Mission should serve as an important example for other peace missions.

South Africa also commends the efforts of regional bodies, such as the Organization of American States (OAS), particularly through its Mission to Support of the Peace Process in Colombia, led by Mr. Roberto Menéndez. We encourage greater coordination between the United Nations efforts and those of the OAS.

As has been mentioned, the transition that Colombia is undergoing bears many similarities with the experiences of South Africa. Following the end of apartheid, South Africa’s fledgling democracy had to deal with similarly complex challenges, including reforming the security sector, demobilising and reintegrating former combatants, processes related to truth and reconciliation, as well as justice.

Peace is expensive. Peace is complex. Making peace is a difficult, yet necessary, undertaking. Patience is needed. Respect and equal treatment for all is required. Certainty about the common future must be spelled out. Justice must be applied fairly to everyone. Inter-Colombian dialogue is the way to go. Neighbours should give the Colombian people a chance to deal with the painful past to heal, to deal with mistrust, to bond together and to move together. Democracy needs compromises. Democracy needs accommodation. Work together with former combatants. Do not demonise them.

As always, South Africa remains ready and willing to share the small experiences and lessons that it learned through those difficult processes, in the hope that Colombia and its people might find lasting peace and prosperity.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8451st Meeting

Friday, 25 January 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8451 Agenda:

Maintenance of International Peace and Security Addressing the Impacts of Climate-Related Disasters on International Peace and Security

Letter Dated 2 January 2019 from the Permanent Representative of the Dominican Republic to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2019/1)

Mr. President, H.E. Ambassador José Singer Weisinger, we are honoured to see you preside over today’s open debate. We thank the Dominican Republic for having arranged this important meeting addressing the impact of climate-related disasters on international peace and security. We are also honoured by and acknowledge the presence in the Council Chamber today of many Ministers.

We would like also to thank the many briefers for the information they provided to the Council. We took note of the remarks made by Ms. Getschel and amplified by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon regarding the role of youth in this debate.

We associate ourselves with the statement to be delivered by Ms. Fatima Kyari Mohammed on behalf of the African Union.

South Africa fully shares the views expressed by the Secretary-General at the 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), held in Katowice, Poland, in December 2018, where he stated that “climate change is the single most important issue we face. It affects all our plans for sustainable development and a safe, secure and prosperous world”.

The Secretary-General has issued a warning that time is running out to address climate change. That warning is premised on the clear findings of the international scientific community, as well as by the new reality of increasingly frequent and extreme climate-related disasters. The special report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) on the impact of a 1.5°C temperature rise confirms that we are already seeing the consequences of climate change for nature and for people and their livelihoods and that the worst is yet to come.

We note with great concern the erratic nature and ferocity of the natural calamities that have struck the Caribbean and many islands, including those in the Pacific, such as hurricanes; in Indonesia and Japan, repeated tsunamis; in Australia and the United States of America, devastating wildfires; in Europe, floods and heavy snows; and in Africa, drought, amongst others. These natural catastrophes caused untold human suffering, destroyed the livelihoods of millions of people and displaced hundreds of millions more.

Africa is particularly vulnerable to climate change as the single greatest threat to its development and prosperity. We in South Africa have experienced devastating weather events in recent years, with several regions of our country suffering their worst drought in decades. Africa therefore stands in full solidarity with other regions similarly affected by natural disasters, such as those highlighted in the concept note prepared by the Dominican Republic (S/2019/1, annex). We remain firmly committed to addressing climate change and responding to natural disasters at the national, regional, and international levels. It is clear to us that climate change is a global sustainable development challenge that can realistically be addressed only if we do so collectively, through a rules-based multilateral regime that is based on science, equity, and a differentiation in terms of action and support between countries with very different national circumstances. Climate action needs to be dramatically scaled up while protecting and furthering the development gains of developing countries and eradicating poverty.

We have strong foundations for this multilateral solution already in the form of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, reinforced by regional development programmes such as the African Union’s Agenda 2063. We look to the UNFCCC, its Kyoto Protocol, and the Paris Agreement for policy direction and leadership on climate change and also refer to the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.

In those security situations that are within the purview of the Security Council where climate change is thought to be a significant factor contributing to insecurity, such as the Sahel and Somalia, it is important that the Council highlight climate change as a factor that must be addressed by the international community. By adding its voice to the conversation, the Security Council will increase awareness of the problem, which will, hopefully, in turn help to mobilise global action and the provision of means of implementation and support to developing countries. The Council may also help with the preparation of context-specific risk-mitigation strategies that address all factors leading to insecurity.

However, as the IPCC and other evidence-based studies have shown, it is often difficult to determine a direct causal nexus between climate change and natural disasters, on the one hand, and threats to international peace and security, on the other. In specific circumstances, they may be an exacerbating factor, or threat multiplier, to more direct and specific root causes of conflict. That reality has been recognised in Africa, where the African Union Master Road map of Practical Steps to Silence the Guns by 2020 identifies a number of key areas as constituting serious threats to the African peace and security agenda, including, potentially, climate change. The African Union decided at its annual Assembly Summit its Head of State and Government that all efforts should be made to silence the Guns in Africa by 2020, assuring in a conflict-free Africa, stable and peaceful.

The true nature of the threat posed by climate change is existential and global in nature. We therefore need a multilateral response that gives a voice to the widest possible representation of States, and with a strong role for all other stakeholders. As the Secretary-General has often said, the solution lies in a transformation of the global economy. And that “requires inclusivity, because everyone is affected by climate change”.

In that regard, we should be aware that the Security Council’s limited membership and specific peace and security focus means that it may not be the appropriate forum for addressing the issue of climate change. Consequently, we should be cautious about duplicating the efforts of other bodies in the United Nations system that are better placed to address the matter. However, we remain open to further discussions on the issue.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8452nd Meeting

Saturday, 26 January 2019, 9 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8452 Agenda:

The Situation in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

We want to thank you, Sir, H.E. José Singer Weisinger for convening today’s meeting on the situation in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. We also want to welcome the ministers present here in the Council today, as well as the briefing by Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo.

In any country, like all the countries represented around this big table, political parties choose the provisions by which to conduct elections. Venezuela is no different, and it held its presidential elections on 20 May 2018 on the basis of its national laws governing such elections. Those elections also took place in accordance with the agreement of electoral guarantees that was signed by all political parties shortly before the elections. The elections were further overseen by Venezuela’s National Electoral Council, as in any other country, whether developed or developing. It was on that basis that South Africa’s President, Mr. Cyril Ramaphosa, congratulated President Maduro following his inauguration for a second term as President of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

A founding principle of South Africa’s constitutional democracy, which we hold very dear, is respect for the rule of law. We are therefore deeply concerned by what is a clear attempt, in Venezuela, to circumvent the constitutional legal mechanisms of the country that govern its elections. Any grievances or disputes should be resolved in a peaceful manner through the proper mechanisms and processes provided for in the Constitution of Venezuela and its electoral laws, without external influence. That is standard practice everywhere, in every country, and indeed the best practice in all democracies that subscribe to the rule of law.

South Africa echoes the statement made by the Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, in Davos on 24 January, where he urged a de-escalation of tensions to prevent further violence. We further support the Secretary-General’s call referring to “the urgent need for all relevant actors to commit to inclusive and credible political dialogue to address the protracted crisis in the country, with full respect for the rule of law and human rights”.

South Africa therefore calls on all parties to participate in a national dialogue process to ensure unity and reconciliation and for the furtherance of a political solution to the situation in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. We would like to reiterate that any further action by or grievance of either party should be resolved through the due legal processes of the country.

We are also concerned about the humanitarian situation in Venezuela and the resultant migration that has taken place. We call on the entire international community, as well as the relevant United Nations’ agencies and bodies, to work with the Venezuelan Government and its neighbours in order to assist those in need. I wish to stress that South Africa is firmly against any attempts aimed at undue or unconstitutional changes of Government in Venezuela. The Security Council should never be an instrument that validates unconstitutional changes of any Government -anywhere, at any time. Instead, the Council should promote avenues that create environments conducive to inclusive dialogue and cooperation, which would ease the challenges and hardships faced by the Venezuelan people.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8454th Meeting

Wednesday, 30 January 2019, 10.30 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8454 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

Let me join others in thanking the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mr. Mark Lowcock, for the valuable and detailed briefing on the humanitarian situation in Syria and, through him, thanking all United Nations personnel for their great job to help the Syrian people who are most in need. We also thank Syria’s neighbouring countries for their assistance, as well as the co-penholders on this issue for their work. I think it sets a very good example that the 10 elected members agreed to share the pen on this issue. I hope that the five permanent members will take away the lesson that they can work with the elected 10 on pen-holding on other issues, like peacekeeping and sanctions.

The conflict in Syria has been raging unabated for more than eight years, during which more than 500,000 Syrians have died -approximately 3 per cent of the population in just eight years. In addition, 6.2 million people -34 per cent of the population -have been internally displaced, and 11.7 million Syrians -61 per cent

-are in dire need of humanitarian assistance. If we add the destruction of physical and school infrastructure -schools, hospitals, and factories -and the millions disabled as a result of the war and the millions of refugees in foreign lands, we can ask ourselves if this was worth it. Was this worth it? If we look at the destruction in just one region -in Iraq, Yemen, and Libya -we can ask ourselves whether the Security Council can find a better way of resolving those conflicts. After all, they all must end through political negotiations, with people sitting around a table. So, why destroy such a huge region on the scale of destruction that we saw during the Second World War in Europe and Asia? We hope to never again see any region suffer this amount of destruction. We hope that this is the last lesson for the Security Council. We do not need the destruction of other regions. I hope that it does not happen in Africa, or anywhere else. I think that the Middle East is a good lesson that we need to find better ways of resolving conflicts.

As this is my delegation’s first intervention on this matter, I wish to commend the United Nations and its agencies for all they have done to bring relief to the people of Syria, particularly with regard to the coordination of cross-border deliveries of essential goods, such as food and medical aid. My delegation would like to reiterate the Secretary-General’s statement, in his December report (S/2018/1104), that without cross-border deliveries, the United Nations would be unable to reach people in need who are inaccessible through other means. In that regard, we call on the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), under the leadership of Mr. Lowcock, to continue its good work in coordinating the humanitarian assistance programme in Syria, and in particular in helping women, the frail, and children.

We also request that OCHA continue to work with the Government of Syria on multiple levels in order to facilitate the early provision of authorisation and facilitation letters with all the necessary guarantees for the convoys to reach areas where humanitarian assistance is needed most, without any obstruction, as outlined in resolution 2449 (2018), adopted by the Council in December. In that context, we would like to thank Russia and Turkey for their cooperation, and the coalition partners for offering the protection that Mr. Lowcock mentioned early in his briefing today. We also welcome the financial contributions made to the current humanitarian response plan.

In South Africa’s view, the humanitarian crisis in Syria is greatly influenced by the political situation in the country and that the dire humanitarian situation cannot be improved without progress being made on the political front. In that context, let me reiterate our support for the implementation of resolution 2254 (2015) and the road map for the political future of Syria. We would like to welcome the appointment of Mr. Geir Pedersen as the new Special Envoy of the Secretary-General. We are pleased to note that he has already begun his work in earnest by engaging with all relevant role-players. We look forward to hearing from him in February on the political process.

South Africa would like to urge all parties, together with the Security Council, to work towards the speedy establishment and convening of an inclusive and balanced constitutional committee. That would represent progress in the political dialogue and be a step in the right direction for a sustainable, negotiated political settlement to the situation in Syria. We underscore our view that the only sustainable solution to the situation in Syria is a negotiated political solution through an inclusive Syrian-led dialogue aimed at achieving a transition reflecting the will of the Syrian people and with a guarantee of protection for all Syrians.

Lastly, South Africa rejects in all respects any call for regime change and external military interference or any action contrary to the Charter of the United Nations. South Africa continues to maintain that democracy is an unassailable right of the Syrian people and therefore remains convinced that, in a complex and diverse society such as Syria’s, there can be no military solution to the conflict. Political negotiations are the only way.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8456th Meeting

Monday, 4 February 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/Pv.8456 Agenda:

Threats to International Peace and Security Mercenary Activities as a Source of Insecurity and Destabilisation in Africa

Letter Dated 31 January 2019 from the Permanent Representative of Equatorial Guinea to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2019/97)

Republic of Equatorial Guinea Assume the Presidency of the UNSC for February 2019. Her Permanent Representative Became the President of the Security Council

At the outset, South Africa wishes to congratulate Your Excellency President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, and the Republic of Equatorial Guinea on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of February. You may be assured of South Africa’s full support and cooperation during your presidency of the Council.

We also want to thank the Dominican Republic for its excellent presidency of the Council in January.

We thank the Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, and the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat, for their insightful briefings. We further thank His Excellency Mr. Richard Sezibera, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Rwanda, for his remarks on behalf of President Paul Kagame, in his capacity as the President of the African Union. We also welcome His Excellency Mr. Marcel Amon-Tanoh, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Côte d’Ivoire, and His Excellency Mr. Abdu Kambogo, Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Regional Integration of Gabon.

South Africa welcomes the convening of this timely debate and the selection of the important theme on the role of mercenary activities as a source of insecurity and destabilisation in Africa. It is an important, undisputed fact that over the years, Africa has been at the receiving end of mercenary activities, which have contributed to undermining peace, security, and stability on the continent. Several African countries have been targets of ongoing attempts by mercenary groups to overthrow legitimate and democratically elected Governments. Their transnational activities also threaten regional stability, especially in cases where the security of neighbouring countries is intertwined. South Africa condemns such activities, as they pose serious challenges to our collective efforts to promote and ensure peace and stability in our respective countries. Equally concerning, the activities of mercenaries pose a serious threat to the peace and stability of several regions on the continent, which is already fragile owing to ongoing conflicts.

Since the advent of democracy in 1994, South Africa has been part of the collective efforts to promote peace and stability throughout our beloved continent. We support the objectives of the African Union aimed at achieving greater unity and solidarity amongst African countries and the people of Africa, while also defending the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of its Member States. These objectives and principles are clearly articulated in the Constitutive Act of the African Union. Key amongst these principles is the condemnation and rejection of unconstitutional changes of Government, as well as non-interference by any member State in the internal affairs of another.

As a responsible member of the African Union and the United Nations, South Africa condemns all mercenary activities in any African or non-African country. We believe that these activities are in clear contravention of continental and international conventions and legal instruments. As eloquently captured in the concept note for this meeting (S/2019/97, annex), the recruitment, use, financing and training of mercenaries violate the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and those of the Constitutive Act of the African Union.

South Africa reaffirms the need for the unequivocal implementation of all international and continental legislation and instruments against mercenaries, in particular the 1989 International Convention against the Recruitment, Use, Financing, and Training of Mercenaries and the 1977 Organisation of African Unity Convention for the Elimination of Mercenarism in Africa.

For our part, South Africa has an uncompromising and strict policy against its nationals who partake in any mercenary activities. The Constitution of our country provides that the resolve to live in peace and harmony precludes any South African citizen from participating in armed conflict, nationally, or internationally, except as provided for in the Constitution or national legislation.

In pursuance of this objective, in 1998 the Parliament of South Africa passed legislation entitled the “Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act”. The objective of the Act is to regulate the rendering of foreign military assistance by our nationals, persons permanently residing within our borders and foreign citizens rendering such assistance from within our borders. Through these actions, South Africa has consistently taken strict measures against its nationals found to be involved in mercenary activities or violating the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act. We have previously cooperated and collaborated with fellow African countries in instances where our nationals were implicated in mercenary activities.

My delegation stresses that it is the obligation of all States to take all necessary measures to eradicate mercenary activities wherever they may occur. In that regard, the Security Council should encourage all Member States to commit to preventing their nationals and foreigners in their respective territories from engaging in mercenary activities.

Representatives will recall that, during its 62nd session, the General Assembly adopted resolution 62/145 on the use of mercenaries as a means of violating human rights and impeding the exercise of the right of peoples to self-determination. South Africa is concerned about the new forms of mercenary acts in the form of private security companies. Over the years, there has been a clear nexus between the activities of mercenaries and private military companies and the negative consequences of such companies on some of the continent’s protracted conflicts. We call on the international community to put in place a regulatory and legally binding framework on the work of those companies. The Montreux Document on the self-regulation of private military companies could be used as required once that instrument has been universally agreed. My delegation is convinced that we should address the perception around the privatisation and corporatisation of security services, as such a role should be the sole responsibility of sovereign Governments.

In conclusion, I wish to stress that South Africa is firmly committed to working with fellow African States and members of the Security Council to address the challenge of mercenary activities and their negative impact on peace and stability both regionally and internationally. That is in line with the aspirations of the African continent as envisaged in Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, in particular, the desire for a peaceful and secure Africa, and through the flagship project Silencing the Guns by 2020.We wish our Chinese friends a happy new year.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8459th Meeting

Thursday, 7 February 2019, 3.20 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8459 Agenda:

Security Council Resolutions 1160 (1998), 1199 (1998), 1203 (1998), 1239 (1999), and 1244 (1999)

Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (S/2019/102)

I thank you, Sir, H.E. Ambassador Anatolio Ndong Mba, for placing this matter on the agenda today. After following the due process provided for in the working methods of the Security Council, you have my support.

May I also thank Mr. Zahir Tanin, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), for his briefing. We also welcome His Excellency Mr. Ivica Dačić, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia and thank him for his briefing. We also take note of the statement delivered by Ms. Vlora Çitaku, the representative of Pristina Capital of Kosovo.

South Africa welcomes the work of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo, with the support of the United Nations country team, whose efforts have contributed significantly to creating an environment conducive to compromise, reconciliation, and stability in Kosovo, as outlined in the SecretaryGeneral’s report (S/2019/102). South Africa also commends the efforts of Belgrade and Pristina in the European Union-facilitated dialogue towards normalising relations, despite challenges faced by both leaders in finding a sustainable and peaceful political solution.

Surely the imposition of 100 per cent tariffs on Serbian goods and the transformation of the Kosovo Security Force into regular armed forces do not contribute to creating an environment that is conducive to finding a durable solution in Kosovo. Perhaps the Kosovo Administration may want to reflect on those decisions, with the possibility of suspending or totally revising them as a contribution to establishing an environment of peace in which negotiations can take place.

South Africa also wishes to recognise the efforts of the Secretary-General and his Special Representative, Mr. Zahir Tanin, and their support for the peace process in Kosovo. It is not easy. It is a very difficult process. We wish to reiterate that the presence of the United Nations in Kosovo is critical to reaching a solution and encouraging cooperation amongst all parties, as per the provisions of resolution 1244 (1999). However, we remain concerned about the renewed tensions in Kosovo with regard to the special protective zones where construction activities persist. All relevant parties should commit to upholding and protecting religious integrity and heritage and to respecting the rule of law, as well as the decisions of the Implementation and Monitoring Council.

South Africa wishes to reiterate the sentiments of the Secretary-General in his report regarding continued engagement with the authorities, civil society, and bilateral and international partners. That will play an important role in ensuring active support for peacebuilding and intercommunity trust-building efforts in Kosovo. We hope that the spirit of dialogue will build the foundation for negotiations on an inclusive, fair, political settlement that will be acceptable to both sides.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8460th Meeting

Monday, 11 February 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8460 Agenda:

Threats to International Peace and Security caused by Terrorist Acts Eighth Report of the Secretary-General on the Threat Posed by Isil (Da’esh)

To International Peace and Security and the Range of United Nations Efforts in Support of Member States in Countering the Threat (S/2019/103)

I wish to thank you, Mr. President, your Excellency Ambassador Anatolio Ndong Mba for having convened today’s briefing on threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts. We are grateful for the briefings presented by, respectively, Mr. Voronkov and Ms. Coninsx. South Africa believes that this meeting could have been further enriched had the Council invited the countries most affected, to participate in the briefing. We will hope that it will do so in future.

The threat posed by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) may have evolved and changed, but it has not diminished in any way. Given ISIL’s global reach, countering it

Mr Vladimir Voronkov is the

requires a coherent, coordinated response that Under-Secretary-General foris underpinned by strengthened cooperation Counter Terrorism (OCT).

at the domestic, bilateral, regional, and He was appointed underinternational levels, including the sharing of Secretary-General (USA) ofinformation and experiences.

the UN office of Counter-The United Nations remains key in the Terrorism on 21 June 2017, coordination of the international community’s established by the General efforts in this regard, and the importance of its Assembly Resolution 71/291. support for Member States in addressing their Ms. Michèle Coninsx was specific challenges in countering ISIL cannot appointed Assistant Secretary-be underestimated. We welcome the efforts of General (ASG) and Executive the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism Director of the Counter-and the Counter-Terrorism Committee of the Terrorism Committee Executive Security Council and its Executive Directorate Directorate (CTED) by USG

in this respect. Guterres on 11 August 2017.

South Africa has always supported a holistic approach to countering the threat of terrorism. Terrorism should be addressed in its totality, not only in its individual components. Security measures alone will not succeed in countering the terrorist threat. Addressing what gives rise to it and its prevention are equally important. In that connection, South Africa supports a whole-of-Government and a whole-ofsociety approach that also addresses the role of women and children, youth, civil society, the private sector, and communities in dealing with terrorist acts.

We welcome the Madrid Guiding Principles and the addendum (S/2018/1177, annex) that has been developed to complement them. In South Africa’s fight against terrorism, we have, under our Protection of Constitutional Democracy against Terrorist and Related Activities Act, incorporated the means of addressing the financing of terrorism, complemented by South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre, which is part of a global network of similar centres dealing with tracing illegal financial flows to terrorist groups, and good cooperation with the private sector. It is also of great importance to South Africa to emphasise that measures taken to counter the threat of ISIL comply with our obligations under international law, in particular international human rights law, international refugee law, and international humanitarian law, as well as the principle of the rule of law.

South Africa remains concerned by the presence of terrorist groups in Africa, including in sub-Saharan Africa, the Sahel, West and East Africa, and, recently, in some parts of our own region, which have links with ISIL and its evil ideology. Over the years, the African Union (AU) has taken a number of initiatives in the fight against terrorism. In 2002, 17 years ago, the AU adopted a plan of action on the prevention of and combat against terrorism. In 2011, the AU Commission developed an African Model Law on Counter-Terrorism. We will continue to spare no effort to ensure that this destructive phenomenon does not take root in our region, and we will continue to work closely with the international community, including the United Nations, in the fight against terrorism.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8461st Meeting

Tuesday, 12 February 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8461 Agenda:

Letter Dated 13 April 2014 from the Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the United Nations Addressed to the President of the Security Council (S/2014/264)

I thank you, Mr. President, H.E. Ambassador Anatoli Ndong Mba for having convened this meeting and facilitating these discussions, as per the Russian Federation letter dated 13 April 2014 (S/2014/264).

I wish to thank the briefers, Mr. Miroslav Jenča, Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas, Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Department of Peace Operations; Ms. Ursula Mueller, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator; Mr. Ertuğrul Apakan, Chief Monitor of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine; and Mr. Martin Sajdik, Special Representative of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group. I welcome also my colleague the Permanent Representative of Ukraine.

It is very clear from the briefings we have heard that there remains an urgent need for the immediate cessation of hostilities in eastern Ukraine. The continued violation of the ceasefire, including the presence of heavy weapons and their use, in violation of the Minsk agreements, are of serious concern. It is also of great concern that the ongoing tension and conflict are exacerbating the dire humanitarian conditions on the ground. The parties need to ensure that there is an urgent de-escalation of tension through the implementation of the Minsk agreements so as to allow for a situation that is conducive to the alleviation of the humanitarian crisis.

In this regard, it remains necessary for all parties to fully implement all of their respective commitments under the Minsk agreements. At this point, the Minsk agreements, including the package of measures agreed under Minsk II, provide the most promising road map for peace. It is also of critical importance that the parties refrain from actions that could be viewed as provocative and that could further impede a peaceful resolution of the situation in line with the Minsk agreements.

Furthermore, it is important that the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe be allowed unhindered access to monitor and verify compliance with the Minsk agreements, in line with its mandate. South Africa encourages the various parties to strengthen all political efforts to produce a sustainable and peaceful solution.

In conclusion, we listened very carefully to the remarks made by some of our colleagues on the issue of Ukraine. We hope that those very same colleagues will walk the talk on Venezuela: respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Venezuela; respect for Article 2, paragraph 4, of the Charter of the United Nations, on refraining from military aggression against other States Members of the United Nations; and, not to undermine the Venezuelan economy by holding large sums of Venezuelan funds in their own banks and in their allies’ banks. If they do that, they will win our respect.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8462nd Meeting

Wednesday, 13 February 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8462 Agenda:

The Situation Concerning Iraq

Twenty-First Report of the Secretary-General Pursuant to Paragraph 4 of Security Council Resolution 2107 (2013) (S/2019/78) Report of the Secretary-General on the Implementation of Resolution 2421 (2018) (S/2019/101)

We welcome and thank the new Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, for her briefing. We look forward to working with her on her assignment. We would also like to welcome our colleague, the Permanent Representative of Iraq.

South Africa would like to highlight the following three areas in our intervention today: the political situation, the security situation, and the role of the region in assisting Iraq.

Firstly, with regard to the political situation, South Africa commends the Iraqi authorities on the progress achieved in forming a national Government. We encourage all stakeholders to work together to finalise the Cabinet. All political forces should close ranks and reach an agreement on the outstanding Cabinet posts so that the Government is able to start delivering on its promises to the public for better security and the dignified return of internally displaced persons, rehabilitated public services, a revitalised economy, and the implementation of reconstruction and development projects.

Additionally, it is very important for the Government of Iraq to promote the meaningful inclusion of women in the political process and their representation at all levels of political structures. We welcome the announcement by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert of the launch, on 24 January, of the Women’s Advisory Group on Reconciliation and Politics. That is a very positive development indeed.

Secondly, with regard to the security situation, we note with concern the assessment in the report of the Secretary-General (S/2019/101) that the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) remains a threat in Iraq. This threat must be addressed, as the continued presence of ISIL has ramifications not only for the instability of Iraq, but also for the entire region. We support Iraqi efforts to hold those accountable for crimes committed in the country, in line with resolution 2379 (2017), which established the United Nations Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da’esh/Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant to support domestic Iraqi efforts to that end.

Furthermore, South Africa reaffirms its support for the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq. We encourage all stakeholders to continue to support and engage in the efforts initiated by UNAMI in an effort to achieve effective post-conflict reconstruction and sustainable peace in Iraq. We are particularly concerned about the increase in violence against women and children, as highlighted in the Secretary-General’s report. In this regard, we support the efforts of UNAMI and UNICEF to address this scourge.

Thirdly, with regard to the role of the region, we welcome the increased involvement of regional organisations in the political process and reaffirm their role in assisting the Government of Iraq in the reconstruction of the country. We also welcome the renewed cooperation and talks between the central Government of Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government and encourage both parties to continue to reach consensus on areas of concern. We also share the views of regional actors that Government formation in Iraq is an important step towards building a stronger and more balanced relationship amongst the countries of the Middle East region.

In conclusion, South Africa reiterates its support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq, in line with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and will continue to support UNAMI in the implementation of its mandate. Furthermore, we continue to support the work of the United Nations Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da’esh/Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant, as part of UNAMI’s mandate, and emphasise the importance of the independence and impartiality of the mechanism, while working in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter, United Nations policies, and best practices.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8466th Meeting

Wednesday, 20 February 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8466 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question

Before I start my intervention, I would like to pay tribute to Ambassador Vitaly Churkin. We commemorate the second anniversary of his death today. His tireless efforts in the Security Council will forever be remembered.

At the outset, we join others in thanking Special Coordinator Nickolay Mladenov for his comprehensive briefing. Likewise, we welcome the briefing by the Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Ms. Ursula Mueller, on the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and in some parts of the occupied Palestinian territory.

The briefing we heard today clearly indicates one thing: peace in Palestine remains elusive. As time goes on, we have seen the positions of the Israelis and Palestinians growing further and further apart. Key final-status issues that ought to be dealt with through negotiations are rapidly being eroded as the issue of Jerusalem is being predetermined and illegal settlements continue to be built on Palestinian land in flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and numerous Security Council resolutions.

The briefing today takes place a few weeks after the Government of Israel decided not to renew the Temporary International Presence in Hebron, after 22 years of dedicated service to both Palestinians and Israelis. It is appropriate that I use this opportunity to express South Africa’s deep regret at the decision taken by Israel, which clearly undermines one of the few confidence-building mechanisms between Palestinians and Israelis. We have no doubt that that decision by the Israeli Government will be yet another step that will have negative implications on the Middle East peace process. It is also unfortunate that we were not even able to adopt a press statement to support the mechanism that promoted peace and stability in Hebron. Despite that setback, we appreciate the efforts by the President of the Council to consult with both Palestinians and Israelis on the matter, and we welcome the valuable feedback that he has provided to the Council in that regard.

The Council began dealing with the issue of Israel and Palestine almost from the beginning of its work, more than 70 years ago. Yet as the Council, we have regrettably done very little or, more often, nothing at all. On almost any other issue that the Council addresses, if there were a similar magnitude of violations or deterioration of the situation, we would waste no time in taking decisive action, including all other means to enforce its decisions and resolutions. On 21 December 2018, Belgium, Bolivia, China, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, France, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Peru, Sweden, and my own country, South Africa, wrote to the Secretary-General and to the President of the Security Council raising concern over the lack of implementation of resolution 2334 (2016), including the need for the Secretary-General to provide written reports every three months on its implementation.

We wish to reiterate our call for the submission of timely written reports by the Secretary-General to the Security Council on its implementation of resolution 2234 (2016), every three months, in order for progress to be adequately monitored. This Council receives written reports on other matters that it is seized with and the situation in Palestine should be no different. We must not allow the decisions made by the Council to be undermined and in some cases blatantly violated. This selectivity undermines the credibility of the Council and in fact erodes its legitimacy.

We express deep concern about the dire humanitarian situation of more than two million Palestinians living in Gaza and some parts of occupied Palestine, of whom about 50 per cent are children. The people of Gaza desperately need humanitarian assistance. In that connection, we wish to call upon the international community to continue to support the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, which continues to play a pivotal role in providing the basic services to the people of Palestine.

I wish to reiterate South Africa’s position in support of a two-State solution based on pre-1967 borders. We, as part of the international community, support and encourage both parties towards this endeavour. Dialogue and negotiation remain the only way forward to finding a lasting solution for peace between Palestine and Israel. The guidelines for these negotiations should be based on the already-established international legal framework, including General Assembly and Security Council resolutions, the Madrid Principles, the Arab Peace Initiative, and the Quartet Road Map, amongst others.

South Africa was elected to this Council with the aspiration to work, together with other Member States represented here, for a long-lasting peace in the Middle East. That is why we are elected to this Council. We must, as a Council, show consistency and act to promote peace between Israelis and Palestinians. During our time in the Council, we will continue to call on the Council to show consistency and act on this matter without any favour and without any selectivity to advance peace in the Middle East.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8467th Meeting

Thursday, 21 February 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8467 Agenda:

The Situation in the Central African Republic

Report of the Secretary-General on the Central African Republic (S/2019/147)

We are delighted, Madam President, H.E. Anatolio Ndong Mba, Representative of Equatorial Guinea to the UN to see you presiding over today’s Council meeting, all the more so that something positive is coming from Africa, from your own region of Central Africa.

At the outset, let me join others in thanking the outgoing Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Central African Republic and Head of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), Mr Parfait Onanga-Anyanga, and the African Union Commissioner for Peace and Security, His Excellency Ambassador Smaïl Chergui, for their comprehensive briefings. We also express our appreciation to the Managing Director for Africa, European External Action Service, Mr Koen Vervaeke.

Last but not least, we wish to thank the Chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 2127 (2013), Ambassador Desiré Wulfran Ipo of Côte d’Ivoire, as well as the Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission’s Central African Republic configuration, the Permanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations, our friend His Excellency Ambassador Mr. Omar Hilale, for their briefings and hard work.

I would also like to offer a special welcome to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Central Africans Abroad of the Central African Republic, Her Excellency Ambassador Sylvie Valérie Baïpo-Temon, and to assure her that she can count on the support of South Africa as she begins the journey towards a stable and peaceful Central African Republic.

South Africa welcomes the signing of the new Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic on 6 February 2019, under the framework of the African Initiative for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic. In that regard, we would like to pay tribute to the President of the Sudan, His Excellency Field Marshal Umar Hasan Ahmad al-Bashir, and the President of Chad, His Excellency Mr. Idriss Déby Itno, for their leadership support and their role in the negotiations in assisting Ambassador Chergui and his team in negotiating the new peace agreement, thus contributing towards a peaceful neighbourhood in the Central African region.

We further congratulate the African Union Commissioner for Peace and Security for the role he played in facilitating and overseeing the negotiations with all relevant parties, including close cooperation with the United Nations, especially the Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, and Special Representative Onanga-Anyanga, Head of MINUSCA, who contributed to enhanced cooperation between the African Union and the United Nations.

South Africa encourages all stakeholders, including the Council, to fully support the peace and national reconciliation agenda for restoring durable peace, security and development to the Central African Republic and to implement the above-mentioned agreement. In that context, we welcome the efforts of President of Côte d’Ivoire, His Excellency Mr. Alassane Ouattara, towards the implementation of the agreement.

In our view, the peace and stability of the entire Central Africa region are critical if we are to achieve the Africa we want as outlined in the African Union’s Agenda 2063. The recently held elections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which were relatively calm and peaceful, coupled with the determination of the Central African Republic leadership during the negotiation of the peace agreement, no doubt represent very positive and welcome developments. The role of the Council and relevant regional organisations is to support the two countries in their path towards stability and long-lasting peace.

We also note with concern, however, the dire humanitarian situation in the Central African Republic, with more than 25 per cent of the population internally displaced and millions of people in desperate need of humanitarian assistance. We urge the international community to support the ongoing efforts aimed at addressing the desperate humanitarian situation in the country.

South Africa wishes to underscore the importance of implementing disarmament, demobilisation, reintegration, and repatriation, as well as security sector reform. South Africa calls on MINUSCA to continue to assist with the above and to develop quick-impact projects that would allow for the reintegration of demobilised elements of rebel groups into Central African Republic society.

South Africa supports the concerted efforts by the international community, through the African Union, the United Nations, and regional and international partners, to continue engaging in post-conflict reconstruction and development efforts in the country, in particular for the establishment of critical State and institutional capacity in support of governance, judicial, and security sector reform.

We remain concerned about the ongoing targeted violence by armed groups and criminal gangs perpetrated against the vulnerable civilian population in most parts of the Central African Republic. This is giving rise to a climate of human rights violations and a burgeoning humanitarian crisis that are of serious concern to South Africa. The scale of the challenge highlights the need for the Council to ensure that adequate funding and resources from United Nations assessed contributions is allocated to MINUSCA in the fulfilment and expansion of its current mandate.

South Africa would like to emphasise the importance of peacebuilding in order to ensure a sustainable peace and to kick-start the Central African Republic economy, which will prevent recourse to armed conflict. In that regard, we call on Ambassador Hilale and the Peacebuilding Commission to coordinate its efforts with the African Union, development partners, and regional mechanisms to support the post-conflict reconstruction and development efforts, especially the provision of basic services to the population.

South Africa stands ready to assist in moving the peace process forward through the promotion of reconciliation and supporting the road map, including towards the holding of elections and preparation of a new constitution. We aspire to a stable Central African region.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8468th Meeting

Monday, 25 February 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8468 Agenda:

Reports of the Secretary-General on the Sudan and South Sudan Report of the Secretary-General on the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (S/2019/44)

At the outset, let me thank you, Mr. President, H.E. Ambassador Anatolio Ndong Mba for convening this meeting today. Allow me to also express our appreciation to Ms. Bintou Keita, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, for her comprehensive briefing on her recent visit to the region and developments regarding the situation in the Sudan. We also commend the work being done by the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID). In addition, we welcome the statement to be delivered by the Permanent Representative of the Sudan to the United Nations.

Ms. Keita’s briefing highlights the intricacies and challenges of making peace. Accordingly, the peacemaking journey in Darfur has not been an easy one, as we have all witnessed during the past 14 years. However, the tireless efforts of the international community and consistent support over the years have resulted in the considerable improvement of the security situation in Darfur. The improvement of the security situation has even propelled the drawdown of UNAMID. In that regard, South Africa welcomes the continued improvement of the security situation in Darfur during the reporting period, as well as the absence of intercommunal violence, as reported. We also note that the number of crime-related incidents and human rights violations declined during this period.

However, it is clear that we are not where we should be. Areas of concern remain, particularly in Jebel Marra. The continued clashes between armed groups and the Government of the Sudan serve to highlight that more efforts are required in that region. The ongoing insecurity obstructs the lives of many vulnerable civilians. In that regard, we call upon armed groups, particularly the Sudan Liberation Army / Abdul Wahid faction to resolve their disputes through the avenues for political dialogue that have already been established.

Furthermore, it is imperative that all parties continue to implement the outstanding provisions of the Doha Document for Peace in Darfur. It remains essential for all parties to continue their commitment to the negotiations process under the auspices of the African Union High-level Implementation Panel. In addition, as the international community, we should continue to support the process to ensure that we do not reverse the gains that we have achieved thus far.

South Africa remains concerned about the violations of human rights reported in the Secretary-General’s report (S/2019/44). Women and children continue to be the most affected by sexual violence, which has increasingly become a weapon of war and conflict and affects the long-term prospects for achieving peaceful and prosperous communities. We would like to urge the Government of the Sudan to combat sexual violence in conflict and bring the perpetrators to justice.

South Africa has noted the continued reduction of the military strength of UNAMID, as well as the handover to UNAMID’s formed police units and the redeployment of the police units. It is important that UNAMID provide adequate rule-of-law and livelihood services in terms of its mandate to address the security concerns of the local communities and the 2 million internally displaced persons. We therefore wish to stress the importance of humanitarian support and access to the affected areas in Darfur. It is crucial that there be an eventual transition from humanitarian support to reconstruction and development in the Darfur area, as UNAMID eventually exits the Sudan. It is imperative for UNAMID to continue to provide technical and logistical assistance to the Sudan disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration commission to assist with the disarmament and demobilisation of armed combatants.

In order to facilitate the implementation of the transition, including through the relocation of the Office of the Joint Special Representative to Khartoum, it is vital to involve the relevant local authorities and officials in the Sudan in that process, so as to ensure an open dialogue and transparent processes that will lead to the engagement of the Sudanese Government. As the UNAMID mission transitions out of Darfur, we strongly support the Secretary-General’s observation recommending the close partnership and continued engagement of the Government of the Sudan, the African Union and the United Nations system. That partnership has been a key ingredient in the notable achievement in Darfur. That partnership will also be equally important in maintaining future progress and stability in the area. Similarly, for any peace to be sustained, we need to harness our efforts in addressing socioeconomic development in the Sudan. Economic development will alleviate potential conflict triggers in future.

We should also guard against spoilers utilising the current socioeconomic challenges in the Sudan to further their own narrow interests. Our efforts in making peace in the Sudan have showed and continue to show signs of progress. We should remain steadfast and tireless in that trajectory. Making peace in Darfur will continue to positively affect the region as we all contribute to the African Union’s aspirations of silencing the guns by 2020.

Lastly, we would like to express our appreciation to those working at the coalface in Darfur -Joint Special Representative for Darfur Jeremiah Mamabolo and his team - for their continued commitment to building peace in the region.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8471st Meeting

Tuesday, 26 February 2019, 10.40 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8471 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

Report of the Secretary-General on the Implementation of Security Council

Resolutions 2139 (2014), 2165 (2014), 2191 (2014), 2258 (2015), 2332 (2016), 2393 (2017), 2401 (2018), and 2449 (2018) (S/2019/157)

We wish to thank the Director for Operations and Advocacy of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Ms. Reena Ghelani, for her comprehensive and yet sobering briefing, complemented by the Permanent Representative of Belgium on behalf of the co-penholders. We would also like to welcome our colleague the Permanent Representative of the Syrian Arab Republic.

South Africa reiterates its deep concern about the dire humanitarian situation in Syria. Almost eight years after the start of the conflict, the situation in the Syrian Arab Republic remains one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world. Some

13.1 million people require humanitarian assistance, including 6.2 million people who are internally displaced. The humanitarian crisis in Syria has a particularly severe impact on women, children, and people who live with disabilities. Children have been disproportionally affected, with over 5 million children at a heightened risk of undernourishment, dehydration, diarrhoea, infectious diseases, and injury. Millions more will need to be supported after being exposed to the traumatic events and violence of the past eight years.

South Africa calls for the full implementation of resolution 2449 (2018), which renewed the authorisation for cross-border and cross-line humanitarian access to Syria. My delegation welcomes the successful humanitarian operation undertaken in Rukban. Initial reports by OCHA reveal that the operation, involving 133 trucks, was the largest humanitarian operation ever undertaken by the United Nations in Syria. The Rukban operation distributed humanitarian assistance to more than 40,000 people in the form of health, nutritional, and education supplies and more than 66,000 blankets and sleeping bags. Additionally, more than 7,000 children were vaccinated. Given the difficult environment in which the operation took place, OCHA and its implementing partners should be commended for their success. We also commend the Government of Syria for authorising and facilitating access to Rukban.

We should be mindful of the fact that there is an urgent need for humanitarian assistance in north-eastern Syria in places such as the Al-Hol camp, three quarters of whose population are women and children under the age of five. We also remain concerned about the situation of civilians, particularly those trapped in Hajin, the last area controlled by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant. We call on all the parties to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, for all movements to be voluntary, for displacement to last no longer than necessary and for the displaced to be able to return as soon as possible in safety and dignity.

We welcome the ongoing de-escalation agreement between Turkey and Russia, which has averted potentially catastrophic humanitarian consequences, especially in Idlib province. We urge the parties to sustain it.

It is important to ensure that the Syrian authorities allow speedy and sustained access to humanitarian assistance, bearing in mind the importance of respect for international humanitarian law and for protecting the civilian population.

We reiterate our view that the only sustainable solution to the Syrian question, after so much bombing and destruction, continues to be a political settlement achieved through an inclusive Syrian-led dialogue aimed at a political transition that reflects the will of the Syrian people, with guaranteed protection for all groups of Syrian society. We therefore urge the Council to unite to fully implement resolution 2254 (2013) and to support Mr. Pedersen, the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General, who will be briefing us on Thursday.

Finally, we are looking forward to the release of the strategic humanitarian needs plan for 2019, as well as to the pledging conference to be held in Brussels in March. We call on the international community to make its support as generous as possible. We, as the international community, and the Council in particular, must continue supporting the humanitarian efforts in Syria.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8472nd Meeting

Tuesday, 26 February 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8472 Agenda:

The Situation in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

We are grateful for the informative briefing provided by the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo. We also welcome the Minister of the People’s Power for Foreign Affairs of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Mr. Jorge Arreaza.

The Security Council is the principal organ charged with maintaining international peace and security. Yet, today we are witnessing the Council being divided on the internal affairs of a State Member of the United Nations, with some even threatening to use force against the territorial integrity and political independence of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, a fellow Member of the United Nations. That is inconsistent with the purpose of the United Nations, which was founded to maintain international peace and security amongst nations, based on the principle of the sovereign equality of all its States’ Members.

It is important to note that the Charter of the United Nations and international law proscribe the threat of force. For us in South Africa the threat of force sets a very bad precedent. We on the African continent have suffered a great deal, as external forces used undemocratic tools of regime change to solve problems on our continent. In principle, we are strongly opposed to that way of solving any problem. That approach takes away the basic rights of the people of the country to determine their own future.

Let the people of Venezuela decide their future. All that we can do is help them, but the decisions remain Venezuelan. We recognise the democratic processes followed by Venezuela in choosing a President, but we also recognise that Venezuela is currently facing humanitarian challenges. South Africa draws from its experience in overcoming one of the most repressive and insidious racist regimes through dialogue, and believes that internal, inclusive dialogue remains the only viable and sustainable path to ending the political crisis in Venezuela. Political dialogue should seem obvious and the first logical port of call, yet the actions of some in the international community have not been conducive or encouraging to that approach. Isolating and vilifying one party and calling for a specific, prescribed course of action that would preclude dialogue will only foment possible recourse to armed conflict. I reiterate: that is inconsistent with the purpose of the Security Council.

While South Africa does not believe that the situation in Venezuela poses a threat to international peace and security, the efforts of the Security Council in confronting the situation in Venezuela should be framed by Chapter VI of the United Nations Charter, in that parties are encouraged first of all to seek a solution through negotiation, enquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration, and judicial settlement, or other peaceful means of their own choice. Forcing the parties to accede to and accept a prescription to resolving their own crisis, including through ultimatums, will only encourage further antagonism and division. We therefore call on the Council and all those truly interested in the peaceful resolution of the crisis in Venezuela to consider the question: What is the alternative to dialogue? The alternative -as we have seen in other cases where dialogue was ignored by some in the Council -will be a prolonged crisis and possible military entanglements. That will only be to the further detriment of the people of Venezuela.

South Africa is deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela. We are alarmed at the unrest and loss of life over the past weekend. Instead of assisting the people of Venezuela, the politicisation and weaponisation of humanitarian assistance has served to aggravate tensions in Venezuela, which can lead only to violence and confrontation. It is of the utmost importance that support for the people of Venezuela does not serve as a focal point for increased tensions and antagonisms or become a tool in the political dispute that is being stoked by some external parties and actors. We believe that humanitarian aid should not be used for the political ends of parties to the crisis, but should be delivered through the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in order to ensure its neutrality and impartiality.

The Council cannot predetermine the will of the people of Venezuela. The international community should therefore promote a framework of inclusive internal dialogue in order for the people of Venezuela to determine their own destiny.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8475th Meeting

Thursday, 28 February 2019, 10.30 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8475 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

The delegation of South Africa would like join others in thanking the Special Envoy for Syria, Mr. Geir Pedersen, for his insightful, broad, and forward-looking briefing. As this is the first time that my delegation participates in the political briefing on Syria, please allow me to join my colleagues in congratulating Mr. Pedersen on assuming his important role as the facilitator of the political process in Syria. He has a challenging task ahead of him. Our responsibility as the Security Council, together with the backing of the international community, is to provide him with all the support necessary to successfully facilitate a Syrian-led, United Nations-sponsored political process, as outlined in resolution 2254 (2015). We welcome his determination to build upon the solid progress achieved by his predecessor, Mr. Staffan de Mistura.

Next month will mark eight years since the crisis in Syria began. We are extremely concerned about the devastating and tragic consequences that the war in Syria continues to have on the people of the country. It is also having an increasingly destabilising impact on the wider region, through the displacement of people, the exacerbation of political and sectarian differences and the spread of extremism. It is the Security Council’s responsibility to ensure that political progress is made, and that Syria returns to normal. The people of Syria deserve a future that is stable and prosperous.

Since the Syrian conflict erupted, South Africa has maintained a principled position by reiterating the importance of protecting the fundamental interests and rights of the Syrian people, of maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East region and upholding the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the basic norms governing international relations.

We reiterate our view that the only sustainable solution to the Syrian question remains the achievement of a political solution through an inclusive Syrian-led dialogue aimed at achieving a political transition that reflects the will of the Syrian people, with guaranteed protection for all groups in Syrian society.

We therefore call upon the Council to unite behind the full implementation of resolution 2254 (2015) as the road map towards a long-term political solution in Syria.

We welcome the extensive consultations that Mr. Pedersen has undertaken with the Government of Syria, the opposition parties and key partners in the region since January, when he took up his responsibilities. Those comprehensive and in-depth engagements are critical to building trust amongst the people of Syria and the region and to move the process forward. Equally important to the success of the political process in Syria is the need to respect the ceasefire and de-escalation agreements and to continue to fight terrorism.

Furthermore, South Africa commends Mr. Pedersen’s efforts to continue overseeing the deliberations on the establishment of the constitutional committee. We call upon all relevant parties to make every possible effort to support Ambassador Pedersen in that endeavour.

In order to ensure that the Syrian-led and United Nations-sponsored political dialogue does not end behind big walls and in great halls in foreign countries, we need to facilitate the return of internally displaced persons and refugees to resettle peacefully in their ancestral lands. We need to receive regular feedback from Mr. Pedersen and to ensure that all the groups have a seat at the table and participate in talks on progress so that the Syrian people are not reduced to being mere observers in a process that will determine their future and that of future generations. Rather, we must make sure they participate in and own the outcome of the process and build a stable, prosperous Syria.

Finally, the Council and the international community should support a political solution to the situation in Syria as a matter of priority and continue to support the United Nations, including the Special Envoy, as well as other mediation efforts aimed at resolving the conflict. South Africa continues to maintain that democracy is an unassailable right of the Syrian people and therefore, remains convinced that in a complex and diverse society such as Syria’s, there can be no military solution, only a political negotiated settlement.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8476th Meeting

Thursday, 28 February 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8476 Agenda:

The Situation in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

We take the floor to explain our vote. South Africa made clear its position on the situation in Venezuela when we addressed the Security Council two days ago (see S/PV.8472). We reiterate our view that inclusive political dialogue is necessary to resolve the political crisis in Venezuela. We remain concerned about the serious humanitarian situation in the country and support the United Nations’ efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to alleviate the hardships experienced by the people of Venezuela.

South Africa is concerned at the irregular procedure in presenting the draft resolution before us. The dispensing of the 48-hour practice for the consideration of the draft resolution undermines due process and our ability to meaningfully engage on the text to reach consensus. We have before us two divergent draft resolutions on the situation in Venezuela (S/2019/186 and S/2019/190). This is unfortunate, as South Africa believes that the Council should be unified in its approach to supporting the people of Venezuela in finding a solution to the crisis. We must speak with one voice when assisting the Venezuelan people in weathering the humanitarian challenges faced as a result of the political and economic difficulties in their country.

However, instead of bringing the Council and the people of Venezuela together, the draft resolutions serve to illustrate how far the Council is from contributing to dealing with the crisis. The lack of unity of the Council on this matter widens divisions and undermines the credibility of the Council to make a meaningful contribution to resolving the situation in Venezuela. Ideally, the Council should adopt a draft resolution that would facilitate internal, inclusive political dialogue amongst the people in determining their own way out of their political and economic difficulties.

Furthermore, a Council resolution should facilitate the provision of international assistance based on the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and based on a thorough and accurate needs assessment. Therefore, the provision of aid should be depoliticised and must meet the needs of the people of Venezuela.

While the draft resolution presented by the United States (S/2019/186) calls for a peaceful political process, it is prescriptive on the outcome of that process, thereby infringing on the sovereignty of Venezuela. Internal political processes should remain the national prerogative of Member States. From the outside, we can encourage parties to engage in political dialogue, but we cannot dictate outcomes such as the holding of elections. Furthermore, the context of the crisis, set out in the United States’ draft resolution, does not reflect a balanced understanding of the underpinnings of the crisis in Venezuela.

There are three elements in the United States’ draft resolution that are antithetical to the principles and values that underpin South Africa’s democratic dispensation and our foreign policy.

Firstly, in the fourth preambular paragraph, regarding the authority of the National Assembly to release political prisoners and grant amnesty, South Africa views this as tantamount to a violation of the principle of the separation of powers, on which the South African Constitution is predicated. Therefore, South Africa cannot support, at the international level, the violation of this universal, sacrosanct and inviolable principle that underpins the governance of the modern State.

Secondly, South Africa also cannot support paragraph 1, which expresses deep concern that the presidential elections of 20 May 2018 were neither free nor fair. President Nicolás Maduro Guerra was elected for a second six-year term in the presidential elections on 20 May according to the National Electoral Council (NEC) of Venezuela. President Maduro Guerra was re-elected by a wide margin, garnering over 5.8 million votes, according to Ms. Tibisay Lucena, President of the NEC. His closest challenger, Mr. Henri Falcón, received approximately 1.8 million ballots, while the third-place candidate, Mr. Javier Bertucci, received 925,042 votes. Over

8.6 million Venezuelans went to the polls, putting voter turnout at 46.01 per cent. The announcement was made when the NEC had counted more than 92 per cent of ballots. South Africa respects the authority of the NEC as the constitutionally mandated body that is charged with the management of the electoral process in Venezuela -like in all of our countries. That body declared President Maduro Guerra the winner, and that should be respected as we respect all other electoral processes elsewhere in the world. That is the basis on which President Maduro Guerra enjoys legitimacy and international recognition.

Thirdly, and finally, South Africa believes that paragraph 4 is partisan and biased, as it stresses the importance of ensuring only the security of the members of the National Assembly and members of the political opposition. A Council resolution cannot stress the security of a certain sector to the exclusion of others. As an impartial body, the United Nations should insist on the security of all Venezuelans. South Africa was therefore not in a position to support the United States’ draft resolution.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8479th Meeting

Thursday, 7 March 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8479 Agenda:

Briefing by the Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation In Europe

First, let me congratulate you, Sir, your Excellency Ambassador Nicolas De Rivière for assuming the presidency of the Security Council for March, and pay tribute to Equatorial Guinea for its able work last month. I also thank you, Sir, for facilitating today’s briefing by the Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), Mr. Miroslav Lajčák, Minister for Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic. I thank him for sharing with us Slovakia’s vision in chairing the OSCE, centred on conflict prevention and mitigation to preserve peace and responding to new threats through deeper cooperation, including the women and peace and security agenda, the enlistment of young people, and effective multilateralism to address global and shared challenges. It is always refreshing to listen to him. I believe that he has literally continued where he left off a few months ago at the helm of the General Assembly. I welcome him back to the United Nations.

It is clear from his briefing that regional and subregional organisations dealing with issues of peace and security remain important for ensuring sustainable peace and security in their respective regions. The briefing also illustrated the importance of support and cooperation from the United Nations, as the primary international organisation tasked with the maintenance of international peace and security. Efforts to enhance the relationship between the United Nations and the OSCE are therefore welcomed. We wish to reiterate that cooperation between the United Nations and regional organisations in the furtherance of Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations is necessary to ensure closer coordination between our organisations.

We acknowledge, however, that every regional France assumed theorganisation is unique in terms of the challenges that Presidency of the UNSCit faces in the maintenance of international peace and for the Month of Marchsecurity, as well as the manner in which it addresses 2019. The President ofthose challenges and threats. We must be clear, The UN Security Council however, that the efforts of regional organisations for March 2019; H.E.

in maintaining international peace and security do Ambassador Nicolas De not absolve the Council of its Charter-mandated Rivière of Franceresponsibilities as the guardian of international peace and security. Those efforts complement one another, and it is for that reason that cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organisations is so important to muster. Dialogue of such a nature allows us an opportunity to share experiences and best practices between the United Nations and regional organisations, such as the OSCE.

I wish to reiterate South Africa’s support for the work of the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, which needs to continue to enjoy unhindered access in order to monitor and verify compliance with the Minsk agreements in terms of its mandate. Similarly, my delegation believes that creating a conducive environment towards compromise, reconciliation, and long-term stability in Kosovo is the responsibility of all the relevant role players, including the OSCE as one of the largest field operations in Kosovo. That inclusive approach builds a strengthened foundation for support and bolsters international trust-building efforts. The work of the OSCE in Ukraine and Kosovo and support for their efforts towards finding peaceful and sustainable solutions will prove invaluable for their people and the greater region.

I wish to conclude by reiterating that the Security Council, regional bodies, international partners and other actors, such as donors, civil society, and youth organisations, should continue to engage in dialogue and cooperation, in the interests of the people, as well as for the stability of the broader region.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8480th Meeting

Friday, 8 March 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8480 Agenda:

Reports of the Secretary-General on the Sudan and South Sudan Report of the Secretary-General on South Sudan (Covering the Period from 1 December 2018 to 26 February 2019) (S/2019/191)

South Sudan today is better than South Sudan at the end of 2018. We would like to express our appreciation to you, Madam President, Representative of the President of the UNSC for March 2019 -France, for convening and presiding over today’s meeting. We would like to thank your great country for allowing you to be our boss on International Women’s Day. It is a great tribute to France.

We would also like to thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General David Shearer for his comprehensive briefing and for all the efforts of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on the ground. We ask Mr. Shearer to convey our greetings and appreciation to all the women serving in UNMISS for the service that they are providing to the South Sudanese people in ensuring peace in the Sudan. We value the service of the women of UNMISS and all those serving in the United Nations in all the regions of the world in different circumstances.

We thank Ms. Angelina Nyajima Simon Jial, Founder and Executive Director of Hope Restoration South Sudan, for her enlightened contribution. We also ask her to convey our thanks to the thousands of ordinary women in grass-roots organisations for their tireless efforts and contributions to make South Sudan safer for everyone.

I would also like to welcome my colleague and friend the Permanent Representative of South Sudan to the Council. I look forward to his statement later on, in amity.

South Africa pays tribute to the sustained role of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in the Sudanese peace process. The leaders of that region have done everything possible to bring about the current improved environment in South Sudan. As Mr. Shearer said earlier, political parties are moving freely throughout South Sudan, visiting communities, talking to their supporters, and familiarising themselves with the aspirations of the South Sudanese people. As he also said earlier, the South Sudanese people are gathering peacefully across communities in the country to dialogue about the peace in the South Sudan that they want. We are beginning to see the steady return of internally displaced persons and refugees. The journey to go home has begun. The role of the Council is to work to ensure that that journey continues and the Sudanese return to their land to live a normal life. The Council needs to harness those positive developments and encourage the IGAD leaders to continue their efforts to ensure that the peace process in South Sudan is irreversible. The Council should continue to support David Shearer and his team in continuing their good work and to tackle the outstanding issues that he talked about. There is a base. I think that they can now move to deal with those issues.

The Council should address the issues highlighted by our sister Ms. Angelina Jial, who said that we need to take into account the local and grass-roots concerns, participation, and resources in the peace process in South Sudan. She also said that grass-roots efforts had the capacity to anchor the peace process solidly around and across communities and clans in South Sudan. For our part, South Africa thinks that the Council should take to heart what the grassroots can do. That is a very compelling argument by Ms. Jial on behalf of the grass-roots communities in South Sudan.

South Africa welcomes the signing of the final Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Government, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-In Opposition, the Former Detainees and the South Sudan Opposition Alliance in September last year. We recognise the importance of the Revitalised Agreement as a positive step towards creating a conducive environment for engaging in the constructive dialogue and democratic processes necessary for working towards sustainable peace and development in South Sudan.

My delegation welcomes the shuttle diplomacy and efforts undertaken by the President of Eritrea, Isaias Afwerki, and the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, recently in trying to provide support and lifeblood in order to maintain the momentum of the implementation of the peace agreement in South Sudan. It seems that the discussions with President Salva Kiir Mayardit were very positive.

The visit by the two leaders was very important, as it highlighted the leadership undertaken by African Leaders in making peace in a very volatile region through African solutions and engagement. It is our hope that the rapprochement between Ethiopia and Eritrea will permeate through the region and move the peace processes towards resolution.

In that regard, we encourage the Government of South Sudan, my brother, H.E. Ambassador Akuei Bona Malwal, Permanent Representative of South Sudan to the United Nations, and other parties to do everything in their power to complete the establishment of the mechanisms and committees provided for in the Agreement, particularly during the pre-transitional period. The return of Vice-President Riek Machar to South Sudan before May is crucial to ensuring the implementation of the Agreement.

For our part, South Africa will continue to play a key role in supporting the peace process in South Sudan through the mediation efforts of President Ramaphosa as Chair of the African Union (AU) High-level Ad Hoc Committee for South Sudan and Deputy President Mabuza as our President’s special envoy to South Sudan.

Such efforts have always been geared towards complementing the African Union and Intergovernmental Authority on Development processes, not to replace them. South Africa notes with concern that the peace landscape in South Sudan still remains a little fragile in some areas given the lack of resources in other areas.

On the humanitarian front, South Africa urges international stakeholders to make meaningful contributions to post-conflict reconstruction and development, in particular as people are returning to their communities. We further appeal for funds for the repatriation and resettlement of internally displaced people and other returnees.

South Africa further wishes to call on all international partners to mobilise and make available resources and relevant expertise in support of the implementation of the Agreement. We support the renewal of the UNMISS mandate in line with the recommendation of the Secretary-General. We maintain that the continued presence of the Mission is critical to ensuring the impartial implementation of the Revitalised Agreement and to provide support for the protection of innocent civilians from the scourge of armed conflict, as colleagues have said.

Lastly, on sexual violence, which impacts women and girls, as many, including Ms, Angelina Jial, said, we are encouraged by the work being done by the Government and UNMISS through the special courts and in building the capacity of the justice system to combat sexual violence in all conflict areas. That issue is particularly important today as we celebrate International Women’s Day. It should also remind us of the importance of ensuring the inclusivity of women in peacemaking.

With the United Nations, working closely with the AU, subregional organisations such as IGAD, partners, and local communities, change for the better in South Sudan is possible. As I said at the beginning, South Sudan today is better than South Sudan at the end of 2018. I would like to wish all women, all over the world, a happy International Women’s Day.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8497th Meeting

Friday, 29 March 2019, 2.30 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8497 Agenda:

The Situation in Mali

Report of the Secretary-General on the Implementation of Paragraph 4 of Security Council Resolution 2423 (2018) (S/2019/207) Report of the Secretary-General on the Situation in Mali (S/2019/262)

At the outset, let me thank His Excellency the Secretary-General for his comprehensive briefing on the current situation in Mali. Likewise, we welcome the insightful remarks made by you, Mr. President, as the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, as well as the remarks made by the Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Côte d’Ivoire, the Under-Secretary of State for Political Affairs of the United States of America, and the Minister of State for the Commonwealth and the United Nations of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. I also extend a special welcome to His Excellency the Prime Minister of Mali, Mr. Soumeylou Boubèye Maïga, and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), Mr. Mahamat Saleh Annadif. I thank them for hosting us on our recent visit to Mali.

Allow me to join other members of the Security Council in expressing our deep concern about the current security situation in Mali following the massacres in the villages of Ogossagou and Welingara, in the Mopti region of central Mali, during the visit of the Council, which resulted in the killing of at least 160 people, including women and children. My delegation wishes to condemn in the strongest terms those shameful attacks on innocent and defenceless civilians. We urge the Council, MINUSMA and the Group of Five for the Sahel (G-5 Sahel) to help prevent further bloodshed and the systematic maiming of innocent civilians, as well as the increasing transnational organised crime, which may reverse the gains made in advancing the political process.

South Africa is pleased with the political developments and progress made so far in the implementation of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali. We are particularly encouraged by the active involvement of the Prime Minister of Mali and President Keita in spearheading the implementation of the agreement

-a clear demonstration of political will in resolving the situation in the country. South Africa therefore calls on Malian stakeholders to continue to make significant strides towards the implementation of the agreement with a view to bringing about peace and stability and preserving the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Mali. It is the responsibility of all Malian parties to ensure the successful, effective, and inclusive implementation of the agreement in order for Mali to usher in a period of lasting peace, stability and prosperity. In that regard, we welcome the establishment of a committee of experts and a national consultation framework on constitutional reform, which will contribute to a political atmosphere conducive to a successful constitutional referendum -the first of its kind since 1992.

The Council has the arduous responsibility -together with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union -to support the Government of Mali and Malians in general on the path towards sustainable peace and stability. Stability in Mali is critical for that country to realise Agenda 2063 of the African Union: The Africa We Want. In that regard, we wish to commend the concerted efforts of MINUSMA in continuing to discharge its political and security-related mandate in Mali under the leadership of Special Representative Annadif. The significant progress made so far on the political track gives credence to the Secretary-General’s decision to streamline the coordination of priorities between MINUSMA and the United Nations’ country team through the United Nations’ integrated strategic framework. It is against that backdrop that South Africa wishes to express its strong condemnation of all terrorist attacks against civilians, peacekeepers, and Malian security forces, evidenced by the recent attacks perpetrated on 1, 20, and 25 January, 22 February, as well as 16 and 17 March. We call on the Malian authorities to hold to account the perpetrators of those heinous crimes.

It is our considered view in South Africa that it is important to achieve sustainable peace while pursuing the objectives of reconciliation and peace. We welcome the progress made by the Prime Minister towards the operationalisation of the Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission. More attention should be paid to post-conflict reconstruction and development activities and the rights of women and children. As such, South Africa agrees with the observations made by the Secretary-General that the challenge in the implementation of the Agreement is that “[it] is not taking place in a post-conflict context, as initially hoped for upon its signature, but in a context of continued crises, terrorism and extremist violence.” (S/2019/207, para. 57).

Those activities have the potential of eroding trust amongst the conflicting parties. The Council should therefore continue to support the Malian Government in dealing with this crisis.

It is of vital importance to address those conditions, given the increase in terrorism and violent extremism, and to take the necessary measures to address them so as to discontinue the vicious cycle of conflict on the continent as a whole. That would also contribute to ensuring the safety, protection, and well-being of the population in the neighbourhood of Mali as well as sub-Saharan Africa as a whole. We underline the importance of regional and international coordination in fighting the scourge of terrorism and violent extremism because the geographical reach of terrorist groups is growing, constituting a serious threat to the peace and security of not only Mali but the entire Sahel region. In that context, we express our appreciation of the French Operation Barkhane.

South Africa calls for enhanced efforts on cross-border cooperation amongst neighbouring countries in order to strengthen mechanisms for the effective sharing of information, as well as close cooperation and coordination between MINUSMA, the G-5 Sahel and ECOWAS in bringing together efforts to address the situation in Mali and the Sahel.

My delegation would like to emphasise three things. Firstly, we support increased assistance to MINUSMA and the G-5 Sahel. Secondly, we reiterate the request made by the G-5 Sahel to be allowed to carry out cross-border operations into neighbouring countries to neutralise armed groups in those countries. Thirdly, we support all efforts by the Malian authorities to extend their administration across the entire Malian territory, especially in the north of Mali. The cooperation between MINUSMA and other security presences on the ground, including the Malian defence and security forces, the Joint Force of the G-5 Sahel, the French forces, and the European Union Training Mission in Mali has had a positive impact on the security situation in the region.

Mali is shouldering a huge responsibility and making huge sacrifices for most of us across the rest of Africa. I therefore urge the Council to stand by Mali and its people.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8499th Meeting

Monday, 1 April 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8499 Agenda:

The Promotion and Strengthening of the Rule of Law in the Maintenance of International Peace and Security International Humanitarian Law

I would like to congratulate you, Mr. President, your Excellency Foreign Minister of the Federal Republic of Germany, Heiko Maas, on Germany’s assumption of the Security Council presidency for April. South Africa will support Germany as you lead the Council through the month. We would also like to warmly thank the French presidency for its work in the month of March, including the Council’s visit to Mali and Burkina Faso. In addition, I would like to welcome the presence of the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Kuwait, Poland, France, and Germany here amongst us today.

I would also like to thank the briefers, Mr. Maurer, Mr. Lowcock and Ms. Modirzadeh, for their insightful briefings on such an important topic as the promotion and strengthening of the rule of law, particularly international humanitarian law. We particularly took to heart the issues raised by the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The 70th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions and the Protocols Additional thereto provides us an opportunity to reassess our commitment to international humanitarian law and humanitarian principles, notably the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence.

In this regard, the applicability of international humanitarian law in conflict situations remains relevant in order to preserve humanitarian space in order to To that end, South Africa resolved to embark on a project to champion the cause of “Healthcare in danger” by creating public awareness in collaboration with the ICRC office in Pretoria. Having witnessed the dangerous conditions under which humanitarian workers and medical practitioners are working in war zones without protection, South Africa wishes to align itself with the efforts and endeavours of the States’ members of the international community in seeking to address this dire situation.

facilitate impartial humanitarian action, including the provision of the necessary medical treatment to all parties to conflict and the delivery of life-saving supplies and assistance to the civilian population.	Germany assumed the presidency of the UNSC for the month of April 2019.
It	is	for	this	reason	that	South	Africa	considers
the attacks	on	humanitarian	workers and	medical	Her permanent
practitioners violations of	in conflict situations to be serious international humanitarian law and	representative Christoph Heusgen
encourages States to push back to prevent these incidents from becoming the norm in conflict areas.	became the president of the Security Council

The changing nature of armed conflict, from inter-State to intra-State, requires adherence to international humanitarian law by parties to non-international conflict so as to ensure the greater protection of the civilian population. All actors to armed conflict, including foreign troops, in particular during partnered operations or more general partnerships with other States or armed groups to support the conduct of military operations, ought to abide by the provisions of international humanitarian law.

The United Nations could play at least three important roles with respect to the implementation of international humanitarian law.

Firstly, during peacetime, it is important for the United Nations to assist Member States, at their request, in cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross, with the dissemination of international humanitarian law instruments and their codification into domestic legislation, and, in cooperation with other United Nations organs and organisations, with the entrenchment and enhancing of respect for international human rights law.

Secondly, the United Nations should continue to play a vital role in monitoring compliance with, and the prevention, stopping and punishment of violations of, international humanitarian law and applicable international human rights law during times of armed conflict. It is important to note that a proactive approach of dissemination and education should be the primary focus, not a reactive approach where action is taken only following grave breaches of international humanitarian law.

Thirdly, States must adopt, ratify, and codify in their national laws the Geneva Conventions and the Protocols Additional thereto. Auditing, improving, reinvigorating, and accelerating implementation is equally as crucial.

Given South Africa’s active role in peacekeeping and conflict-resolution processes, the Government has made efforts to train, and integrate practical measures for the armed and security forces, in partnership with humanitarian organisations, to enhance knowledge of and compliance with international humanitarian law. We encourage other States to consider similar measures.

In addition, South Africa, together with the ICRC, co-hosts annually a regional conference at which participants from the Southern African Development Community, the East African Community, and the Economic Community of West African States are represented and where the implementation of international humanitarian law by various countries is discussed.

Just as national Governments have the primary responsibility to ensure the safety and protection of their civilians, national courts also have a clear obligation to bring perpetrators of violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law to justice under national laws that support implementation.

In conclusion, South Africa firmly believes that the full implementation of and respect for international humanitarian law leads to reduced casualties and promotes the protection of the critical civilian infrastructure essential for emergency assistance during conflict as well as part of the long-term recovery of societies affected by conflict. We stand ready to partner with the relevant actors, in particular the ICRC, to commemorate this year’s anniversary so as to give prominence to the Geneva Conventions and the Protocols Additional thereto as they continue to guide the actions of parties during armed conflict.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8500th Meeting

Tuesday, 2 April 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8500 Agenda:

Non-Proliferation

Supporting the Non-Proliferation Treaty Ahead of the 2020 Review Conference

South Africa would like to express its appreciation to you, Mr. President, your Excellency Foreign Minister of the Federal Republic of Germany, Heiko Maas, for presiding over this timely and relevant briefing on supporting the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) only a few weeks before the start of the third session of the Preparatory Committee for the 2020 NPT Review Conference on 29 April. Likewise, we thank the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Mr. Amano, and the High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Mrs. Nakamitsu, for their detailed and insightful briefings.

We thank the Foreign Ministers of Germany, Indonesia, Poland, France, and Kuwait for their inputs and welcome the United States Under-Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, Ms. Thompson.

Allow me to reiterate South Africa’s commitment to the attainment of a world free of nuclear weapons. In this context, I reaffirm my country’s commitment to the NPT as the cornerstone of the nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation regime, which are two sides of the same coin.

It is undeniable that the NPT plays a critical role in the maintenance of international peace and security. The three broad objectives of the NPT, namely, nuclear disarmament, nuclear non-proliferation, and the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, are inextricably linked and mutually reinforcing. Therefore, in our view, efforts to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons should be matched by an equal commitment by the nuclear-weapon States to eliminate all nuclear weapons in a verifiable and irreversible manner. As such, the support of the Council for the full and balanced implementation of all the objectives of the NPT is paramount.

Regrettably, we remain disheartened at the apparent lack of urgency and seriousness with which nuclear disarmament has been approached in the NPT context. This state of affairs places the Treaty, as well as its review process, under increasing pressure and falls far short of expectations. Nor have the continued reliance on nuclear weapons in security doctrines, the development of new types of nuclear weapons, and qualitative improvements to existing arsenals allayed the fears of non-nuclear-weapon States.

Almost 50 years since the entry into force of the NPT, we cannot be complacent about the continued threat posed by nuclear weapons and the lack of implementation of the disarmament obligations flowing from Article VI. We must respect the Treaty and the outcomes of its Review Conferences in order to maintain its continued longevity. Measurable progress, in particular on nuclear disarmament, must therefore be a major determinant in achieving and sustaining international peace and security.

With this in mind, South Africa believes that the 2019 Preparatory Committee should respect the agreements arrived at in 1995, 2000, and 2010 in order to strengthen global security. The 2020 Review Conference should likewise not roll back or reinterpret previously agreed commitments, which constitute the current nuclear disarmament benchmarks. While we are aware that some States are arguing for the creation of a so-called special environment for nuclear disarmament, it is our view that this was already established with the entry into force of the NPT on the basis of its “grand bargain”. We believe that the success of future Review Conferences will be determined by the extent to which these undertakings are implemented.

Despite the lobbying and immense pressure on South Africa, as well as other States’ Members of the United Nations, we clearly demonstrated our commitment to nuclear disarmament when we deposited our instrument of ratification of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) on 25 February, joining the 21 other Member States that have ratified the Treaty. We want to use this opportunity to encourage Member States that have not done so, to sign and ratify the TPNW at the earliest possible time in order to ensure its early entry into force. For us, the TPNW is a positive and bold step towards a world free of nuclear weapons. It complements and reinforces the NPT. A mass movement towards and a general call for a nuclear-free world has begun, and the process is unstoppable.

It would be remiss of me not to commend the sterling role played by the IAEA in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The implementation of the 2030 Agenda is critical for the socioeconomic development of developing countries, especially on the African continent. We therefore urge the Council to fully respect the inalienable right of the States’ parties to the NPT to use nuclear technologies for peaceful purposes, as envisaged in the Treaty. We further call upon the Council and the international community to continue to support the Agency’s technical cooperation projects and activities.

The Agency, furthermore, continues to verify and monitor the implementation by Iran of its nuclear-related commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), one of the recent success stories of multilateral diplomacy. We call upon the Council to continue to support and encourage these contributions to international peace and security by the Agency and reiterate our calls for the preservation of the JCPOA.

Nuclear-weapon-free zones will continue to play an important role in preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons. In that regard, I highlight the importance of the Treaty of Pelindaba; this year marks the 10th anniversary of its entry into force. In the same vein, my delegation calls for the early establishment in the Middle East of a zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction, as outlined in the 1995 resolution.

South Africa strongly supports the full implementation of the NPT and its universality in pursuit of the goal of achieving and maintaining a world free from nuclear weapons. In this regard, we would do well to remember that the strength, credibility and utility of the NPT rests on a fundamental bargain, which all of us should uphold.

We express our profound appreciation to you, Mr. President, for facilitating the press statement to be adopted later.

Finally, I would like to leave the Council with a quote from a South African President: “There are no safe hands for nuclear weapons”.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8502nd Meeting

Wednesday, 3 April 2019, 10.15 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8502 Agenda:

The Situation Concerning Haiti

Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Mission for Justice Support in Haiti (S/2019/198)

Before we begin, we would like to welcome and support the German presidency for its innovation. We hope that drawing open its curtains and shedding light on the Security Council will lead to greater transparency in its work and perhaps ultimately to the reform of the Council demanded by most Member States, especially the African States.

We would like to thank Germany for convening this meeting following the recent developments in Haiti. We will not thank the briefers, pursuant to the President’s directive, but perhaps it would be appropriate to welcome the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Haiti to our meeting.

At the outset, we wish to welcome the positive gains and progress made in Haiti, particularly in the development of the national police force, which showed its professionalism and efficiency under heavy pressure during the recent demonstrations.

We wish to express our concern about the deteriorating security situation in the country. The recent protests throughout the country not only exacerbated the humanitarian and human rights situation but also undermined prospects for the conduct of peaceful elections in October this year.

I would remind the Haitian Foreign Minister that those events highlighted the persistent need for reconciliation in the country. It is worth noting that a State that takes steps towards reconciliation not only unites its people and encourages a nationally owned process but also, through those efforts, creates environments that are conducive to more effective institutions. It is in that context that the Foreign Minister should understand that South Africa supports the call by the Secretary-General for a national and inclusive dialogue amongst Haitians in order to encourage calm and long-term stability in their country.

The United Nations has historically played a critical role in Haiti through the Secretary-General and his good offices, by building the capacity of institutions like the Haitian National Police, which is critical for strengthening efforts aimed at the democratisation in Haiti. Furthermore, we believe that it is the role of the United Nations and the Government, in partnership with civil society organisations, to bring together all disputing parties in order to reach an agreement that benefits the people of Haiti. Civil society has much to contribute in that regard, given its experience of realities on the ground, including the security situation, the economic crisis and deteriorating humanitarian conditions. South Africa has noted the proposals of the Secretary-General in his latest report on Haiti (S/2019/198), particularly with regard to the drawdown of the United Nations Mission for Justice Support in Haiti (MINUJUSTH) and the establishment of a special political mission thereafter. We believe it is important that the Council continue to play a stabilising role in Haiti, which would require close monitoring of the situation on the ground as well as a needs assessment, particularly in the lead-up to the October elections.

Furthermore, it is important to note that election processes can give rise to uncertainty but also the possibility of calm later on. As such, United Nations’ support in the run-up to and aftermath of the elections in Haiti will be important, including by working closely with the Government and authorities of Haiti to ensure a smooth transition as the MINUJUSTH mandate comes to an end in October.

Finally, and ceding some of my time to my colleague from the Dominican Republic, the continued support of the international community for the Government and the people of Haiti remains a critical element in achieving security, stability, and inclusive democracy in the country and the region.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8506th Meeting

Wednesday, 10 April 2019, 10.30 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8506 Agenda:

The Situation in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

My delegation wishes to recognise the presence of the Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, and earlier on, Mr. Mike Pence, Vice-President of the United States of America. We would like to thank all the briefers, especially Mr. Lowcock and his excellent staff in Venezuela. We ask him to convey our utmost gratitude and appreciation for the sterling job they are doing in Venezuela, as they dispatch and offer much-needed assistance to the people of Venezuela in the midst of uncertainty and political contestation.

International solidarity is a hallmark of most of us in developing countries, including Cuba. The situation in Venezuela requires a constructive and united Security Council in addressing both the humanitarian and political situation facing the country.

The political situation and continued economic difficulties in Venezuela are the result of myriad factors, including conflicting geopolitical dynamics. That necessitates the Council’s focus on the resulting humanitarian situation in Venezuela and its adverse impact on ordinary people. In that regard, I wish to reiterate South Africa’s position on three issues.

Firstly, the provision of humanitarian assistance must be provided in accordance with the humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence and in full compliance with General Assembly resolution 46/182. Those principles have enabled the Council to act in other difficult situations in order to support people in need of urgent humanitarian assistance. That should be the central approach of the Council in this matter. We totally agree with the Secretary-General in that respect. The Council should not politicise humanitarian assistance.

Secondly, it is important that the effective and unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance take place in coordination and cooperation with the Venezuelan Government, acknowledging the fundamental principles of State sovereignty, as reflected in the Charter of the United Nations. It is therefore necessary to acknowledge and work with established structures in Venezuela so as not to create parallel structures that may also cause increased tensions in that country.

Thirdly and finally, the provision of humanitarian assistance should be based on an adequate and accurate needs assessment of the situation -as Mr. Lowcock advised - in order to match those needs with appropriate support and totally steer away from the possibility of humanitarian intervention being used as a pretext for increased tensions, including the possibility of military intervention. South Africa therefore urges all parties to respect the need for impartiality, neutrality and independence in the provision of humanitarian assistance to Venezuela. We also call on the international community to support the channelling of humanitarian assistance through United Nations agencies. We are very grateful to be able to say that we have increased personnel capacity to more than 400. We hope to see more in Venezuela and an increased United Nations presence in neighbouring countries. We should also do so through other international organisations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross, in order to promote the much-needed neutrality and impartiality for the provision of humanitarian assistance to Venezuela.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8511th Meeting

Friday, 12 April 2019, 10.45 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8511 Agenda:

Identical Letters Dated 19 January 2016 from the Permanent Representative of Colombia to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General And The President of the Security Council (S/2016/53)

Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (S/2019/265)

As per your directive, Mr. President, I will not thank the briefers, but I will join my neighbours in welcoming the Foreign Minister to the Council.

The briefing and details provided by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia, Mr. Carlos Ruiz Massieu, led some of us to relive the difficult past in South Africa and the very similar processes taking place in Colombia. That is why we pledge our utmost support to Carlos and his team as they implement the mandate with which the Council entrusted them in contributing modestly to the peace process in Colombia.

Consolidating peace after decades of conflict and mistrust is not an easy task. We wish to commend the efforts of the Colombian Government in trying to address issues such as social security, basic services, and land and rural development, as well as economic opportunities and legal protection, particularly for former combatants and members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia -People’s Army (FARC-EP).

In addition, the visits and engagements by high-level officials of the Colombian Government, including by President Iván Duque Márquez, to the territorial areas for training and reintegration represent a positive development. We also wish to commend the efforts of the former combatants in contributing to the peace process. Initiatives that enhance their skills and create opportunities for the broader communities in which they live are positive strides towards reintegrating into Colombian society and contributing to the economy. However, there are many challenges to be addressed moving forward.

South Africa fully supports the Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace, which was signed between the Government of Colombia and the FARC-EP in 2016. We commend the progress made in its implementation, including on the demobilisation and reintegration processes of former members of the FARC-EP. We wish to call for the full implementation of the peace agreement and of the statutory law of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace, in accordance with the provisions of the agreement.

We agree with the Secretary-General that Colombia’s peace process is at a critical juncture, and the implementation of the agreement remains at the heart of the situation in Colombia. We note President Duque’s decision to undertake a process of review of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace, which he has indicated could be an opportunity to create a national consensus regarding transitional justice in Colombia. It is trusted that this process will not result in heightened tensions in the country. It is important to deepen efforts to de-escalate tensions, address the reintegration processes and allay the concerns of the former combatants, particularly with regard to legal and security guarantees. The Special Jurisdiction for Peace is a vital component of the agreement and any further delay in its implementation could undermine the political, socioeconomic, and security prospects of Colombia.

South Africa’s process of reconciliation and reconstruction was underpinned by the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which presented an opportunity to facilitate reconciliation between the perpetrators and the survivors of such human rights violations. In the words of our Constitution, the Commission process allows for the cultivation of “a need for understanding but not for vengeance, a need for reparation but not for retaliation, a need for Ubuntu but not for victimisation”.

That process was essential to the long-term consolidation of hard-won freedom in South Africa. In that context, we support the statement that was issued on 11 March by the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia, in which it highlighted the importance of preserving the gains made in the peace process by guaranteeing the rights of victims. We should be firm in creating conditions conducive to the full and free functioning of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace as part of the peace agreement. South Africa therefore calls on all parties to respect the constitutionally mandated mechanisms and frameworks established to assist the political and judicial transition.

In its own struggle to overcome decades of division and mistrust and in seeking a better future for all, South Africa was significantly supported by the international community. In that regard, the support for the work of the United Nations through its Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia, as well as the relevant United Nations’ agencies, civil society, and international partners, has been invaluable. We urge Members and the international partners to support and encourage the people of Colombia to preserve and fully implement the peace agreement in addressing the concerns and rights of victims, access to justice, reparation, guarantees of non-repetition, inclusive dialogue, and peaceful negotiations to resolve all outstanding issues in Colombia.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8513th Meeting

Wednesday, 17 April 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8513 Agenda:

Reports of the Secretary-General on the Sudan and South Sudan Report of the Secretary-General on the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (S/2019/305)

We would like to express our appreciation to you, Mr. President, for convening and presiding over today’s meeting. We agree with most of your views and recommendations with regard to Darfur and the situation in the Sudan.

We also want to thank the African Union-United Nations Joint Special Representative for the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID), Ambassador Jeremiah Mamabolo, for his enlightening briefing, as well as the useful information provided by Ms. Ursula Mueller.

We are particularly grateful to UNAMID for their continued efforts in Darfur in their pursuit of peace albeit under difficult security and climate change-related challenges. The united efforts of the United Nations and the international community have led to substantial progress in building peace in Darfur and the wider region. Our continued efforts should preserve the gains that have been made in recent years.

It is our hope that the developments in Khartoum will not negatively affect the gains made thus far.

We should continue to build on the gains made in advancing the Darfur peace process and the implementation of the Doha Document for Peace in Darfur. It is important that the international community continue to support those important processes and encourage all stakeholders to implement the outstanding provisions of the various commissions and agreements. It is imperative that adequate support be provided to internally displaced persons, particularly focusing on the prevention of sexual violence against women and children.

The importance of humanitarian support to affected areas in the Sudan remains a significant lifeline for many people. It is essential that there be an eventual transition from humanitarian support to reconstruction and development in the Darfur area as UNAMID ultimately exits. Let me pay tribute to development partners for their kind generosity and humanitarian assistance to Darfur and the wider Sudan.

South Africa supports the fact that UNAMID should continue its mission and the course for the drawdown. But I would like to ask Joint Special Representative Ambassador Mamabolo if he is proposing a revised timetable for the drawdown in Darfur given the current political situation in Khartoum.

We would like to make the following remarks on the situation in the Sudan and Khartoum.

Firstly, with regard to the wider Sudan, it is critical that the Sudanese people seize this opportunity to address all their current differences and ensure an inclusive arrangement for all Sudanese people as they find a durable settlement for the current crisis because the developments in Darfur are inextricably linked to those in the Sudan and the wider region.

Secondly, South Africa underscores the importance of a credible and inclusive transition and transparent processes and arrangements that will assist in unifying the Sudan.

Thirdly, the international community should rally behind the aspirations of the Sudanese people as a whole as they find a pathway to the future of their country.

Fourthly, in its engagement in the Sudan the Council should further be guided by the regional approaches and through the African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development. The African Union Peace and Security Council communiqué of 15 April 2019 on the situation in the Sudan urgently appeals to all the AU partners and the international community to support their efforts through the adopted communiqué. The unity of the Council in supporting that approach is vital.

Fifthly, the Council should support the Secretary-General’s endeavours in supporting the African Union in trying to find an acceptable settlement of the Sudan crisis through peaceful means.

Sixthly, South Africa is of the firm view that support to the Sudanese economy is essential. The need to address the socioeconomic needs of the Sudanese people will be paramount in the rebuilding of the Sudan, as that constitutes part of the root causes of the current impasse.

Seventhly, on accountability, we should give space to the Sudanese to utilise their own internal mechanisms to address accountability issues and chart their future. That will also lay the groundwork for the future peace and reconciliation of the Sudanese people and, if possible, promote ethnic, religious and regional tolerance. Lastly, it is important that the Council call for calm and for the situation to be resolved peacefully and amicably through inclusive political processes.

We would like to express our appreciation to the AU High-level Implementation Panel, led by former President of South Africa Thabo Mbeki, former President of Nigeria Abdulsalami Abubakar, and former Foreign Minister of Algeria Ambassador Ramtane Lamamra.

The Sudan is the biggest African country in terms of land mass. It borders with more than nine African countries and numerous countries currently facing security challenges, as we all know. The manner in which the Council approaches the Sudanese crisis, and its resolution may have a particular impact on Darfur and the neighbourhood.

Let us find a common cause and assist the Sudanese in finding one another as they build peace. We hope that our own national interests will not outweigh the interests of the Sudanese people.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8517th Meeting

Monday, 29 April 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8517 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question

South Africa wishes to express its solidarity with those who have perished in the recent terrorist attacks in their places of worship in Sri Lanka, the United States of America, and, yesterday, in Burkina Faso, which the Council visited last month. May their souls rest in peace.

We also express our solidarity with Mozambique, which has been visited repeatedly by devastating cyclones this past month, setting its development agenda back decades.

The Council deals with the maintenance of international peace and security on a daily basis. It is our primary responsibility to ensure that all peoples of the world are able to live without the threat of the scourge of war and enjoy the ability to live in larger freedom. In carrying out that mandate, the Council must act in a fair and balanced manner. When responding to violations of international law and the Charter of the United Nations, we must act in a consistent manner. When we act, or rather do not act, when it comes to the matter of Palestine, we jeopardise the integrity and credibility of the Council.

The Council must act decisively, as it does on other matters on its agenda, to ensure that there is a resolution to the conflict through a negotiated process. We must reaffirm that there can be no sustainable solution to the crises in the Middle East that does not include two independent States, one for the people of Palestine and one for the people of Israel. The only credible solution must be built on the two-State solution, within the 1967 borders and with East Jerusalem as the capital of the Palestinian State, where Palestinians and Israelis can live side by side in peace and security. The Security Council must make every effort to bring both parties to the negotiating table in order to reach a solution.

The guidelines for those negotiations, as the representative of France pointed out, must be based on the established international legal framework, which includes General Assembly and Security Council resolutions, the Madrid Principles, the Arab Peace Initiative, and the Quartet Road Map, to name but a few.

Unilateral actions by Israel, including its refusal to renew the mandate of the Temporary International Presence in Hebron and its continued withholding of the tax revenue that it collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority have done nothing but exacerbate the security and humanitarian situation in Palestine. As long as the situation remains unresolved and the territories remain occupied, we run the risk of changing the facts on the ground. The recent unilateral developments related to the occupied Syrian Golan are a case in point. Final status issues cannot be pre-empted by changing the conditions and facts on the ground but must be negotiated by the parties.

We commend the German presidency for highlighting women’s issues during this month. When discussing issues in the Middle East, it is also important to focus on the impact of the conflict on Palestinian women. A recent study indicated that the occupation disproportionately impacts the daily lives of Palestinian women. As we delay action and the Security Council is immobilised, lands and cities are being systematically handed over to Israel. We do not recognise that. United Nations agencies are immobilised and emasculated. More and more settlements are being built in occupied Palestinian territories. We do not recognise them. No people in history have accepted oppression forever. The same is true for the Palestinians.

In conclusion, the United Nations cannot abdicate its responsibility and outsource its core mandate of maintaining international peace and security. The United Nations, its membership and the Security Council cannot sit back and wait for the solution to be presented to it by somebody somewhere. This is not and has never been the role of the United Nations and the Security Council. We must do all we can to carry out this vital responsibility bestowed upon us by the Charter of the United Nations.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8518th Meeting

Tuesday, 30 April 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8518 Agenda:

The Situation Concerning Western Sahara

Report of the Secretary-General on the Situation Concerning Western Sahara (S/2019/282)

South Africa wishes to reiterate its unequivocal and strong support for the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), which was established by the Council under resolution 690 (1991). That was the beginning of the issue. We recall that MINURSO was created primarily to facilitate the holding of a referendum in Western Sahara to enable its people to realise their right to self-determination.

We also wish to emphasise our firm support for the political process facilitated by the Secretary-General’s good offices through his Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, Mr. Horst Köhler. We express our appreciation for the work he is undertaking, as well as for the efforts of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Western Sahara and Head of MINURSO, Mr Colin Stewart. The role of the Security Council in supporting the Personal Envoy and the Special Representative in the discharge of their respective mandates is critical in seeking a solution to the situation in Western Sahara.

Although resolution 2468 (2019) contains numerous paragraphs with which South Africa can agree, there remain several elements of concern to our delegation. These include the following.

Firstly, the current text as it stands is not balanced and does not provide a true reflection of the efforts undertaken by the two parties, Morocco and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, which are both States Members of the African Union. The mandate as approved tends to favour one party over the other, which is not conducive to a neutral political process.

Secondly, the use of terms such as “realistic” and “realism”, as well as additional references to “compromise”, are of concern to us. It is unclear as to what is meant by these terms as the principle of self-determination for the people of Western Sahara is well-established by numerous General Assembly and Security Council resolutions, as I said earlier. We should not in any way dilute that principle through unclear and ambiguous terms and language. The Council must reaffirm its commitment to the right to self-determination for the people of Western Sahara in an unqualified manner.

Thirdly, the resolution should not try to unduly influence the direction of the political process or to pre-empt any final status of the negotiations.

Fourthly, South Africa regrets that the Council continues to resist a human rights monitoring mandate for MINURSO, despite the fact that many around this table eagerly propose such mechanisms in other mandates, without exception. We have not seen the same vigour or determination in terms of MINURSO, which creates the impression that the human rights of the people of Western Sahara are not held in the same regard as those of other peoples elsewhere in the world. That lack of consistency undermines the Council’s credibility. Lastly, we want to note that the text must differentiate between the parties to the conflict, which are Morocco and the Frente Popular por la Liberación de Saguía el Hamra y Río de Oro, and the neighbouring States of Algeria and Mauritania.

We want to reiterate that the Council’s working methods on this matter, whereby it delegates responsibility to the Group of Friends of Western Sahara, remain a serious source of concern for South Africa. We have consistently raised this issue as problematic, particularly given the unrepresentative nature of the Group, which does not include a single African member of the Council, despite the fact that this is an African issue. This is yet another example of an African issue being decided by non-Africans. It is unjust.

South Africa would like to reiterate its principled position on the situation in the Western Sahara, which remains the last colony on the African continent, listed by the United Nations as a non-self-governing territory. Our own national experience has taught us the value of the international solidarity that brought down the repressive system of apartheid. Similarly, it is international solidarity that will ultimately realise the foremost aspiration of the people of Western Sahara, which is to eventually be independent and free. That is why the Southern African Development Community recently hosted a solidarity conference with the Sahrawi people. As long as the Sahrawi people do not enjoy their basic right to self-determination, they will continue to be denied the opportunity to develop, prosper, and enjoy a brighter future. People who have to live with uncertainty, whether under colonialism or in refugee camps, are severely disadvantaged. The Security Council must take responsibility for ensuring, through a neutral, balanced approach, that it can assist the parties in progressing towards a mutually acceptable settlement of the situation.

In considering the draft before us, South Africa seriously considered not supporting resolution 2468 (2019), which is why we abstained in the voting. As we have stated, the Council’s resolutions on MINURSO continue to address the issue in an opaque and non-inclusive manner. Council members are not given enough time or opportunity to meaningfully negotiate on the texts. They are a fait accompli by the penholders and their supporters. That prevents Council members from effectively exercising the mandate entrusted to us by the General Assembly to contribute to the maintenance of international peace and security. It is significant, though, that the draft before us does renew MINURSO’s mandate for the next six months, and we endorse that and the political process that the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General has embarked on.

Finally, we wish the people of Morocco and Western Sahara a very fruitful, constructive and, hopefully, happy ending to their political negotiations through the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth rounds of talks in Geneva. The Council’s role is to support and assist them in reaching such a settlement. As South Africans, we hope that there will be a settlement one day in Western Sahara. Morocco is a very substantial African Member State. We need it to play its role in the political and economic integration of Africa so that the people of Western Sahara can live in freedom like the rest of us.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8526th Meeting

Thursday, 16 May 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8526 Agenda:

Peace and Security in Africa

Report of the Secretary-General on the Joint Force of the Group of Five for the SAHEL (S/2019/371)

I wish to thank His Excellency Mr. Alpha Barry, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Burkina Faso, for taking time to brief the Security Council on behalf of the presidency of the Group of Five for the Sahel (G-5 Sahel). I also thank the Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, Ms. Bintou Keita; the African Union (AU) High Representative for Mali and the Sahel, Mr. Pierre Buyoya; Mr. Ángel Losada Fernández, European Union (EU) Special Representative for the Sahel; and Mr. Yury Fedotov, Executive Director for United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, for their comprehensive briefings.

South Africa takes note of the recent report of the Secretary-General (see S/2019/371) on the activities of the G-5 Sahel Joint Force and is deeply concerned about the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in the Sahel region, particularly the continued terrorist attacks in northern and central Mali and Burkina Faso, as well as in the border regions of Burkina Faso, Mali, and the Niger, and the increasing intercommunal violence, which has resulted in many fatalities. Of equal concern is the spill-over effect into wider West Africa.

My delegation would like to take this opportunity to convey our condolences to the families and victims of the violent attacks in the Sahel, in particular those that took place in Ouagassou in Mali, Arbinda, and, recently, in Dablo in Burkina Faso. We also convey our condolences for the two soldiers

The presidency of the

who sacrificed their lives so that their countrymen UNSC for May 2019 wascould go back and live in peace in their homeland.

provided by Indonesia.

We are hopeful that the perpetrators of those heinous crimes will be held accountable. We commend the Indonesia assumed the commitment expressed by the G-5 Sahel countries to presidency of the UNSC establishing the human rights compliance framework. for the month of May That is an important development that will go a long 2019 and her permanent way towards bringing the perpetrators to justice and representative, Dian building the trust and confidence of the population in Triansyah Djini became the justice systems of the respective countries. the president of the SC We are encouraged by the concerted efforts and commitment of the countries of the Sahel to forge forward with the operationalisation of the G-5 Sahel Joint Force to combat terrorism, cross-border organised crime, and trafficking, in order to create conditions that are conducive to peace and development. Likewise, we welcome the resumption of the operations of the G-5 Sahel Joint Force at the beginning of this year to deal with the security challenges that have engulfed that region. South Africa recognises the fundamental role and sacrifices of the AU-endorsed G-5 Sahel Joint Force and its Member States. In that regard, we call upon the Security Council to spare no efforts in the support of the initiatives undertaken by the countries of the Sahel. We welcome the unique partnership between the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and the G-5 Sahel Joint Force to restore peace and stability in Mali and the wider Sahel region. As has been recognised by the Council, the partnership provides a positive model of cooperation between a United Nations’ peacekeeping operation and a regional peace operation in Africa. Therefore, every effort should be made by the Council and the international community to ensure that the challenges of the G-5 Sahel Joint Force are addressed and that it is fully capacitated and able to effectively implement its mandate.

We therefore reiterate our support for the Secretary-General’s repeated recommendation to the Council concerning the establishment of a United Nations support office for the G-5 Sahel Joint Force, funded through assessed contributions and independent of MINUSMA, which we believe will allow for the predictable and sustainable financing of support for the Joint Force, longer-term planning, and the consolidation of this important initiative. That will enable the Force to have the necessary capacity and the critically needed logistical and operational base, which will contribute positively towards the full and effective operationalisation of the G-5 Sahel Joint Force.

We are also of the view that if the Joint Force is to operate optimally, the necessary logistical requirements have to be provided. In that regard, South Africa endorses the recommendation of the Secretary-General that the Council consider authorising MINUSMA to provide life-support consumables to battalions operating in the framework of the Joint Force, under the condition that the Joint Force or other partners undertake the responsibility of ensuring the delivery of support to their respective areas of operations.

In solidarity with Foreign Minister Barry and the people of Burkina Faso, South Africa also welcomes the plans to strengthen the office of the United Nations’ Resident Coordinator and bolster humanitarian assistance, funding, and programmes across Burkina Faso. In addition, the Security Council should consider further opportunities to reinforce partnerships and strengthen the role of the African Union when discussing African-led peace operations. That process should be carried out in a well-coordinated manner in order for the partnerships to complement one another in support of the Joint Force of the G-5 Sahel.

South Africa recognises the nexus between security, peace, and development. We believe that there is a need to also address the root causes of conflicts in the region, particularly poverty, climate change, unemployment, and other related issues. Therefore, a holistic development approach to the challenges in the Sahel is urgently needed for the current efforts and initiatives to have a valuable lasting impact and bring about stability and durable peace in the region.

To our development partners, South Africa welcomes with appreciation the bilateral and multilateral financial contributions towards the G-5 Sahel’s Priority Investment Programme, which focuses on socioeconomic development initiatives in the Sahel. At the same time, we urge all Member States in a position to do so to continue to provide financial support to ensure the successful implementation of the G-5 Sahel’s Priority Investment Programme.

In conclusion, my delegation wishes to reiterate that the G-5 Sahel Joint Force alone cannot secure the Sahel and that the Council should be mindful of the catastrophic ramifications of the security situation for the rest of the West African region now and Africa as a whole later on if the situation is not adequately and urgently addressed. That implies that no effort should be spared by the Council, the region, and the international community to provide the necessary support the Joint Force urgently needs to succeed in its fundamental initiative.

South Africa will support the draft French press statement in that regard.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8534th Meeting

Thursday, 23 May 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8534 Agenda:

Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict

Report of the Secretary-General on the Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict (S/2019/373)

Letter Dated 8 May 2019 from the Permanent Representative of Indonesia to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary- General (S/2019/385)

On behalf of the African members of the Security Council -Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, and South Africa -I would like to thank the Indonesian presidency for organising today’s important open debate on the protection of civilians in armed conflict. I would also like to thank you, Madam President, H.E. Foreign Minister of Indonesia, for presiding over it, knowing how keen you are and how much you care about the subject.

The African members of the Security Council align themselves with the statement to be made later by Ambassador Fatima Mohammed, Permanent Observer of the African Union to the United Nations.

Africa is a major stakeholder in today’s debate. I would also like to thank Secretary-General António Guterres and the briefers for their comprehensive presentations, which undoubtedly underscore that civilians not only continue to account for the vast majority of casualties during conflict but also bear the brunt of the short- and long-term impact of conflict -from the denial of, and attacks on, humanitarian assistance, to all forms of violence and forced displacement.

Today’s debate is timely, as 2019 marks the 70th anniversary of the four Geneva Conventions of 1949 -a cornerstone of international humanitarian law -and the 20th anniversary of the adoption of resolutions 1265 (1999) and 1270 (1999). Those landmark components of international law have framed the approach of the United Nations to the protection of civilians in the contemporary age. However, the implementation of those legal frameworks is still lacking.

While we have seen a significant improvement in the compliance by State actors with such provisions, the changing nature of modern conflict -shifting from inter-State conflict to civil wars, transnational conflicts and instability -has meant that the protection of civilians has become more and more challenging. Nevertheless, while recalling respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States and recognising the leadership role of States in protecting, nurturing, and advancing the protection of civilians agenda, we would like to acknowledge the important role played by the International Committee of the Red Cross as custodian of international humanitarian law and in attempting to regulate the conduct of armed conflict in order to protect the most vulnerable caught in the middle of such conflicts. We would also like to acknowledge the significant role that the Center for Civilians in Conflict plays by working with armed actors and civilians in conflict to develop and implement solutions to mitigate and respond to civilian harm.

The role of the Security Council in pursuit of international humanitarian law should lead it to take decisive action to facilitate the necessary environment, including by establishing humanitarian corridors and ceasefires and deploying peacekeepers with a robust protection-of-civilians mandate. Such actions are necessary to create the conditions for sustained action on peace and security and ensure that the humanitarian-development nexus thrives. Furthermore, greater coordination and cooperation between the United Nations and regional organisations, such as the African Union, are necessary to create an environment that would enable the protection of civilians. The comparative advantage of regional organisations can enable closer collaboration and coordination with local communities, including by creating an environment conducive to the return of refugees and internally displaced persons on a voluntary basis, in accordance with the principle of non-refoulement.

The protection of civilians requires not only physical protection, but also liaising and engagement with communities to ensure that the necessary environment is created to facilitate long-term protection mechanisms. The African members of the Security Council believe in that regard that the strength of the multidimensional nature of peacekeeping missions is paramount in creating proactive approaches to protecting civilians through military engagements, and also in consolidating the gains made in permanently eliminating threats to innocent populations.

Nevertheless, we wish to underline that, while it remains the primary responsibility of States to protect civilians, including humanitarian personnel and health workers within their borders, all parties -including armed opposition groups -must also bear the responsibility of ensuring that civilians and health workers are protected. All parties to a conflict should fully comply with their obligations under international law, as stated in resolution 2286 (2016).

It is also important to highlight the fact that the protection of civilians is a multidisciplinary agenda. It includes contributing activities of the United Nations, regional organisations such as the African Union, international organisations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross, non-governmental organisations, the military component, the civilian component, and the host Government and its security forces. Efforts to address the protection of civilians agenda, therefore, need to involve close coordination by all role-players.

It is also important to note that, amongst the civilian population, vulnerable groups such as women and children are affected the most. Therefore, we call for the full implementation of the provisions of resolutions 1325 (2000) and 2427 (2018), as well as subsequent resolutions, particularly with regard to the protection of women and children in armed conflict. That also requires the strengthening and mainstreaming of special provisions and personnel within peacekeeping missions to ensure that those groups are adequately protected.

In order to deter the threats to civilians and foster greater compliance with international law, the African members of the Council believe that the necessary accountability mechanisms and the policy space and technical support to develop them are essential. Those include local, national, and regional accountability mechanisms. Broader international mechanisms should continue to support accountability mechanisms, based on complementarity and subsidiarity.

However, the most effective ways to protect civilians are to prevent armed conflict through investments in sustainable development, promote the peaceful resolution of armed conflicts, and consolidate peace by focusing on the post-conflict environment and peacebuilding, which is a responsibility charged to all of us in the Council.

The Council often finds itself hamstrung from acting based on competing geopolitical interests that we are deeply concerned about. Nothing should prevent the Council from acting decisively when it comes to protecting those caught in the middle of armed conflicts. The protection of civilians should remain a priority and requires the commitment of all Council members.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8536th Meeting

Thursday, 30 May 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8536 Agenda:

Reports of the Secretary-General on the Sudan and South Sudan

South Africa abstained in today’s voting on resolution 2471 (2019) in the firm view that the sanctions imposed on South Sudan at this time are not helpful to the current complex political process. The region, through the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), continues to assert that sanctions are not useful to the political process.

South Africa appeals to the Council to heed and support the efforts of IGAD and the African Union, which have been seized on the issue of the peace process in South Sudan. South Africa firmly believes that sanctions should be seen as a tool to encourage continued cooperation and progress towards a political process and not as a punitive measure. Furthermore, they should be used as an incentive to improve stability and build an environment that is conducive to reaching a political agreement in support of lasting and durable peace. In that regard, the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan is setting a positive trajectory for the country’s future. We have seen progress in that regard, such as a reduction in political violence and the development of confidence-building measures amongst the signatories, even if progress in implementing the Agreement has been slow. South Africa encourages the Government of South Sudan and other parties to do everything in their power to implement the Revitalized Agreement.

When a volatile political process is on the table, it should be safeguarded and free from external pressure, which could aggravate the situation. Nevertheless, the process of making peace never has been or will be an easy task, as it is a many-layered process, not a linear one.

Lastly, like many delegations, including that of the United States, we remain concerned about the continuing precarious humanitarian situation in South Sudan. We call on all the parties to redouble their efforts to improve the humanitarian situation in the country and protect those who are vulnerable.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8537th Meeting

Friday, 31 May 2019, 11.30 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8537 Agenda:

The Situation in Somalia

We thank the United Kingdom, in its capacity as the penholder, for its transparency, tireless efforts, and commitment to facilitating resolution 2472 (2019), which we have just adopted.

The renewal of the mandate of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) is a significant undertaking by the Security Council in support of the Federal Government and the people of Somalia. We recognise the fundamental role of AMISOM in efforts to restore security and stability in Somalia. It would have otherwise been impossible to achieve. AMISOM’s role is also invaluable as Somalia prepares for their 2020-2021 elections.

South Africa aligns itself with the African Union (AU) Commission and the AU Peace and Security Council’s principled call on the AU, the United Nations, and key partners in Somalia to provide the required resources to support AMISOM in a sustained and predictable manner. That is important, as AMISOM’s tasks and responsibilities require it to align its logistical and equipment capabilities and capacities with the realities and changes on the ground.

Stability and enhanced security in Somalia will improve the security of the shipping lanes in the Horn of Africa, thereby ensuring free trade flows around the world to benefit all of us. We should therefore appreciate the contribution of AU troop-contributing countries in that regard. Hence the necessity for the Security Council to agree on funding such a vital peacekeeping operation, which benefits us all, around the world.

We remain concerned about the prevailing precarious humanitarian situation in Somalia. We call on the international community to redouble its efforts to improve the humanitarian situation and to protect all those who are vulnerable.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8538th Meeting

Tuesday, 4 June 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8538 Agenda:

Central African Region

Report of the Secretary-General on the Situation in Central Africa and the Activities of the United Nations Regional Office for Central Africa (S/2019/430)

I wish an Eid Mubarak to you, Mr. President, H.E. Ambassador Mansour Al-Otaibi and to the entire Kuwaiti team. We assure you, Sir, of our support during your tenure at the helm of the Security Council, following the very impressive Indonesian presidency in May.

We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Regional Office for Central Africa (UNOCA), Mr. François Louncény Fall, and his team for the report on the situation in Central Africa and the activities of the Regional Office (S/2019/430).

South Africa recognises the important role played by UNOCA in the promotion of peace and security in Central Africa. We therefore commend the efforts of Mr. Fall in discharging the Regional Office’s mandate, particularly in terms of promoting stability in the region and in preventing or mitigating election-related crises.

South Africa welcomes the signing of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic and the formation of an inclusive Government in that country. We further express the view that all parties should take this opportunity to implement the peace agreement so as to extricate the Central African Republic from its cycle of continued conflict. In this respect, it is of vital importance for the stakeholders in the Central African Republic to put the

interests of the people and country first, above all other
considerations, and work together towards bringing	Kuwait became
stability, peace, reconciliation, and development	to	the president of
the country.		the UN Security
	Council for June

It is our conviction that elections are one of the most

2019. her permanentpositive signs of the consolidation of democracy on the representativeAfrican continent. South Africa therefore commends Ambassador Mansourthe Democratic Republic of the Congo for holding its Al-Otaibi presided overnational elections in a relatively calm atmosphere, the SCwhich resulted in the peaceful transfer of power in

that country. We will assist the Congolese people and Government as they take on their new democratic project.

However, we express our concern over the attempted coup in Gabon in January. Our continent should strive towards eliminating unconstitutional changes of Government, which requires greater support for security sector reform and post-conflict institution-building. We therefore urge UNOCA to continue to assist countries in the region in the preparation and conduct of elections by creating conditions more conducive to peaceful, inclusive, and credible elections. In a related context, we wish President Ali Bongo Ondimba a speedy recovery.

South Africa is encouraged by the improving security situation in the Pool department and in the Republic of the Congo in general, as well as the easing of social tensions in Chad. Although we remain concerned by the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Cameroon, we are encouraged by the efforts undertaken by the country’s authorities to stabilise the situation. We call upon all parties to refrain from any actions that could lead to its further deterioration. We are especially encouraged by the Prime Minister’s positive announcement on 9 May during his visit to the affected region. These encouraging steps should be consolidated.

We condemn the indiscriminate attacks against civilians and national security personnel by terrorist and armed groups in the region. We are equally concerned about the increase in piracy and armed robbery of ships in the Gulf of Guinea. We welcome the progress made in efforts to combat poaching and illicit trafficking in wildlife and natural resources as evidenced by the interceptions and arrests made by the Gabonese and Cameroonian authorities in terms of the illegal trade in Kevazingo wood, pangolin scales, and elephant tusks.

South Africa notes with concern the number of people who are in need of humanitarian assistance in the region. We thank humanitarian partners and urge them to continue providing fundamental humanitarian assistance to all populations in need. We urge Governments to facilitate access for the delivery of humanitarian assistance. We encourage the peaceful resolution of disputes and inclusive dialogue where it is required in the region, for example, in addressing the growing number of conflicts related to pastoralism and transhumance in the subregion, amongst other issues.

South Africa notes the cross-cutting nature of issues in the region. In this regard, we commend the efforts to enhance the coherence and coordination of the United Nations’ action in the region as evidenced by the close coordination amongst, inter alia, the African Union (AU), UNOCA, the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the United Nations Office for West Africa, and the Sahel. Amongst other things, this will contribute to stronger responses in assisting the Lake Chad Basin Commission in the context of fighting Boko Haram and the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), maritime security, and conflicts between farmers and herders.

South Africa remains concerned about the security threat posed by the Lord’s Resistance Army in the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We therefore reaffirm the decision of the AU Peace and Security Council of 20 September 2018, to maintain the AU-led Regional Cooperation Initiative for the Elimination of the Lord’s Resistance Army, pending the development of a strategy to progressively phase out the Initiative without leaving any security vacuum that the LRA could use to renew and intensify its destabilisation activities in the affected areas.

In conclusion, it should be recalled that the Security Council, at its meeting on 10 August 2018 (see S/PV.8328), requested the Secretary-General to undertake a review of the mandate of UNOCA (S/PRST/2018/17). South Africa looks forward to receiving the outcomes emanating from the Secretary-General’s strategic review of the scope of UNOCA’s mandate and activities by 1 August, with a view to strengthening the role of this political office in the region. We will continue to support Special Representative Fall and his joint efforts with Mr. Chambas.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8539th Meeting

Thursday, 6 June 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8539 Agenda:

Implementation of the Note by the President of the Security Council (S/2017/507)

Working Methods of the Security Council

Letter Dated 29 May 2019 from the Permanent Representative of Kuwait to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2019/450)

Before I deliver our joint statement for the 10 elected members (E-10) of the Security Council on the working methods of the Council, allow me to reflect for a moment on the momentous events that took place 75 years ago today.

I would like to commemorate and pay homage to the thousands of servicemen, servicewomen, and civilians who gave their lives on this day 75 years ago during the D-Day assault on the beaches of Normandy. This act of valour and self-sacrifice to free the world of the tyranny and oppression of fascism should never be forgotten, as it was an important building block in laying the foundation for the creation of the United Nations. As our search for peace and security in the world continues through our work in the Security Council, we should always be reminded of and honour through our actions and decisions the ultimate sacrifice that many men and women made for a peaceful and just world so that all of us could enjoy greater and larger freedoms.

Let me now turn to our business at hand. On behalf of the current 10 elected members of the Security Council, let me express our appreciation to you, Mr. President, Ambassador Mansour Al-Otaibi for convening today’s timely and important debate. We thank the briefers, Ms. Karin Landgren, Executive Director of Security Council Report, and Mr. James Cockayne, Director of the United Nations University Centre for Policy Research, for their excellent briefings. We welcome the presence of the honourable Ministers of Romania and Estonia in the Chamber today.

Allow me also to pay tribute to all those who endeavoured to improve and codify the Council’s working methods, which are critical to its functioning. In particular, I would like to express our gratitude for the work done within the Informal Working Group on Documentation and Other Procedural Questions over the past year and a half under the President’s most able and dedicated chairmanship.

Today, as in previous open debates, we see a large number of Member States on the speakers list. This clearly illustrates the importance that all States’ Members of the United Nations attach to the working methods of the Council. We share this position, hence our joint statement, corresponding both with our unity in efforts aimed at improving the Council’s functioning, and with the provisions relating to the conduct of open debates, contained in the most recent comprehensive note of the President on the Council’s working methods (S/2017/507, annex), the so-called note 507.

The adoption of consecutive notes developed within the Informal Working Group marks important steps in the steady advancement of the Council’s working methods that are of special significance for elected members. This is particularly important given the short period during which elected members serve on the Council and given that the codification of working methods allows for all members of the Council to be more effective. This in turn contributes to the efficiency of the Council in executing its mandate. Therefore, while we welcome the provisions of note 507 of 2017, adopted under the excellent chairmanship of the Permanent Representative of Japan, Ambassador Koro Bessho, whom I see in the Chamber this morning, and are committed to their full implementation, we see room, and an urgent need, for further progress.

Consequently, the E-10 supports and stands ready to further improve the draft notes of the President, which are currently being discussed within the Working Group. These notes are intended to take into account the concerns expressed by the broader United Nations membership during previous debates, as well as during the annual General Assembly debate on the report of the Security Council. We are convinced that the adoption and implementation of these notes will contribute to enhancing the efficiency and transparency of the Council’s work, as well as the dialogue with the broader United Nations membership.

As E-10 members, we have also taken it upon ourselves to attempt to bridge the gap created by our limited term on the Council by fostering greater cooperation and coordination amongst ourselves. This intention was manifest in the November 2018 coordination meeting launched in Pretoria, which brought together incoming, current, and outgoing E-10 members to explore mechanisms and areas for collaboration and coordination, so that elected members could better serve the Council in pursuit of the maintenance of international peace and security.

As the elected members and incoming members emphasised in their letter to the Council last year, there is a need for burden-sharing and equal distribution of work amongst Security Council members, including the Council’s permanent five members. Two draft notes regarding the Chairs of subsidiary bodies and copenholderships specifically address these concerns. The notes could eventually increase opportunities for engagement by all Council members and allow for greater use of expertise and knowledge accumulated by the Chairs of the subsidiary bodies. We are therefore convinced that the Security Council should consider promoting the Chairs’ role as penholders, as well as making their role as co-penholders on related dossiers automatic, should the Chairs choose to accept that role.

Additional measures could facilitate the planning and preparations of newly elected Council members both in New York and in capitals in order to allow them to hit the ground running. These measures may also allow for members’ better preparation for Council meetings and visiting missions. Another proposal aims at strengthening fair and clear procedures for the Security Council sanction regimes and considers the need to respect international due process standards when implementing decisions of the Security Council.

The rule of law should particularly apply in situations in which the actions of the United Nations directly affect individual rights. In this regard, the establishment of the Ombudsperson was a significant step forward in improving the fairness and transparency of the Committee pursuant to resolutions 1267 (1999), 1989 (2011), and 2253 (2015) concerning ISIL (Da’esh), Al-Qaida, and associated individuals groups undertakings and entities.

We strongly believe in the need to continue to render United Nations targeted sanctions more effective and legitimate by further pursuing efforts to strengthen procedures and due process guarantees in other sanction regimes of the Council, including by creating review mechanisms, similar to that of the Ombudsperson, for other sanction regimes. This would strengthen the effectiveness, legitimacy, and uniform implementation of all sanctions adopted by the Council. Furthermore, there have been calls for the promotion and advancement of women and greater gender inclusivity and equality, thus adapting the Security Council’s working methods to current realities and commonly shared expectations that have already been advanced in the substantive work of the Council, for example in the women and peace and security agenda.

We look forward to achieving an agreement on the aforementioned proposals and improving the ways the Council operates. The E-10 reiterates that the previously mentioned notes were introduced separately with the intention of issuing any note that has been agreed by Member States in the context of the Informal Working Group and that these notes were never intended to be agreed or issued as a package. We call upon the five permanent members to show more flexibility in ensuring a swift adoption of the notes going forward, based on the extensive discussions that have already taken place in the Informal Working Group.

Our commitment to working together towards that goal stems from our shared ambition of enhancing the Council’s functionality and efficiency while ensuring that its interactions and cooperation with other stakeholders are more robust. That approach can only serve to improve the Council’s ability to maintain international peace and security, drawing on the diverse and distinguished expertise, fresh perspectives, and dynamism that the 10 non-permanent members and other stakeholders bring to the table. Such an approach is reflective of the expectations of the States’ Members of the United Nations, who have conferred on the Council the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security, that the Council’s actions should be prompt and effective. It also answers the call for enhancing the Council’s performance and inclusiveness and ensuring its accountability to the entire United Nations membership, on whose behalf it acts in carrying out its duties.

We look forward to hearing concrete proposals and feedback during this debate from the wider membership on further measures that the Council could undertake to improve its working methods, and we hope to pursue those ideas further within the Informal Working Group for the remainder of the year.

Five new members of the Council will be elected tomorrow, after which consultations on the distribution of the chairmanships of the subsidiary bodies starting from 1 January 2020 will soon begin. Note 507 states that the informal process of consultations on the selection of the Chairs will be undertaken in a “balanced, transparent, efficient, and inclusive way” (S/2017/507, para. 113).

We are confident that the consultation process will be conducted in a manner consistent with that provision and that the end result will conform to the need for burden-sharing, collective responsibility and a fair and equitable distribution of work amongst all members of the Council, including its permanent members. The call for a more equal distribution of work is not new and has been persistently brought forward by members and non-members of the Security Council. We strongly believe that such an equal distribution of work is not just a matter of fair burden-sharing, but will also positively affect the overall effectiveness of the Council.

In conclusion, I would like to once again thank Kuwait for convening this meeting and reiterate the elected members’ commitment to the improvement of the Security Council’s working methods. Guided by the spirit of the Charter of the United Nations, whose 75th anniversary we will be celebrating next year, we remain fully committed to promoting the Security Council as a body that serves and represents the entire United Nations’ membership.

On behalf of the three African members of the Council, I would also like to inform the Council that the Peace and Security Council has, with immediate effect, suspended the participation of the Republic of the Sudan in all African Union activities until the effective establishment of a civilian-led transitional authority as the only way to allow the Sudan to exit from the current crisis.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8540th Meeting

Monday, 10 June 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8540 Agenda:

The Situation in Libya Report of the Secretary-General on the Implementation of Resolution 2420 (2018) (S/2019/380)

South Africa thanks the Secretary-General for his report on the implementation of resolution 2420 (2018), on the arms embargo on Libya (S/2019/380). We thank the United Kingdom as penholder for facilitating this process.

My delegation remains deeply concerned that the current military operations in Libya are reportedly being reinforced by the transfer of arms into the country, including by sea and by land. We are further concerned by the suspension of the naval assets of the European Union military operation in the Southern Central Mediterranean, which are crucial to the implementation of the arms embargo resolution on the high seas. Furthermore, we encourage regional cooperation in the implementation of the arms embargo.

It has been two months since the crisis started in Libya, without any respect being shown by the parties to the conflict for the Council’s calls for a ceasefire. The worsening security and humanitarian situation in Tripoli is fuelled by the constant supply of arms to that city. South Africa reiterates that there is no military solution to the Libyan crisis. It is through a national dialogue process that the conflict can be resolved. As such, we encourage compromise, cooperation, and a spirit of reconciliation on the part of all the parties in Libya.

We strongly urge Member States to fully implement the arms embargo measures, which are of immediate importance to the protection of civilians and the restoration of security and stability in Libya and the region. Lastly, South Africa wishes to reiterate that sanctions are a tool to advance a political process or facilitate a change in the political process and should not affect the provision of humanitarian assistance. We therefore support the adoption of resolution 2473 (2019) and hope that all Member States will adhere to its implementation.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8541st Meeting

Monday, 10 June 2019, 10.30 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8541 Agenda:

Security Council Resolutions 1160 (1998), 1199 (1998), 1203 (1998), 1239 (1999), and 1244 (1999)

Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (S/2019/461)

South Africa welcomes the work of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), with the support of the United Nations Kosovo team and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Zahir Tanin, as well as the Secretary-General, whose efforts are playing a significant role towards creating an environment conducive to compromise, reconciliation and stability in Kosovo, as outlined in the most recent report of the Secretary-General, up to 14 May (S/2019/461). We also welcome the briefing by Mr. De Serpa Soares, Under-Secretary-General for Legal Affairs and United Nations Legal Counsel, and the legal clarity and opinions provided concerning the two United Nations staff members in Kosovo. We stand in support of his unbiased legal view on the issue. We would also like to welcome His Excellency Mr. Ivica Dačić, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia, to this meeting and note the presence of the representative of Kosovo.

We wish to reiterate that the presence of the United Nations in Kosovo is critical to reaching a peaceful and sustainable solution and to encouraging cooperation amongst all parties and stakeholders in this situation, which has been ongoing for 20 years. In that regard, we wish to express our regret and concern about the developments in northern Kosovo last week, including the detention of two United Nations’ staff members by the Kosovo police during the course of their duties. We wish both staff members a speedy recovery as they are treated for their injuries. We reiterate the importance of all United Nations personnel across the world being able to do their work in a safe environment and in accordance with international law.

South Africa encourages Belgrade and Pristina to continue their efforts towards normalising relations despite the challenges faced in finding a sustainable and peaceful political solution. We wish to make three brief points with regard to the peace process in Kosovo in view of the persistent challenges to the resumption of talks between the two parties.

Firstly, the escalated tensions between the parties and their differences regarding preconditions for the resumption of dialogue risk undermining any meaningful prospects for a successful dialogue and reconciliation. Those factors also deepen the divide and exacerbate the feelings of mistrust regarding the political will to engage in good faith. In that regard, we urge all parties to refrain from actions that further delay the peace process and to allow for the normalisation of relations between them.

Secondly, South Africa wishes to echo the sentiments of the Secretary-General in his report regarding continued engagement with all stakeholders, such as the relevant authorities, civil society, and bilateral and international partners. The peace process should not only be led by the political leaders but be informed by the local communities in Serbia and Kosovo, as both parties represent a diverse people in language, culture, heritage, and history. That will play an important role in ensuring active support for peacebuilding and intercommunity trust-building efforts in Kosovo.

That brings me to my third and final point. The conflict between the parties has a significant impact on women and youth. We join the Secretary-General in welcoming the efforts of the United Nations in Pristina, in close cooperation with the European Union, to emphasise the involvement of women across all levels of political and decision-making processes during the Global Open Day on Women, Peace, and Security. As indicated by Ulrika Richardson, United Nations Development Coordinator for Kosovo, “[g]ender equality is not only a fundamental human right; it is also a necessary foundation for a just and peaceful world.” experiences and possible solutions. In that respect, we welcome the active involvement of survivors of conflict-related sexual violence in finding solutions towards addressing their legal, social and institutional challenges, as reflected in the Pristina communiqué.

We also welcome the role of young people, whose efforts illustrate the importance of an inclusive peace process. The third annual Kosovo Youth Assembly, in collaboration with the United Nations country team in Kosovo, identified ways of empowering youth leadership across Kosovo. Those much-needed initiatives can contribute to long-term solutions for peace for all. In conclusion, we hope that a spirit of compromise will be the foundation for negotiations towards an inclusive and fair settlement that is acceptable to both parties.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8543rd Meeting

Tuesday, 11 June 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8543 Agenda:

Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict Missing Persons in Armed Conflict

Letter Dated 3 June 2019 from the Permanent Representative of Kuwait to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2019/458)

I would like to thank Ms. Reena Ghelani, Director of the Operations and Advocacy Division of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, and Mr. Peter Maurer, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, for their insightful briefings.

South Africa co-sponsored and supported the adoption of resolution 2474 (2019) on missing persons in armed conflict, but it is also heartening to know that some of the countries experiencing conflict as we speak also co-sponsored the resolution.

Let me commence by welcoming the convening of this meeting on this matter as a stand-alone item for the first time, giving it the attention it deserves. We would like to thank you, Mr. President, and the Kuwait presidency, especially our friend Ambassador Mansour Al-Otaibi, for their efforts to focus attention on this crucial matter. Kuwait has had the misfortune of experiencing the devastating impact and trauma of missing persons in armed conflict situations first-hand, as have many other countries. We hope that the ongoing efforts and cooperation between Kuwait and Iraq will bring closure to the matter of missing men, women, and children as soon as possible.

While South Africa acknowledges the important role the Council can play in addressing this phenomenon, especially by addressing the root causes of conflict situations, which give rise to missing persons, we would like to emphasise that the primary responsibility resides with States themselves. States must ensure that the people within their respective borders are accounted for and protected; that records of prisoners of war are well-kept; and that the graves of those who have died are preserved and properly marked. Modern technology can assist us in accurately identifying mortal remains, especially those in the unmarked graves that dominate the landscape of conflict areas.

We take this opportunity to welcome the positive role played by the International Committee of the Red Cross in assisting national actors, where needed, to locate missing persons and to provide support on related matters in addressing this disturbing phenomenon, including by communicating with families of missing persons, where possible.

We are deeply concerned by the rise of incidences of missing persons in armed conflict. The impact of this problem extends beyond the victims themselves and has a lasting and prolonged impact on the affected families and communities. We must also take note that, in situations of armed conflict and in the context of missing persons, those who are most vulnerable -particularly women, children, the elderly and displaced persons -are most affected. The uncertainty surrounding missing persons is deeply traumatic and requires the due attention of national authorities, regional mechanisms, and the broader international community. South Africa believes that international cooperation on this matter is indispensable, especially in terms of technical development and cooperation, which may assist in locating missing persons.

Drawing from our own experience, South Africa would like to underscore the important role of truth, justice, reconciliation, and accountability in consolidating peace gains and achieving sustainable peace. In this connection, we wish to highlight the importance of addressing the repatriation of mortal remains to their own countries of origin. This would assist in the healing process and in finding closure for the affected families and communities. We believe that, as a matter related to the protection of civilians, the issue of missing persons suffers from the same problems relating to the lack of implementation of international humanitarian law.

At this juncture, we wish to highlight the prominence of the respective provisions of the Geneva Convention of 1949, the 70th anniversary of which we are celebrating this year, in guiding the responsibilities of States and parties during armed conflict. In this regard, we would like to emphasise the importance of accountability mechanisms that focus on building national and regional capacities. The sooner we account fully for all missing persons in all armed conflicts, the sooner we will be able to find closure and heal the wounds inflicted by conflict, and the sooner lasting peace will prevail.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8546th Meeting

Wednesday,12 June 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8546 Agenda:

Maintenance of International Peace and Security Conflict Prevention and Mediation

Letter Dated 31 May 2019 from the Permanent

Representative of Kuwait to the United Nations

Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2019/456)

It is good to see you, Sir, once again presiding over this meeting. We thank the delegation of Kuwait for convening the debate on this very important matter. We also thank the Secretary-General for his briefing. It is such a great pleasure to see former President Mary Robinson, Chair of The Elders, as well as Mr. Ban Ki-moon, former Secretary-General and Deputy Chair of The Elders, and we thank them for their valuable briefings and input.

Immediately after being sworn in as the first President of a democratic South Africa in 1994, Nelson Mandela said, “[N]ever, never and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another”.

With those words, he embarked on the long and protected negotiations on a new, inclusive, transparent, all-party, multi-racial South Africa that would be nonracial, non-sexist, multi-religious, and multicultural. The democratic South Africa was born after three and a half centuries of racial conflict in South Africa. Those historic developments enabled a democratic South Africa to begin making a modest contribution to conflict mediation around the world, including in Syria, Palestine, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zimbabwe, Libya, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Burundi, and Madagascar. The list goes on.

The promotion of the peaceful resolution of conflicts is a cornerstone of South Africa’s foreign policy. That is borne out of our historical experience in successfully and peacefully transitioning from a colonial past to a constitutional democracy based on respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all. It is through that spirit and commitment that we seek peaceful resolution and mediation for challenges and crises in the Sudan, South Sudan, Venezuela, the Central African Republic, and many conflicts around the world. Mediation brings about reconciliation, less destruction, fewer killings and less displacement. We believe that United Nations’ peacekeeping should not be a means to an end, but instead complement those essential tools of peacemaking.

Resolving disputes peacefully and through mediation, ceasefire monitoring, and assisting in the implementation of peace accords should be the hallmark of the United Nations’ approach to resolving conflicts worldwide. It is important to remind ourselves that the prevention of conflict remains the primary responsibility of States. Actions undertaken within the framework of conflict prevention by the United Nations should support and complement the conflict-prevention roles of national Governments and regions.

In that regard, the Council should strengthen its own instruments for the pacific settlement of disputes, in accordance with Chapter VI of the Charter of the United Nations. Before considering the use of force under Chapter VII, we must consider a peaceful political solution to conflict, as envisaged in Chapter VI. Article 33 of the Charter specifically states that parties to a dispute shall “first of all” seek a solution through political means, including negotiation and mediation. The settlement of disputes through those means has the added advantage of assisting parties to a conflict to recognise and address the root causes of conflict and embark on negotiations, thereby fostering a spirit of trust and cooperation. South Africa believes that cooperation and coordination between the United Nations and regional and subregional organisations could play an important role in conflict prevention. In that regard, the African Union and the United Nations undertook to enhance collaboration, cooperation, and coordination in the search for sustainable solutions to ongoing and future conflicts and to respond early, coherently, and decisively to prevent, manage, and resolve conflicts.

In that regard, South Africa calls for enhanced strategic and operational coordination of conflict prevention, resolution, and mediation efforts by the United Nations, the African Union (AU), subregional organisations and other international and local actors, in the case of many conflicts. Such efforts should be aimed at strengthening the efficacy of conflict prevention and resolution efforts and supporting African-led peace and security solutions based on subsidiarity and comparative advantage.

For its part, the African Union Commission operationalised the AU Mediation Support Unit in mid-March. The AU Commission has devoted efforts towards strengthening the Mediation Support Unit, including through capacity-building on mediation and mainstreaming gender in mediation. In addition, the AU Commission is also spearheading efforts to institutionalise a mediation doctrine in the Commission, while the process of validating and adopting an advanced mediation training module for the AU is under way.

The recent operationalisation of the AU Peace Fund will further boost AU capacities and efforts in mediation and conflict prevention in Africa. The Peace Fund is structured around three thematic windows: firstly, mediation; secondly, preventive diplomacy through institutional capacity; and thirdly, peace support operations. In this regard, the AU member States should be commended by the Council for their efforts to contribute to the Peace Fund, the endowment of which currently stands at $115 million.

The role of women and youth in peacebuilding and mediation cannot be emphasised enough. It is common knowledge that, when women are involved in peace processes, such processes are more sustainable and effective. We welcome the role already being played by the FemWise-Africa network in various conflicts across the continent. In particular, we believe that the Security Council should commit to providing greater support for the development of female mediators, specifically women from countries and regions affected by conflict. Without the adequate representation of women in these efforts, the credibility of these processes is undermined.

We are confident that the greater representation of women in mediation efforts will correspond to the greater success of our efforts.

We believe that a comprehensive, integrated, and coordinated approach to conflict prevention should also address the root causes of conflicts and strengthen political processes and respect for the rule of law, as well as the promotion of sustainable and inclusive development. Again, I turn to the wise words of our former President, Mr. Nelson Mandela:

“All conflicts, no matter how intractable, are capable of peaceful resolution.”

South Africa supports the promotion of peaceful solutions to conflict through mediation, peacemaking, peacebuilding, and reconciliation efforts.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8547th Meeting

Wednesday, 12 June 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8547 Agenda:

The Situation in Mali

Report of the Secretary-General on the Situation in Mali (S/2019/454)

We wish to welcome the Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Mali to the Council today. We are pleased that he could join us in today’s discussion and are looking forward to a briefing later on.

I wish to thank Mr. Mahamat Saleh Annadif, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Mali and Head of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), for his comprehensive briefing and also to thank him and his team for the excellent work they are doing in Mali.

In the context of recent developments, I would like to take this moment to convey our sympathy to the Government and the people of Mali for the lives lost due to the prevailing security situation in the country, particularly the violence that broke out in the Mopti region on 9 June, in which people perished. We urge the Government of Mali to investigate those atrocious acts and to bring the perpetrators to justice.

My intervention today will focus on three issues: the security and humanitarian situation in Mali; the role of the United Nations in Mali through MINUSMA; and the very encouraging developments in the political process in Mali.

Firstly, we remain seriously concerned that the security situation continues to deteriorate in both northern and central Mali, as demonstrated by increased terrorist attacks and intercommunal clashes and violence. It is disturbing that incidents of intercommunal violence are increasing. They have ravaged communities, displaced people and worsened the humanitarian situation in Mali. In that regard, we encourage the Malian authorities to bring those communities together in pursuit of peaceful intercommunal dialogue and reconciliation led by the people of Mali, with the support of the region and international community.

It is therefore important to address the root causes and conditions that have given rise to this situation in Mali including, inter alia, the absence of State authority in some parts of the country, porous borders, extreme poverty, exclusion, inequality, and environmental impacts. It is equally important to acknowledge the impact of the situation in the Sahel, particularly in Libya, which is also contributing to the destabilisation of Mali and the Sahel region as a whole. We wish to emphasise that enhanced efforts on cross-border cooperation amongst the countries of the region should continue to be encouraged to address these challenges.

Complex conditions continue to pose challenges for humanitarian work to be performed effectively and deserve the serious attention of the international community. We therefore wish to urge the international community to provide the necessary support for the effective implementation of the 2019 humanitarian response plan for Mali.

Despite the fragility of the situation, we are encouraged by the progress made thus far on the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration processes in Mali. We are pleased to learn from the briefing by the Special Representative that the training of the Malian forces will take place soon. Those positive developments will allow for the redeployment of the reconstituted Malian defence and security forces in northern and central Mali, improving security in those regions. We also welcome the operationalisation of the Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission’s national investigation team, which will expedite the realisation of justice, healing, and peace.

Secondly, with regard to the role of the United Nations in Mali, South Africa commends the continued efforts of MINUSMA to discharge its political and security mandate in Mali. We therefore support the recommendation of the Secretary-General on the renewal of the mandate of MINUSMA for another 12 months, until 30 June 2020.

We take note of the Secretary-General’s options for the potential significant adaptation of MINUSMA and recommendations to enhance its support in the centre of Mali. However, it is our considered view that any recalibration of MINUSMA must be predicated by a review of the security situation in Mali as a whole, including in the centre. This is important so as to avoid a potential vacuum that will exacerbate instability and insecurity in Mali and the entire Sahel region. We are also of the view that should MINUSMA be expected to play a role in central Mali that exceeds the support recommended, it should be able to request additional capacities and resources based on a thorough assessment of conditions on the ground.

We appreciate the cooperation of MINUSMA with other security forces in the country, including the Malian Defence and Security forces, the Joint Force of the Group of Five for the Sahel (G-5 Sahel), French forces, and the European Union missions in Mali. The Council previously discussed the challenges faced by the G-5 Sahel Joint Force regarding existing arrangements with MINUSMA to support its operationalisation. South Africa reiterates its support for the recommendations of the Secretary-General regarding the support the United Nations should provide to the G-5 Sahel Joint Force.

Thirdly, on the political process, our delegation welcomes the signing of the political agreement between the Government of Mali and opposition parties, which has resulted in the appointment of a new, inclusive Government of national unity and of the Prime Minister. These political processes, anchored by the recently established Government of national unity and the emerging consensus amongst the Malian people, reassure all of us and indicate that the walk towards a new Mali has begun, and the Council should support it. It is therefore trusted that these changes will lead to stability, sustained peace, and prosperity for all Malians, as envisioned in the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali.

South Africa wishes to encourage Malian stakeholders to continue to engage in dialogue to ensure the implementation of the peace agreement. We also encourage all Malian stakeholders to take up the opportunities to participate in an inclusive national conference to finalise the constitution, reflecting the institutional reforms envisioned in the peace agreement. We call in particular for the inclusion of women and ordinary people in that dialogue process.

We welcome the processes that have recently taken place to ensure the establishment of the northern economic development zone, including the submission of the related legislation to the National Assembly, as well as the associated funding mechanism for this undertaking. South Africa believes that a holistic development approach, including the upliftment of the living standards of the people of Mali and job creation, particularly youth employment, will contribute significantly to resolving the complex challenges in Mali. The soon-to-be-launched all-Malian national inclusive conference to dialogue and clarify and take Algerian agreement to all the peoples and corners of Mali is a sign of a new positive attitude amongst the Malian people -political parties, civil society, women, youth and communities. All Malians will win; no one will be a loser.

In conclusion, it is clear that the situation in Mali requires collective support to address the multiple and complex challenges facing the country. The Council must continue to extend its support through MINUSMA and the efforts of the Economic Community of West African States and the African Union. That support will assist the people of Mali to achieve peace and lead the developmental plans as envisioned by their government.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8548th Meeting

Thursday, 13 June 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8548 Agenda:

Cooperation Between the United Nations and Regional and Subregional Organisations in Maintaining International Peace and Security Cooperation Between the Security Council and the League of Arab States

Letter Dated 31 May 2019 from the Permanent Representative of Kuwait to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2019/455)

We join others in thanking you, Mr. President, for presiding today over the first-ever Security Council meeting on the cooperation between the Security Council and the League of Arab States. We also thank Secretary-General Guterres and Secretary-General Aboul Gheit of the League of Arab States for their briefings. We would also like to welcome the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Poland to today’s meeting.

I want to join the Secretaries-General in condemning today’s attack on the maritime vessels in the Gulf of Oman. We must keep the sea lanes safe for global commerce and travel.

The Charter of the United Nations gives the Security Council the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. Chapter VIII of the Charter also recognises the complementary roles of the United Nations and regional organisations in this regard. Political and strategic alignment between the Security Council and regional organisations has yielded effective results, as we have seen in the cases of Somalia and the Sudan, amongst many other examples. Such coordination should be enhanced and become more formalised and structured, which is why South Africa has consistently championed the strengthening of cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organisations.

As Council members are aware and recall, South Africa played a pioneering role in the adoption of resolutions 1809 (2008) and 2033 (2012) to further strengthen the relationship between the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council and the Security Council. Through these resolutions, we, as a country and as a representative of the African continent, demonstrated our collective political will to strengthen coordination and cooperation between the United Nations and regional organisations.

We also believe that cooperation amongst regional organisations is equally important, especially in instances where there is overlapping membership, which is the case with the League of Arab States and the African Union. In these instances, regional organisations should collaborate on developing regional solutions to such common challenges as the prevention and resolution of the conflicts, in particular those ravaging Africa and the Arab world.

South Africa is of the view that cooperation amongst global and regional bodies is critical to reaching a deeper understanding of regional challenges, seeking solutions for regional peace and security, and implementing agreed solutions, agreements, and frameworks. We have found that since the start of cooperation between the Council and the AU Peace and Security Council, the relationship between the two has been meaningful and useful in finding common ground on peace and security issues on the African continent. South Africa wholly supports improved and increased cooperation between the United Nations and the League of Arab States, as this is pertinent to dealing with conflicts in the Arab region.

South Africa appreciates the efforts of the League aimed at promoting peace in the Middle East region, especially those intended to further the Middle East peace process, the oldest peace and security item on the Council’s agenda. It is therefore vital that the United Nations strengthen its engagement with the League of Arab States. In this regard, South Africa welcomes the appointment of Mr. Mohamed Khaled Khiari as the Assistant Secretary-General for the Middle East, Asia, and the Pacific, which was created as part of the Secretary-General’s proposed reforms of the United Nations peace and security architecture.

We emphasise that in its cooperation with the League of Arab States, the Council should be consistent in addressing all of the conflicts in the Middle East, rather than selectively choosing some to the detriment of others. The underlying causes of uprisings and long-standing conflicts have to be addressed in a coordinated manner. We have not seen such an approach applied to the Middle East. There has been swift international reaction to some conflicts, while in others such cooperation is lacking. This is evident when it comes to the Israeli-Palestinian question, and it is unacceptable.

As we continue to consolidate and strengthen cooperation amongst the United Nations, the League of Arab States, and regional organisations, we call on the members of the Council to value and support these relationships and consistently make use of them in the maintenance of international peace and security. We support the draft presidential statement that will be adopted at the end of our deliberations.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8557th Meeting

Thursday, 20 June 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8557 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian Question

It is always emotionally difficult to talk about the Palestinian question, for it makes South Africans relive their difficult past. I would like to thank Mr. Mladenov for his briefing on the situation in the Middle East, including the question of Palestine.

We are all aware of the expression that the Roman Emperor Nero was reputed to have fiddled while Rome burned. If the Council, and indeed the international community, continue to deal with the question of Palestine in the manner in which we are currently doing, history will no doubt judge us as the abominable Nero. We are fiddling while the reality of an independent, safe, secure, and self-sufficient Palestinian State is slowly dwindling. Compounding the effects of the illegal Israeli occupation, earlier this week the Governor of the Palestine Monetary Authority, Mr. Azzam Shawwa, highlighted the dire financial constraints on the Palestinian Authority, which makes it very difficult to deliver basic services to its people.

On 22 November 1967, the Security Council adopted resolution 242 (1967), which called on all parties to end territorial claims and respect sovereignty and for Israel to withdraw from the occupied territories. In 2019, 52 years later, that has still not happened. Two generations later, it has not happened. In reality, Israel has illegally expanded its occupation with no consequences whatsoever from the Council.

From 1967 to January of last year, 250 settlements were constructed in the West Bank, housing 611,000 people, or 10 per cent of Israel’s population, and moved 12 per cent of the Palestinian population from their land. Since then, over the past 18 months that figure has sharply increased, as the Council has heard.

Those historical injustices against Palestine and its people must be addressed. The Council must uphold its responsibilities mandated by the Charter of the United Nations and act. It is long overdue for the Security Council to reassume its responsibility and act decisively to assist Israel and Palestine in finding a lasting peace in the Middle East.

Over the years, established legal frameworks have been agreed upon, including the Madrid Principles, the Arab Peace Initiative, the Quartet Road Map, and resolutions of the Security Council and the General Assembly. It is now time to put those guidelines into action.

We have taken note of the Bahrain meeting, which will be convened by the United States sometime this year.

A vital aspect of ensuring lasting peace, security, and stability in the Middle East is for the parties to talk to each other directly and negotiate directly towards finding a credible path to peace that is acceptable to Israelis and Palestinians alike. Those direct discussions must include all final-status issues, particularly with regard to borders, the status of Jerusalem and the return of Palestinian refugees. Eroding those core issues through detrimental unilateral action severely undermines previous peacemaking efforts and damages the prospects for durable peace for Israelis and Palestinians alike. The Security Council and its partners in peace must exert every effort to bring all sides to the negotiating table in order to allow them to find long-term peaceful solutions.

With regard to the humanitarian and human rights situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, there too we have all failed. Palestinians continue to live in unacceptable environments where their movement is restricted, their land and property are seized, and they have very little control over their own future. In Gaza, Israel’s illegal blockade has harshly and negatively impacted the economic and social development of the area. That has been further exacerbated by Israel’s illegal withholding of tax and customs revenues that rightfully belong to the Palestinian Authority to dispense as it sees fit. In that regard, South Africa calls for the immediate lifting of the illegal blockade and the release of all tax and customs revenues collected on behalf of the Palestinian Authority.

On the West Bank, we see continued expansion of illegal settlements and the confiscation and destruction of Palestinian property and land in direct violation of international law, including resolution 2334 (2016). Again, the Council has not acted to rectify that injustice. The detailed reports of recent developments regarding settlement expansion should at least compel the Council to act.

As we heard last month and was acknowledged by many members of the Council, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNWRA) plays a vital role in the lives of most Palestinians through the provision of health and education services and employment opportunities in many fields. Its important work must be fully supported and encouraged, and we hope the upcoming UNWRA conference later this month will be supported. We place on record our appreciation of those countries that, under difficult circumstances, have continued to help UNWRA, as Mr. Mladenov noted.

If you want to deny people means of self-reliance, livelihood, and future and turn them into desperate beggars, take their land and restrict their movement. That is what has been done and continues to be done to the Palestinians. The Council has watched and watched and talked and nothing has happened for 70 years, nothing.

On a positive note, we congratulate the State of Palestine on successfully joining the International Atomic Energy Agency as an observer on 18 June. That is a further step towards full acceptance by the international community of the reality that Palestine is indeed a State.

The international community has acknowledged that the only credible solution is one that is based on the two-State solution, with the 1967 borders and East Jerusalem as the capital of the independent and sovereign State of Palestine, and the State of Israel. Any peace plan proposed by anyone must acknowledge those facts and not pre-empt them, and must ensure a Palestinian State that has sovereignty, territorial integrity, and prosperity.

As we have repeatedly said in the Chamber, no people can be oppressed forever. That will never happen. They will resist and resist. Even if there is only one left standing, that one person will resist. That was true for all of us, and it will be true for Palestinians. If all but one Palestinian is killed, that one remaining Palestinian will resist oppression and occupation. The Council must take note of that.

Peace in Israel is a wish all of us pray for every day, because we all pray for peace for Israelis. They are our people. But it will happen only when Palestine is free and enjoying peace. The Council should assist both those two communities

-Israelis and Palestinians -in finding peace for the sake of their children and future generations.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8561st Meeting

Tuesday, 25 June 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8561 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

Report of the Secretary-General on the Implementaiton of Security Council Resolutions 2139 (2014), 2165 (2014), 2191 (2014), 2258 (2015), 2332 (2016), 2393 (2017), 2401 (2018), and 2449 (2018) (S/2019/508)

Allow me to begin by thanking Mr. Mark Lowcock, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator; Mr. David Lillie, Executive Director of the Syrian American Medical Society; and Major General Bakin, of the Russian Reconciliation Centre, for their briefings on the situation in Syria. I am also looking forward to hearing from our colleague, the Permanent Representative of Syria.

At the outset, South Africa would like to pay tribute to the humanitarian workers who have lost their lives in this devastating war. These men and women put the lives of those they chose to help before their own and paid the ultimate price. We thank them and honour their sacrifice. In that regard, we must do all we can to end the conflict in Syria so as to ensure that these courageous men and women did not lose their lives in vain.

South Africa believes that the only sustainable solution to the Syrian question remains the achievement of a political solution through an inclusive Syrian-owned and Syrian-led dialogue. The efforts of all stakeholders in that regard are undermined by the continued escalation of violence in some parts of Syria. In that connection, we call on all parties to fully implement all relevant Security Council resolutions, including resolutions 2254 (2015), on the political road map, and 2449 (2018), on cross-border humanitarian access. We also call for the full implementation of the September 2018 ceasefire memorandum and the recent ceasefire brokered between Russia and Turkey. South Africa calls on all parties to adhere to the provisions contained in the ceasefire agreements.

As stated in the Secretary-General’s report (S/2019/508), the humanitarian situation remains dire, particularly in the light of the increasing violence in north-western Syria, which has led thousands of civilians to flee the area. The situation in various camps throughout Syria is also of concern. The upcoming summer season is expected to lead to additional challenges to the already strained humanitarian assistance response. We therefore call on all parties to ensure that the required humanitarian assistance is being provided to all those who require it, wherever they may be.

In that regard, while we welcome the efforts of the United Nations and the Syrian Government in assisting those who are able to leave Rukban camp; many more are unable to do so at this time due to various challenges, including lack of resources. While people remain at Rukban, it is essential that they be provided with the assistance they require. We call on the relevant parties to ensure that the required permissions for additional aid convoys are granted.

With regard to the Syrian Golan, South Africa would like to reiterate its position that this territory remains illegally occupied and calls on Israel to adhere to the Council’s various resolutions and to withdraw from all occupied territories. The annexation of territory seized through the use of force is in violation of international law and must be condemned. In order to ensure long-term peace and security in the Middle East, it is vital that international law be respected and upheld.

In conclusion, South Africa remains committed to protecting the fundamental interests of all Syrian people, maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East, upholding the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, and preserving the basic norms governing international relations.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8564th Meeting

Wednesday, 26 June 2019, 9.45 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8564 Agenda:

Non-Proliferation

Letter Dated 13 June 2019 from the Security Council Facilitator for the Implementation of Resolution 2231 (2015) Addressed to the President of the Security Council (S/2019/488)

Seventh Report of the Secretary-General on the Implementation of Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015) (S/2019/492)

Letter Dated 21 June 2019 from the Security Council Facilitator for the Implementation of Resolution 2231 (2015) Addressed to the President of the Security Council (S/2019/514)

I would like to begin by thanking the briefers for their detailed and insightful presentations. My delegation joins others in welcoming the seventh report of the Secretary-General (S/2019/492) on the implementation of resolution 2231 (2015), and I want to reaffirm South Africa’s commitment to its full implementation.

South Africa welcomed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) as the greatest diplomatic achievement in the area of nuclear non-proliferation since the signing of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty in 1996. The JCPOA is a milestone deal, reached on 14 July 2015 after 12 years of intense diplomatic efforts and complex negotiations by China, France, Germany, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the European Union with the Islamic Republic of Iran. In that regard, my delegation fully supports the SecretaryGeneral’s view, expressed in paragraph 2 of his report, that such “diplomatic efforts and hard-won achievements must be preserved and built upon”.

South Africa welcomes the fact that Iran has complied with all its nuclear-related commitments as confirmed by the 15th report of the International Atomic Energy Agency, submitted to the Council on 31 May 2019. It continues to be crucial for Iran to continue to comply with the provisions of the JCPOA. It is important that all the remaining parties to the JCPOA fully implement and comply with the provisions of the agreement.

South Africa deeply regrets the decision by the United States to withdraw from the JCPOA. Furthermore, we share the disappointment expressed by the Secretary-General in his report regarding the decision of the United States not to renew waivers for nuclear non-proliferation projects in the framework of the JCPOA. It is our view that the decision by the United States will affect Iran’s ability to fully implement the provisions of the JCPOA and resolution 2231 (2015). It is important to recall that the lifting of sanctions, especially on certain nuclear-related materials, was part and parcel of the JCPOA.

While we commend the benefits of the JCPOA as an essential instrument of nuclear non-proliferation, we want to stress that the total elimination of nuclear weapons is the only guarantee that they will never again be used by anyone under any circumstances. South Africa would like to remind the Council that nuclear disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation are mutually reinforcing processes. The lack of progress on nuclear disarmament will inadvertently affect the gains made on nuclear non-proliferation. South Africa underlines the importance of respecting the inalienable right of States’ parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.

South Africa is a staunch supporter of nuclear-weapon-free zones as one of the major contributors to nuclear non-proliferation and critical building blocks towards the goal of a world without nuclear weapons. In that regard, we want to highlight the urgent need for the establishment of a zone in the Middle East free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction. South Africa welcomed General Assembly decision 73/546 of November 2018, mandating the convening of a conference to establish such a zone, to be held in November 2019. We call on all countries of the region to actively participate in good faith to ensure that the conference is indeed a success. South Africa wishes to reiterate the fact that the 1995 resolution on the Middle East adopted at the 1995 Review and Extension Conference of the Parties to the NPT, as well as other agreements made during subsequent Review Conferences, remain valid until they are fully implemented by all of us.

Finally, regarding the broader security of the region, South Africa joins others in expressing its concern about the growing tensions in the Persian Gulf and its impact on international peace and security. South Africa urges all parties involved to exercise the utmost restraint and not to allow the situation to get out of hand. The Council must support initiatives aimed at the restoration of peace and stability, not only in the Persian Gulf but also in the broader Middle East region. 2231 (2015).

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8566th Meeting

Thursday, 27 June 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8566 Agenda:

Reports of the Secretary-General on the Sudan and South Sudan Special Report of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and the Secretary-General of the United Nations on the Strategic Assessment of the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (S/2019/445)

I am delivering this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Security Council, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, and my own country, South Africa.

We would like to thank Council members for agreeing that now is not the time to continue the drawdown of the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID). The Council’s unity in taking this decision sends a message about the importance of recognising the current uncertainty prevailing on the political and security fronts. Though the African members of the Council would have preferred a six-month technical rollover to ensure adequate time to comprehensively evaluate the situation in Darfur, we nonetheless agree with the four-month period provided for in resolution 2479 (2019). That will enable both the African Union (AU) and the United Nations to make a thorough joint assessment and, hopefully, the mediation initiative to consolidate that process in the Sudan. The technical rollover supports and complements the decision of the African Union to postpone the drawdown. The decision taken today is an example of the important cooperation between the Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council in dealing with matters of peace and security on our continent. We trust that the leadership in the Sudan will effectively utilise the time that has been provided to address the political impasse, usher in stability, and fulfil the aspirations of the Sudanese people. Moreover, the time allowed should ensure that all UNAMID team sites are cleared for civilian purposes, as originally intended.

Peace and stability in the Sudan are critical for the region and for the continent as a whole, particularly with regard to fulfilling the aspirations of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and silencing the guns by 2020. The Sudan has played an important role in finding peace and security in Africa in the past and it should play that role again. The African members of the Council hope that the planned joint visit to Khartoum by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia, Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chair of the AU Commission, and Mr. Smaїl Chergui, the AU Commissioner for Peace and Security, will soon assist the Sudanese stakeholders in finding harmony on a common transitional arrangement. We also hope that they can agree on a local road map for peace in order to give certainty and assurance to all the Sudanese people, including in Darfur, so that their motherland will soon enjoy peace, stability and prosperity.

Lastly, we thank the United Kingdom and Germany, the co-penholders, for their leadership and transparency during the negotiations.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8567th Meeting

Thursday, 27 June 2019, 10.45 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8567 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

Allow me to congratulate you, Mr. President, on the distinguished manner in which you have presided over the Council for the past month. I would also like to thank Mr. Geir Pedersen, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria, for his briefing on the status of the political process in the country.

South Africa wishes to reiterate that the only sustainable solution to the conflict in Syria is a comprehensive political one that emanates from an inclusive Syrian-led dialogue. That process should be aimed at achieving a political transition that reflects the will of the Syrian people with guaranteed protection for all groups of Syrian society. My delegation appreciates and supports Mr. Pedersen and his team in their continued engagement and diplomatic efforts in building trust amongst the various parties, including civil society, and women’s groups, and we welcome the progress that he has made thus far. Without trust, there can be no progress.

South Africa calls on the Council to unite towards the full implementation of resolution 2254 (2015) as the blueprint for a long-term political solution in Syria.

In addition to the Special Envoy’s efforts to engage with all Syrian stakeholders, my delegation supports the Special Envoy in his efforts to establish a common forum with the aim of supporting a common purpose for peace in Syria. That would be an opportunity to revitalise broad-based international cooperation and to support the Geneva processes, including the finalisation of the constitutional committee, with a minimum of 30 per cent representation of women.

As many speakers stated earlier this week during the humanitarian briefing (see S/PV.8561), the escalation of violence, particularly in north-western Syria, undermines the efforts made in the political process and further aggravates the dire humanitarian situation in the country. The perpetuation of such acts has had an increasingly destabilising impact on the wider region through the displacement of thousands of people, the exacerbation of political and sectarian differences and the potential to spread extremism beyond Syria’s borders. The political and humanitarian situations in Syria cannot be addressed independently of each other. An escalation of violence and the deterioration of the humanitarian situation negatively affect the political progress. In the same vein, progress in the political sphere will support efforts towards ensuring that all Syrians can live in a safe, secure, and prosperous environment, free of violence and terrorism.

Peace, stability and democracy are unassailable rights of the Syrian people. The international community should fully support the political processes towards longterm peace in Syria as a matter of priority and continue to support the United Nations, including the Special Envoy, as well as other mediation efforts aimed at resolving the conflict. It is the Council’s responsibility to ensure that there is political progress and a return to normality in Syria.

In conclusion, South Africa reiterates its position that the annexation of any territory seized through force is invalid under international law and calls on Israel to withdraw from occupied territories. As many speakers have previously stated, the need to uphold and respect international law is essential to restoring longterm peace and stability in the Middle East. In that regard, we call on all parties to uphold and respect their international obligations if they expect the same from other countries.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8579th Meeting

Thursday, 18 July 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8579 Agenda:

Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace Strengthening Partnerships for Successful Nationally Owned Transitions Letter Dated 27 June 2019 from the Permanent Representative of Peru to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2019/540)

Peru Became the President of the United Nation’s Security Council for the Month of July 2019. Her Permanent Representative Presided Over the SC

My delegation would like to thank you, Mr. President, your Excellency Permanent Representative of Peru, Gustavo Meza-Cuadra for having convened this meeting on peacebuilding and sustaining peace, with its focus on strengthening partnerships for successful nationally owned transitions.

We thank Secretary-General António Guterres, the Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission and the representatives of the World Bank and the African Development Bank for their valuable briefings. We also welcome the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Haiti and the Minister for Legal Reforms and Parliamentary Affairs of Timor-Leste.

South Africa appreciates the work done by the Secretary-General and the progress made in addressing existing gaps in the United Nations’ system to assist countries in their efforts towards peacebuilding and sustaining peace. While we recognise that it is the primary responsibility of national Governments and authorities to identify, drive, and direct priorities, strategies, and activities for peacebuilding and sustaining peace, the international community has an obligation to ensure that it assists in the maintenance of peace and security, which includes partnerships for development to ensure the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals, which are necessary for addressing the root causes of conflict.

In that regard, South Africa continues to support the ongoing work of the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) to promote national ownership in political and peace and security processes in the pursuit of peaceful and resilient societies. Such societies will be realised only when the root causes and underlying currents of conflicts are addressed. We believe that any support for post-conflict reconstruction and development activities should be tailor-made to suit country-specific needs. For that to be sustainable local ownership and leadership are required, with the meaningful participation of women and the involvement of youth.

It is also our considered view that effective peacebuilding during transition periods must involve the entire United Nations’ system, focusing on enhancing United Nations cross-pillar coordination, including development, peace and security, and human rights. We therefore reaffirm our support for strengthened cooperation between the PBC and the Security Council, particularly when the Council is considering the review and drawdown of peacekeeping operations and special political missions. However, the Security Council must ensure from the outset that peace operation mandates for peacekeeping and political missions are realistic, tailored, and flexible so that the mission can achieve its desired outcomes in terms of peacekeeping and creating an enabling environment for peacebuilding processes.

Consultations on sustaining peace between the Security Council, the Peacebuilding Commission, and the host country during the periodic assessment and review of peace operation mandates as well as the eventual withdrawal of the mission are also important. This approach will guarantee the active involvement of all stakeholders, particularly the host country, in outlining the expectations of the mission, including milestones and time frames. It would not only ensure the success of the peace mission, but also lay the foundational groundwork for the continuation of peacebuilding processes in future.

We also see merit in enhancing partnerships between the United Nations’ peacekeeping architecture and the regional and subregional post-conflict reconstruction and development architecture, such as that of the African Union (AU). The Peacebuilding Commission should engage strategically with the AU post-conflict reconstruction and development policy, which is centred on peacebuilding activities in post-conflict situations in Africa. All efforts must be brought together to ensure development and the good sharing of practices in peacebuilding and secure resources that will enhance sustainable development. Although we recognise the usefulness of pragmatic funding for peacebuilding activities during transitions in order to prevent gaps after the mission’s withdrawal, we reiterate the need for practical, sustained and predictable funding for peacebuilding activities through assessed contributions. It is through this funding that peace activities can be sustained in the long term.

In conclusion, when the Security Council considers mission drawdowns in future, we must be cognisant of the fact that our responsibility does not end when the last phase of the peacekeeping mission ends. The Charter of the United Nations places the responsibility of the maintenance of international peace and security squarely on the shoulders of the Council. We must therefore ensure that we continue to remain engaged as countries make the transition from conflict to post-conflict situations. Our recent work in Haiti and the Council’s experience with the transition in Liberia are good examples of not neglecting countries once the peacekeepers have left. We are currently faced with situations on our agenda in which we are considering missions’ drawdowns. By necessity, this consideration must also include planning and resources in order to ensure that the countries are able to sustainably make the transition towards peace.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8581st Meeting

Friday, 19 July 2019, 10.20 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8581 Agenda:

Identical Letters Dated 19 January 2016 from the Permanent Representative of Colombia to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General and the President of the Security Council (5/2016/53)

Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (S/2019/530)

At the outset, let me start by thanking and congratulating the delegations of Peru and the United Kingdom, as President of the Council and penholder on Colombia, respectively, for leading a very successful mission to the country last week. The visit by the Council was aimed at improving its understanding of the status of the implementation of the Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace and the challenges faced by the country. South Africa agrees that the mission was successful.

I would also like to welcome the Foreign Minister of Colombia, Mr. Carlos Holmes Trujillo García, to today’s meeting. We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia, Mr. Carlos Ruiz Massieu, for his informative briefing and the good work he and his team are doing in the country.

The consolidation of peace after decades of conflict and mistrust is not an easy task. We wish to commend the Government of Colombia for its efforts aimed at implementing the peace agreement. South Africa’s position is informed by its principled stance that the only viable sustainable solution for the conflict lies in a negotiated and inclusive political settlement that is in the interests of and nationally led by the people of Colombia. South Africa therefore fully supports the final peace agreement that was signed between the Government of Colombia and the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia -Ejército del Pueblo (FARCEP) in 2016 and believes that it must be implemented in its entirety and in a comprehensive manner, ensuring the inclusion of youth, women, and civil society and the protection of their interests.

South Africa has also noted the progress made on the demobilisation and reintegration process of members of the FARC-EP, which should be commended.

In this regard, we call on all political parties to fully respect and remain committed to the agreement and continue to desist from any actions that may undermine its comprehensive implementation. In this context, South Africa also welcomes the recent positive steps taken by the Government in enacting the statutory law of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace and approving the national development plan. This plan lays the foundation for the Government to continue its initiative to integrate the former members of the FARC-EP and ensure that they have decent lives.

South Africa also agrees with the Secretary-General’s observation that the integration of Colombian society means that even historically excluded areas in Colombia need to be brought into the fold in order to ensure a smooth transition into the new era. The new plan can be used as a basis for identifying peace-related activities within a broader set of public investments in all the regions affected by the conflict. In this regard, South Africa agrees with the Secretary-General’s assessment that such efforts, especially the Special Jurisdiction for Peace, are the last missing pieces of the legal framework for Colombia’s transitional-justice model. Although there is a lot of work to be done going forward, the country is on a positive trajectory towards lasting peace and reconciliation.

It is important to deepen efforts to de-escalate tensions and advance the reintegration process. We remain concerned about the security of all stakeholders. It should be noted that integration cannot be achieved if all parties to the peace process are not guaranteed their personal security. South Africa is concerned about the increased killing of FARC-EP members and social and community leaders. We urge all parties to refrain from any actions that could undermine the building of the much-needed trust amongst all communities and to make positive efforts in this regard, which can be achieved only with the cooperation of all communities

-particularly the youth and women in these communities, who are most disproportionately affected by the conflict -the Government, former combatants, and institutional mechanisms and frameworks designed to prevent future violence and tensions.

It is our responsibility as the international community and, in particular, the United Nations through the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia, to support full compliance with the agreements reached between the parties concerning the monitoring and verification of the bilateral and definitive ceasefire, as well as the cessation of hostilities and the laying down of arms. It became increasingly visible during the visit of the Security Council that the work of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia is important and invaluable for the peace process and the implementation of the peace agreement.

It is encouraging that the Government has taken a flexible approach in relation to the FARC-EP with respect to the arrangements on the future of the 24 territorial areas for training and reintegration when the reintegration status ends on 15 August. It is encouraging that the Government has extended the date to clarify the status of these territorial areas for training and reintegration because it is a positive step towards addressing the security concerns of these communities. However, to ensure that the former combatants have adequate access to economic opportunities, the Government must swiftly approve plans for the disbursement of funding for economic activities and initiatives.

South Africa’s own experience with its Truth and Reconciliation Commission confirmed that its process was crucial for achieving national unity. Hearing the different views and versions of events of all communities in Colombia will ensure that the road to peace is based on an inclusive political process. A lasting comprehensive peace can be achieved only with the involvement of all stakeholders. It is also important for the Government to speak with one voice in an effort to consolidate national unity and reconciliation. South Africa therefore calls on all parties to respect the constitutionally mandated mechanisms and frameworks established to assist the political and judicial transition.

Let me conclude by stating that South Africa urges States’ Members of the United Nations and international partners to support and encourage the people of Colombia to preserve and fully implement the final peace agreement in a comprehensive manner, address the concerns and rights of victims to truth, justice, reparations, and non-repetition, as well as inclusive dialogue and a peaceful settlement. We also support and look forward to the extension of the Verification Mission for a period of one year.

For Foreign Minister Carlos Holmes Trujillo García and his delegation, I would like to note that a Nelson Mandela peace bench was unveiled yesterday by the South African, Norwegian, and the Nobel Peace communities to mark the 101st anniversary of the birth of Nelson Mandela. This bench, which is located at the visitor’s entrance of the building in which we sit today, has a simple quotation from Nelson Mandela inscribed on it: “The best weapon is to sit down and talk”. We hope that the people of Colombia will continue to sit down, talk, and negotiate, because we believe that by doing so, lasting peace will return to their country.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8588th Meeting

Monday, 29 July 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8588 Agenda:

The Situation in Libya

Needless to say, South Africa shares the sentiments expressed by the representatives of Côte d’Ivoire and Equatorial Guinea on the situation in Libya. In addition, I would like to welcome and thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Ghassan Salamé, for his enlightening briefing, and I also thank the Deputy Permanent Representative of Germany, Ambassador Schulz, for his comprehensive update on the work of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011), concerning Libya.

At the outset, I wish to express my delegation’s concern with the continued air strikes and indiscriminate artillery use in densely populated areas in Libya, which has resulted in the loss of lives and further exacerbated the already dire situation in the affected areas. We therefore urge the parties to agree to an immediate cessation of hostilities in order to end the military confrontation.

Following the unfortunate attacks on the Tajoura immigration detention centre earlier this month, the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council called for an independent investigation into the attacks, which South Africa firmly supports. In that regard, we look forward to the outcome of the investigation with a view to bringing the perpetrators of those atrocious acts to justice.

The worsening humanitarian situation remains the central concern for South Africa. In that regard, we urge the international community to continue to contribute towards the United Nations’ humanitarian response plan to assist those in desperate need of humanitarian assistance.

South Africa wishes to express its concern that the longer the crisis continues, the greater the humanitarian and development challenges that are faced by the Libyan people and the region as a whole. Those consequences include the proliferation of terrorist groups, which are gaining ground, the illegal smuggling, and use of arms, trafficking, and transnational organised crime.

On the political process, I extend my delegation’s gratitude to Special Representative Salamé and express full support for his continued efforts aimed at taking forward the two-track mediation process in order to engage with the stakeholders in Libya, as we were informed would be the case in Mr. Salamé’s previous briefing to the Security Council (see S/PV.8530). However, we deeply regret the political stalemate highlighted in his briefing today. South Africa is of the firm belief that the peaceful resolution of the conflict should remain the Council’s highest priority in terms of the efforts it is undertaking in Libya. For close to a decade now, we have been witnessing the effects of armed conflict and military interventionist policies. The Council should draw a lesson from this situation. Military solutions might appear to have short-term benefits, but they often do not lead to the long-lasting peace that is needed.

It is of concern that both sides have not agreed to resume the political process. It is South Africa’s belief that compromise from both sides is critical for the deescalation of tensions, to pave the way for the political process to resume as soon as possible.

It will also be crucial for Libya to decide on a new date for the national conference, as its indefinite postponement does not inspire trust and confidence in the process. In that regard, we urge the parties to resume the political process and create an environment conducive for the national conference to take place. We wish to take this opportunity to remind the parties that the national conference must be led by the Libyans themselves, with the support of the United Nations, the African Union, neighbouring countries, and the broader international community, which we believe will lead Libya on a positive trajectory.

We would like to emphasise the central role of the African Union, pursuant to Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations, in working closely with countries of the region to find a durable solution to the political stalemate in Libya. In that context, we echo the views of the African Union Peace and Security Council at its 857th meeting, held this month, that all partners involved in the political process of finding a sustainable settlement to the crisis in Libya should endeavour to complement the efforts of the AU.

With respect to sanctions, South Africa wishes to reiterate its position on the importance of sanctions as a useful tool for advancing a political process. Sanctions are not an end in themselves and should not be politicised in any way to advance a particular agenda. The renewal of the Libya sanctions regime in June this year in resolution 2473 (2019) demonstrates the Council’s recognition of the importance of the sanctions regime and the positive impact it will have on the political process in Libya. However, we are concerned about the reports received from the Panel of Experts with respect to the lack of effective implementation of the Libya sanctions measures, which is indicative of the continued involvement of external actors in Libya and will serve only to prolong the armed conflict and hostilities. It is imperative for Member States to meet their obligations in that regard, especially those represented at this table.

We are also particularly concerned about the continued violations of the arms embargo, which are counterproductive to the political process and also fuel the conflict in Libya. Accordingly, we urge the perpetrators to refrain from such practices, which continue to undermine any prospects for progress in finding a solution to the conflict.

In conclusion, we wish to emphasise the importance of both sides to the conflict committing to a ceasefire and resuming the political process, which in our view will pave the way for the national conference led by the Libyans themselves. It is crucial for that process to be inclusive of all members of society, including women and youth, to ensure that no one is left behind in the implementation of the collective decisions taken at the national conference.

South Africa and the three African States’ members of the Security Council will propose that the Libyan crisis be discussed in October by both the Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council during the former’s visit to Addis Ababa under the South African presidency of the Council.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8591st Meeting

Friday, 2 August 2019, 10.15 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8591 Agenda:

Children and Armed Conflict

Report of the Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict (S/2019/509)

Letter Dated 30 July 2019 from the Permanent Representative of Poland to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2019/605)

At the outset, I would like to thank the PR of Poland, H.E. Ambassador Joanna Wronecka for organising this open debate on children and armed conflict. The debate is timely, as it coincides with the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the adoption of resolution 1882 (2009), which gave an additional emphasis to the children and armed conflict agenda regarding the violations of killing, maiming and sexual violence. We wish to congratulate Peru on its successful presidency in July.

I would also like to thank all the briefers for their insightful briefings and express my gratitude to Ms. Kamara and Mr. Awan for sharing with us their stories as they journeyed through the valley of death to freedom and its possibilities today.

It is concerning that a decade since the adoption of resolution 1882 (2009), there are still thousands of boys and girls killed, maimed, and abducted, who fall victim to sexual violence and who are denied access to humanitarian assistance. Their basic rights to education and health are threatened and their schools and hospitals are closed or cease to Poland became function as a result of violent attacks, as witnessed in president of the UN many parts of the world today. Security Council for

the month of August

We are deeply disturbed by the Secretary-General’s

2019. Her permanentreport (S/2019/509), which states that more than representative,24,000 grave violations against children were verified Ambassador Joannaby the United Nations in 20 countries in 2018. Children Wronecka presided overrepresent an alarming percentage of the overall the SCnumber of casualties of war as refugees, internally displaced persons, unaccompanied minors, trafficked persons, or sexual slaves. Those are some of the concerns to which we are witness.

South Africa welcomes the efforts of Mrs. Gamba de Potgieter, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, to sign action plans with the parties to armed conflict so as to end and prevent the recruitment and use of children, as well as other grave violations. It is paramount that such action plans be concrete and their timebound measures be implemented.

We also commend Ms. Fore, Executive Director of UNICEF, for the Fund’s rapid response to urgently support children in emergencies and engagements with all parties to negotiate humanitarian access and build trust on all sides in order to serve children.

South Africa welcomes the release of 13,000 children from armed forces and armed groups. However, we remain concerned about the manner in which children are forced to take an active part in hostilities, including carrying out suicide bombings against civilians.

We call upon the armed groups to stop the recruitment and use of children in armed forces, as Mr. Awan justified this morning. We are aware that children, particularly girls, associated with such armed conflicts are vulnerable to sexual abuse, including sexual slavery. Resolution 2467 (2019) is instrumental, as it aims to prevent those grave violations and provide for the protection of girls from sexual violence during conflict.

The detention of children who are part of, or perceived to be associated with, parties to conflict is worrisome. It is important that such children be treated primarily as victims. States have an obligation to ensure that relevant programmes are put in place to ensure that children are reintegrated into society after they have been released from armed groups. South Africa applauds the measures put in place by countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan to improve the protection of children and emphasises that a greater focus needs to be placed on extensive child reintegration programmes, as was recommended by Ms. Kamara this morning. We therefore commend the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and UNICEF for launching the Global Coalition for the Reintegration of Former Child Soldiers in September 2018 to encourage greater support for child reintegration.

We are aware that, in many situations, perpetrators of grave violations remain unidentified. Even in cases where programmes and mechanisms to advance accountability exist, they often fail to achieve tangible outcomes for children. Access to justice is imperative for the advancement of children’s rights and for defending their legitimate interests. That is paramount to their psychological and psychosocial development in ensuring that they are able to grow and develop into adulthood free from fear and unintended irreversible consequences, such as those described in Peter Awan’s testimony.

On 16 June 1976, thousands of black South African children took to the streets to protest about the inferior quality of education to which they were subjected and demanded the right to be taught in their home languages. A hundred of them were shot dead and in the weeks of protests that followed, more hundreds of children were killed and a thousand injured. To honour their courage and in memory of those killed, in 1991 the Organisation of African Unity established the Day of the African Child. The Day also draws attention to the lives of African children today. The Day of the African Child’s objective is to remember those children as well as to inspire sober reflection and action towards addressing the plethora of challenges that children in Africa face daily.

Children are fundamental to the future of peaceful and prosperous societies in all corners of the world. It is imperative that we partner globally, regionally, and nationally to combine our efforts to collectively strengthen institutions and services for children, including justice, education, and health services.

In conclusion, addressing the root causes of conflict should be the primary objective to prevent violations against children. My delegation wishes to emphasise the importance of providing the necessary support to such boys and girls so that they can thrive in their reintegration processes and have opportunities for a better and brighter future. We should all remember an African saying: any child is my child.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8593rd Meeting

Wednesday, 7 August 2019, 10.10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8593 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

Allow me to begin by thanking Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo for her briefing. I also thank the civil society briefers, Dr. Hala and Ms. Khoulani, for their statements this morning.

Since the creation of the United Nations in 1945 from the vestiges of the brutal and devastating Second World War, the United Nations and its Member States have had to acknowledge and address the challenges of missing and detained persons as a result of conflict. Today, in a world of seemingly endless conflicts, the question of missing and detained persons prevails in all parts of the world -in Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Libya, Afghanistan, Palestine, Western Sahara, Colombia, and other trouble spots worldwide.

And since the colonial subjugation of Africans and the slave trade of centuries past, many Africans have perished in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Four hundred years after we were first forcefully removed from Africa as slaves, we are still waiting for full accountability for the persons who went missing during those years.

The long-term impact of being unable to account for missing persons in armed conflict extends beyond the victims themselves and, as we have heard here today, has lasting and prolonged consequences for affected families, friends, communities and countries as a whole. In that regard, all parties to a conflict, be they an occupying power, a State or a non-State actor, must be cognisant of and respect their legal and moral obligations to ensure that the people within their borders, areas of control or occupation are protected and that detailed records are kept of those detained. We would also like to highlight the importance of addressing the return of mortal remains to families as a way to begin the healing process.

From our own history and experience of national reconciliation, I would like to highlight the importance of truth, justice, and accountability in solidifying the peace process, bringing closure to families and beginning the process of reconciliation and integration. The ultimate goal is long-term peace, stability, and prosperity for all -victims and the State alike. In that regard, my delegation would like to welcome the efforts of the Astana group and the United Nations that resulted in the recent prisoner swap on 31 July between the Syrian Government and the opposition parties in Abu Al-Zindeen, in northern Aleppo. South Africa urges all parties to agree to additional prisoner exchanges and to move away from one-to-one exchanges in favour of the release of larger numbers of detainees by both parties to the conflict.

In order to continue to build on that positive momentum, South Africa calls on all parties to make every effort to release civilians -particularly women, children, the elderly, the sick, and those with disabilities -from detention as a gesture of good faith and confidence-building amongst the parties to the conflict. No child should be kept in detention indefinitely, under any circumstances.

In the meantime, and in order to enhance accountability to our own societies and communities, let us make efforts to welcome and receive our nationals into our countries from Syrian refugee and detention centres. That would support Mr. Geir Pedersen’s role in facilitating political dialogue, particularly on the matter of prisoners and missing persons, amongst the various stakeholders in the Syrian conflict.

In conclusion, I would like to reiterate South Africa’s position that the only way to achieve long-term peace and stability in Syria is through an inclusive Syrian-led and -owned political dialogue, facilitated by the United Nations, on the basis of resolution 2254 (2015). In order to continue to make progress on the matter of missing persons and detainees, progress must be made in the political process.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8596th Meeting

Tuesday, 13 August 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8596 Agenda:

The Promotion and Strengthening of the Rule of Law in the Maintenance of International Peace and Security International Humanitarian Law

Letter Dated 5 August 2019 from the Permanent Representative of Poland to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2019/629)

I deliver this statement on behalf of the African members of the Security Council

-Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea and South Africa. We would like to thank the briefers this morning for their comprehensive briefings and for particularly reemphasising the importance of respecting international humanitarian law. We would also like to welcome the Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany, Mr. Heiko Maas.

Allow us to also thank Poland for organising this briefing on international humanitarian law on the 70th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions. The four Geneva Conventions of 1949 form the cornerstone of international humanitarian law. They have been complemented by the two Protocols Additional of 1977 and Protocol III Additional of 2005. Their adoption in the aftermath of the Second World War firmly established that those who are not, or no longer, taking direct part in hostilities -the sick and prisoners of war, including civilians living under occupation -must be protected and their dignity upheld without adverse distinction.

We wish to underscore that all parties involved in armed conflict are obligated to respect international humanitarian law in all circumstances. We are disturbed by reports of war crimes in some parts of the world and the tremendous harm inflicted on civilian populations and vulnerable persons, which illustrate blatant violations of international humanitarian law. Thousands of people continue to bear the brunt of armed conflict, particularly women and children, and have been forced to leave their homes, sometimes taking extreme and dangerous routes to seek refuge in safer countries far away. In addition, victims and their communities must be given access to resources in order to limit the negative effects that such crimes have on societies.

In some armed conflicts, parties to conflict have often resorted to the recruitment of children and have used sexual exploitation and abuse as a method of war. Ensuring respect for international humanitarian law has been extremely challenging in such conflicts, and there is a clear serious compliance deficit. The international community has the obligation to address the situation urgently.

We remain grateful to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and Mr. Peter Maurer for their continued commitment to preserve human lives, dignity, and well-being. We commend the ICRC’s outstanding work in its quest to reach people who urgently seek humanitarian assistance and relief. The ICRC continues to contribute to the development and implementation of international mechanisms and frameworks for providing effective humanitarian assistance to people who are negatively affected by war and armed conflict, particularly women and children.

Conflicts have evolved in recent years. The new emerging nature of conflicts and the resurgence in violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, which compels people to seek refuge elsewhere, is a matter of concern. We have witnessed an upsurge in violent extremism and terror attacks in which thousands of innocent civilians are targeted by armed terrorist groups.

In this new era of extremism, the respect that has existed historically for aid workers, medical personnel, schools, hospitals, and other essential civilian facilities is no longer abided. Our historical heritage and cultural property continue to be indiscriminately decimated. At the same time, communities that have traditionally lived in peace are now turning against one another violently as they compete for access to resources.

Some armed conflicts are playing out in Africa and delaying the achievement of peace and security as key prerequisites for Africa’s prosperity. This challenge is becoming more alarming with the changing face of contemporary armed conflicts. Modern technology has brought about many positive developments but, on the grim side, it is increasingly characterised by the use of an array of new and lethal methods of warfare, including remote-controlled weapons and automated systems that contribute decisively to the dehumanisation of war. Their use and the destruction that they can cause have serious legal, ethical, moral, and practical implications for international humanitarian law.

We underscore the need to respect international humanitarian law and international human rights law by all parties to armed conflict. Access to people in distress in conflict areas by humanitarian workers remains a serious challenge and cause for concern. As members of the Security Council, we need to ensure unfettered access to and the prioritisation of security for humanitarian workers in key areas. Otherwise, such insecurity will persistently hinder efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to people in need of relief.

The root causes of war crimes, including abject poverty, the violation of women’s rights, and political corruption, must be addressed. The best way to ensure respect for international humanitarian law and to end the suffering of civilians and vulnerable persons is to prevent armed conflict. Conflict prevention and inclusive dialogue remain critical mechanisms that have proven to be effective in averting possible deadly conflicts when combined with strong political will and support from regional and international partners.

The Council has the responsibility to redouble its efforts to prevent and resolve conflicts in its quest to maintain international peace and stability.

We cannot overemphasise the fact that accountability is critical to ensuring respect for international humanitarian law. Likewise, impunity must be eliminated. The responsibility to end impunity by prosecuting alleged perpetrators for crimes against humanity and war crimes lies first with States, including through improved ways of carrying out mutual legal assistance.

In conclusion, the Geneva Conventions and the relevant Protocols are strongly supported. Our aim should be for respect for international humanitarian law to be strengthened and enhanced. We believe that the relevance of the Geneva Conventions remains intact in their 70th year of existence and that their implementation should be encouraged in order to ensure the continued protection of civilians.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8598th Meeting

Tuesday, 20 August 2019, 10.10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8598 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

We thank the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, Mr. Martin Griffiths, and the Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Ms. Ursula Mueller for their briefings. South Africa wishes to express its support for the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy and commend him on all the efforts that he is undertaking to find a peaceful solution to the situation in Yemen.

My delegation would like to address two points in our intervention today, namely, the political situation and the humanitarian situation. Firstly, with regard to the political situation, we continue to urge all parties involved in the war in Yemen to cease hostilities and fully implement the Stockholm Agreement. We believe that, in order to achieve sustainable peace in Yemen, differences amongst the parties cannot be resolved militarily.

In that regard, we call on all sides to carry out their respective obligations as set forth in the Stockholm Agreement. Its implementation is of paramount importance, as it will assist in building confidence amongst the parties and improve the chances of reaching a broader political agreement. We welcome any positive steps taken by the parties to resolve the conflict so far, which help deescalate tensions.

South Africa firmly believes that, in order to ensure a long-term solution to the crisis in Yemen, it is necessary for all parties to commit to a political process. We continue to support a negotiated political settlement that engages all parties in an inclusive all Yemeni-led dialogue to resolve differences and address the legitimate concerns of all Yemenis in accordance with the relevant Security Council resolutions.

The recent developments in southern Yemen are of deep concern. We wish to encourage players in the region to continue the process of seeking a solution to this new development that will support the United Nations’-mediated process and the Stockholm Agreement. We are encouraged by positive developments in the region to increase cooperation and work to achieve that goal. We further call on all the countries of the region to prioritise dialogue to address any political differences that might exist. Secondly, concerning the humanitarian situation, South Africa remains extremely concerned about the serious humanitarian crisis in Yemen. To date, over 15 million people -half the population of Yemen -are facing starvation; 1.1 million people are affected by cholera; and 3 million people have been forced to flee, according to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Vulnerable groups, especially women and children, most often face the severe consequences of war, and that is no different in Yemen. This unprecedented humanitarian crisis of epic proportions is a strong indicator of the human toll of continued military action and conflict in Yemen, which requires an urgent commitment to a ceasefire and the pursuit of a negotiated, peaceful, and inclusive solution to the crisis.

South Africa also calls on all parties to abide by their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law. We welcome the full reopening of the World Food Programme’s aid distribution after its partial closure in June. We remain hopeful that that critical aid channel will remain open and free of misuse.

The continued violence by all parties to this conflict is not conducive to peacebuilding measures. To enable the latter, South Africa calls on all parties to de-escalate the fighting in other parts of the country and commit to a general ceasefire to enable dialogue and inclusive peaceful negotiations.

In conclusion, we wish to reiterate that the only sustainable solution to the conflict will be a negotiated, Yemeni-led political settlement that is inclusive and fair and that puts the interests and well-being of all the citizens of Yemen first.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8600th Meeting

Tuesday, 20 August 2019, 3.10 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8600 Agenda:

Maintenance of International Peace and Security Challenges to Peace and Security in the Middle East

Letter Dated 6 August 2019 from the Permanent Representative of Poland to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2019/643)

We thank you, Mr. Minister, Minister of Foreign Affair of Poland for presiding once again over the Council’s deliberations. We thank the Polish delegation for having convened today’s debate on the challenges to peace and security in the Middle East. My delegation also appreciates the insightful briefing of Ms. Viotti, Chef de Cabinet in the Executive Office of the Secretary-General.

We also welcome the Secretary of State of the United States and the State Secretary of the Federal Foreign Office of Germany to the Council and thank them for their statements.

South Africa welcomes the debate on the threats and challenges to peace and security in the Middle East, and we wish to emphasise that there is no one-sizefits-all solution to those challenges, given the diversity of the challenges facing each of the countries in the region. The destruction of property and infrastructure caused by bombings in the Middle East is unprecedented and devastating. The satellite pictures of the region show destruction resembling the kind of ruins last seen during the Second World War, 74 years ago. The unprecedented human suffering and the destruction of physical and social infrastructure should be stopped.

Millions of women and children have perished and been permanently disfigured. Millions have been internally displaced and millions more made refugees in faraway lands -some since childhood. They have never known peace. The upsurge in the radicalisation of young people and terror-linked insurgent groupings, which are causing havoc in the region and beyond, are of great concern to South Africa.

South Africa firmly believes that the question of Palestine and Israel remains the core issue and that its resolution will have a positive impact on the entire region for many generations to come. South Africa is deeply concerned about the humanitarian cost of the various conflicts in the Middle East, which remains the most acute of any other region, as can be illustrated by the prolonged and continued suffering of refugees, internally displaced persons, and those caught up in the midst of armed conflict in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and elsewhere.

We call on the international community to pay equal attention to Yemen, which remains the worst humanitarian crisis in the world, and call on the parties to the Yemeni conflict to respect international humanitarian law, including the Stockholm Agreement.

South Africa regrets the withdrawal of the United States from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). We continue to urge our friends in the United States of America to reconsider their position in that regard. The JCPOA is the most important diplomatic achievement in the area of nuclear nonproliferation in a very long time. It is a significant multilateral success that contributes to the maintenance of international peace and security. We also urge Iran to continue abiding by its obligations under the JCPOA.

South Africa believes that in order to address the root causes of the peace and security challenges in the Middle East, the Council needs to display the necessary political will and good faith to resolve long-standing and festering conflicts such as the question of Palestine, which has been a source of tension in the region for many decades.

South Africa believes that only multilateral and collective action and a continued commitment to preventive diplomacy and inclusive dialogue, as opposed to confrontation and conflict, will reduce such tensions, culminating in a more peaceful and prosperous region that is rich in diversity, culture and civilisation.

In conclusion, we would also like to emphasise the importance of the implementation of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and of the objective of achieving a nuclear-free Middle East. In Syria, the Geneva agreement should be implemented. In Yemen, the Stockholm Agreement should be implemented. The peace process between Israel and Palestine should be relaunched. The zone of peace and stability and the economic boom enjoyed by the Gulf countries could be utilised to stimulate an environment of peace across the Middle East, and perhaps begin a grand debate about the future of the Middle East.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8601st Meeting

Wednesday, 21 August 2019, 9.30 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8601 Agenda:

The Situation in Somalia

Report of the Secretary-General on Somalia (S/2019/661)

South Africa wishes to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), Mr. James Swan; the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Ms. Pramila Patten; the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia and Head of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), Ambassador Francisco Caetano José Madeira; and our sister, the Executive Director of the Somali Women Development Centre, Ms. Amina Arale, for their briefings.

My delegation commends the role that UNSOM, the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), AMISOM, the African Union (AU), and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, as well as international partners, have been playing in facilitating State-building and peacebuilding processes in Somalia. We pay tribute to the sacrifices that are being made by AMISOM and the Somali security forces to ensure that the vision of a peaceful and stable Somalia is realised.

My delegation would like to address the following three issues: firstly, the political process and the imperative of national dialogue and reconciliation; secondly, the necessity of addressing security and humanitarian issues; and, thirdly, the importance of creating suitable conditions for the 2020-2021 national elections.

Firstly, South Africa wishes to underline the critical importance of ensuring that the political process in Somalia is sustained. In that regard, my delegation reiterates that the gains achieved in Somalia can be strengthened and sustained only when all leaders of the Federal Government and the federal Member States resume their efforts to engage in a genuine national dialogue. That is the only way to address the outstanding political issues and challenges that they are currently encountering. That will require compromise, cooperation, and consensus on key issues on the part of all stakeholders.

We also urge support and encouragement for stakeholders to undertake dialogue and broad-based and inclusive reconciliation at the regional level, with the support and participation of the Federal Government and the administrations of federal Member States. That will ensure that any differences or disagreements over regional electoral processes are attended to as soon as possible and resolved in a peaceful manner.

South Africa therefore welcomes the progress made in the legislative process, especially the resumption of cooperation between the two Houses of Parliament; the submission of key legislation in Parliament; the completion of the preliminary technical review of the last five chapters of the Provisional Federal Constitution; and the draft electoral bill. Equally significant are efforts that include the reiteration of commitments to dialogue between Somalia and “Somaliland”; the roll-out of the National Reconciliation Framework to the federal Member States by the Federal Government; and efforts towards regional and local-level reconciliation meetings.

With regard to the prevailing security situation, we note with serious concern that Al-Shabaab has increased its acts of terror in Somalia, including in Mogadishu. Of concern is its increased capability to use improvised explosive devices and vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices in attacks conducted by the group. Al-Shabaab continues to undertake attacks on Government personnel and facilities, which include the killing of civilians, United Nations’ staff and humanitarian workers, AMISOM forces, the Somali security forces, and international partners. These continued atrocities on the part of Al-Shabaab must be condemned and cannot go unpunished. We also believe in the importance of increasing efforts to address inter-clan and communal clashes, which have, regrettably, resulted in the loss of lives.

However, we commend the ongoing success of the Somali National Army (SNA) on its offensive operations and stabilisation activities, with the support of AMISOM and international partners, in Lower Shabelle as a clear demonstration of its efforts to counter and degrade Al-Shabaab. This further underscores not only the significant role that AMISOM continues to play in support of the SNA-led operations, but also its critical importance, together with the United Nations and international partners, in terms of addressing the security challenges facing Somalia.

Furthermore, we reiterate that for Somalia to be able to take ownership of addressing its own security challenges, the area of capacity-building requires sustained and coordinated international support. In this regard, South Africa calls for the continuation of the implementation of the comprehensive approach to security, encompassing international support, coordination, and joint planning by AMISOM, the Federal Government, the federal Member States, UNSOM, UNSOS, and regional partners, amongst others. This includes a focus on preventing and countering violent extremism at the lower levels, thus ensuring that efforts to address Al-Shabaab are not only military but comprehensive and include the effective rehabilitation and reintegration of defectors.

Secondly, the current insecurity in Somalia is further exacerbated by the continued humanitarian situation. The ongoing climatic effects of decreased seasonal rains, drought, and flooding have had a negative impact on food production, which, in turn, has increased food insecurity and adversely affected the most vulnerable communities, including children, especially amongst internally displaced persons. In addition, many people are also being internally displaced due to evictions, food insecurity, and other factors. All together, these various developments have further increased the duration of the humanitarian situation in Somalia. For those reasons, we support the appeal by the Secretary-General for an increase in efforts aimed at supporting the delivery of life-saving assistance and protection. Continued support in addressing the humanitarian situation in Somalia remains of paramount importance. We therefore urge the international community to support the funding of the 2019 humanitarian response plan for Somalia in order for the humanitarian community to deliver necessary services to civilians in need. We also echo the Secretary-General in commending the Somali authorities for demonstrating leadership by prioritising the scaling-up of its drought response and its collaboration with aid agencies.

Thirdly, South Africa wishes to underline the imperative of creating suitable conditions for the 2020 and 2021 national elections in Somalia. In that respect, we agree with the Secretary-General about the need for Somali stakeholders to reach consensus on key electoral issues, including the adoption of the draft electoral law and the need to mobilise financial support for conducting such electoral activities as voter registration. Above all, it is of critical importance that the electoral security coordination mechanisms be established to ensure proper planning and operations.

The need for assistance and support from the United Nations through UNSOM, but also in coordination with the Somali National Army and AMISOM, as well as all other international partners, is paramount for delivering secure and successful elections in 2020 and 2021 in Somalia. Creating the suitable conditions for, and ultimately holding, successful national elections will be a key milestone towards State-building and peacebuilding for Somalia, which includes resolving the reported targeted assassinations of participants in electoral processes.

In conclusion, it is pleasing to note that UNSOM has worked diligently to include the participation of women and youth in the political processes in Somalia through the holding of various events aimed at building capacity and awareness, particularly on constitutional review and election-related matters. We equally commend the Federal Government of Somalia for ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. These developments constitute positive steps towards an inclusive State-building and peacebuilding process in Somalia. It is therefore the responsibility of the international community to continue supporting the cause of the Somali people towards sustainable peace and stability. We in South Africa will play our part.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8602nd Meeting

Thursday, 22 August 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8602 Agenda:

Threats to International Peace and Security

We thank you, Madam President, your Excellency Mme Joanna Wronecka for convening today’s meeting on threats to international peace and security. My delegation also appreciates the briefing by Ms. lzumi Nakamitsu, Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs.

South Africa’s primary concern on matters of international peace and security is the threat posed to humankind by weapons of mass destruction, in particular nuclear weapons and their means of delivery. It is our firm view that the only guarantee against the intended or accidental detonation of those weapons is their total elimination. It is equally of concern that some nuclear-weapon States still insist on the modernisation of their nuclear arsenals and their means of delivery, in flagrant violation of the letter and spirit of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

It is indeed deeply troubling that a long-established arms control instrument such as the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty has unravelled, placing not only the region of Europe but the whole world at risk of a nuclear war and catastrophe. We also wish to use this timely opportunity to urge both the United States of America and Russia to resume discussions on the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) before it expires in 2021. Such an undertaking by the two premier nuclear-weapon States would be an appropriate and fitting tribute to the NPT, whose 50th anniversary we mark in 2020. We will also celebrate in 2020 the 75th anniversary of the United Nations -the parliament of the peoples of the world, which those two countries assisted in establishing.

As the international community will commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons on 26 September this year, let it serve as a constant and painful reminder to the international community of its unfulfilled commitments and obligations to eliminate nuclear weapons, as envisaged in the very first resolution (resolution 1 (I)) adopted by the General Assembly in 1946 -73 years ago. As we approach the 75th anniversary of the United Nations in 2020, it is our view that we should reflect deeply and reaffirm our commitment to the realisation of a world free of nuclear weapons. South Africa’s support for the total elimination of nuclear weapons is informed by our own experience as the only country to date to have developed and then voluntarily eliminated its nuclear weapons for the sake of our children and generations to come.

South Africa joins the majority of Member States in voicing our deepest concern regarding the humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons, as aptly outlined in the Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), which opened for signature on 20 September 2017. We call upon the United Nations’ community to sign and ratify the Treaty at the earliest possible time so that the TPNW can enter into force as soon as possible. We need just two more signatures for the Treaty to come into force. South Africa reaffirms its view that the TPNW is a bold and positive step towards the total elimination of nuclear weapons and strengthens the NPT.

The NPT remains the cornerstone of nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation. However, we are deeply concerned that the NPT continues to be subjected to significant tensions as a result of the non-implementation of the nuclear disarmament obligations under article VI of the Treaty and the related undertakings made at the 1995, 2000, and 2010 Review Conferences of the Parties to the NPT.

The current NPT review cycle, which will coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Treaty, presents an opportunity to make urgent progress on nuclear disarmament. South Africa believes that nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation are mutually reinforcing processes that require continuous and irreversible progress on both fronts. The selective focus on non-proliferation measures and the lack of progress on nuclear disarmament undermines the NPT and weakens the nonproliferation regime. The total elimination of nuclear weapons and legally binding assurances that they will never be produced again is the only guarantee that those weapons will never be used as we saw in Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.

In conclusion, South Africa wishes to reiterate its commitment to multilateralism and the centrality of the United Nations in resolving today’s challenges, including that of nuclear disarmament.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8603rd Meeting

Monday, 26 August 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8603 Agenda:

Reports of the Secretary-General on the Sudan and South Sudan

My delegation would like to thank you, Madam President, for convening this meeting. We would also like to thank the Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, and the African Union Commissioner for Peace and Security, Ambassador Smaïl Chergui, for their comprehensive briefings. I also welcome my old friend and peer, the Chair of the Group of African States for this month, Ambassador Omer Siddig of the Sudan. I would like to focus my intervention on two key issues, namely, the political situation and developments in Khartoum and the situation in Darfur.

On the political situation, we welcome the recent signing of the constitutional declaration in the Sudan and congratulate the parties for reaching this historic milestone. We also welcome the efforts undertaken by the Prime Minister of Ethiopia on behalf of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the African Union in bringing the parties together and ending months of unrest. We particularly commend the African Union Special Envoy, Mohamed El Hacen Lebatt, and the Special Envoy of the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Ambassador Mahmoud Dirir, on their role in facilitating the mediation that resulted in the power-sharing agreement. The establishment of the Sovereign Council, which includes two women, to be led in the first 21 months by Lieutenant General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan, is a welcome development. We also applaud the appointment of Mr. Abdalla Hamdok as Prime Minister.

The real work begins now. We urge all Sudanese stakeholders to implement the commitments made in the agreements, in order to meet the aspirations of the Sudanese people for sustainable peace, security, reconciliation, and development. The people of the Sudan have yearned for peace for too long and sacrificed too dearly. Their aspirations need to translate into tangible dividends on the ground. In that regard, we urge all parties to redouble their efforts to work together to rebuild a united, inclusive, and strong Sudan underpinned by democratic principles.

It is vital that the region and the African Union continue to provide assistance to the political process in the Sudan. The support of the international community remains a critical part of enhancing the work of the region and unlocking those international institutions and processes that will allow the Sudan to rebuild its economy. Moving forward, it is imperative to create an enabling environment and provide support to the parties to ensure the full implementation of the agreements. We should safeguard against external interference and give the parties the space to chart their trajectory towards peace and development.

We are encouraged by the improving relations between the countries in the region. This rapprochement is a step in the right direction for regional peace and stability and will contribute to the ideal of silencing the guns on the continent by 2020. We urge the leaders in the region to continue this positive momentum of political dialogue, to strengthen regional stability and to utilise the same determination to help resolve the Somalia question.

The situation in Darfur continues to improve. However, remnants of insecurity find expression in the form of human rights and humanitarian challenges. Therefore, it is imperative for the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) to continue discharging its mandate as issued by the Security Council.

South Africa looks forward to the joint report of the Secretary-General and the Chairperson of the African Union Commission in September. The report is expected to provide an assessment of the situation on the ground and recommendations on the appropriate course of action regarding the drawdown of UNAMID, as well as a joint African Union-United Nations political strategy detailing options for a follow-on mechanism to UNAMID.

In the meantime, it is worth underlining that the root causes of the situation in Darfur must be addressed in a sustainable manner. As such, the rejuvenation of the Doha peace process is very important, particularly given its current unclear trajectory. We trust that the renewed hope ushered in by the current agreement will create impetus for the peace process in Darfur and we encourage all armed groups to cooperate and join the political dialogue with a view to working towards comprehensive peace and reconciliation throughout the Sudan.

Lastly, the international community must support the parties in the Sudan as they work towards consolidating peace and stability in their country. That support should address socioeconomic challenges, with the primary focus being on economic development and the mobilisation of necessary financial resources to bolster the country in its economic recovery. We commend the countries that have already contributed in that regard.

It is our view that the Sudanese people must capitalise on the prevailing positive environment to identify, drive and direct priorities, strategies, and activities for building and sustaining peace during the transition and the UNAMID drawdown process, as well as for managing outstanding and unresolved issues between the Sudan and South Sudan. South Africa welcomes and supports the visit to the Sudan by both Mr. Lacroix and Mr. Chergui, planned for October.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8604th Meeting

Tuesday, 27 August 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8604 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East, Including the Palestinian Question

We welcome you to New York, Mr. President, and thank you for presiding over this meeting of the Security Council today. My delegation would also like to thank the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, for his briefing and tireless efforts in taking forward the Israeli-Palestinian question.

At the outset, South Africa would like to remind the Council of the United Nations’ and the Council’s own decisions taken in resolution 242 (1967) calling for Israel to withdraw its armed forces from the territories occupied in the conflict. I would like to express South Africa’s unwavering support for the two-State solution and the agreed peace processes aimed at ensuring two viable States of Israel and Palestine with the possibility of them coexisting side by side to the mutual benefit of all the people in the region.

We also express our grave concern about the continued disregard for the prevailing and long-standing Middle East peace process, such as the systematic foreclosing of the final-status issues, particularly with regard to the borders and the status of Jerusalem.

South Africa believes that the continued expansion of settlements violates international law, undermines the prospects for achieving peace, and contravenes the decisions of the Security Council, effectively damaging its credibility. If the Council cannot uphold its own decisions, it will lose its effectiveness and purpose. We continue to call for the implementation of resolution 2334 (2016) and note that the overt violation of Security Council resolutions usually evokes stricter measures on the party responsible for such infringements. The Council should be consistent and fair vis-à-vis all United Nations Member States.

South Africa believes that the Council ought to work towards restoring the trust in the legitimacy of the peace process that has been pursued for decades and prevent the further development of antagonism between the parties. The rockets fired into Israel from Gaza in recent days and the deadly Israeli responses are clear indications that, as long as the impasse continues, the instability will be perpetuated, and more lives will be lost.

We further call for the written response by the Secretary-General on this matter in accordance with resolution 2334 (2016), and we look forward to the circulation of the written report ahead of the next reporting cycle in September. Furthermore, we also express our concern about the continued human rights violations in the occupied territories and emphasise that those violations only contribute to the festering hatred between Palestinians and Israelis.

We believe that, instead of antagonistic acts, such as building additional barriers and walls, closing schools, and killing civilians, the Council should encourage gestures of hope and the building of trust between the parties, namely, the Palestinians and the Israelis, which has long since been lacking. The Council should urge the current generation of Israeli and Palestinian leaders to resolve this core issue in the Middle East. Passing the problem onto the fourth generation of Palestinians and Israelis since 1948 would be disastrous, and the Council would regret it for many years to come.

South Africa therefore proposes that the Council also reconsider its long-delayed visit to the region. In that regard, should some members of the Council be unwilling to participate in the visit, the Council should consider a mini-mission, which could include those members interested in taking part in such a visit.

We believe a visit to the region will be a clear indication that the international community has not washed its hands of the core and long-standing conflict in the Middle East. Similar to the Council’s other field visits, it will also provide Council members the opportunity to meet relevant actors on the ground, including the Governments of Israel and Palestine, convey our good wishes to them and help them resolve this question.

In conclusion, South Africa remains firmly convinced that dialogue is the only viable option that can effectively address the issue of self-determination for the Palestinian people and calls on the Council to implement its resolutions, including resolution 2334 (2016). South Africa remains hopeful, and we continue to urge both the Israeli and Palestinian sides to resume the peace process to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting resolution to the Palestinian question. As we approach the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, and concurrently the 75th anniversary of the Security Council, we should recall and implement the relevant Security Council resolutions establishing the State of Israel, which we did, and the State of Palestine, which we are failing to establish.

We look forward to any initiative, including on the part of the United States of America or any other party or parties, that can inject positive momentum into the Israeli-Palestinian question. This crisis must be resolved in our lifetime.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8611th Meeting

Wednesday, 4 September 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8611 Agenda:

The Situation in Libya

Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (S/2019/682)

At the outset, I would like to congratulate you, Sir, your Excellency Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya and the Russian Federation on assuming the presidency of the Security Council this month. You can count on our support. We would also like to thank Poland for the way they managed the work of the Council in August.

I would like to thank Mr. Ghassan Salamé for his briefing on the situation in Libya. I also thank Ambassador Juergen Schulz, Chair of the Security Council established pursuant to resolution 1970 (2011), concerning Libya, for his briefing on the work of the Committee. And I thank Ms. Marwa Mohamed, Head of Advocacy and Outreach at Lawyers for Justice in Libya, for sensitising the Council to the impact of the Libyan conflict on women and ordinary citizens throughout Libya.

South Africa commends the Secretary-General and Special Representative Salamé for their tireless efforts to bring together all the Libyan parties and stakeholders with the aim of reaching an agreement on a permanent ceasefire. In that regard, we welcome the Special Representative’s three-step proposal to bring an end to the conflict, as echoed by Ms. Mohamed.

Eight years since the start of the Libyan conflict, the country remains deeply divided and on the brink of a civil war. The failure by the Libyan parties to reach an agreement to end the conflict has dire consequences for Libya and the broader region in Africa. Furthermore, the crisis has exacerbated the ongoing migrant crisis. South Africa wishes to echo the sentiments of the African Union Peace and Security Council in

Russian Federationstressing

assumed the presidency “the need for a peaceful and consensual solution to the of the Un Security Libyan crisis, which continues to impact negatively Council for the month on the security and the stability of neighbouring of September 2019. countries”. Ambassador Vasily

Nebenzya became the

I wish to take the opportunity of today’s meeting to

President of the SCfocus my intervention on three key issues.

Firstly, there can be no military solution to the conflict in Libya. South Africa therefore calls all on parties to agree to a permanent ceasefire and to return to political dialogue. South Africa will continue to support the convening of a Libyan national peace and reconciliation forum, preceded by a national dialogue conference with a view to unifying the people of Libya. In that regard, we commend the role played by the United Nations Support Mission in Libya in supporting those processes.

Secondly, my delegation remains convinced that the resolution of the Libyan crisis lies in close consultation and cooperation amongst the United Nations, the African Union, the European Union, and the League of Arab States. Equally, we call on neighbouring countries and those with influence on the political stakeholders to promote a negotiated settlement.

Thirdly, South Africa emphasises that there should be full implementation of the arms embargo. The arms embargo is important not only to curb the flow of arms into Libya but also to stem the illicit flow of arms into the Sahel region and beyond, which fuels conflicts and causes instability elsewhere on the African continent.

South Africa supports the observation of the Secretary-General that the rule of law be restored throughout Libya. That should be accompanied by the full restoration of State control, including a holistic security strategy that is built on professional, accountable, and unified security institutions.

South Africa wishes to impress on the Council that for as long as there is conflict over Libya’s resources, achieving consensus on a resolution will be difficult. As such, we call for a comprehensive dialogue that includes agreement on resource sharing by all political stakeholders for the sake of reaching a lasting, sustainable peace for all Libyans. De-escalating the Libyan conflict necessitates resolving that long-standing financial dispute.

Finally, we wish to urge the Special Representative of the Secretary-General to ensure the inclusion of women in the processes to resolve the crisis, as Ms. Mohamed requested. Women form an important constituency in Libya. As such, their involvement in the formal and informal political processes remains critical. That is in line with a number of resolutions adopted by the Council that advocate for the full and equitable participation of women in public life in order to build and sustain a strong and vibrant democracy.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8612th Meeting

Monday, 9 September 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8612 Agenda:

United Nations’ Peacekeeping Operations

We appreciate the convening of today’s debate. Similarly, we would like to join colleagues in condemning the terrorist attack in Burkina Faso that claimed 29 lives.

My delegation would like to thank the Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, for his detailed briefing. We would like to reaffirm that peacekeeping is one of the most effective tools available to the United Nations in the promotion and maintenance of international peace and security, as well as in the prevention, management, and resolution of conflicts.

Let me from the outset state that we continue to call for the prioritisation of mediation, negotiations and dialogue to resolve ongoing conflicts. In that regard, we want to welcome the positive developments in the Sudan and South Sudan; considering the rapprochement between Eritrea and Ethiopia, stability in the Horn of Africa is improving. We also welcome the recent signing of a peace agreement in Mozambique. We further welcome the entry into force of the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement in May as contributing to sustainable development in Africa and, ultimately, the maintenance of peace and security. Those are positive steps towards the implementation of the African Union’s (AU) Agenda 2063 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and will also contribute to the implementation of the joint United Nations-AU framework for enhancing partnership in peace and security.

However, as long as peacekeeping is needed on the continent, South Africa remains committed to ensuring that it becomes more effective so as to be able to contribute to the maintenance of international peace and security. We therefore welcome the continued discussions on improving or rather reforming United Nations’ peacekeeping, to make it adaptable to the changing nature of security threats. Some of the important issues that must be addressed in the context of peacekeeping reform are the process of developing mandates, better cooperation amongst the relevant stakeholders, sufficient funding, the role of regional organisations, improving gender balance, and stepping up training and capacity-building.

South Africa appreciates the efforts of the Secretary-General aimed at strengthening cooperation on peacekeeping amongst the Security Council, the Secretariat, and the troop-contributing countries (TCCs) and police-contributing countries (PCCs). Cooperation amongst those three important stakeholders should take place during the planning phase of defining mandates, the implementation phase, and the assessment phase, when possible, exit strategies are considered, consistent with resolution 1353 (2001).

Furthermore, such cooperation should extend beyond discussing the mandates of peacekeeping operations. It should also include the provision of support to peacekeepers, such as for their safety and security, training, conduct and discipline, equipment, and national caveats, amongst others. In that regard, South Africa reiterates its support for the Action for Peacekeeping (A4P) Declaration of Shared Commitments on Peacekeeping Operations, adopted in 2018, which provides an opportunity for the United Nations and its Member States to undertake future peacekeeping operations that are fit for purpose.

We also acknowledge the increased and vital role that regional organisations play in peacemaking and peacekeeping efforts. In that regard, there is always room for strengthening cooperation between the Security Council and regional organisations such as the African Union. We appreciate the considered efforts of Under-Secretary-General Jean-Pierre Lacroix to work closely with AU Commissioner for Peace and Security Chergui on peace endeavours in various African conflicts, as well as of Secretary-General Guterres and AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat in going forward in those areas.

We reiterate our call for sustainable and predictable funding for AU-led peace-support operations authorised by the Security Council, as recognised in many Council resolutions, in particular resolution 2378 (2017). South Africa would like to recall that in resolution 2378 (2017), the Council undertook to give further consideration to practical steps that can be taken and the conditions necessary to establish the mechanism through which African Union-led peace-support operations authorised by the Security Council and under the Council’s authority under Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations could be partly financed through United Nations’ assessed contributions.

That will further be on a case-by-case basis, in compliance with the relevant agreed-upon standards and mechanisms, so as to ensure strategic and financial oversight and accountability, taking into account the work carried out by the United Nations Secretariat and the African Union Commission in that regard. We await a decision by the Council to address that pertinent issue.

We also recognise the vast experience and expertise of TCCs and PCCs in Africa in the field of peacekeeping and their potential in strengthening the capacity of peacekeeping operations. We therefore urge the Secretariat, in consultation with African countries with resident training centres, to enhance cooperation in the field of training, capacity-building, experience-sharing, and best practices.

We further welcome the operationalisation of regional initiatives such as the African Standby Force, which is based on standby arrangements with the AU’s five subregions to allow it to respond swiftly to any crisis on the continent. We also call for increased funding and support for regional and national peacekeeping centres and for ensuring that the peacekeeping curriculum is streamlined and periodically reviewed for accelerated performance.

South Africa is proud to be amongst the countries with a high number of women deployed in United Nations’ peacekeeping missions and will continue to work diligently towards increasing the number of women police officers and military troops, in line with resolutions 2242 (2015) and 2382 (2017). We commend the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations, which is aimed at the realisation of those goals. Furthermore, we recognise the important work done by the Working Group on Peacekeeping Operations over the past number of years. We should continue to utilise that mechanism for the discussion of thematic and related issues, in a timely and detailed manner.

We further urge all Member States to work in unison to ensure that the General Assembly Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations (C-34) continues to discharge its mandate and provide support to the Council’s work. The impasse that led to the C-34 not adopting its annual report at its substantive session, held in March, should not be repeated.

South Africa is fully committed to the zero-tolerance policy against sexual exploitation and abuse in peacekeeping operations. We have developed and institutionalised a pre-deployment sexual exploitation and abuse induction programme to raise the level of consciousness, efficiency, and command accountability for our deployed troops. Furthermore, South Africa provides additional in-mission training interventions on a continuous basis to reinvigorate troops’ situational awareness and mission readiness on command-andcontrol matters, leisure time utilisation, the protection of civilians, human rights standards, and sexual exploitation and abuse. From June 2018, we also introduced practical steps to fight the scourge of sexual exploitation and abuse by introducing DNA tests to all deployed South African troops. That has proven to be a best practice.

With regard to transitions, the Security Council must ensure at the outset that peacekeeping mandates are realistic, tailored, and flexible in order for missions to achieve their desired outcomes in terms of keeping the peace and creating an enabling environment for peacebuilding processes. We reaffirm our support for strengthened cooperation between the Peacebuilding Commission and the Security Council, in particular when the Council is considering the review and drawdown of peacekeeping operations.

In conclusion, we would like to pay tribute to those peacekeepers who have paid the ultimate price while executing the mandate of the Council.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8613th Meeting

Tuesday, 10 September 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8613 Agenda:

The Situation in Afghanistan

Report of the Secretary-General on the Situation in Afghanistan and its Implications for International Peace and Security (S/2019/703)

Please allow me to begin by thanking the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), Mr. Tadamichi Yamamoto; the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Mr. Yury Fedotov; and Ambassador Djani, Chair of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1988 (2011), for their insightful briefings.

In that regard, I would also like to commend UNAMA’s personnel and Mr. Yamamoto for their vital contribution in supporting Afghanistan’s efforts towards restoring peace and stability in the country, especially given the challenging circumstances in which they operate.

We would like to highlight the following three points in our statement: firstly, the peace process; secondly, the role of women; and, thirdly, the security situation in Afghanistan.

Firstly, regarding the peace process, South Africa believes that the only way for Afghanistan to achieve durable peace and stability is through a comprehensive and inclusive Afghan-led and Afghan-owned political process leading to a negotiated settlement. My delegation is of the opinion that any engagement or peace initiative towards lasting peace and security in Afghanistan should be considered, including that of the United States of America or other parties of the region. However, it is also important that all sectors of the Afghan Government and society be included in those discussions to ensure that a comprehensive and inclusive peace is established and sustained.

Secondly, on the role of women, South Africa strongly believes that an integral aspect of those engagements is the inclusion and participation of Afghan women. That would safeguard the significant progress and gains achieved regarding women’s and girls’ rights and provide the necessary views and voices of all segments of Afghan society. We welcome the Government of Afghanistan’s efforts to advance the promotion and protection of women’s rights and urge that this commitment continues during future discussions.

In that regard, we welcome President Ashraf Ghani’s appointment of H.E. Ambassador Adela Raz as the Permanent Representative to the United Nations. We hope and have no doubt that she will continue to fly her country’s flag high and that she will be a shining example of what the women of Afghanistan can achieve. Equally, we join Ambassador Raz in thanking Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed and the Executive Director of UN-Women for their visit to the country in July and their engagement with the women and the Government of Afghanistan in the area of women and peace and security.

Peace in Afghanistan can be achieved only by the Afghan people themselves. My delegation urges all stakeholders to work towards that noble and achievable goal.

Thirdly and finally, on the security situation in Afghanistan, South Africa is deeply concerned at the levels of violence and insecurity in Afghanistan, especially attacks targeting innocent civilians through the use of improvised explosive devices and suicide attacks. The ongoing violence only erodes the positive progress made in recent years. As the Secretary-General stated, those deplorable acts cannot be justified and must come to an end. We pay tribute to those who have sacrificed their lives in assisting Afghanistan on the road to peace and stability.

The effect of that violence is particularly felt by the most vulnerable in society, notably women, children, and those living with disabilities. We call on all parties to ensure the protection of civilians and to adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian and international human rights law. My delegation continues to condemn the unlawful recruitment and use of children in armed forces and groups and calls for their immediate release and reintegration into Afghan society.

In conclusion, the Afghan people are expected to go to the polls on 28 September and exercise their hard-won right to choose their own President. In that regard, South Africa calls on all participants in the election process to work together to ensure that the elections go ahead as planned, as mandated by the Afghan Constitution. We hope that with the necessary cooperation and support amongst the parties, the presidential elections will be credible, free, fair and transparent, and that the 9.6 million registered Afghans can go to the polls as scheduled.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8619th Meeting

Monday, 16 September 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8619 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

We thank Mr. Martin Griffiths, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, and Mr. Mark Lowcock, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, for their briefings. South Africa wishes to express its support for Mr. Griffiths and commends his efforts to find a peaceful solution to the situation in Yemen. We also welcome our colleague from Yemen and look forward to his briefing.

We further welcome the appointment of Lieutenant General Abhijit Guha as Head of the United Nations Mission to Support the Hudaydah Agreement, and we wish him well in his Mission. We condemn the attack on the Saudi oil facilities and call on all the countries of the region to de-escalate tensions that might undermine security and stability in the Gulf region, the supply and security of global energy, and the security of maritime trade.

My delegation would like to address two points in our statement today: firstly, the political situation, and secondly, the dire humanitarian situation in Yemen.

Firstly, on the political situation in Yemen, we continue to call on all parties involved in the conflict in Yemen to de-escalate tensions and fully commit to the implementation of the Stockholm Agreement. We reiterate our support for a negotiated political settlement that engages all parties in an inclusive Yemeni-led dialogue to resolve differences and address the legitimate concerns of all Yemenis, in accordance with the relevant Security Council resolutions. South Africa supports dialogue and the cessation of hostilities in the country, including in the southern region of Yemen.

It is only through a diplomatic and negotiated solution that the people of Yemen can achieve sustainable and lasting peace. We therefore continue to stress that the differences amongst the parties in Yemen cannot be solved by military means, as such a course of action would only further aggravate the situation. We call upon the Council and the countries of the region to spare no effort in supporting the political process in Yemen. South Africa welcomes all efforts and interventions of neighbouring countries to find an inclusive, peaceful, political settlement in Yemen. Moreover, we believe that accountability is an essential part of achieving lasting peace and stability.

Secondly, on the humanitarian situation, South Africa remains extremely concerned about the dire humanitarian crisis in Yemen, which has caused immeasurable suffering for millions of civilians, as reported this morning by Under-Secretary-General Lowcock. We note the latest report of the Group of Eminent International and Regional Experts on Yemen (A/HRC/42/17), which calls on all the parties to do their part to address the humanitarian situation in Yemen.

The impact of the conflict on civilians in Yemen has been devastating, as over 24 million people, or nearly 80 per cent of the population, requires humanitarian assistance and protection. The number of civilian casualties continues to rise, and the Human Rights Council has certified 7,508 civilian deaths -including those of 1,997 children - since March 2015.

The continued violence committed by all parties to the conflict is not conducive to peacebuilding measures. South Africa reiterates its call on all parties to de-escalate the fighting in other parts of the country and commit to a general ceasefire so as to enable dialogue and inclusive peaceful negotiations. South Africa remains extremely concerned about the serious humanitarian crisis in Yemen. To date, over 15 million people -more than half the population of Yemen -are facing starvation; 1.1 million are affected by cholera, and 3 million have been forced to flee their country.

Vulnerable groups, especially women and children, often face the most severe consequences of war, and this is no different in Yemen. Those statistics show that the humanitarian crisis in Yemen continues to be the world’s worst, and the Council has to pay more attention and dedicate more time to addressing it. South Africa joins Mr. Lowcock in calling on all parties to abide by their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law and human rights law.

In conclusion, we wish to reiterate that the only sustainable solution to the conflict will be a negotiated, Yemeni-led political settlement that is inclusive and fair and puts the interests and well-being of all the citizens of Yemen first.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8621st Meeting

Wednesday, 18 September 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8621 Agenda:

Reports of the Secretary-General on the Sudan and South Sudan Report of the Secretary-General on the Situation in South Sudan (S/2019/722)

Report of the Secretary-General on Future Planning for the Protection of Civilian Sites in South Sudan (S/2019/741)

We join other delegations in thanking you, Mr. President, for convening today’s meeting. We also express our heartfelt gratitude to Special Representative David Shearer for his briefing, which was, as usual, comprehensive. We thank him and his team from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for their tireless work in peacemaking in South Sudan. We further welcome the report (S/2019/722) of the Secretary-General on UNMISS and on the protection of civilians and its recommendations (S/2019/741). We also want to welcome our friend and colleague the Permanent Representative of South Sudan, Akuei Bona Malwal. We look forward to his statement to the Council, which he will make in a few minutes’ time.

The decades of instability, conflict, and underdevelopment will continue to require our collective and steadfast commitment to ensuring that we put South Sudan on a trajectory of peace and prosperity. I would like to limit my statement to three issues: the political process, the security situation, and the humanitarian situation in South Sudan.

With regard to the political situation, South Africa welcomes the recent face-toface meetings between President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Mr. Riek Machar as a step in the right direction. It was a much-anticipated meeting, as there is a clear realisation that it will help in unlocking the political impasse that has stalled the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan. South Africa would like to thank the new authorities in Khartoum for assisting their family in the south to meet and talk. We also want to thank the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, for his ongoing tireless efforts to further peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.

The road ahead has been charted. The implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan is key in addressing a number of challenges that the people of South Sudan continue to grapple with, including instability, security, and humanitarian and human rights crises. We have to address the root causes that led to the conflict. Otherwise, we will continue to deal with the perennial symptomatic features, which include humanitarian challenges and conflict-related sexual violence.

There are many grass-roots peace initiatives throughout the country that have been taken in earnest, because the people of South Sudan are yearning for peace. The leadership of South Sudan needs to redouble its efforts and join with the people through action in the form of the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement.

The inclusion of women and their meaningful participation in the peace process remains an integral part of ensuring that all citizens’ aspirations are addressed. We are encouraged by the work already being undertaken by women-led civil society organisations to contribute to the peace process and rebuild the country. By appointing a woman Foreign Minister, President Kiir has acknowledged the capacity and capability of South Sudanese women. We congratulate the Government for taking that step.

South Africa appreciates the ongoing work by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, in conjunction with the African Union, to facilitate and mediate the peace process in South Sudan. It is important that the Council continue to support and complement those efforts.

On the security situation, we are encouraged that the cessation of hostilities continues to hold and has led to a significant reduction in security-related incidents, as Special Representative Shearer reported this morning. However, we remain concerned about ongoing violent incidents with opposition groups, as well as the intercommunal violence that is taking place. In that regard, we commend the work of UNMISS and the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring Mechanism in their role to support the Revitalized Agreement, to be signed and, hopefully, implemented by 12 November 2019.

On the humanitarian situation, the crisis unfolding and the magnitude of the number of people in distress, as highlighted in the Secretary-General’s report, is totally reprehensible. Such human suffering is an indictment of us all, as humankind. We urge the international stakeholders to continue contributing to post-conflict reconstruction and development programmes and to support efforts to repatriate and resettle internally displaced persons and returning refugees in South Sudan -as they return in the thousands. South Africa will continue to offer South Sudan humanitarian assistance, especially as many communities return to their villages and towns.

Lastly, we would like to echo my colleagues from the United States and the public statements by most Council members in welcoming the forthcoming Security Council visit to South Sudan, led by South Africa and the United States. We hope that it will provide further impetus to the parties in the implementation, without delay, of all the provisions of the Revitalized Agreement.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8625th Meeting

Friday, 20 September 2019, 10.05 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8625 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East, Including the Palestinian Question

I would like to begin by thanking Mr. Mladenov, the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, for his briefing on the situation in Israel and Palestine, and welcome Ministers for Foreign Affairs Riyad Al-Malki and Ayman Safadi of the State of Palestine and of Jordan respectively, to the Security Council.

As we and many other delegations have stated in the Council before, the only true and just resolution to the situation in the Middle East is one built on the two-State solution, based on the 1967 borders and with East Jerusalem as the capital of an independent, sovereign Palestinian State, in keeping with resolution 242 (1967), of 22 November 1967.

The continued disrespect and disregard for the prevailing and long-standing peace process, such as the systematic foreclosing of final status issues, particularly with regard to the borders, the status of Jerusalem and continued settlement expansion, is deeply disturbing. The recent pronouncement by Israel on the possible annexation of large parts of the West Bank has gone unchallenged and further undermines prospects for peace. The continued expansion of settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories deliberately violates international law, undermines prospects for peace, and contravenes decisions of the Security Council.

Since 1948, or 71 years ago, the Council has adopted numerous resolutions, including resolution 42 (1948), of 5 March 1948, resolution 43 (1948), of 1 April 1948, and others in 1944, 1945, 1947, 1948, and 1949 -we can go on and on. All in all, there has been a total of 72 Council resolutions, with zero implementation. What does that say about the Council?

As we sit here today, thousands of Palestinians live in fear of having their homes and schools destroyed, their property confiscated, and their already severely limited freedoms further curtailed. Yet the Council has been unable to act to address these ongoing blatant violations of international law. Just yesterday, it deliberated on the protection of civilians and the dire humanitarian situation in Syria (see S/PV.8623). When will the Council address these same concerns with regard to the Palestinian people? When?

The Security Council’s lack of action reduces it to a body unable to uphold its own decisions, whose credibility is being eroded. Therefore, South Africa continues to insist on the full implementation of resolution 2334 (2016) and underscores that violations of Security Council resolutions would in any other case lead to strict measures against the party responsible. In this regard, and in accordance with resolution 2334 (2016), my delegation also strongly calls for written reports by the Secretary-General on the matter.

South Africa believes that the Council should make every effort to restore trust in the legitimate peace process that has been pursued for decades and prevent the further development of antagonism between Israel and Palestine. The exchange of hostilities, including rocket fire and bombings in Gaza, remains a case in point and is deeply concerning. My delegation remains deeply troubled by the continued violations of human rights in the occupied territories and emphasises that such violations only contribute to fostering hatred and divisions between Palestinians and Israelis. In the place of such antagonistic gestures as the building of additional barriers and walls, the closing of schools, and the killing of civilians, the Council should encourage gestures of hope and the building of trust between Israel and Palestine, which have been lacking in recent times.

In conclusion, my delegation would like to reiterate our call for the Council to reconsider its long-delayed visit to the region. We would like to again suggest that should some members of the Council be unwilling to participate in the visit, the Council might consider a mini-mission, which would include those Council members interested in taking part. A visit to the region would be a clear indication that the international community has not washed its hands of the core and oldest conflict in the Middle East. Similar to the Council’s other field visits, like the one we will take next month to Juba, it will also offer Council members an opportunity to meet relevant actors on the ground, including members of the Government in Israel and Palestine, civil society actors, and all role-players, and ask them to embrace peace efforts, respect one another, coexist and live in harmony, as we all do in our own countries and regions. We in South Africa are ready to assist in that direction if we are asked to do so.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8628th Meeting

Monday, 30 September 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8628 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

We want to thank you, Mr. President, for presiding over our meeting today, as well as the Russian Federation, Mr. Vasily Nebenzya and his team for the excellent manner in which they managed the Council programme for this month. Allow me to thank Mr. Geir Pedersen, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Syria, for his briefing to the Council today.

The recent political developments in Syria, as announced by the Secretary-General on 23 September (see S/2019/775), are warmly welcomed by my delegation. South Africa congratulates Mr. Pedersen, the Syrian Government, the Syrian opposition, and all other stakeholders on the agreement on the establishment of a credible, balanced, and inclusive Constitutional Committee. We in the Council all know that the journey to this point has not been easy but the perseverance and determined efforts of all parties have borne the fruit of compromise, unity, and a commitment to the people of Syria for sustained peace. We thank all Governments and parties that made that possible.

My delegation looks forward to the convening of the first meeting of the Constitutional Committee on 30 October. We hope that the commitment for a 30 per cent representation of women in the larger 150-member body and the smaller 45-member body will be upheld. As has been said before by South Africa and many other delegations, the active participation of women at all levels of the peace negotiations is essential to a successful and inclusive political process in Syria.

With the establishment of the Constitutional Committee, it is also necessary to ensure the safety and security of all its members. The members of the Committee must be assured that they will be able to do their duty to the people of Syria without undue pressure or influence from any sector.

While we commend the agreement regarding the Constitutional Committee, we cannot forget the broader political process. The establishment of the Constitutional Committee and the finalisation of its Core Rules of Procedure (see S/2019/775, annex) is but one step towards the full implementation of the political process, as set out in resolution 2254 (2015).

The work of the Constitutional Committee must be accompanied by the active engagement of all parties in the continuing political process facilitated by the Special Envoy. In that regard and in calling for the full implementation of resolution 2254 (2015), my delegation calls for the release of civilians from detention, particularly women, children, the sick, and the elderly. That will serve as a gesture of good faith and confidence-building amongst the parties and bolster the goodwill created by the establishment of the Constitutional Committee.

The humanitarian situation in parts of Syria remains of concern. Progress in improving the humanitarian situation will come about only if progress is made in the political process, which can be resolved only through continued negotiations and dialogue amongst the parties. At this important juncture in Syria’s history, we call on all parties to recommit to ensuring the peace, stability, and prosperity of all Syria and its people.

In conclusion, let me again congratulate the parties on this important step towards long-term peace and security in Syria. However, we all know that this is not the end of the journey. Yet the journey has begun, and the Council should accompany the Syrian people as they negotiate their way to a peaceful, stable, inclusive, and prosperous Syria.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8629th Meeting

Wednesday, 2 October 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8629 Agenda:

Peace and Security in Africa

Mobilising Youth Towards Silencing the Guns by 2020

Letter Dated 30 September 2019 from the Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary- General (S/2019/779)

(President)

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as H.E. Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila the representative of South Africa. I would like to thank the briefers for their insightful information and recommendations for the Council’s consideration. It is always beneficial and valuable for the Council to be briefed by young people who are passionate and determined about the future of their countries, societies, and neighbourhoods.

It is an honour for South Africa to preside over the Security Council under the theme “Continuing the legacy: working for a just and peaceful world”, which embodies the legacy of Nelson Mandela. The principles he stood and fought for remain relevant to ongoing conflict situations and further the objective of silencing the guns on the African continent by 2020. Conflict affects young people negatively in many ways. It violates their basic human rights -the right to life, liberty and security. South Africa took They are at increased risk of being killed, injured, over the presidency of internally displaced, abducted, or raped in conflict. the United Nations’ They are sometimes forced into activities that make Security Council for the them more vulnerable, such as sexual exploitation, month of October 2019. combat as child soldiers, violent extremism, arms

Her permanent

smuggling, and the illicit trade in mineral resources, representativeto name a few.

Ambassador Jerry Our remarks will focus on the following key points. Matthews Matjila Firstly, young people have an important role to play became the president of as agents of peace. The African continent has the the SC fastest-growing population in the world, and it will be important to ensure that the continent takes advantage of the demographic dividend from its youth bulge. South Africa believes that we should all double our efforts at the global, regional, and national levels to harness the potential of youth. As the Security Council has already recognised in resolutions 2250 (2015) and 2457 (2019), Member States have the responsibility to create an enabling environment for young people to participate fully and substantively in the development of their respective countries and in peace processes.

At this juncture, I want to emphasise that issues of inclusion remain critical. As important stakeholders in peace processes, we cannot continue to talk about peace without the full involvement of youth and women. Young people should be represented in political negotiations, peace processes, transitional justice, and reconstruction efforts because they have knowledge and ideas and can harness intergenerational interaction on the entire peace continuum. Including youth in peacebuilding processes as stakeholders and decision-makers allows them to gain ownership of the policies that affect them as much as the rest of us. Political will and leadership are therefore needed to enable young people to engage in a meaningful way in conflict prevention, peacemaking, and peacebuilding.

My second point is on the implementation by the African Union (AU) of the youth, peace, and security agenda. The African Youth Charter serves as a strategic framework for youth empowerment and development at the continental, regional, and national levels in addressing issues that affect young people. The AU Commission is in the process of appointing African ambassadors for peace, one from each of the five regions in Africa. They will promote the actualisation of the five priorities of the Continental Framework on Youth, Peace, and Security. A stronger AU-United Nations partnership for peace, security, and development remains critical to silencing the guns on the African continent. South Africa is encouraged by the resolve of the United Nations and the AU to mainstream youth participation in peace and security, which places young people at the core of initiatives for preventing or stopping activities that lead to war.

My third point is about recommendations on how we should advance youth, peace, and security. It is important to provide young people with training opportunities so that they can take an active part in peacebuilding. With their youthful energy and capabilities, and their ability to adapt to new technological trends such as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, young people should be seen as equal partners in mediation, conflict prevention, and resolution. As we heard from the briefers earlier, youth are mediators, community mobilisers, humanitarian workers, and peace brokers. Activating young African peacebuilders cannot be the responsibility of any one organisation. African Governments, non-governmental organisations, and corporations all have a role to play. In order to achieve sustainable conflict prevention and resolution, the Security Council, regional, and subregional organisations and other relevant actors should institute mechanisms to involve young people in the promotion of a culture of peace, tolerance, and intercultural and interreligious dialogue and to develop, as appropriate, an understanding of respect for human dignity, pluralism, and diversity.

In conclusion, I would like to underscore the importance of bringing about a pragmatic shift in the concept of the role of youth in conflict, which transforms them from being victims or agents of violence to being agents of change and peacebuilding. They need to be seen as the valuable human capital that they are, because that will help the continent to collectively achieve sustainable peace and silence the guns. As we implement many peace agreements on the African continent, from the Central African Republic, South Sudan, the Sudan, and elsewhere, young people should be given the space to participate.

As Ms. Aya Chebbi said, youth should be mobilised to reimagine their environment without violence or displacement, unravaged, without situations where they are forced to flee their homes and driven into desperation in faraway lands. And as all the briefers said, young people should be mobilised to use their abundant energy, talent, creativity, and social media to compose songs and write poetry and books about embracing diversity, non-discrimination, and religious and ethnic tolerance in order to give birth to the future with hope, peace, and prosperity.

I now resume my functions as President of the Council.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8630th Meeting

Thursday, 3 October 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8630 Agenda:

The Situation in the Great Lakes Region

Report of the Secretary-General on the Implementation of the Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region (S/2019/783)

(President)

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of South Africa

At the outset, let me join others in thanking Mr. Huang Xia, the Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region, for his informative briefing.

South Africa welcomes the improving relations and levels of cooperation amongst the core countries of the Great Lakes Region. In that regard, we welcome the reinforced commitments by the regional Heads of State to a stable Great Lakes Region, as reflected in the rapprochement in the region. That includes the normalisation of bilateral relations between Rwanda and Uganda, mediated by President Lourenço of Angola with the support of President Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We welcome the formation of a Government of national unity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which will hopefully help to unify the Congolese people in a step on the road to national reconstruction and development.

However, my delegation remains concerned about the security situation in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the humanitarian situation in parts of the country, which deteriorated during the reporting period. South Africa therefore underscores the importance of ensuring that the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo strengthens the capacity of its State institutions, with the support of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). We hope that the strategic review report reflects the desire of the Congolese people, as articulated in the country’s statement in the General Assembly (see A/74/PV.7), to see that the training provided by MONUSCO to the Congolese armed forces results in a force that is focused, well-equipped, and capable of adapting to the prevailing conditions on the ground. My delegation is also concerned about the Ebola virus outbreak, which has resulted in the loss of lives. In that regard, we commend the efforts undertaken by regional and international partners in fighting the Ebola outbreak and further urge them to continue to assist in efforts to curb the epidemic.

Turning to the Central African Republic, we note with concern the logistical challenges that hamper the country’s smooth implementation of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation. We are also concerned about the activities of some non-State actors, which continue to violate the provisions of the Political Agreement in some prefectures, including through illegal taxation and the obstruction of the deployment of State institutions and security forces. It is our hope that the Council’s action in September (see S/PV.8617) easing the arms embargo (resolution 2488 (2019)) will constitute a strong push in the multidimensional efforts to accelerate the restoration of State authority throughout the Central African Republic’s national territory. In spite of the challenges, we welcome the cooperation and coordination between the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of Central African States, the United Nations, the European Union (EU), and the Peacebuilding Commission, as well as with other bilateral and multilateral partners. We also welcome the continued positive role of women in fostering local and inclusive peace processes in the region.

Against that backdrop, we call on development actors to continue to play a central role in building and sustaining peace in the country through the creation of inclusive institutions, building capacities to deliver services and investing in critical infrastructure, with a view to addressing the socioeconomic gaps and responding to the long-standing drivers of conflict. Collaboration with the World Bank, the EU, the African Development Bank, and other development actors is therefore vital for a genuine reconciliation process in the Central African Republic.

Burundi remains an important part of the stability of the Great Lakes region. We therefore continue to support the inter-Burundian dialogue, including the facilitation process led by the East African Community, in the spirit of the Arusha Peace and Reconciliation Agreement for Burundi, with the support of the AU and the United Nations. It is South Africa’s hope that Burundi’s preparations for the May 2020 elections will be inclusive, transparent, and peaceful.

With regard to the situation in South Sudan, my delegation welcomes the recent face-to-face meetings between President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Vice-President Riek Machar, which we believe are a step in the right direction. Continued dialogue is therefore essential, as it will help to unlock the impasse that has stalled the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan.

It is our view and expectation that a region that is politically stable serves as a foundation for regional economic integration. We therefore reiterate our position on the importance of curbing the persistent illicit exploitation of and trade in natural resources, which undermine their proper management. In addition, it will be critical to ensure that there is increased cooperation amongst the Great Lakes countries in eliminating armed groups by focusing on inclusive cooperation and coordinated security-sector reform and disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration processes.

In conclusion, South Africa welcomes the Secretary-General’s recommendations that the differences amongst States that are signatories to the Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region are best addressed through dialogue and cooperation. We therefore urge the Council to reiterate its call to all signatories to the Framework to implement their commitments under it with a view to ensuring long-term, sustainable peace and stability in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region.

I now resume my functions as President of the Council.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8633rd Meeting

Monday, 7 October 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8633 Agenda:

Peace and Security in Africa

The Centrality of Preventive Diplomacy, Conflict Prevention and Resolution

Letter Dated 2 October 2019 from the Permanent

Representative of South Africa to the United Nations

Addressed to the Secretary- General (S/2019/786)

(President)

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of South Africa.

First, I would like to join those colleagues who condemned the attack against our peacekeepers yesterday in Chad. I thank Secretary-General António Guterres for his statement. I also extend my gratitude to the following for their insightful and extensive briefings this morning: Ambassador Liberata Mulamula, Visiting Scholar and Associate Director of the Institute for African Studies, Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University; Ms. Naledi Maite, Programme Manager, African Women in Dialogue, South Africa; and Ms. Linda Vilakazi, Programme Manager, Zanele Mbeki Development Trust.

This debate, the first of the second week of South Africa’s presidency of the Security Council, is symbolic, as it places our emphasis on the centrality of preventive diplomacy, conflict prevention and resolution in the African continent. It is in this context that we continue our diplomatic efforts to seek solutions to the challenges in the Sudan, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic, and in other conflicts around the world. We believe in this centrality because conflict prevention and resolution is less costly than peacekeeping, in monetary terms and in terms of loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, and displacement of people. In his essay “Clear the Obstacles and Confront the Enemy”, which he wrote on Robben Island prison in 1976, Nelson Mandela reminds us why negotiation is preferable when he said the following:

“[w]hen we have fought it out and reduced this country to ashes it will still be necessary for us to sit down together and talk about the problems of reconstruction

-the black man and the white man, the African and the Afrikaner”.

We pay tribute to the Secretary-General’s reform agenda, especially the peace and security pillar, which prioritises preventive diplomacy, mediation and the development of nationally owned peace agreements and their early implementation. South Africa believes that cooperation and coordination amongst the United Nations and regional and subregional organisations could play an important role in conflict prevention. In that regard, South Africa calls for enhanced and continuous strategic and operational coordination of preventive diplomacy, conflict prevention, and resolution efforts by the United Nations, the African Union (AU), the regional economic communities, and other international and local partners.

South Africa pays tribute to the United Nations-AU mediation efforts in the Central African Republic, South Sudan, the Sudan, and elsewhere on the continent. The recent operationalisation of the AU Peace Fund will further boost the AU’s capacities and efforts in mediation and conflict prevention on our continent. The Peace Fund is structured around three thematic windows, namely, mediation and preventive diplomacy, institutional capacity, and peace support operations. In that regard, AU Member States should be commended for their efforts to contribute to the Peace Fund, whose endowment currently stands at $115 million. African leaders have demonstrated their political will to deal with and resolve conflicts on our continent.

The role of women and youth in conflict prevention and mediation cannot be emphasised enough. It is common knowledge that, where women are involved in peace processes, those processes are more legitimate, sustainable, and effective. We welcome the role already being played by African Women in Dialogue, the Association for Women’s Rights in Development, and the Network of African Women in Conflict Prevention and Mediation, and many other similar initiatives, in anchoring conflict prevention and resolution by holding grassroots-level negotiations. We urge the Secretary-General to deploy more women mediators, peace envoys, and special representatives to assist in conflict resolution and mediation across our continent. South Africa has presented a draft resolution on the women and peace and security agenda to ensure the implementation of our previous decisions regarding the role of women in peace and security.

As we approach the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, we urge Member States to renew their commitment to the principles and objectives of the Charter of the United Nations insofar as the resolution of disputes is concerned. The time has come for the United Nations and the Council to put in more effort and resources in response to Chapter VI of the United Nations Charter, on the pacific settlement of disputes.

South Africa is convinced that peace and stability in the world will remain elusive if we do not address the nexus between security and development. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development gives recognition to that vital link. In that context, consideration of the interdependence between security and development requires that the different principal organs of the United Nations work together, in a complementary manner, within their respective Charter mandates, to ensure a holistic and integrated approach to sustainable development and durable peace.

I wish to conclude with yet another quotation from Nelson Mandela.

“We were expected to destroy one another and ourselves collectively in the worst racial conflagration. Instead, we as a people chose the path of negotiation, compromise, and peaceful settlement. Instead of hatred and revenge we chose reconciliation and nation-building”.

South Africa appeals to our sisters and brothers on our continent of Africa to adopt a similar mindset; instead of hatred and revenge, let us choose reconciliation and nation-building. Once more, we urge the Security Council to allocate more resources to preventative diplomacy. I now resume my functions as President of the Council.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8634th Meeting

Tuesday, 8 October 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8634 Agenda:

Reports of the Secretary-General on the Sudan and South Sudan (President)

The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda.

After consultations amongst members of the Security Council, I have been authorised to make the following statement on behalf of the Council.

“One year after the signing of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), the Security Council underlines that the R-ARCSS is an important step forward in the peace process that provides a window of opportunity to achieve sustainable peace and stability in South Sudan, and recognises the reduction in political violence in South Sudan and the return of some representatives of opposition parties to Juba.

“The Security Council welcomes the recent meetings between President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Mr. Riek Machar as a positive development, and calls for the senior leadership of the parties to the R-ARCSS to continue to hold regular face-to-face meetings to resolve outstanding issues in order to enable the peaceful formation of a Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity, in accordance with the timeline agreed to by the parties on 3 May and reflected in a communiqué by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

“The Security Council welcomes the initial progress in implementing the R-ARCSS, including the formation of certain R-ARCSS institutions and mechanisms, joint peacebuilding activities at the local level, and an improved environment in many areas for delivery of humanitarian assistance.

“The Security Council calls on parties to the R-ARCSS to expedite the process of implementing transitional security arrangements and to continue consultations on the issues of the number and boundaries of states with a view towards finding a common solution.

“The Security Council urges the Government of the Republic of South Sudan to disburse the balance of its pledged funds for the implementation of the R-ARCSS in a transparent and accountable manner and to continue to make funds available for the ongoing implementation of the peace agreement.

“The Security Council expresses concern at the dire humanitarian, human rights, and economic situation in South Sudan and condemns all violations of the R-ARCSS and the 21 December 2017 Agreement on Cessation of Hostilities, Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Access, including the ongoing conflict in the Equatorial Region, and the continued use of sexual violence as a tactic by the parties to the conflict against the civilian population.

“The Security Council appreciates IGAD’s role in facilitating progress on the peace process in South Sudan and takes note of its recommendation to hold an Ordinary Summit of IGAD to address outstanding issues, including the status of Mr. Riek Machar. The Security Council encourages IGAD to appoint a permanent chairperson for the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission (RJMEC).

“The Security Council expresses appreciation for the critical role that the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CTSAMVM), and RJMEC play in supporting the implementation of the R-ARCSS and demands that the Government of the Republic of South Sudan and opposition groups cease their obstruction of UNMISS and CTSAMVM activities.

“The Security Council calls for parties that are not signatories to the R-ARCSS to renounce violence, adhere to the cessation of hostilities agreements, and seek a political resolution to their concerns about the R-ARCSS, and further calls for parties to the R-ARCSS to engage with non-signatories in a non-violent and constructive manner.

“The Security Council further calls on all parties to the R-ARCSS, as well as non-signatory armed groups in South Sudan, to protect medical facilities and medical personnel, as well as civilians and civilian objects, including schools; to allow people to move freely; and to allow the rapid, safe, and unhindered access of relief personnel, equipment, and supplies, in accordance with principles of humanitarian assistance, including humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence, to help ensure the timely delivery of humanitarian assistance to all those in need.

“The Security Council looks forward to seeing substantive progress on those activities during its October 2019 visit to Juba.

“The Security Council urges parties to the R-ARCSS to continue taking steps, in line with the provisions of the peace agreement, to promote the meaningful participation of women in the formation of a Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity, and calls on all parties to the R-ARCSS and armed groups in South Sudan to cease all acts of sexual and gender-based violence; to end the recruitment and use of child soldiers; to end the killing and maiming of children and sexual violence against children; and to release all children who have been recruited to date.

“The Security Council takes note of the report of the Secretary-General on UNMISS protection of civilians sites and encourages all stakeholders to continue substantive conversations to devise a substantial path forward for the protection of civilian sites.

“The Security Council underscores the pressing need to ensure accountability and end impunity for any violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law in South Sudan. The Security Council takes note in that regard of Chapter V of the R-ARCSS and calls for its implementation.

“The Security Council stresses that actions that threaten the peace, security, or stability of South Sudan may be subject to sanctions under resolutions 2206 (2015), 2290 (2016), 2353 (2017), 2428 (2018), and 2471 (2019), and affirms that it shall be prepared to adjust measures contained in those resolutions in the light of the implementation of the parties’ commitments, including the ceasefire. “The Security Council reiterates its support for the people of South Sudan and reaffirms its strong commitment to the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and national unity of the Republic of South Sudan.”

This statement will be issued as a document of the Security Council under the symbol S/PRST/2019/11.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8635th Meeting

Tuesday, 8 October 2019, 10.10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8635 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East (President)

The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda.

After consultations amongst Council members, I, H.E. Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila have been authorised to make the following statement on their behalf.

“The Security Council welcomes the Secretary-General’s statement on 23 September 2019, announcing the agreement of the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic and the Syrian Negotiations Commission for a credible, balanced, and inclusive Constitutional Committee facilitated by the United Nations in Geneva.

“The Security Council determines that the launch of the Syrian-owned and Syrian-led Constitutional Committee shall be the beginning of the political process to end the Syrian conflict, in line with Security Council resolution 2254 (2015), that meets the legitimate aspirations of all Syrians.

“The Security Council expresses its appreciation for the United Nations Special Envoy’s diplomatic engagement to facilitate and finalise the agreement between the Syrian Arab Republic and the Syrian opposition to form the Constitutional Committee, emphasising its strong support for Special Envoy Pedersen and the United Nations initiative to convene the first meeting of the Constitutional Committee in Geneva, Switzerland, by 30 October 2019.

“The Security Council reaffirms that there can be no military solution to the conflict in Syria and that it can only be resolved through the full implementation of resolution 2254 (2015).

“The Security Council reaffirms its strong commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of Syria.”

This statement will be issued as a document of the Security Council under the symbol S/PRST/2019/12.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8636th Meeting

Tuesday, 8 October 2019, 10.15 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8636 Agenda:

The Situation in Mali

Report of the Secretary-General on the Situation in Mali (S/2019/782)

(President)

I shall now make a statement in my national capacity as the representative of South Africa.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Mahamat Saleh Annadif for his insightful briefing on the developments in Mali pertaining to the implementation of the mandate of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). I also thank Ambassador José Singer Weisinger for his update on the work of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 2374 (2017) concerning Mali. We pay tribute to our peacekeepers and the members of the Malian armed forces who have sacrificed their lives so that Malians can enjoy peace in their homeland. My statement this morning will focus on the political process, and the security and humanitarian situation in Mali. It will also reflect on the support provided by MINUSMA to the Joint Force of the Group of Five for the Sahel (G-5 Sahel) and on the sanctions imposed on Mali.

With regard to the political process, South Africa welcomes the launch, in September, of the inclusive national dialogue. We urge stakeholders to participate in the national dialogue, which is aimed at contributing to the creation of political and institutional reforms that will characterise the future State of Mali and address the situation in the north and centre of Mali with a view to maintaining the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the country.

In that regard, we emphasise that the full implementation of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali is vital for the establishment of peace, security, and stability in northern Mali. It is also important that all Malians, including women, actively participate in the political processes in their country. In that regard, we are encouraged by the efforts being made to establish an independent women’s observatory to enable women to participate in the monitoring of the implementation of the Agreement, which is an important step towards improving the participation of women in the political process in Mali.

With regard to the security situation, South Africa remains concerned about the continued instability in the north and centre of Mali, as evidenced by the sustained attacks against MINUSMA peacekeepers and national and international forces. We condemn the recent attacks in September and early October that resulted in the loss of many lives, including 38 Malian soldiers and a peacekeeper from Chad. It is important that the perpetrators of those attacks be held accountable and brought to justice.

The cessation of hostilities between the Fulani and Dogon communities in central Mali with a view to reducing intercommunal violence is a positive development that must be commended. Despite that overture, however, the persistent intercommunal attacks that result in casualties amongst civilians, including women and children, have the potential to undermine the positive gains that have been made to date. The protection of civilians, particularly the vulnerable groups in the conflict, must be a priority for all those concerned. The Security Council should encourage, support, and provide the capacity for community-based conflict resolution and mediation and sustained intercommunal, inter-ethnic, and interreligious dialogue throughout Mali. Such grass-roots efforts should include women, young people, religious and tribal leaders.

We note the progress that has been made to date on the accelerated disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) processes, which could contribute to the redeployment of the reformed and reconstituted Malian defence and security forces throughout the country, especially in northern and central Mali. All possible measures must be taken by Malian authorities to address concerns regarding the DDR processes.

As we heard in the briefing by Special Representative Annadif, MINUSMA continues to help the authorities in Mali to restore State presence and State authority in northern and central Mali, primarily by ensuring the provision of basic services to its people, which is particularly important to ensure the normalisation of the living conditions and the improvement of the lives of the ordinary citizens of Mali.

However, such an undertaking requires sufficient resources. The international community should therefore redouble its efforts to mobilise the requisite funds for the 2019 humanitarian response plan for Mali. South Africa would like to also reiterate the importance of a comprehensive and holistic approach to the multiple challenges facing Mali, particularly with regard to improving economic growth and socioeconomic development. In that regard, we are encouraged by the reports of the adoption of legislation to support the establishment of the northern development zone.

We reiterate the importance of the G-5 Sahel Joint Force in Mali and the Sahel region. Every possible effort should thus be made by the United Nations and its States Members to ensure that the continued challenges facing the G-5 Sahel Joint Force are addressed and that it has its full capacity and is able to efficiently implement its mandate. That is in addition to the life-support consumables that the G-5 Sahel Joint Force is already receiving from MINUSMA. There is an urgent need to resolve the root causes of instability, intercommunal clashes, terrorism, and violent extremism.

In that regard, the decision taken by the leaders of the Economic Community of West African States at its recently concluded Extraordinary Summit, which pledged resources for fighting terrorism in the region, is an indication of the willingness of African countries to resolve their own problems and should be commended.

Regarding the sanctions imposed on Mali, allow me to reiterate my country’s position that any sanctions regime should aim to support political processes and peace efforts, and not undermine them. The work of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 2374 (2017), concerning Mali, should therefore ensure that the Mali sanctions regime is effective in supporting the implementation of the Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali and does not hinder it in any way.

In conclusion, South Africa is encouraged by the continued commitment of the international community, through the United Nations, to supporting efforts towards the establishment of peace, security, and stability in Mali, all of which are precursors to the achievement of sustainable peace. As we have seen time and again, Mali is like a wall that acts as a dam blocking water from the north. If that wall breaks -and we can see the cracks -the countries downstream will suffer the most. Mali is a friend in the fight against terrorism. If those terrorists find their way out of Mali, the rest of Africa will suffer.

I now resume my functions as President of the Council.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8638th Meeting

Wednesday, 9 October 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8638 Agenda:

The Situation Concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (S/2019/776)

(President) - South Africa

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of South Africa.

South Africa joins other delegations in thanking the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Leila Zerrougui, for her briefing on the activities of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). My delegation recognises and commends the fundamental role played by MONUSCO in addressing the perennial instability in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and in protecting civilians. South Africa commends the role and leadership displayed by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General Zerrougui with regard to the critical issues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and in ensuring that MONUSCO discharges its mandate effectively. Today I will focus on two key issues -improving the political climate, and the state of affairs in the eastern part of the country.

With respect to the political situation, South Africa welcomes the formation of the new coalition Government in the Democratic Republic of the Congo precisely because of the consensus approach to its formation and the fact that the distribution of ministries between the two main political platforms is in line with the undertakings made in July. We especially welcome the emphasis on promoting the role of women in politics in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as their representation has increased to 17 per cent from 10 per cent. Since the publication of the last report of the Secretary-General (S/2019/575), we have continued to observe a positive trend in President Félix Tshisekedi’s implementation of his strategic approach to conflict resolution and peacebuilding in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the region. The trust and confidence-building initiatives with neighbouring countries demonstrate his personal commitment to fully implementing the Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region. Those positive developments, supported by relative stability in the western part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, are giving impetus to the resolution of other peace and security issues in the region.

With regard to the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a complex military and humanitarian situation persists. As members may recall, the Security Council was briefed on the Great Lakes region last week (see S/PV.8630). As one of the countries concerned, the Democratic Republic of the Congo shared its concerns about the presence and activities of armed groups and about intercommunal clashes, and the Ebola epidemic, concerns that are shared by the Southern African Development Community (SADC). However, we are encouraged by the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s strategy aimed at addressing its peace and security challenges, which includes capacity-building for the defence and security services as well as the creation of national forums aimed at promoting the peaceful coexistence of local communities, with a view to bolstering national cohesion.

South Africa shares the concerns raised by the Secretary-General in his report (S/2019/776) about the Ebola virus outbreak and its potential impact on the region. The regional and international response efforts continue to be hindered by insufficient funding and poor access to the conflict areas, as well as low levels of cooperation between the community and the Government. Cholera and measles outbreaks are further compounding the already fragile humanitarian situation and weak health systems. My delegation is also concerned about the attacks by armed groups on Ebola treatment centres and staff, which we condemn. Against that backdrop, we welcome the launch of an African Union (AU) mission against Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, demonstrating the willingness of African countries to work together to address an important health concern. We also welcome the continued work of the United Nations Emergency Ebola Response Coordinator and the World Health Organization in support of national efforts.

In regard to the general security and humanitarian situation, my delegation recognises the vital role played by MONUSCO, in collaboration with the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s authorities, in addressing the security challenges in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We also recognise the efforts of the Force Intervention Brigade in addressing the threat posed by armed groups, as well as the work done through the good offices of Ms. Zerrougui in meeting with key stakeholders to discuss opportunities to support institutional reform and the ongoing Ebola response.

Going forward, one of the key areas of focus for the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is the importance of ensuring the implementation of effective disarmament, demobilisation, reintegration, and security-sector reform programmes and of establishing Government authority in areas liberated from negative forces. That is especially important given the progress registered in areas such as Ituri with regard to the signing of a peace agreement and willingness to demobilise armed combatants. South Africa therefore looks forward to the outcomes of the Secretary-General’s independent strategic review of MONUSCO. Ultimately, however, we believe that any adjustment of MONUSCO’s mandate should be based on developments on the ground.

South Africa supports SADC’s continued commitment to assisting the Democratic Republic of the Congo in achieving sustainable peace, security, and stability. The communiqué issued after the 39th Ordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government of SADC, held in August, highlights the concerns about the security situation in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, on the basis of which SADC agreed to collaborate with the International Conference on the Great Lakes region in consolidating efforts for security stabilisation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the region. We are also encouraged by the cooperation between the AU and the United Nations, by which they have undertaken to continue to engage in support of the consolidation of stability and democratic governance in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

In our opinion, the international community, including the Council, has continued to witness a positive trajectory in the developments in the Democratic Republic of the Congo since the peaceful transfer of power in early 2019. To build on the current momentum, the country will need genuine support from bilateral, regional, and international partners in implementing its Government programmes, which focus on political, security, and socioeconomic efforts. We are of the firm view that it is imperative for the international community, working through SADC, the AU, the United Nations, and regional partners, to continue to maintain solidarity with the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and provide the necessary political, financial, and other support in an effort to ensure that there is no reversal of the gains made so far.

I now resume my functions as President of the Council.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8639th Meeting

Thursday, 10 October 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8639 Agenda:

Identical Letters Dated 19 January 2016 from the Permanent Representative of Colombia to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General and the President of the Security Council (S/2016/53)

Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (S/2019/780)

(President)

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of South Africa.

Let me start by thanking and welcoming His Excellency Carlos Holmes Trujillo García, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Colombia, to this meeting, together with his high-level entourage. We appreciate his commitment and availability to brief the Council each time the agenda item of Colombia is discussed. He has South Africa’s full support in his country’s quest to achieve long-term and sustainable peace. In the same spirit, we also thank Mr. Carlos Ruiz Massieu, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia, for his informative briefing and his perseverance in dealing with the peace process in Colombia.

South Africa fully supports the Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace, signed between the Government of Colombia and the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC) in 2016. We welcome the mechanisms of the Final Agreement, such as the Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion, and Verification of the Implementation of the Final Agreement, which can be used to address the gaps and challenges related to the implementation of the Agreement. We encourage both parties to use the peace agreement as a basis for strengthening dialogue.

South Africa welcomes the recent positive steps taken by the Government of Colombia, which lay the foundation for the Government to continue its initiative to integrate the former FARC-Ejército del Pueblo (EP) combatants and to ensure that they can live full and decent lives in their communities. In that regard, we welcome the efforts of President Iván Duque Márquez and his Administration to implement the “Peace with legality” strategy, which has made way for the approval of various projects for former combatants, the beginning of the implementation of the development programmes with a territorial focus and his visits to former territorial areas for training and reintegration, which can be seen as confidence-and trust-building efforts between the Government and former combatants.

We welcome the Government’s efforts with regard to the transformation of those territorial areas for the purposes of training and reintegration, as well as the constructive role and responsive attitude of the FARC. Those positive efforts can help to return the lives of 8,000 former combatants to normalcy so that they can contribute to a prosperous Colombia. We agree with the Secretary-General’s assessment in his latest report that that is “an example for overcoming hurdles in implementation through dialogue” (S/2019/780, para. 101), which South Africa supports, as it contributes to addressing the concerns and uncertainties of the FARC combatants regarding their future in Colombian daily life politically, socially and economically.

That is important, as it relates to rural and political reintegration and reform, the development of territories, transitional justice, and the rights of victims, who should remain at the centre of the full implementation of the peace agreement. We welcome the role of the Truth Commission and the Special Jurisdiction for Peace in that regard. South Africa’s own experience with its Truth and Reconciliation Commission affirms that it is crucial to achieving national unity. Hearing the different views and the various versions of events of all communities in Colombia will ensure that the road to peace is based on an inclusive political process.

The consolidation of peace after decades of conflict and mistrust is not an easy task. In that regard, we are concerned about the announcement made in August by a group of former FARC-EP commanders regarding their decision to take up arms. Such narratives have the potential to reignite violence in territories and undermine the political progress that has been made and the foundations for trust that are being established, as well as the prospects for long-term peace for all who live in Colombia.

We agree with, and wish to join, the United Nations Verification Mission in commending the resilience of Colombian society and its institutions and encourage them to remain committed to the peace process that has saved many lives to date. We also wish to commend the Government of Colombia and the FARC party for swiftly responding to that potentially damaging announcement and rejecting it by expressing their commitment to the peace process on behalf of former combatants across the country. Former combatants who laid down their weapons in good faith must remain part of the reintegration process, which must be respected, honoured, and realised, because their efforts remain important to the work of the comprehensive system of truth, justice, reparation, and non-repetition. We call on all political parties to fully respect and remain committed to the agreement and to continue to desist from any actions that may undermine its comprehensive implementation.

We remain concerned about the security of all stakeholders. That includes the recent killings of various political candidates, community and social leaders, human rights defenders, former FARC-EP combatants, persons participating in the implementation of the peace process, rural communities, including people living with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and Afro-Colombian communities, particularly in the context of the upcoming elections expected to take place later this month.

It is also important to be cognisant of the specific threats to female candidates and leaders and to urge the Government and all stakeholders across Colombian society to double their efforts to promote peace and tolerance so as to ensure the safety of all in the context of the elections and beyond. It is important that the Government and all stakeholders in Colombian society encourage the participation of young people and women at the grass-roots and all other levels, whose voices and perspectives can significantly contribute to the long-term plans for the integration and stability of Colombia.

We note the joint communiqué issued on 9 September 2019 by Cuba and Norway, guarantor countries of talks between the Government of Colombia and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia-Ejército del Pueblo, and we commend them for their willingness to continue supporting and accompanying efforts to achieve a stable and lasting peace in Colombia.

Let me conclude by stating that South Africa urges Member States and the international community to support and encourage the people of Colombia to persevere and fully implement the Final Agreement in a comprehensive manner in order to address the concerns and rights of victims, access to justice, reparation, guarantees of non-repetition, inclusive dialogue, and a peaceful settlement. Colombia has come a long way. The road to peace is near.

I now resume my functions as President of the Council.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8640th Meeting

Tuesday, 15 October 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8640 Agenda:

Reports of the Secretary-General on the Sudan and South Sudan

The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda.

Members of the Council have before them document S/2019/807, which contains the text of a draft resolution submitted by the United States of America.

The Council is ready to proceed to vote on the draft resolution before it. I shall put the draft resolution to the vote now.

The draft resolution received 15 votes in favour. The draft resolution has been adopted unanimously as resolution 2492 (2019).

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8641st Meeting

Tuesday, 15 October 2019, 10.05 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8641 Agenda:

The Question Concerning Haiti

Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Mission for Justice Support in Haiti (S/2019/805)

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of South Africa.

At the outset, South Africa wishes to congratulate Mr. Gustavo Meza-Cuadra and wish him well in his high-level assignment to lead his country’s diplomatic efforts. Knowing him, we are certain that he will succeed in this assignment.

Let me also welcome and congratulate Ms. Helen La Lime, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and the new Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), following her recent appointment. We assure her of our support.

I should also like to thank Under-Secretary-General Lacroix for his briefing and detailed factual chart he shared with the Council this morning summarising the situation in Haiti.

Today is a historic moment for the Government and the people of Haiti, as this marks the first time in 15 years that Haiti will not have a United Nations’ peacekeeping operation presence. We wish to commend the tireless efforts of the personnel of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti and the United Nations Mission for Justice Support in Haiti.

We would also like to commend the efforts of the Haitian authorities, civil society, local and international partners, and the United Nations country team for their efforts in helping Haiti navigate a difficult path.

Nonetheless, South Africa remains concerned by the recent political developments, which have heightened tensions in Haiti. The ongoing political discord has given lawlessness a lifeline, which needs to be contained if BINUH is to succeed. We call on Haitian stakeholders to attend to the issue of forming a Government and formalising the appointment of the Prime Minister as a matter of urgency. South Africa believes these are critical steps in assuring the international community, particularly donors, that the Haitian stakeholders are genuinely committed to returning their country to constitutional normalcy and sustainable development.

It was during this month of October that Haiti was to hold elections to the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate. As things stand, the current mandate of those two components of the legislature will expire on 13 January 2020. That does not leave much time before the deadline, and what lies beyond it may trouble us even more if the right steps are not taken to ensure adherence to democratic principles. We appreciate the fact that the United Nations has already made resources available to assist in that regard and encourage the Haitian political stakeholders to seize this opportunity.

We welcome the efforts by President Jovenel Moïse to reach out to various stakeholders in Haiti, including the opposition and civil society, in order to engage in dialogue to discuss the challenges facing Haiti, including the finalisation of the appointment of the Prime Minister, the importance of addressing corruption, and the challenging economic and social climate. In our view, all the parties, including the Government, opposition groups, civil society, and the non-governmental organisations in Haiti should continue to engage fully in inclusive dialogue to seek a peaceful solution to the current challenges.

Addressing the root causes of the situation in Haiti will also continue to be critical to supporting the country’s efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. That includes addressing impunity in the context of human rights violations and corruption by strengthening judicial and State institutions, including the capacity of the Haitian National Police to respond to challenges on the ground. Reform of Haiti’s justice system in Haiti will be instrumental in building trust amongst all of the people and we agree with the assessment of the Secretary-General in his recent report in this regard (S/2019/805). We look forward to the work of BINUH, the United Nations country team, and international partners in supporting the implementation of reforms to address the multidimensional challenges facing Haitian society.

Let me conclude by stating that the current approach of BINUH and its benchmarks represent a critical opportunity to advance peace and security, including by enshrining human rights and fostering sustainable development in Haiti, which should be supported. For those benchmarks to succeed, however, political will and commitment from all Haitian stakeholders is required. We should remind all that Haiti was the first black Republic in modern history. Having been free for more than 200 years, Haiti should now welcome and embrace the new political mission. Haitians must close ranks, make the necessary compromises, and carve a new pathway towards a stable, democratic, peaceful, and prosperous country.

I now resume my functions as President of the Council.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year

8642nd Meeting

Thursday, 17 October 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8642 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of South Africa.

We thank the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, Mr. Martin Griffiths, and the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mr. Mark Lowcock, for their briefings. South Africa wishes to express its support for Special Envoy Griffiths and congratulates him on the efforts he is undertaking to find a peaceful solution to the situation in Yemen. We also welcome Lieutenant General Abhijit Guha and wish him well in his role as Head of the United Nations Mission to Support the Hudaydah Agreement (UNMHA).

My delegation would like to address the following two issues: the political situation in Yemen, and the dire humanitarian situation.

First, on the political situation in Yemen, we continue to call on all parties involved in the conflict in Yemen to de-escalate tensions and fully commit to the implementation of the Stockholm Agreement. We reiterate our support for a negotiated political settlement that engages all parties in an inclusive Yemeni-led dialogue in order to resolve differences and address the legitimate concerns of all Yemenis, in accordance with relevant Security Council resolutions. We also call on the parties to engage in good faith with Special Envoy Griffiths in order to resume an inclusive political process with a view to reaching a comprehensive, negotiated settlement to end the conflict, including with the meaningful participation of women and youth, in parallel with continued efforts to implement the Stockholm Agreement.

South Africa urges those who have influence over the protagonists in the Yemeni conflict to apply maximum pressure so that the parties may sustain ongoing peace processes, make necessary compromises, release political prisoners, maintain the ceasefire, and relaunch meaningful and sustained all-party talks, as contained in the Stockholm Agreement. Special Envoy Griffiths has just briefed the Council, and we join others in thanking the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for urging the current promising Yemeni negotiations.

On the humanitarian situation, South Africa remains extremely concerned about the dire crisis in Yemen, which has caused immeasurable suffering for millions of civilians. According to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the humanitarian crisis in Yemen remains the worst in the world. Nearly four years of conflict and severe economic decline are driving the country to the brink of famine and exacerbating needs in all sectors. An estimated 80 per cent of the population -24 million people -require some form of humanitarian or protection assistance, including 14.3 million who are in acute need. The severity of their needs is deepening, with the number of people in acute need a staggering 27 per cent higher than last year. Two-thirds of all districts in the country are already suffering pre-famine, and one-third face the convergence of multiple acute vulnerabilities. An estimated 85,000 Yemeni children under the age of five may have died of starvation.

About 2 million Yemeni children have stopped attending school since the start of the war and, according to UNICEF, many schools are damaged, not in use, or have become shelters for displaced persons. Furthermore, about 2,500 boys have joined the fighting, and more than half of all Yemeni girls are now married before they reach the age of 15. The armed conflict in Yemen has killed and injured thousands of Yemeni civilians since it began. According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, about 7,000 civilians have been killed and more than 10,000 wounded. The actual number of civilian casualties is likely to be much higher. Thousands more have been displaced by the fighting and millions suffer from shortages of food and medical care. In that regard, we urge donors to disburse the pledges they made to the United Nations humanitarian response plan as a matter of urgency in order to help address the dire humanitarian situation. South Africa thanks all those donors who have generously disbursed their funds as pledged, including Saudi Arabia, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates, and we are grateful for the many other donations, such as that announced by China today.

We further call on the parties to the conflict to allow for the free, regular, and undisputed passage of food and other humanitarian relief and not to take actions that could deprive civilians of their rights to food and healthcare. We also call on all parties to facilitate access to the humanitarian relief that the people of Yemen so desperately need. In that regard, we remind parties to the conflict that all necessary measures should be taken to respect the Geneva Conventions. We further call on all parties to the conflict to abide by their obligations under international law, including human rights law. This unprecedented humanitarian crisis is a strong indicator of the human toll of continued military action and conflict in Yemen, which necessitates an urgent commitment to a ceasefire and the pursuit of a negotiated, peaceful, and inclusive solution to the crisis.

In conclusion, we wish to reiterate that the only sustainable solution to this conflict will be through a negotiated, Yemeni-led political settlement that is inclusive and fair and puts the interests of all citizens of Yemen first. South Africa appreciates the initiatives of all players that have brought about the current improved security environment and increased the prospects for peace in Yemen.

I now resume my functions as President of the Council.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8645th Meeting

Thursday, 24 October 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8645 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

Report of the Secretary-General on the Implementation of Resolutions 2139 (2014), 2165 (2014), 2191 (2014), 2258 (2015), 2332 (2016), 2393 (2017), 2401 (2018), and 2449 (2018) (S/2019/820)

I will now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of South Africa.

I thank Ms. Ursula Mueller, Ms. Agnès Marcaillou, and Mr. Khaled Khiari for their briefings.

South Africa voices its deep concern about the dire humanitarian situation in Syria. While the previous briefing by the then Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mr. Lowcock, in September (see S/ PV.8619) focused on the upsurge in violence in north-west Syria, the new front in Syria’s complex war is exacerbating an already fragile humanitarian situation.

According to the most recent Secretary-General’s report (S/2019/820), more than 1,000 civilians have been killed since late April, with 209 killed between 1 August and 22 September. Since the beginning of May this year, more than 630,000 people have been displaced, some not for the first time, with many seeking shelter in the open.

In north-east Syria, more than 180,000 civilians, including 80,000 children, have now been displaced due to the increased military operations since 9 October. With regard to the damaged Allouk water system, we welcome and applaud the United Nations efforts in repairing that infrastructure, which supports 400,000 people in the region, and call on all parties to ensure that the additional necessary repairs to return the water system to full operation can be completed without delay.

The humanitarian situation has worsened further following the withdrawal of some international humanitarian agencies and non-governmental organisations from north-east Syria. Their withdrawal and suspensions of operations have added further challenges and complications for those civilians in the area requiring assistance to meet their basic needs.

These combined events have exacerbated a humanitarian crisis that has already been declared one of the world’s worst. Last month the Security Council failed to adopt a resolution that addressed the dire humanitarian situation in Idlib. Such lack of Council unity is not the message that we want to convey to the Syrian men, women, and children who have lost their lives, sustained severe injuries, and endured multiple displacements due to the dismal conditions in which they live. We are the international body that has been entrusted with peace and security. Yet, because of our internal rivalries, we are failing to discharge our responsibility. At the very least, we should be able to agree on humanitarian assistance.

Let us be clear: Syria is at a delicate stage. There is a glimmer of hope and prospects on the political front given the positive developments with regard to the official launch of the Constitutional Committee by the end of this month. The Council should be galvanising all its energies towards that political process and invest everything possible for a fully inclusive Syrian-led political process.

However, the developments in north-east Syria in recent days have also aggravated the fragile situation we are talking about. The Council must endeavour to rally around a common position to assist the process and implement its mandate to maintain international peace and security. The brief elements of presidential statement S/PRST/2019/12, which we adopted last week, are a start. It may not say much but at least it shows that we can agree on some common ground. South Africa would be willing to work with the penholders and interested delegations on this matter to seek consensus.

In conclusion, it must be emphasised that it is crucial that there be utmost restraint and a de-escalation of hostilities, as well as the recognition of Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, and that all parties comply with international law.

South Africa wishes to reiterate that the situation in Syria must be resolved through negotiations and dialogue and calls on all parties to make every effort towards the full implementation of resolution 2254 (2015). South Africa has noted the memorandum of understanding signed between Turkey and the Russian Federation on 22 October 2019. My delegation hopes that the memorandum together with the previously agreed ceasefire between Turkey and the United States of America on 17 October 2019, along with the continuous and steadfast efforts of Special Envoy Pedersen, all work together towards achieving long-term peace, stability, and prosperity for Syria and its people.

I now resume my functions as President of the Council.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8651st Meeting

Wednesday, 30 October 2019, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8651 Agenda:

The Situation Concerning Western Sahara

Report of the Secretary-General on the Situation Concerning Western Sahara (S/2019/787)

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of South Africa.

At the outset, South Africa wishes to reiterate its unequivocal and strong support for the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). The Mission, as its name indicates, was created almost 30 years ago, with a mandate to hold a referendum to allow the people of Western Sahara to exercise their right to self-determination. We lament the fact that such a referendum has, unfortunately, not occurred, depriving the people of the territory of Western Sahara of this universally accepted right.

South Africa wishes once again to commend the political process facilitated by the Secretary-General’s good offices, through his former Special Envoy, Mr. Horst Köhler, as well as the efforts of the Special Representative and Head of MINURSO, Mr. Colin Stewart. A new Personal Envoy should be appointed as soon as possible to continue this process.

Although resolution 2494 (2019), which was just adopted, contains numerous paragraphs with which South Africa can agree, there remain several elements of concern to our delegation, as follows.

Firstly, the current text, as it stands, is not balanced. It does not provide a true reflection of the unfortunate undertaking by the two parties, Morocco and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, as the latter is referred as a member of the African Union, represented by the Frente Popular por la Liberación de Saguía el Hamra y Río de Oro (Frente POLISARIO) in the political process under discussion. Indeed, both parties are members of the African Union.

Secondly, we note that once again terms such as “realistic”, “realism”, and “compromise” are being used in the resolution. These references are an attempt to undermine the principle of self-determination for the people of Western Sahara, which, as has been established by numerous General Assembly and Security Council resolutions, is relevant to the situation in Western Sahara. The Council must reaffirm its long-standing and unequivocal commitment to the right to self-determination for the people of Western Sahara in an unqualified manner.

South Africa would have preferred a six-month mandate for MINURSO, which we believe would have allowed the Council to regularly meet to consider the progress made on the appointment of the Special Envoy and the status of the political process. The argument put forward for the Council to meet regularly on items on its agenda should also hold for the situation in Western Sahara. Western Sahara should not be treated differently from the other issues on the Council’s agenda in similar circumstances, and we should not allow for an out-of-sight, out-of-mind approach to this matter.

South Africa welcomes the reference to human rights in the 17th to 20th preambular paragraphs of resolution 2494 (2019). However, we wish to reiterate that there is a need for a formal human rights mandate to strengthen the monitoring of possible human rights violations on all sides, by Morocco and the Frente POLISARIO.

Lastly, we wish to note once again that the text must differentiate between the parties to the conflict: Morocco, the Frente POLISARIO and the neighbouring States of Algeria and Mauritania. We wish to reiterate once again that the Council’s working methods on this matter, whereby it delegates responsibility to the Group of Friends of Western Sahara, remain of serious concern to South Africa. We have consistently raised this issue as problematic, particularly the unrepresentative nature of the Group, which does not include a single African member of the Council, despite the fact that this is an African issue.

The substantive concerns that we have raised regarding the text could have and should have been raised in negotiations on the text. However, despite having been elected by the General Assembly to serve on and participate in the work of the Security Council, we were not given that opportunity. This process presents Council members that are not members of the Group of Friends with a text with a take-it-or-leave-it approach, which is not sustainable and does not allow us the opportunity to carry out our mandate.

South Africa reiterates its principled position on the situation in the Western Sahara, which remains the last colony on the African continent, listed by the United Nations as a Non-Self-Governing Territory. Given our concerns and in considering the text before us, as the resolution renews the mandate of MINURSO and endorses the political process embarked upon by the former Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General, South Africa was not able to vote in favour. That is why we abstained.

I now resume my functions as President of the Council.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8657th Meeting

Monday, 4 November 2019, 10.10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8657 Agenda:

Peace and Security in Africa

At the outset, I would like to congratulate the United Kingdom on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of November. Please be assured of South Africa’s support for your efforts this month, Madam President, H.E. Ambassador Karen Pierce. On a slightly different note, I would also like to congratulate the England rugby team on their performance in this year’s Rugby World Cup and final. In all sports our teams have historically had a healthy competitive spirit, and that was again illustrated during the Rugby World Cup matches this year and the past weekend.

We would like to thank Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed and Ambassador Fatima Mohammed, Permanent Observer of the African Union (AU) to the United Nations, for their briefings. We commend the joint visit to Sudan, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia, led by the Deputy Secretary-General together with Ms. Bineta Diop, the AU Special Envoy on Women, Peace and Security, and Mr. Parfait Onanga-Anyanga, the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa. The focus of the joint United Nations-African Union trip on women, and peace and security, and on the international commitment to peace, stability, and credible elections in those countries, was important. South Africa would also like to commend the role that the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority for Development (IGAD) and other international partners have played in facilitating State-building and peacebuilding processes in the Horn of Africa.

As we have seen in the recent past, the winds of positive change are blowing in the Horn of Africa. The frontiers of peace and peaceful neighbourliness are expanding, and in the process are touching many nations and ordinary people. Though still fragile, they augur well for the goal of silencing the guns in Africa by 2020. It is in that context of peaceful The United Kingdom overtures ahead that South Africa thanks the Deputy assumed the presidency Secretary-General and Ambassador Mohammed, of the UNSC for the and their colleagues both at the United Nations and month of November the AU, for their extensive visits and numerous 2019, her Permanent engagements held with policymakers, activists and Representative, ordinary people in their successful trip to the Horn of Ambassador Karen Africa. We also want to acknowledge the role played Pierce became the by Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of Ethiopia and the president of the SC current Chair of IGAD, in facilitating the peace agreement and transition processes in the Sudan, as well as his own country’s rapprochement with Eritrea.

In terms of the peace process in South Sudan, we would like to note the progress made so far towards implementing the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan. We want to highlight how important it is that the parties strictly adhere to the deadline of 12 November 2019 to form a Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity and emphasise that there can be no delay or postponement of that deadline, which arrives in eight days’ time.

My delegation further wishes to underline the importance of ensuring that the political process in the Horn of Africa is sustained. In that regard, South Africa reiterates that the gains achieved can be strengthened and sustained only through continued dialogue and cooperation amongst the countries of the region. We emphasise that the steps taken so far are a major milestone in Africa’s efforts to silence the guns by 2020 and deepen regional and continental integration, in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

We agree with the Deputy Secretary-General in her statement to the African Union Peace and Security Council in Addis Ababa on 21 October 2019, when she emphasised that women’s inclusion contributes to the development of responsive decision-making processes that ensure sustainable development. We also share her view that in situations of conflict, and in preventing violence, women’s mediation and peacemaking efforts have been proven to be more effective.

The involvement of women in United Nations’ peacekeeping roles within the military, police, and civilian components in conflict remains negligible, despite the adoption of resolution 2242 (2015), which calls for doubling the number of women in the military and police contingents of United Nations’ peacekeeping operations over the next five years, a period that has now almost run its course. We were encouraged, however, by the Council’s unanimous adoption, on 29 October 2019, under our presidency, of resolution 2493 (2019) urging States to recommit to the women, and peace and security agenda, including by creating safe environments for women leaders, peacebuilders, human rights activists, and political actors around the globe.

We must continue to support the narrative that women, including young women, are agents of change. As we have heard today, and as we have seen in many examples all over the world, they have the greatest potential for transformative effects on societies, including in peacebuilding and nation-building. We must work to provide the necessary resources for holding elections and implementing peace agreements, as we are seeing in the processes taking place in the Horn of Africa and elsewhere in the world.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8660th Meeting

Wednesday, 6 November 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8660 Agenda:

The Situation in Libya

At the outset, let me thank the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Ms. Fatou Bensouda, for her comprehensive briefing on the situation in Libya.

South Africa continues to support resolution 1970 (2011), which calls for a cessation of violence against civilians and mandates the ICC to investigate war crimes and crimes against humanity. We also urge non-State parties to the Rome Statute to support the Prosecutor of the ICC in discharging her responsibilities. While South Africa is concerned about the apparent lack of movement in some of the cases, it is encouraged by Libya’s efforts to try cases domestically and urges that justice be carried out as expeditiously as possible.

South Africa welcomes the Office of the Prosecutor’s increased focus on cooperation and coordination with Libya and other relevant States in order to support national investigations and prosecutions. South Africa ardently supports strengthening complementarity through the development of domestic institutions to investigate and prosecute crimes.

South Africa remains concerned about the current ongoing fighting in Libya, which is not conducive to finding a political settlement that will bring an end to Libya’s long transitional period. We condemn the continued loss of civilian lives and crimes being perpetrated against migrants. We call on all parties to fully respect international humanitarian law and human rights law.

We appreciate the commitment of the Office of the Prosecutor to monitor and expand its investigations, with a view to potentially prosecuting new crimes within its jurisdiction. At the same time, we call on all parties and stakeholders to recommit to building durable peace in Libya on the basis of inclusive political dialogue as the only viable means to achieving sustainable peace in Libya. We also acknowledge and emphasise the role of the Security Council in promoting political dialogue and supporting all efforts to bring about a peaceful settlement of this conflict.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8669th Meeting

Wednesday, 20 November 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8669 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East, Including the Palestinian Question

Let me, H.E. Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila join others in thanking Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, and Ms. Tania Hary, Executive Director of Gisha, Legal Centre for Freedom of Movement, for their briefings. I also welcome the observer of the Observer State of Palestine and the representative of Israel to the Chamber for our deliberations today.

I would like to address the following three issues in my statement today: the systematic annexation of Palestinian lands, the situation in Gaza, and the power of the peaceful resolution of conflicts.

On the first issue, regarding the systematic annexation of Palestinian lands, South Africa would like to reiterate its steadfast stance with regard to the peace process and resolving the constant stalemate in negotiations. In that context, we affirm that the only way to achieve peace and stability in the Middle East is by reaching lasting peace between Palestinians and Israelis themselves and by restoring all the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, in accordance with the two-State solution and the relevant United Nations resolutions and international terms of reference, including the Madrid Principles, the Arab Peace Initiative, and the Quartet Road Map, amongst others.

The continuing disregard for those prevailing and long-standing international concepts cannot be allowed, particularly with regard to the circumvention of final Status issues, such as borders, the status of Jerusalem, and the right to return of refugees. Israel’s continuing pronouncements on the annexation of large parts of the West Bank and the building of additional settlements further undermine the prospects for peace and are glaring examples of violations of international law. Since 1967 -that is, for over half a century -Israel has systematically constructed more than 160 settlements and outposts on land seized from the Palestinian people. More than 600,000 Israelis are now living in settlements built from the ruins of demolished and destroyed Palestinian properties. Since the adoption of the first resolution on the situation in Palestine -resolution 42 (1948), of March 1948, over 70 years ago, and all subsequent resolutions -the Council has failed to ensure that those resolutions are implemented or to take any concrete action to address the blatant violations of those resolutions. I now ask my fellow Council members, what will force the Council to act?

I would like to remind the Council of its unanimous adoption of resolution 2334 (2016), on 23 December 2016. It clearly states, in paragraph 1, that the Council “[r]eaffirms that the establishment by Israel of settlements in the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, has no legal validity and constitutes a flagrant violation under international law, and a major obstacle to the achievement of the two-State solution and a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace”.

There is no ambiguity, legal or otherwise, in those words or in that resolution.

Article 25 of the Charter of the United Nations clearly states that “[t]he Members of the United Nations agree to accept and carry out the decisions of the Security Council in accordance with the present Charter.”

It must be clear to all that no State Member of the United Nations is exempt from its obligations under the United Nations Charter. If we were to abandon the principles enshrined in the Charter, it would render the Council and its decisions obsolete. In that regard, South Africa has to, and will continue to, insist on the full implementation of resolution 2334 (2016) and all other Council resolutions on this matter, including by calling for written reports by the Secretary-General on the implementation of resolution 2334 (2016). We cannot ignore one Security Council resolution while calling for the full implementation of others.

On my second point, South Africa is deeply concerned about the recent activities in Gaza, which have led to increased tensions, the killing of more than 30 Palestinians, and injuries to hundreds of innocent Palestinians and Israelis. Those actions perpetuate the dire security and humanitarian situation in the area, and we welcome last week’s announcement of a ceasefire brokered by the United Nations and Egypt. In that regard, we call for a halt to the violent attacks on both sides and for all parties to begin negotiations. Additionally, South Africa is concerned about the continued human rights violations in the occupied territory and reiterates that such violations only foster hatred between the peoples of Palestine and Israel.

With regard to my third issue, on the power of peaceful conflict resolution, the security of Israel and its future generations does not lie in the annexation of Palestinian territories, the imprisonment of Palestinians, the erection of high concrete walls and checkpoints, or the continued blockade of Gaza but rather in a peaceful, stable, and happy neighbour and a sovereign and independent Palestinian State, whose children, like Israeli children, can go to school, play, attend places of worship, and compete in sporting activities with their Israeli friends in peace and security. That can be achieved through sustained dialogue, negotiation, and mediation, through both sides respecting one another and through compromise and understanding. As our late President Mandela said at a banquet in Cape Town during the visit of President Yasser Arafat in 1998,

“Our own humble experience has shown that negotiated solutions can be found even to conflict that the world has come to regard as insoluble. It has taught us that such solutions emerge when former opponents reach out to find common ground.”

In conclusion, I would like to say that South Africa is fully committed to ensuring that a two-State solution, and the agreed peace processes aimed at ensuring two viable States coexisting side by side for the mutual benefit of all peoples in the region, especially Israelis and Palestinians, becomes a reality. We are ready to play our part to assist the parties in finding durable peace for the sake of their children and future generations.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fourth Year 8671st Meeting

Thursday, 21 November 2019, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8671 Agenda:

The Situation in Somalia

Report of the Secretary-General on Somalia (S/2019/884)

On behalf of the three elected African members of the Security Council -Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, and South Africa -I, Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila, PR of South Africa would like to start by thanking Mr. James Swan, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (AMISOM); Mr. Francisco Caetano José Madeira, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission for Somalia and Head of the African Union Mission in Somalia; Ms. Halima Ismail Ibrahim, Chair of the National Independent Electoral Commission of Somalia; and Mr. Osman Moallim, Executive Director of Somalia Youth Development Network, for their briefings. The African members of the Security Council also welcome our colleague the Permanent Representative of Somalia to this meeting concerning his homeland.

We also join other colleagues in offering our condolences to the family of Ms. Almaas Elman, who was killed in Somalia yesterday.

The African members of the Council are pleased to note that Somalia is making progress on the road to political, security, economic, and social recovery, despite enormous challenges. That progress is a result of Somalia’s continued focus on national priorities that are guided by the Somali Transition Plan and the National Development Plan framework. The African Union, through AMISOM, continues to support the efforts of the Federal Government to ensure inclusive and enhanced relations with the federal Member States.

However, Somalia needs the support of all its partners to harness and sustain ongoing efforts towards effective stabilisation and assistance in preparing for post-conflict reconstruction and development across the country. In that regard, critical questions remain with regard to prospects for credible and timely one-person-one-vote elections in 2020 and 2021. As the focus shifts to elections, there is the potential for increased political tensions. The federal Member States’ agreement on the electoral law, security planning, and funding will be crucial.

The international community should push for accelerated electoral preparations, including the legal framework, as well as security and logistics.

The African members of the Security Council call on the Council to support the work of the National Independent Electoral Commission on the finalisation of the preparations for the upcoming elections, such as public outreach and voter pre-registration preparations, including the identification of voter registration locations that can be secured and supported by AMISOM. The completion of the constitutional review process is a critical milestone for Somalia as it forges ahead in laying the foundations for lasting and sustainable peace and security in the country.

In that regard, improved collaboration and cooperation between the Federal Government and its federal Member States are crucial to advancing security, including the integration and generation of forces to fight side by side with AMISOM, the implementation of the transition plan, deepening federalism, and completing the constitutional review process.

The three African members of the Security Council also want to emphasise the important role of women. Through continued engagement and advocacy, notably of women in AMISOM and the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), together with Government officials, Somali women’s participation in the political process, including in the electoral process, is increasing. Prior to the 2016-2017 elections, the aim was to secure and achieve 30 per cent representation in Parliament. Women secured 24 per cent of the seats in the current Parliament.

It is also important to create the conditions for the political mobilisation of youth and enable them to participate fully and responsibly in the future elections in Somalia. In that regard, it is important to commend the work of UNSOM to help better identify the obstacles to youth participation and to call on the Somali authorities, national civil society and the international community to strengthen their actions in that regard.

The African members of the Security Council commend the progress made in the security sector in Somalia with the support of AMISOM. The process that led to the capture from Al-Shabaab and continued holding of the bridge towns of Sabiid, Bariire, and Awdheegle in Lower Shabelle is the most telling example in that regard. However, Al-Shabaab retains its operational capabilities, as evidenced by consistent counter-attacks and systematic attacks against security forces, civilians, AMISOM, the United Nations, and international actors.

In that regard, the three African Security Council members strongly condemn the mortar attack on the United Nations and AMISOM compounds on 13 October 2019. We extend our wishes for a speedy and full recovery to the injured personnel and call for the enhancement of international efforts to counter the threat of terrorism and violent extremism in Somalia.

In addition, the pace of generating Somali security capacities and force transition from AMISOM have been slow and well short of expected timelines. It is therefore crucial to find ways of supporting the force generation of Somali security forces to ensure that they undertake joint operations with AMISOM, hold newly liberated territories, protect civilian centres and secure the main supply routes.

The three African Security Council members encourage the AU, AMISOM, the United Nations, and the Federal Government of Somalia to undertake a joint threat assessment of the situation in Somalia, pursuant to resolution 2472 (2019) and the communiqué of the AU Peace and Security Council, in order to prepare for the upcoming AMISOM troop reduction of 1,000 by 28 February 2020. It will be recalled that in the fulfilment of its mandate, as stipulated in the relevant Security Council resolutions and AU Peace and Security Council communiqués, AMISOM has already reconfigured and drawn down its force strength by 2,000 troops. By February 2020, another 1,000 effectives are expected to be withdrawn from the Mission’s theatre of operations.

The African Security Council members urge the Council to ensure that any AMISOM drawdown or reconfiguration, as well as the transition, is conditioned and guided by the actual situation on the ground. That should also be based on the capacity and capability of the Somali security forces to guarantee security and stability for the country’s people.

The deterioration of the humanitarian situation, in particular owing to drought, food-insecurity, and the increase in the number of internally displaced persons, is a cause of serious concern for the African members of the Security Council. The situation, in fact, increases the need to help and protect those populations in distress. It is therefore urgent that the international partners continue to redouble their efforts to provide the funds that are lacking in the financing of the 2019 humanitarian response plan and support the humanitarian response in 2020 in order to address the food-security crisis faced by more than 2 million people.

In conclusion, the three African Member States on the Security Council reaffirm their support and appreciation for AMISOM, UNSOM, the United Nations Support Office in Somalia, and all other international partners for their important contributions to the restoration of peace and stability in Somalia. We also pay tribute to and salute the gallant peacekeepers who paid the ultimate sacrifice in assisting Somalia in its struggle to ensure the peace and safety of its people.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8699th Meeting

Thursday, 9 January 2020, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8699 Agenda:

Maintenance of International Peace and Security Upholding the United Nations Charter

Letter Dated 31 December 2019 from the Permanent

Representative of Vietnam to the United Nations

Addressed to the Secretary- General (S/2020/1)

As this is the first open debate for the year 2020, South Africa would like to take this opportunity to welcome the new elected members -Estonia, the Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia, and Vietnam -to the Security Council. We wish them all the best during their two-year terms. We have no doubt that the newly elected members will play a constructive role in the work of the Council, and we look forward to working with them to that end.

We also thank the outgoing elected members -Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Kuwait, Peru, and Poland -for their positive contributions to the work of the Council. Finally, we thank you, Mr. President, H.E. Ambassador Đặng Đình Quý of Vietnam, for dedicating the first thematic debate, during this historic 75th year of the Organization, to the Charter of the United Nations, which forms the foundation of the Organization’s very existence and our ongoing work.

As a founding Member of the United Nations, South Africa -together with fellow African States Ethiopia, Egypt, and Liberia -participated in the drafting and adoption of the Charter in San Francisco. South Africa deposited its instrument of the 1947 hosting agreement and undermines the resolution of disputes through constructive dialogue.

ratification on 7 November 1945.
We note with regret that the Foreign Minister of Iran was not granted a visa to attend this meeting, thereby denying an important actor in the troubled Gulf region an opportunity to express the country’s views on peace and security in the context of a debate on the United	Vietnam became the presidency of the UNSC for the month of January 2020.
Nations	Charter.	The	denial	of	entry	to	the States	Her permanent
Members of the United Nations -in this case to one that	representative,
participated in the drafting of the Charter and deposited	Ambassador Đặng
its instrument of ratification on 24 October 1945 -to	Đình Quý became the
participate	in	a	United	Nations	debate	contravenes	president of the SC

The signing of the Charter of the United Nations in San Francisco in 1945 was a seminal moment in the relations of States that invoked a sense of unity for a common cause -a moment during which, as the second Secretary-General, Dag Hammarskjöld, later pointed out, “The hopes that were then aroused in many hearts outran the limitations of human nature” (see SG/382). The signing of the United Nations Charter was and remains an expression of hope that the peoples of the world can live in peace and prosperity, in larger freedom.

The United Nations Charter represents a normative and contractual framework for the values that we as nations of the world aspire to and the commitments we intend to abide by. Following the unsuccessful attempt of the Covenant of the League of Nations to create an environment in which another world war could be averted, the United Nations Charter succeeded in the creation of a multilateral system of governance that has ensured that countries are able to convene within a rules-based environment and framework to discuss and promote issues of international peace and security, human rights, and development.

We recognise that since its inception the Charter has played a significant role in regulating relations between Member States by forbidding the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State and advocating for the peaceful settlement of disputes.

While the Charter reinforces respect for the sovereignty of nations, it also, in Article 33, calls on all nations to collectively pursue a non-antagonistic and mutually beneficial approach to its international relations.

Despite the noble aspirations of the Charter and its positive impact, some Member States have violated, and continue to violate, some of its central tenets. Article 2.1 of the Charter maintains that the United Nations is based on the principle of the sovereign equality of all its Members; however, unilateral actions and disregard for international law continue to this day.

We must stress that the Charter is a compact that Member States have agreed to voluntarily abide by for their mutual benefit. There cannot be selective adherence to the Charter, as that would undermine the very credibility of the compact. The selective implementation of the Charter undermines the Organization and the post-Second World War international system of governance that we have developed.

The Charter makes it very clear that the Security Council is the sole body that can authorise the use of force. Additionally, the Charter provides that States may act in self-defence, including confronting imminent threats; but such threats must be credible, real and objectively verifiable for the use of force without Security Council authorisation to be justifiable.

South Africa is of the view that, to uphold the original intention of the Charter, which ultimately is predicated on peace, even in the event that there is evidence of a real and credible threat, any recourse to the use of force based on selfdefence should be brought to the Security Council for authorisation. Ultimately, the Charter seeks to prevent the use of force. Therefore, the issue is not just about whether the use of force is legal or not, but whether its use contributes to the Charter’s vision of a more peaceful and prosperous world.

The Charter provisions of the equality of nations, mutual respect, and adherence to international law must be upheld if we are to resolve current disputes through negotiated settlements and prevent the outbreak of further conflicts. This approach is necessary in the context of emerging threats to international peace and security such as the growing number of intra-State and trans-State conflicts, the rise of non-State actors, terrorism, transnational organised crime, and other such acutely global threats. We should not allow for competing political interests to undermine respect for international law and self-determination in cases such as that of the Western Sahara and the occupied Palestinian territories.

The Charter is explicit on the role of regional organisations, as reflected in Chapter VIII, which makes provision for regional arrangements to address matters relating to the maintenance of international peace and security. That is a testament to the vision of the drafters of the Charter, as, at the time, regional organisations were not as developed or equipped to deal with peace and security matters as they are today.

Today, Chapter VIII is even more relevant in terms of regional organisations, particularly the African Union and regional economic communities on the African continent, as they have established peace and security mechanisms, including those dealing with mediation, peacekeeping, and peacebuilding. As Members of the United Nations, we must continue our efforts to strengthen cooperation and coordination with regional arrangements to ensure that our efforts are complementary and mutually reinforcing.

While the Charter remains relevant, we must acknowledge that the world today is very different from the world that existed 75 years ago, when the Charter was signed. At the time of signing, there were 51 Member States. The majority of Member States from Africa and Asia that make up today’s 193 Member States were not yet independent, but still colonised.

While the values that underpin the Organization should not be changed, Charter amendments are necessary to ensure that the Organization reflects the current global reality. In the first few years of the Organization’s existence, Member States were willing to make the necessary amendments to the Charter, and the five Charter amendments that were made accommodated the growing membership of the United Nations.

However, it has been 47 years since the most recent Charter amendment. For the Organization to be effective and remain relevant, it must reflect the current state of the world, and we must be willing to make the changes necessary to ensure that Member States are adequately represented in all the principal organs, including the Security Council.

We must use the opportunity of the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Charter and the United Nations itself to recommit to the aspirations we had when

it was signed. That would require us to recommit to upholding and returning to the letter and spirit of the Charter and its central principles, through which we pursue international peace and security and continue to pursue the mutual benefit and development of all. That is not an optional approach but a prerequisite and necessity for international peace and security and for creating a world that understands that the interests of each nation are embedded in the interests of all of us.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8706th Meeting

Tuesday, 21 January 2020, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8706 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East, Including the Palestinian Question

Allow me to begin by thanking Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo, Under-Secretary-General of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, and Ms. Ursula Mueller, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, for their informative and factual yet chilling briefings on the situation between Israel and Palestine. Ms. Mueller’s report on the humanitarian situation in the occupied Palestinian territory was sobering, especially with regard to unaccompanied Palestinian children seeking medical aid in foreign lands. We also note the compelling testimony of the Ambassador of the State of Palestine.

We would like to address four issues this morning, namely, the political process, the security concerns, the continuous land-grabbing of Palestinian lands, and trust between Israel and Palestine. Turning first to the political situation, the dark clouds hanging over the Middle East, tensions between the United States and Israel and Iran, tensions in Lebanon, and ongoing difficulties in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen are diverting attention away from the core problem in the region: the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. South Africa calls on the Security Council and all other players to refocus on that core problem.

The lack of progress in the Middle East peace process is of great concern to South Africa. As we have heard before, and as many Council members have said here today, the only viable and sustainable solution to the crisis in the Middle East is a two-State solution that allows for a sovereign, independent Palestinian State based on the 1967 borders and with East Jerusalem as its capital, alongside a safe and secure State of Israel. Any attempts to divert from those fundamental concepts and the premature closure of final-status issues are but a distraction from the internationally accepted framework for resolving the crisis. In that regard, we reaffirm that the only way to achieve peace and stability in the Middle East is through reaching a lasting peace between Palestine and Israel -there is no other alternative -and restoring all the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, in accordance with the two-State solution and the relevant resolutions and international terms of reference.

With regard to the announcement of Palestinian elections, we thank Ms. DiCarlo for the update on the United Nations efforts to ensure the holding of inclusive Palestinian elections. We call on all parties to make a concerted effort to ensure that safe and inclusive elections are held throughout the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem. The Council has always emphasised, including Secretary-General António Guterres, that a surge in diplomacy is a critical tool for the mediation of seemingly intractable conflicts. Where is that surge in diplomacy on this more than 60-year-old conflict?

On the security situation, South Africa is deeply concerned by the tension around the Gaza Strip, which has led to further killing and a perpetuation of the conflict. In that regard, we call for a cessation of violent attacks by both sides and for a return to negotiations. South Africa believes that the current crises in Gaza will lead only to parties moving further and further apart from each other and undermine any hope for the resumption of negotiations. South Africa thanks Egypt and the Secretary-General for brokering the latest ceasefire between Israel and Gaza.

The current security situation and the continued blockade imposed on Gaza negatively affect the humanitarian situation, as we heard from Ms. Mueller today. In that regard, we commend the staff and officials of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East for continuing to provide essential aid, including health and education services, to the people of Gaza. With respect to the continued land-grabbing in Palestine, in these uncertain times, additional instability will only heighten tension. Threats and pronouncements of annexation, including large parts of the occupied West Bank, further undermine prospects for peace and hinder any chance of finding a sustainable settlement to the crisis. Ms. DiCarlo gave details on the ongoing Israeli land-grab of Palestinian territories, carried out in defiance of the Council’s resolutions and overwhelming global condemnation.

South Africa reiterates that the continued expansion of settlements violates international law, undermines the prospects for peace, and contravenes the decisions of the Council, effectively damaging its credibility as the organ mandated to maintain international peace and security. We therefore continue to insist on the full implementation of resolution 2334 (2016). We must highlight that overt violations of Security Council resolutions would usually elicit harsher measures imposed on the party responsible for such infractions. We also call for the continuation of written reports by the Secretary-General on the implementation of resolutions 2334 (2016).

With regard to trust between the parties, the Council must work towards restoring trust in the legitimate peace process that has been pursued for decades in order to prevent the further development of antagonism between the parties. We therefore call on the Council to be united and unified in encouraging gestures of hope and the building of trust between the parties in an effort to defuse tension and towards creating an environment conducive to the resumption of dialogue. The Council should decisively address the hopelessness of both Israeli and Palestinian children, who see no end to the conflict that their grandparents and parents started.

In conclusion, we reiterate our call for the Council to reconsider a visit to the region, which would be a clear indication -and not an infringement on the internal affairs of any parties -that the international community continues to support the resolution of the core and oldest conflict in the Middle East. As with other Council field visits, it would also provide an opportunity to meet all relevant actors in both Israel and Palestine and encourage them to move towards lasting peace for the sake of their own people. Israel and Palestine need help. The Council can provide that help. South Africa is ready to do its part to contribute to peacemaking efforts to assist both parties to move towards peace.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8721st Meeting

Wednesday, 12 February 2020, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8721 Agenda:

Children and Armed Conflict Integrating Child Protection into Peace Processes

Letter Dated 5 February 2020 from the Permanent Representative of Belgium to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2020/97)

I, Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila deliver this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Security Council: the Niger, South Africa, and Tunisia.

We would like to extend a special and warm welcome to His Majesty King Philippe, King of the Belgians, and Queen Mathilde, who have graced us with their presence today. We would like to pay tribute to the sterling work that they have done in the area of children and armed conflict.

I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome and thank Secretary-General António Guterres; the African Union (AU) Commissioner for Peace and Security, Ambassador Smaïl Chergui; and Ms. Jo Becker, Chair of the Advisory Board of the non-governmental network Watchlist on Children and Armed Conflict, for their insightful briefings this morning. We would also like to welcome the presence of the Deputy Ministers in the Chamber.

We welcome the development of the practical guidance for mediators to better protect children in situations of armed conflict and commend the Kingdom of Belgium for convening this meeting and for the important work it is doing in its chairmanship of the Working Group on Children and Armed Conflict. We believe that the protection of children should be addressed at all levels, including in preventive diplomacy, the mediation of peace processes and with regard to peacekeeping as an important part of the mandate of the protection of civilians. It is imperative that all concerned parties ensure that the protection, rights and well-being of children are integrated into peace processes, peace agreements, and post-conflict recovery and reconstruction phases. That realisation on the part of warring parties and mediators can be instrumental in fostering dialogue, building confidence amongst parties and assisting in bringing immediate and long-term benefits to children. We believe that ending and preventing conflict-related violations against children in armed conflict is not only a moral imperative, but that it also contributes to building sustainable peace.

We would like to underscore the important role played by local communities in the integration of children who have been affected one way or another by armed conflict. Communities remain the first point of contact for those children and therefore play a critical role in contributing to and paving the way for a better future for them. In that regard, it is imperative for such communities to be equipped with the requisite resources to ensure that all aspects, including child protection, counselling, and skills to handle such cases, are made possible.

We have observed that not all resolutions regarding the issue include the perspectives of parents and their role as primary caregivers. In that regard, we, as the Security Council, should consider including the concept of the role of parents in the outcomes of the Council in the future.

We believe that the development of integration programmes for children who are affected by armed conflict should take into account the perspectives of the children themselves. It is within that context that national and local programmes should not disregard the experiences and voices of children; instead, those should be used to design and develop suitable programmes for affected children.

We recognise that in addressing grave violations against children in armed conflict, general approaches are often applied. It is imperative that Member States also take into account country-specific situations, which may require tailored measures to address the issues.

The three African members of the Council are pleased with the efforts of the AU and subregional groups in advocating for increased focus on issues related to children and armed conflict and prioritising the implementation of relevant continental protocols and charters. The inclusion of the protection of children against grave violations in political and peace agreements, such as in the case of the Central African Republic, is a significant development. Its implementation should demonstrate the benefits of such initiatives and will also serve as a model to be replicated in other conflict situations. As we continue to strengthen our efforts to silence the guns in Africa, we acknowledge that achieving Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, a prosperous Africa, and a better life for African children will not be possible if wars and conflicts are not brought to an end and if the rights of the child are not protected.

We welcome the call for regional organisations to increase their capacity to address the multiple challenges brought about by the issues of children and armed conflict. We will continue to support all efforts throughout the conflict spectrum to address the plight of children, who are the most vulnerable in such situations.

The three African members of the Council would like to conclude with a quotation by former President Nelson Mandela, who said:

“Our children are our greatest treasure. They are our future. Those who abuse them tear at the fabric of our society and weaken our nation.”

That is true for all nations, because protecting the rights of children secures a better future for them. Every effort should be made at the national, regional, and international levels to prevent and resolve conflicts through peaceful negotiations and mediation in order to secure our children’s future.

The three African members of the Council welcome and support the presidential statement presented by Belgium (S/PRST/2020/3).

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8723rd Meeting

Thursday, 13 February 2020, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8723 Agenda:

Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace Transitional Justice in Conflict and Post-Conflict Situations

Letter Dated 4 February 2020 from the Permanent Representative of Belgium to the United Nations Addressed to the Secretary-General (S/2020/98)

The South African delegation wishes to thank you, Mr. President, H.E. Ambassador Mare Pecsteen de Buytswerve, Permanent Representative of Belgium to the UN for having convened this important debate on transitional justice as a building block towards sustaining peace.

We extend our thanks to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ms. Michelle Bachelet; the President of the Commission for the Clarification of Truth, Coexistence, and Non-Repetition of Colombia, Mr. Francisco de Roux; and Ms. Yasmin Sooka, Executive Director of the Foundation for Human Rights in South Africa, for their insightful briefings. We welcome also all the ministers and deputy ministers present today.

South Africa recognises and values the importance of national transitional justice processes in achieving sustainable peace. In our own case, as Ms. Sooka said, transitional justice was a vital cog in securing a relatively peaceful transition from apartheid to the stable constitutional democracy we are today.

To that end, it is important to note that this debate is taking place shortly after our country marked the 30th anniversary of the release from imprisonment of one of the most notable champions of transitional justice and reconciliation, our former President Nelson Mandela, a global icon of our struggle.

Former President Mandela and his leadership collective recognised as early as the time of his release from 27 years of imprisonment that national reconciliation rather than vengeance and retributive justice would be the only viable foundation on which sustainable peace in a democratic South Africa could be constructed. However, the sustainable peace that former President Mandela and his colleagues sought to build did not have the narrow goal of just ending conflict but aimed to rebuild the political, security, social, and economic dimensions of a society emerging from conflict. This included addressing the root causes of conflict and promoting social and economic justice, as well as putting in place political structures of governance and the rule of law to help consolidate peacebuilding, reconciliation, and development.

South Africa notes that transitional justice has an enormous role to play as countries evolve from conflict situations to peacebuilding. This would necessarily entail that the whole spectrum of transitional justice be explored, including criminal prosecutions, truth commissions, reparations and restitution programmes, exhumation of mass graves, apologies, amnesty, and various kinds of institutional reforms to redress human rights abuses.

Such a process should, however, not follow a one-size-fits-all approach but, rather, respond to the specific context of the country concerned. For South Africa, the restorative justice approach we chose through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission sought to combat impunity and recreate a culture of accountability, uncover the truth about gross human rights violations, and assist the families of the victims in getting closure. The Commission also had the broad strategic objective of promoting national unity and reconciliation in a spirit of understanding which transcends the conflicts and divisions of the past.

Regrettably, South Africa’s experience of a repressive regime is not unique. Many countries emerging from authoritarian rule and conflict also suffered extensive human rights violations and often crimes of a heinous nature. Where atrocities were committed on such a widespread scale, holding individual perpetrators accountable may not be possible or even the most desirable result. While ensuring justice by means of individual accountability is an important mechanism to achieve peace, it often overlooks the complexity of conflict and the structural nature of violence. It thus fails to address the broader structural challenges that likely contributed to violence in the first place and that may very well cause a State to fall back into conflict.

South Africa is of the view that the United Nations should be enabled to provide more support to national transitional justice processes through peacekeeping missions, the Peacebuilding Commission, and other United Nations structures and representation.

The Security Council has an important role to play in promoting sustainable peace through transitional justice by encouraging adherence to international guidelines and regional policies.

Healing, however, comes from within and cannot be imposed from without. It is therefore important that ownership of transitional justice processes not be appropriated by the international community. Transitional justice must be driven by those emerging from conflict and tailored to their circumstances in order to ensure that it results in long-lasting peace.

In February 2019, the African Union adopted its transitional justice policy to assist African Union Member States to develop their own context-specific comprehensive policies, strategies, and programmes towards democratic and socioeconomic transformation and achieving sustainable peace, justice, reconciliation, social cohesion, and healing. It thus serves as a guide for countries to develop a comprehensive policy while maintaining national ownership, which is imperative to ensure that any transitional justice process is successful. As the newly elected Chair of the African Union for 2020 and in line with the AU’s collective aspiration to silence the guns on the African continent, South Africa will focus its efforts on conflict resolution across the continent. That includes supporting transitional justice processes in our peacebuilding efforts. In that regard, South Africa will continue to advocate for AU-United Nations cooperation.

As we witness the drawdown of peacekeeping missions and see countries transition from conflict to post-conflict situations, South Africa wishes to highlight the importance of including reconciliation, through transitional justice, in holistic comprehensive transition plans. That includes taking into account community-based justice mechanisms and ensuring that the most vulnerable, particularly women and young people, are represented.

Grass-roots populations in conflict-ridden regions generally tend to be the most affected by the scourge of conflict. Transitional justice therefore requires the active participation of all sectors of society. The role of women should also not be underestimated. The African Union Transitional Justice Policy Framework, for instance, promotes women’s representation and participation in the transitional justice process by expressly stipulating their participation in peace agreements, laws and policies.

Less attention is paid to ensuring local grass-roots participation and the inclusiveness of security sector reform in post-conflict situations. While there is expansive and commendable literature in the field of security sector reform, there is scant research on the role of locals in the form of young people, women, traditional leaders, chiefs, and community-and village-based organisations in security sector reform processes. As a result, the methods and approaches used tend to be elite-focused and -driven. We should therefore bolster United Nations support for locally driven and generated security sector reform in an effort to enhance the peace dividend and reinforce strategic pillars in order to avoid relapse.

One of the greatest challenges in transitional justice is institutional reform. It is therefore imperative that institutions that were previously the instruments of repression be restructured for the good of society so as to create trust between victims and institutions. In addition, new progressive institutions should also be established with a view to strengthening, consolidating, and safeguarding peace and democratic governance in order to avoid a potential relapse into conflict.

As former President Mandela said,

“Peace is not just the absence of conflict; peace is the creation of an environment where all can flourish, regardless of race, colour, creed, religion, gender, class, caste, or any other social markers of difference.”

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8724th Meeting

Friday, 14 February 2020, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8724 Agenda:

The Situation in Guinea-Bissau

Report of the Secretary-General on Developments in Guinea-Bissau and the Activities of the United Nations Integrated Peacebuilding Office in Guinea-Bissau (S/2020/105)

I thank you, Mr. President, for convening this meeting, one year after the Security Council visited Guinea-Bissau, where it had an opportunity to interact with Ms. Sori-Coulibaly. We join others in welcoming the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, African Integration, and Nigeriens Abroad and are mindful that the Niger is the current Chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). We thank Ms. Sori-Coulibaly for her presence and her update on the developments of the past 12 months. We further welcome His Excellency Ambassador Ronaldo Costa Filho and appreciate the work of the Guinea-Bissau configuration of the Peacebuilding Commission.

I would like to focus my observations on three issues, namely, political developments, transnational organised crime, and the implementation of the mandate of the United Nations Integrated Peacebuilding Office in Guinea-Bissau (UNIOGBIS).

Firstly, with regard to political developments, my delegation would like to join other Council members in congratulating the people of Guinea-Bissau on the presidential elections, which were carried out in a free, fair, and credible manner. That is a positive milestone, especially the fulfilment of the electoral cycle. South Africa is confident that this will put the country on a trajectory towards stability and prosperity. We also call on all the parties in Guinea-Bissau to exercise calm and restraint in response to the recent tensions around the election results and to allow the legal process to take its course as the current impasse is overcome. Inclusivity is paramount as the country moves forward. The participation of women and gender equality remain critical issues that should be addressed. Similarly, the engagement of youth in the political sphere should be prioritised.

The demographic dividend should be harnessed to its full potential in order for the country to attain sustainable peace and development. Similarly, South Africa commends the strong leadership of ECOWAS, under the Foreign Minister of the Niger, and its support of the mediation efforts to further the aspirations of the citizens of Guinea-Bissau. We urge the leaders of Guinea-Bissau to pursue the spirit of cooperation with ECOWAS by fully implementing the reform agenda as stipulated in the Conakry Agreement. That road map highlights the need for constitutional reforms, inclusive political dialogue, and national reconciliation processes to be implemented. Furthermore, the role of the international community has been critical in supporting Guinea-Bissau in the electoral and peace processes. We urge the international community to continue its strong support so that Guinea-Bissau may achieve socioeconomic development and build an inclusive society.

Secondly, our delegation remains concerned about the threat that transnational organised crime poses for Guinea-Bissau and the region. We support the recommendations contained in the Secretary-General’s report, which states that “[t]he strengthening of land, maritime, and air border control is critical in confronting this threat.” (S/2020/105, para. 89)

In that regard, we commend the efforts being undertaken, in partnership with UNIOGBIS, to provide strategic and technical advice and to support the Government of Guinea-Bissau in combating drug trafficking and transnational organised crime, in close cooperation with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. It is important that the requisite support be provided in order to avoid fuelling terroristic activity in the region.

Thirdly, and lastly, South Africa supports a responsible drawdown, with due consideration for the situation on the ground, so as to avoid the reversal of the significant progress that has been registered so far. We furthermore support the implementation of the transition plan for the gradual drawdown and transfer of tasks to the United Nations country team, the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel, and international partners with a view to a prospective completion by 31 December.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year

8738th Meeting

Friday, 28 February 2020, 4 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8738 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

I would like first to thank the Secretary-General and Rosemary DiCarlo for their briefings on the unfolding situation in north-western Syria.

Let me begin by stating that there can be no military solution to the conflict in Syria. As with any conflict, in the end all sides must come to the table to negotiate a long-term, peaceful settlement for the benefit of all. Syria is no exception.

South Africa is deeply concerned at the escalation of violence in north-western Syria and the further deterioration of the situation. It is essential for all parties to exercise the utmost restraint in order to prevent the further inflammation of tensions. We support the Secretary-General in his call for an immediate ceasefire and for the parties to step back from the edge of direct military confrontation.

All parties must adhere to their obligations under international human rights and international humanitarian law, particularly with regard to the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure. As we have stated in the Council previously, the increase in violence has a devastating knock-on effect on the humanitarian situation. We cannot expect innocent civilians in the region to endure any further hardship or threats to their safety.

The Council must be united in calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Syria, for all sides to exercise maximum restraint so as to prevent a further escalation of hostilities, and for the parties to adhere to their international obligations under international humanitarian law, particularly with regard to the protection of civilians.

South Africa reiterates its position that the only way forward is an inclusive Syrian-led and Syrian-owned dialogue aimed at achieving a political solution that is reflective of the will of the Syrian people, based on the provisions of resolution 2254 (2015). The violence must stop, and negotiations must begin. We hope that the ongoing discussions between Russia and Turkey will bear fruit.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8739th Meeting

Tuesday, 3 March 2020, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8739 Agenda:

The Situation Concerning Iraq

Twenty-Fifth Report of the Secretary-General Pursuant to Paragraph 4 of Security Council Resolution 2107 (2013) (S/2020/133) Report of the Secretary-General on the Implementation of Resolution 2470 (2019) (S/2020/140)

Let me first congratulate you, Mr. President, H.E. Ambassador Zhang Jun and the people of the People’s Republic of China on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for March 2020. I pledge my delegation’s support and cooperation in your work. We would also like to thank Belgium for its excellent presidency in February. We would like to thank Ms. Hennis-Plasschaert, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), for her briefing and, through her, her colleagues on the ground for their steady work in very difficult circumstances.

Iraq has been ravaged by numerous cycles of conflict, crippling sectarianism, and, most destructively, the threat of the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). Following the military defeat of ISIL, Iraq continues to face severe security challenges as a result of violent extremism and the transnational nature of the threat.

The mandate of UNAMI remains crucial in coordinating United Nations efforts to support Iraq. South Africa supports the mandate of UNAMI in assisting the Government’s efforts and the electoral processes in Iraq. South Africa welcomes the reforms proposed China resumed the by the Government of Iraq to improve governance presidency of the UNSC structures and the implementation of service delivery for the month of March to its people. We also support the drive for an inclusive 2020. Government that will bring together the diverse

Her permanent

elements of Iraqi society in governance structures. We representative, believe that national reconciliation and unity in Iraq Ambassador Zhang Jun are vital to promoting lasting and sustainable peace in became the president of the country.

the SC.

With regard to the security situation, South Africa joins others in condemning the recent incidents that occurred in Anbar, Diyala, Kirkuk, Ninawa, and Salah al-Din, resulting in casualties and the destruction of crops. That is indicative of the deadly threat that persists in the country, which requires continued support and sustained efforts by the international community to bolster the Iraqi Government’s efforts to gain full control of the security situation in the country.

Peace and security are fundamental prerequisites for Iraq to develop and grow its economy and provide basic services to all its citizens. In that regard, South Africa supports the full consolidation of control by the Iraqi army over its territories and the efforts of the Government to eradicate the threat posed by ISIL.

South Africa urges continued cooperation between the Government of Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government in order to promote peace and stability throughout the country.

On the important role of women during the political transition in Iraq, South Africa welcomes the new electoral law and the appointment of a female Chief Executive Officer of the Independent High Electoral Commission. Women in Iraq continue to play a vital role in calling for political and economic reform. We welcome the upsurge in women’s activism in Iraq, as this augurs well for the future of the country.

South Africa also joins the Secretary-General in encouraging the Council of Representatives to disseminate the text of the electoral law and to clarify all outstanding issues regarding the text.

South Africa welcomes the latest developments regarding missing Kuwaitis, and all efforts to identify any potential mortal remains of Kuwaiti citizens are highly appreciated and help to bring closure to and end the pain of the Kuwaiti people. We congratulate the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and the Iraqi Government for efforts to identify such mortal remains.

The situation in Iraq has improved substantially in the past 17 years. The country was devastated by a conflict that resulted from misguided military misadventures. Today the country is going through a period of reconstruction and development as it rebuilds itself, which will require support on the part of the international community. The international community must do its part to assist Iraq on this journey while respecting the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the country. For their part, the people of Iraq must strive for an inclusive political process that will set the country on a path to lasting peace, prosperity, and development.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8741st Meeting

Wednesday, 4 March 2020, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8741 Agenda:

Reports of the Secretary-General on the Sudan and South Sudan Report of the Secretary-General on the Situation in South Sudan (S/2020/145)

We thank you, Mr. President, for convening today’s important meeting on South Sudan. We also thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Mr. David Shearer and our sister, Ms. Betty Sunday, for their briefings. We commend them and their teams for their work in South Sudan and their contribution to the country’s stability. We also welcome our colleague and friend, the Permanent Representative of South Sudan, to the Council Chamber and look forward to his presentation on the developments in his homeland.

I will limit my intervention to three issues, namely, the political, security and humanitarian situations, and the renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

On the political situation, South Sudan’s leaders have presented their country with a dawn of renewed hope through sacrifice and compromise. In that regard, we would like to congratulate the Government of South Sudan and all political parties on the overall progress achieved to date in the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan. South Africa applauds President Salva Kiir Mayardit, Mr. Riek Machar, and the leaders of the other opposition groups for reaching an agreement to form the inclusive revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity on the agreed date of 22 February 2020.

With that renewed hope, we encourage all parties to continue to address the outstanding issues pertaining to the implementation of the peace agreement, as well as to sustain the dialogue that has allowed them to make notable progress to date. In that regard, we look forward to the convening of the national dialogue conference on 16 March 2020. The progress needs to be translated into peace dividends that ordinary people in South Sudan can see in their daily lives, through socio-economic development, security, and sustained stability.

South Africa commends the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the African Union, and the international community for their role in facilitating the formation of the revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity. Furthermore, we also commend the Community of Sant’Egidio for facilitating the Rome declaration with the non-signatory groups, which agreed to a ceasefire in South Sudan and to joining the peace process. This is a critical process that addresses inclusiveness with a view to averting spoilers in the political process that could undermine the valuable progress that has been made to date.

We also welcome the valuable role played by the women of South Sudan, and through Ms. Sunday and through Ambassador Malwal we would like to pay particular tribute to ordinary women in the far corners of South Sudan who have supported the peace process. We want to thank the women in the Government and in the political parties who have made sure that women’s voices are not only heard but are respected and influence the current political developments in the country. Women of South Sudan deserve to be at the table, and the 35 per cent or more quota should be fulfilled throughout the stages of the political process. The Government of National Unity will have to deal with security sector reform and the formation of unified security agencies. It will have to create an appropriate environment for internally displaced persons and refugees to return home, schools to open where they had been closed, and children to pursue their dreams. Like my colleague from Vietnam, we call for the concomitant removal of sanctions to support these positive developments.

On the humanitarian and security front, we are encouraged by the sustained cessation of hostilities, which is a testament to the political will of the leaders. However, we would like to raise our concern over the intercommunal violence and sub-clan clashes in the Jonglei and Pibor regions resulting in civilian deaths and internal displacement. We urge the Government to address skirmishes of intercommunal violence that could threaten peace and stability; they have already claimed significant lives and displaced millions.

The dire humanitarian situation requires our collective action. We call on international donors to support the South Sudan Humanitarian Response Plan 2020, which requires $1.5 billion to meet the life-saving needs of

5.6 million people.

Furthermore, we urge all parties to fulfil their commitments to ending and preventing violations against children. In this regard, we welcome the signing by the Government of a comprehensive action plan to end and prevent all grave violations against children.

On the mandate for UNMISS, we first have to commend the Mission for the important role it continues to play in South Sudan. We are also encouraged by its continued cooperation with the Government and call on it to continue on this trajectory in supporting the Transitional Government of National Unity. In this regard, it is important that we maintain the Mission’s current capacity and ensure that it has the requisite mandate and capacity to discharge its duties.

Lastly, we have reached a crucial milestone. However, this is just the beginning. As the international community, we need to sustain our valuable support to all aspects of the peace process in order to prevent a relapse into conflict. In this regard, South Africa remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the peace process in the country with the overall aim of building a peaceful, stable, united, and prosperous South Sudan.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8742nd Meeting

Tuesday, 10 March 2020, 4 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8742 Agenda:

The Situation in Afghanistan

South Africa would like to join its colleagues in commending the United States of America and the Taliban for reaching this agreement. We would especially like to thank the State of Qatar for making its resources and time available for that meeting. I would like to make three points.

Firstly, indeed, one should make friends with one’s enemies and make peace with them. Secondly, there is no substitute for negotiations and peaceful discussion and resolution. Thirdly, it is through the process that Afghanistan is to embark on now -a process amongst the Afghan parties themselves -that a homegrown, long-lasting solution will ultimately be forged. The Security Council needs to accompany that process towards a home-grown, intra-Afghan negotiation. All parties -the United States, Europe, Russia, China, and neighbouring countries -should support that process, because in it lies a lasting solution for Afghanistan.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8753rd Meeting

Tuesday, 28 July 2020, 10.40 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8753 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

We thank Special Envoy Martin Griffiths and Under-Secretary-General Mark Lowcock of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Aid for their chilling accounts of the Yemeni crisis. We also thank Ms. Raja Abdullah Ahmed Almasabi for her moving testimony, as well as Ms. Wafa′a Alsaidy. Ms. Almasabi and Ms. Alsaidy took us, as the Council, to their houses and the streets of Yemen, where ordinary people live. We thank them for sharing their daily lives and challenges with us.

South Africa reiterates its support to the Special Envoy in his arduous pursuit for a peaceful solution to the situation in Yemen despite the escalating violence that persists amid the unyielding Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. My delegation would like to reiterate that, as Mark Lowcock said, the disturbing humanitarian situation in Yemen, aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic, is inextricably linked to the political impasse. As such, my intervention will focus on those two elements, namely, the humanitarian, and the political situation.

With regard to the humanitarian situation, South Africa remains deeply concerned about its devastating impact on the people of Yemen, in particular women, children, the elderly, internally displaced persons, and those with disabilities, as we just heard. As Ms. Almasabi mentioned, it is a harrowing reality that persons with disabilities are disproportionately affected in situations of risk and face multiple barriers to accessing protection and humanitarian assistance. South Africa therefore calls on all authorities in the various governorates to agree to a unified set of measures to counter the spread of COVID-19 in Yemen and alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people. It is imperative to allow full access into the country, to accelerate customs clearance of personal protective equipment and medical supplies, and to facilitate air travel of humanitarian staff into the country for staff rotations, as well as to communities in need in both the north and the south of Yemen.

Germany assumedThis will enable healthcare workers and the the presidency of thehumanitarian community to slow the rate and spread UNSC for the month ofof infection. It is vital for all parties to abide by their July 2020, Ambassadorobligations and responsibilities under international Christoph Heusgenhumanitarian and international human rights law, became the president ofand to take all measures necessary to end and prevent the SCviolations against civilians. Investigations into alleged violations must be pursued to uphold the standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability.

On the political impasse, fighting continues in the region of Yemen’s northern border with Saudi Arabia, on the edge of Mar’ib city, Al-Hudaydah, and Taiz. The proposed ceasefire remains unimplemented and there has been no substantial progress on any of the political agreements. South Africa calls on all parties to cease hostilities, in line with the Secretary-General’s global ceasefire call and resolution 2532 (2020). Furthermore, we call on the parties to agree on confidence-building measures, such as the payment of civil servants, the reopening of Sana’a airport, and the lifting of commercial import restrictions to help the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to provide impetus to the overall political negotiations to end the war in Yemen, as we have been asked to do.

We reiterate our position that a military response is not a viable solution and call on all parties to approach the resumption of the political negotiations in a spirit of compromise, placing the interests of Yemenis at the centre of a negotiated political settlement -that means all Yemenis, including, as has been requested this morning, those 4 million people with disabilities. We appeal to all parties to avoid approaches of seeking to gain absolute positions.

South Africa remains concerned regarding the lack of implementation of the Riyadh agreement. We reiterate our call for the implementation of that vital agreement between the Yemeni Government and the Southern Transitional Council. We also call for the full implementation of the December 2018 Stockholm Agreement. South Africa urges all parties to conclude the issue of the FSO Safer oil tanker by allowing critical repairs to take place and thereby avoid a man-made disaster in the Red Sea. The need to allow technical experts to undertake an assessment and initial repairs cannot be stressed enough. It is our wish that this impending threat be dealt with on a purely technical basis, without politicisation.

In conclusion, South Africa reiterates that the only solution to the conflict in Yemen is an inclusive Yemeni-led, Yemeni-owned political settlement that will deliver on the hopes of the Yemeni people for a strong economic and political future. In this context, we call for the full and meaningful participation of women in all aspects of an inclusive political process.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8755th Meeting

Thursday, 20 August 2020, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8755 Agenda:

The Situation in Somalia

Report of the Secretary-General on the Situation in Somalia (S/2020/798)

I would like to thank you, Mr. President, H.E. Ambassador Djani, Permanent Representative of Indonesia at the United Nations for convening this important and timely meeting on the situation in Somalia. I have the distinct honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Niger, Tunisia, and South Africa, as well as Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (A3+1). At the outset, the A3+1 would like to thank the Secretary-General for his report on the situation in Somalia (S/2020/798). We would also like to thank Mr. James Swan, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), and Mr. Francisco Madeira, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia and Head of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), for their briefings. We commend them for their efforts in Somalia. We would also like to welcome our colleague, Ambassador Abukar Osman of Somalia, to our meeting today. We pay tribute to all Somalis who have perished since our previous meeting on the situation in Somalia (see S/2020/573).

The A3+1 statement will focus on four important issues and developments in Somalia, namely, firstly, political developments; secondly, election preparations; thirdly, security; and, fourthly, the humanitarian situation. Firstly, on political developments, the A3+1 welcomes and commends the Federal Government of Somalia and federal Member States for their recent meetings and consultations, which constitute an important first step towards building the political consensus necessary for the transition in Somalia.

We agree with the Secretary-General’s observation that the long-awaited resumption of dialogue between the leaders of the

Indonesia assumed the

Federal Government and the federal Member States and the steps taken towards normalising the Federal presidency of the UNSC Government’s relations with Jubaland are critical to for the month of August

2020, Ambassador Dian

the restoration of collaboration between the Federal and state levels of Government. In that regard, the Triansyah Djani became A3+1 further welcomes the meeting between President the president of SC Farmaajo and Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi in Djibouti, following their initial meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. We appreciate the continued regional and subregional efforts, as well as those of the international community, in bringing political stability to Somalia and the Horn of Africa. That is a positive development towards consolidating peace, security, and development in the region.

The Niger, Tunisia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and South Africa urge all major stakeholders in Somalia to maintain that spirit of inclusive consultations and cooperation in all follow-up meetings in order to reach a broad-based agreement on critical matters. We regard that and other developments in the relations between the Federal Government and the federal Member States as a critical step towards building the essential political consensus on various important issues, including agreement on the electoral modalities, security arrangements, constitutional review, and power-sharing.

As the Security Council and the international community, we should all support the recent discussions held by the Federal and state leaders in Dhuusamarreeb. The international community and partners of Somali leaders and stakeholders should also allow them to lead and determine their future, without interference or imposition.

Furthermore, we appeal to the Somali stakeholders to undertake urgent and concerted efforts to reach a broad-based, inclusive political agreement, including on the way forward on elections and the finalisation of the revised Constitution, amongst other key priorities.

Secondly, on the preparations for the elections, the Niger, Tunisia and South Africa, as well as Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, recall their previous statement to the Council, in which they noted that the preparations and holding of one-personone-vote elections in Somalia was a critical priority (see S/2020/436, annex XII). We further underlined the importance of dialogue, inclusive political participation and the resolution of political differences between the Federal Government of Somalia and the federal Member States, which are critical to the success of the elections and national cohesion. We reiterate that those observations remain valid today.

Therefore, the A3+1 commends the recent developments related to the preparations for the elections in Somalia, in particular the adoption by the House of the People of the amendments to the political parties law, and four resolutions that address the representation in Parliament of all federal Member States, including the allocation of seats to constituencies for both Houses and a minimum of 24 per cent representation of women in Parliament, we are also pleased that the National Independent Electoral Commission continues its

A3+1 became a new configuration within

preparations for the national the UNSC consisting of the three Electedelections. That is evidenced by African States of AU plus Saint Vincent andthe two possible options for the Grenadines representing the Caribbeanconducting the elections either (Diaspora). Tim was H.E. Ambassador for thein March or in August 2021, Jerry Matthews Matjila’s initiative.

depending on whether the elections are held through paper-based voter registration and polling, or standard biometric voter registration.

The A3+1 urges all the stakeholders in Somalia to engage constructively in an inclusive dialogue to reach a political consensus on the modalities and timing of the elections. We further appeal to the international partners to coordinate their support to ensure inclusive, credible, and secure elections in Somalia.

Thirdly, on the security situation, the A3+1 remains concerned about the volatile security situation in Somalia. We strongly condemn the attacks by Al-Shabaab on Somali civilians, the security forces, AMISOM, the United Nations, and the international community. We pay tribute to the ultimate sacrifices of AMISOM and the Somali National Army in their quest to bring about peace, stability and development in Somalia.

We reiterate our previous calls urging the Federal Government of Somalia, with the support of the United Nations, AMISOM, and international partners, to continue the generation, training, and resourcing of capable and effective Somali national forces, which will ultimately take over the security responsibilities in line with the revised Somali transitional plan and the national security architecture.

To that end, we again appeal for the international community and partners to mobilise the necessary resources, including the replenishment of the United Nations trust fund in support of AMISOM and the trust fund to support the Somali security forces, as they continue to make commendable progress towards restoring State authority, peacebuilding, and State-building.

We commend in particular the efforts of the Somali National Army in securing all recovered areas thus far. However, we recognise the challenges created by the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, as well as the rains, from April to June, that have impacted the expansion of some security activities, including the liberation of more zones.

We are heartened by the number of reconciliation efforts made by the State Administration and communities aimed at ending the cycle of violence amongst clans. We support the peaceful resolution of tensions amongst the communities and peaceful coexistence between the clans.

We strongly condemn the reported incidents of civilian casualties and conflict-related sexual violence, particularly those affecting women and girls. We also strongly condemn the grave violations against children in armed conflict, including the use, abduction, recruitment, killing, and maiming of children, that have been registered during the period under review. We support the calls urging that all perpetrators of such crimes be identified and held accountable.

Furthermore, we have taken note of the developments in Parliament relating to the draft sexual-offences bill and the introduction of an alternative bill. Although we recognise the prerogative of the Somali Parliament to draft legislation, we call on the authorities to ensure that any new piece of legislation remains consistent with Somalia’s international law obligations.

Fourthly, concerning the humanitarian situation, Somalia has been impacted by the triple threat and shock of the COVID-19 pandemic, an infestation by desert locusts, and floods. Those challenges have deepened Somalia’s humanitarian crisis. COVID-19 in particular, has exacerbated pre-existing vulnerabilities, disrupted socioeconomic gains, and affected the livelihoods of ordinary Somalis. We commend the actions taken by the humanitarian partners for the expansion of their support to Somali authorities to address the impact of COVID-19.

The A3+1 notes that the adverse impact of flooding due to climate change remained widespread in Somalia during the period under review. We are concerned that that situation will continue to exacerbate the displacement of people, food-insecurity, and the outbreak of water-borne diseases, as well as to adversely affect the livelihoods of those made most vulnerable across the country.

In that respect, Somalia requires continued support by the international community and humanitarian partners to mitigate the impact of that triple threat. We support the call by the Secretary-General for the additional funding that is urgently needed to continue to deliver humanitarian assistance.

We deplore the fact that the security situation remains a major constraint to humanitarian operations. We are concerned at and condemn the recorded incidents against humanitarian operations and providers, including recorded incidents that led to the killing, abduction, and, in some instances, detaining of humanitarian workers.

Finally, the Niger, Tunisia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and South Africa commend the efforts and commitment of the United Nations through UNSOM and the AU through the AU Mission in Somalia, AMISOM, the United Nations Mine Action Service, the Federal Government and the federal Member States of Somalia, and the international partners for their continual efforts and progress in bringing about stabilisation and deepening federalism and State-building in Somalia.

We urge a continued and strengthened working relationship between AMISOM and UNSOM in order to assist Somalia to take ownership of addressing its own security challenges, as envisaged by the transition plan. We reiterate that the withdrawal of AMISOM from Somalia should be condition-based, as the security situation remains volatile and is characterised by frequent terrorist attacks.

To conclude, the Niger, Tunisia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and South Africa support the continued presence of AMISOM and UNSOM in Somalia. In that regard, we support the renewal of the mandate of UNSOM for another 12 months when it ends on 31 August 2020.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8757th Meeting

Tuesday, 15 September 2020, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8757 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East

We thank Special Envoy Martin Griffiths and Mr. Mark Lowcock, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, for their briefings. We welcome our colleague the Permanent Representative of Yemen to the Security Council and look forward to his statement regarding developments in his homeland.

South Africa reiterates its support to the Special Envoy in his quest for a peaceful solution to the situation in Yemen despite the escalating violence that persists amid the unyielding Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. My delegation would like to reiterate that the dire humanitarian situation in Yemen, aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic, is inextricably linked to the political impasse. As such, my intervention will focus on those two elements, namely, the humanitarian and the political situation.

With regard to the humanitarian situation, South Africa continues to express its concern regarding the devastating impact on the people of Yemen, in particular women, children, the elderly, internally displaced persons, and those with disabilities. South Africa also expresses its concern over the suspension by the Houthis of all United Nations humanitarian flights into Sana’a and the response to the blockade by the coalition’s commercial vessels in Al-Hudaydah, an entry point for more than 70 per cent of Yemeni imports of commercial goods. We urge the parties to collaborate with the Office of the Special Envoy to seek an urgent solution to ensure the continued flow of commercial imports of food into Yemen through Al-Hudaydah port. We note that, despite ongoing humanitarian assistance, 14 million Yemenis are food-insecure, of which nearly 10 million are acutely food-insecure. The humanitarian situation in Yemen is extremely fragile, and any disruption in the pipeline of critical supplies has the potential to bring millions South Africa calls on all parties to the conflict to agree to a unified set of measures to contain the spread of COVID-19, improve the delivery of humanitarian aid, and provide impetus to the overall political negotiations to end the war in Yemen and alleviate the suffering of Yemeni people.

of people closer to starvation and death. Currently,
only 25 per cent of humanitarian requirements have	Niger assumed the
been funded in 2020, as Mr. Lowcock just informed	presidency of the
the Council. United Nations agencies are now forced	UNSC for the month
to reduce or close	more	programmes. We therefore	of September 2020,
urgently call donors to adhere to their pledges made at	Ambassador Abdou
recent pledging conferences to avoid Yemen’s slipping	Abarry became the
into famine.	president of the SC

We have consistently highlighted the importance for all parties to abide by their obligations and responsibilities under international humanitarian law and international human rights law and to take all the measures necessary to end and prevent violations against civilians.

On the political impasse, South Africa is concerned about the recent drone strikes by Houthis against targets in Saudi Arabia at the Abha International Airport, Najran, and Riyadh. At the same time, the escalating military tension and continued clashes in Yemen’s embattled Ma’rib and neighbouring Al-Jawf are also of grave concern to South Africa. We urge all parties to the conflict to immediately cease hostilities in line with the Secretary-General’s call for a global ceasefire and resolution 2532 (2020), as well as to agree on confidence-building measures, such as the payment of civil servant salaries, the reopening of the Sana’a airport, and the lifting of commercial import restrictions.

We reiterate our position that a military response is not a viable solution and call on all parties to approach the resumption of the political negotiations with a spirit of compromise, while placing the interests of Yemenis at the centre of a negotiated political settlement. We appeal to all parties to avoid the stance of gaining absolute positions.

South Africa calls on all parties to engage in good faith and without preconditions with Special Envoy Martin Griffiths in order to reach a comprehensive negotiated settlement to end the conflict, and that this be done in parallel to efforts to agree on a joint declaration to implement the Stockholm and Riyadh agreements.

South Africa also urges the Houthis to adhere to the agreement to provide access to United Nations inspectors to access and assess the FSO SAFER oil tanker to avoid a man-made disaster in the Red Sea. We therefore hope that that looming threat will be dealt with on a purely technical basis and without politicisation.

In conclusion, South Africa reiterates that the only solution to the conflict in Yemen will be an inclusive Yemeni-led, Yemeni-owned political settlement that delivers on the hopes of the Yemeni people for a strong economic and political future. In this context, we also call for the full and meaningful participation of women in all aspects of an inclusive political process.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8758th Meeting

Tuesday, 15 September 2020, 12.05 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8758 Agenda:

The Situation in Libya

Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (S/2020/832)

South Africa voted in favour of the resolution to extend the mandate of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya for an additional 12 months (resolution 2542 (2020)). In this regard, we reiterate that there can be no military solution to the Libya conflict. All Libyan parties, community leaders and non-governmental organisations need to commit to a political dialogue. We reiterate the African Union (AU) Contact Group’s concern with the political deadlock and reaffirm that all Mission efforts must be aimed at the Libyan-owned and Libyan-led political process with the support of the United Nations and the international community.

We welcome the cooperation between the United Nations and the AU in finding a lasting solution to the Libyan crisis. We reiterate the call by the AU Contact Group for strong cooperation with Libya’s neighbours. We

Niger assumed thealso welcome the recent intra-Libyan dialogue hosted presidency of theby the Kingdom of Morocco in Bouznika, and the talks UNSC for the month ofin Montreux, Switzerland, which might contribute to September 2020, hermoving the various parties closer to a Libyan-owned Ambassador Abdouand Libyan-led process, which will hopefully lead to a Abarry became thepeaceful and durable peace in Libya.

president of the SC

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8761st Meeting

Friday, 25 September 2020, 10.15 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8761 Agenda:

Reports of the Secretary-General on the Sudan and South Sudan Report of the Secretary-General on the Situation in the Sudan and the Activities of the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in the Sudan (S/2020/912)

I, Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the three African States Members of the Security Council, namely, the Niger, Tunisia, and South Africa, as well as Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (A3+1).

At the outset, on behalf of the A3+1, allow me to express our gratitude to you, Mr. President, H.E. Ambassador Abdou Abarry, Permanent Representative of Niger to the United Nations, on convening this meeting. Additionally, the A3+1 would like to thank our briefers today, Under-Secretaries-General Rosemary DiCarlo and Jean-Pierre Lacroix, for their enlightening briefing on the developments pertaining to the Sudan and the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in the Sudan (UNITAMS).

The A3+1 would also like to express our appreciation to the UNITAMS planning team for its efforts and consistent consultations in order to bring life to the envisioned special political mission. We are confident that it will successfully navigate the mammoth task ahead of it.

The A3+1 also welcomes our colleague, the Permanent Representative of the Sudan, to today’s Security Council meeting, and we are looking forward to his statement on the latest developments from home.

As the international community, we have been steadfast in our commitment to assisting in bringing about peace, stability, and prosperity in Darfur for over a decade. Although it has been a turbulent journey, significant strides have been made in the process. It is in this context that, as we start a new chapter with the new special political mission, we wish to ensure that we will work to preserve the gains and continue to assist in bringing forth the peace for which ordinary Sudanese have yearned and for which they still urgently yearn.

In this regard, the Niger, Tunisia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and South Africa welcome the efforts of the Sudanese transitional Government as it continues to pursue political reforms, make progress in the peace process and tackle the rapidly deteriorating economic situation. Furthermore, the A3+1 is also encouraged by the signing of the 29 August 2020 agreement with the Sudan Liberation Army/ Mr. Minni Minnawi and the Sudanese Revolutionary Front and of the 3 September agreement on principles, which mark significant steps forward on a trajectory towards achieving lasting peace in the Sudan.

The A3+1 recognises that the transitional Government is operating amid conditions characterised by a dire economic situation, the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and a tense political climate. The report of the Secretary-General clearly highlights that “[s]piralling inflation, continuing shortages of key commodities, a growing public deficit, and dropping revenues have placed the country’s economy in a critical state” (S/2020/912, para. 41).

Consequently, the A3+1 call for the lifting of all sanctions against the Sudan, as they have outrun their course. In fact, they are further hindering prospects for progress in the country.

The Niger, Tunisia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and South Africa welcome the pledges made during the High-Level Sudan Partnership Conference to assist with the socioeconomic situation in the country. We trust that this support will aid in alleviating a number of the hardships with which the Sudan is currently grappling.

On the security front, we welcome the transitional Government’s efforts aimed at working with the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) to tackle the increased levels of intercommunal violence in the country. We also welcome the steps the transitional Government has made towards the national plan for protecting civilians. As UNAMID draws down, the A3+1 encourage it to continue working with national-and local-authority stakeholders, as well as the United Nations’ country team and other partners, in protecting civilians, facilitating mediation, and addressing underlying issues of access to land and resources.

The A3+1 look forward to the urgent appointment of a Special Representative of the Secretary-General to assume overall authority, provide strategic direction for all activities of UNITAMS, fulfil an advisory and advocacy role at the political level and coordinate the efforts of the international community in support of the strategic objectives of the UNITAMS mandate.

As it shares borders with key countries in its region of Africa that are pivotal to unlocking the peace and security of the region and the whole African continent, the Sudan is of geostrategic importance. It is therefore imperative that the Security Council continue to ensure stability in the Sudan. As Chair of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the Sudan is critical in building cohesion in the Horn of Africa.

It is the considered view of the Niger, Tunisia, saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and South Africa that the global environment remains difficult and uncertain. Thirty-two million people have been infected by COVID-19, and a million have perished. All of our economies have been battered, with no exceptions. None of us in this Chamber -the permanent five and the elected ten alike -could have predicted in September 2019 that in September 2020 we would be living through the turbulent times occasioned by the pandemic -no one. The Sudan is part of this world that we are talking about, as are Africa and the Caribbean, and all our countries and regions.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8762nd Meeting

Tuesday, 29 September 2020, 3 P.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8762 Agenda:

The Situation in the Middle East, Including the Palestinian Question

Let me begin by thanking Special Coordinator Mladenov for his useful and frank briefing on the current situation in the occupied Palestinian territory.

I join my colleague from the United States in offering our heartfelt condolences to Kuwait for the passing on of His Highness the Amir of Kuwait.

During the recently held general debate of the General Assembly at its 75th session, we heard many Member States reflect on the birth of the United Nations and its shared values of peace, justice, equality, and dignity for all, as well as the notion of saving successive generations from the scourge of war. However, despite those august ideals, Palestine and its people remain under illegal occupation and continue to be deprived of the shared values and ideals we spoke about. Palestine is one of the world’s oldest unresolved international conflicts, firmly entrenched in the agendas of both the General Assembly and the Security Council for almost as long as the United Nations has been in existence. Nevertheless, 72 years later, the status quo remains, and little progress has been made to ensuring the right of Palestinians to self-determination, independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.

Despite numerous agreements and newly forged partnerships, it is shameful that Palestinians continue to live under occupation and are denied their very basic civil and human rights. We should ask ourselves -do these agreements that some of us welcome change the day-to-day lives of those living under occupation?

In that regard, South Africa reiterates its position that no peace plan or initiative can have any merit or succeed if it does not include all parties to the conflict in the talks as equal partners from the very beginning. Any initiative aimed at resolving the Israeli occupation must take into account the needs and aspirations of the Palestinian people. In addition, any such peace plan must ensure that Palestinian statehood is not reduced to an entity without the basic tenets of sovereignty, territorial contiguity, and economic viability. A realistic and credible peace plan will result in a genuine two-State solution; not one viable State and a Bantustan.

South Africa will continue to work with like-minded countries to support international efforts aimed at the establishment of a viable Palestinian State existing side by side in peace with Israel within internationally recognised borders, based on those existing on 4 June 1967, with East Jerusalem as capital of both States, in line with all relevant United Nations resolutions, international law, and internationally agreed parameters. We therefore support President Abbas’ call in his statement at the general debate of the 75th session of the General Assembly for the Secretary-General, together with the Middle East Quartet and the Security Council, to begin preparations for an international conference with the participation of all the parties concerned, and for discussions on a genuine peace process, including to resolve all final-status issues.

Turning to the implementation of resolution 2334 (2016), South Africa once again calls for the full implementation of this and previous resolutions on the question of Palestine. The Council heard today that, while settlement activity may have slowed slightly due to the ongoing Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, this illegal practice by the Israeli authorities continues, in contravention of international law.

With regard to the demolition and seizure of Palestinian property, the recent statement by Mr. Jamie McGoldrick, Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, is deeply disturbing. From March to August 2020, we saw the demolition or seizure of 389 Palestinian-owned structures, the highest average destruction rate in four years. This activity took place despite the Israeli authorities’ indication that they would refrain from such actions during the global pandemic.

As Special Coordinator Mladenov indicated, these demolitions and seizures have left 442 Palestinians homeless, at a time when Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories are under lockdown. Where are these Palestinians, deprived of their rightful homes, meant to go? Where must they go? Of additional concern is the destruction of critical infrastructure, such as water, hygiene, and sanitation facilities, during a pandemic where universal guidance leans towards the need for regular hand-washing and social distancing.

All resolutions adopted by the Security Council, be they unanimous or not, must be uniformly implemented. We cannot pick and choose which Council resolutions should be implemented. In a similar vein, overt violations of Council resolutions, as is the case with the continued settlement activity in the occupied Palestinian territory, usually evoke stricter measures on the party responsible for the infringement.

In conclusion, South Africa reiterates its position that direct dialogue and negotiation between the relevant parties on an equal footing is the only credible and sustainable path to peace in the Middle East. We must all do our part to bring the parties together, instead of driving them further apart.

United Nations Security Council Seventy-Fifth Year 8778th Meeting

Monday, 7 December 2020, 10 A.M. New York

Official Records: S/PV.8778 Agenda:

The Situation Concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (S/2020/1150)

(President)

I, Ambassador Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations will now make a statement in my capacity as representative of South Africa and on behalf of the African members of the Security Council -the Niger, South Africa, and Tunisia - and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (A3+1).

Let me begin by joining other delegations in thanking Ms. Leila Zerrougui, Special Representative of the Secretary-General, for her briefing on the activities of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). Furthermore, we recognise and commend MONUSCO’s fundamental role in the protection of civilians and in addressing the perennial instability in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Our delegations commend the role and leadership displayed by Special Representative Zerrougui with regard to critical issues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and to MONUSCO discharging its mandate effectively. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Secretary-General for his comprehensive report of 30 November (S/2020/1150), prepared in accordance with paragraph 51 of resolution 2502 (2019).

The A3+1 statement is structured around the following issues: the political situation, neighbourhood relations, the security and humanitarian situations, the phased and responsible drawdown of MONUSCO, and cooperation between the United Nations and the Southern African Development

South Africa assumedCommunity (SADC).

the presidency of theOn the political situation, our delegations note with UNSC for the month

concern the political tensions observed during the of December 2020.

period under review. The A3+1 welcomes the meeting Ambassador Jerryorganised in the Democratic Republic of the Congo by Matjila became thethe Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, president of the SCHis Excellency Mr. Moussa Faki Mahamat, between the coalitions led by President Félix Tshilombo Tshisekedi and former President Joseph Kabila, held on the margins of Mr. Mahamat’s working visit on 2 and 3 December 2020. It is our hope that this initiative will contribute positively to finding a lasting solution in order to preserve peace and security in the country. Furthermore, we strongly support the Secretary-General’s call on all stakeholders to resolve their differences through dialogue, in the greater interest of the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

On neighbourhood relations, the Niger, Tunisia, South Africa, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are satisfied with the implementation of the strategic approach to conflict resolution and peacebuilding in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the region. The virtual summit amongst the Presidents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola, Rwanda, and Uganda is indicative of the resolve of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the region as a whole to address the threat posed by armed groups in the Great Lakes Region.

The trust and confidence-building initiatives with neighbouring countries demonstrate a continued commitment towards the full implementation of the Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as observed in the recent bilateral cooperation talks held between the Governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Burundi. It is our view that the improving security situation in certain parts of the country is also due to those regional meetings.

On the security situation, we are pleased to see an improvement in various regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, the A3+1 wishes to reiterate its concern over the ongoing indiscriminate attacks against civilians, security personnel, and MONUSCO, as well as the harassment and kidnapping of humanitarian aid workers by armed groups in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We condemn those attacks in the strongest terms and call on the country’s authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The A3+1 welcomes MONUSCO’s increased engagement with, and outreach to, local communities. We also commend the community-based disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration (DDR) approach and framework, which ensure that local communities play an integral role in resolving conflict and in creating measures to promote long-term peace, stability and development. Such interventions by MONUSCO contribute to countering disinformation and reducing anti-MONUSCO sentiment.

The military operations conducted by the Force Intervention Brigade (FIB) against the Allied Democratic Forces, as detailed in paragraph 12 of the SecretaryGeneral’s report, are also a welcome development. It is in that context that our delegations commend MONUSCO, the FIB, and all troop-contributing countries (TCCs) for their efforts to stabilise the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and protect civilians from the ongoing threat posed by armed militias and groups in the region.

The Niger, Tunisia, South Africa, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines emphasise the importance of protecting civilians and urge the coordination of deployment so as to avoid creating security gaps. It is our hope that the Democratic Republic of the Congo will continue with efforts to finalise and implement a strategy aimed at addressing the peace and security challenges, including through building the capacities of the defence and security services.

Against that backdrop, our delegations underscore the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and encourage efforts to support its Government in the DDR process. We also call for international support for broader peacebuilding in the relevant regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Furthermore, our delegations underscore the importance of developing and implementing a comprehensive and coordinated security sector governance and reform programme in the Democratic Republic of the Congo that, amongst other things, ensures women’s representation at all levels and recognises the role of young people in peacebuilding and recovery, as articulated in resolution 2553 (2020). The A3+1 also calls for further efforts by regional and international partners to tackle the illicit extraction of and trade in mineral resources, which remain a key driver of conflict and a major source of revenue that sustains armed group activities in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

On the humanitarian and health situations, our delegations reiterate our concern about the volatile situation. In addition to the challenges related to the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a worsening economic situation, and the hazards of climate change have intensified harsh living conditions for many in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Today, an estimated 21.8 million people are experiencing acute food-insecurity and 5.2 million remain internally displaced. We express our concern at the increase in COVID-19 and call for sustained international support of the country’s authorities so as to mitigate the pandemic’s negative impact on the Congolese people and the economy. On a positive note, we commend MONUSCO for its support in helping the Government address the outbreak of the Ebola virus disease.

Turning to the Mission’s effectiveness, it is commendable that MONUSCO is increasing its operations in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic and in creating spaces for women and girls in the context of the women and peace and security agenda in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The A3+1 is therefore satisfied with the integration of female engagement teams in major units, which has contributed to improving the force’s performance.

Our delegations continue to be concerned about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the overall Mission and its personnel. In that regard, we call for the safety and security of all personnel to be ensured as the Mission continues to discharge its mandate. We regret the loss of six MONUSCO personnel from Malawi, Ukraine, and Bangladesh, who died after contracting the virus, and convey our condolences to their families.

On the phased and responsible drawdown of MONUSCO, the Niger, Tunisia, South Africa, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines continue to emphasise the utmost necessity of the Council’s unwavering commitment to providing MONUSCO with all the necessary means to execute its mandate in close collaboration with the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The A3+1 reiterates its considered view that a budget-driven, rushed exit of MONUSCO would be disastrous and undermine decades of investment in peacekeeping. We underscore that MONUSCO and its FIB should be adequately capacitated in accordance with the recommendation of the report prepared by Lieutenant General (Retired) Carlos Alberto dos Santos Cruz, entitled “Improving Security of United Nations Peacekeepers”, to address the challenges with regard to the effectiveness of the entire United Nations Mission without compromising existing capacity, including key force enablers.

With regard to the cooperation between the United Nations and SADC, the A3 +1 support SADC’s long-standing commitment to assisting the Democratic Republic of the Congo to achieve sustainable peace, security, and stability and are encouraged by the AU-United Nations cooperation and their undertaking to continue engagement in support of the consolidation of stability and democratic governance in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In this context, our delegations underscore the SADC Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit’s appreciation and support for the United Nations, as well as its pledged regional support to the development and implementation of a joint strategy on the progressive and phased drawdown of MONUSCO in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

We commend the completion of all negotiations undertaken to reconfigure the FIB, including the strengthening of FIB headquarters by staff officers from non-FIB TCCs, as this will ensure the FIB’s operational effectiveness in conducting targeted operations against negative forces in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and in protecting civilians.

The SADC continues to request the accelerated approval of all planned operational orders directed at conducting targeted operations against negative forces jointly with the Forces armées de la République Démocratique du Congo -or singlehandedly -as the continued delays embolden armed groups’ attacks against the defenceless population in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and they greatly undermine and erode the confidence the population has in MONUSCO to protect civilians.

In conclusion, the A3+1 reaffirms its commitment to promoting and achieving an African continent that is peaceful and prosperous and that contributes to a world that is just and equitable through effective multilateralism at subregional, regional, and global levels. It is for this reason that our delegations support the Secretary-General’s recommendation for the extension of MONUSCO’s mandate for one year, with its current authorised troop and police strength and strategic objectives, namely, the protection of civilians, indeed, all the people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

I now resume my functions as the President of the Council.

Part IV: Presidential Statements and Resolutions

United Nations Security Council

Statement by the President of the Security Council S/ PRST/2019/15

South Africa’s Drafted Presidential Statement (PRST) on Youth, Peace and Security

At the 8683rd meeting of the Security Council, held on 12 December 2019, in connection with the Council’s consideration of the item entitled “Peace and security in Africa”, the President of the Security Council made the following statement on behalf of the Council:

“The Security Council reaffirms its resolutions 2250 (2015) and 2419 (2018) on Youth, Peace, and Security, and also reaffirms its resolution 2457 (2019) on Silencing the Guns in Africa, and recalls the Security Council debate held on 2 October 2019, regarding “Peace and Security in Africa: Mobilising the Youth towards Silencing the Guns by 2020”, and further recalls 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

“The Security Council, within its mandate to maintain international peace and security, notes the importance of continuing to strive towards durable peace and achieving a world free of violent conflicts by the United Nations Centenary, as well as managing shared challenges and opportunities along the way.

“The Security Council reaffirms the need to address the multidimensional nature of peace and security and emphasises the importance of a comprehensive and integrated approach for peacebuilding and sustaining peace.

“The Security Council recognises that today’s generation of youth form the majority of the population affected by armed conflict; and expresses concern that amongst civilians, youth account for many of those adversely affected by armed conflict, including as refugees and internally displaced persons, and that the disruption of the youth’s access to education and economic opportunities, has a dramatic impact on durable peace and reconciliation.

“The Security Council further recognises that a large youth population presents a unique demographic dividend that can contribute to lasting peace and economic prosperity if inclusive policies are in place, and reaffirms the important and constructive role youth can play in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and as a key aspect of the sustainability, inclusiveness, and success of peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts as well as in post-conflict situations.

“The Security Council takes note of the provisions of Agenda 2063 that to achieve sustainable prevention of war and resolution, a culture of peace and tolerance must be cultivated in children and youth, amongst others, through peace education.

“The Security Council encourages Member States, further to the steps that are already being undertaken towards mobilising the Youth towards Silencing the Guns in Africa by 2020, to:

1. Develop measures to create opportunities for the inclusive representation of youth to facilitate their full and meaningful participation in peace processes and at all decision-making levels, and include young women in those processes;

2. Promote inclusive development to support all youth as a key for preventing conflict and enabling long-term stability and durable peace;

3. Promote dialogue in all schools and training centres at all levels as well as integrate youth and youth-led civil society in efforts to promote a culture of peace, tolerance, intercultural and inter-religious dialogue;

4. Take steps to encourage the meaningful participation of youth in the reconstruction of areas devastated by conflict, to bring help to refugees, internally displaced persons, and war victims, and promote peace, reconciliation, and rehabilitation;

5. Take appropriate measures to promote the physical and psychological recovery and social reintegration of young survivors of armed conflict, including those with disabilities, and survivors of sexual violence in conflict by providing, amongst others, access to education and skills development such as vocational training, to resume social and economic life;

6. To comply with States’ obligation to respect, promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms of all individuals, including youth, and ensure equal access to justice and preserve the integrity of rule of law institutions; and foster an enabling and safe environment for youth working on peace and security, as reaffirmed in Resolution 2419.

“The Security Council also calls upon Member States to comply with their respective obligations to end impunity and further calls on them to investigate and prosecute those responsible for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and other egregious crimes perpetrated against civilians, including youth and young women,” Reaffirms that States must respect, promote, and protect the human rights of all individuals, including youth, within their territory and subject to their jurisdiction as provided for by relevant international law, and reaffirms that each State bears the primary responsibility to protect its populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity.

“The Security Council encourages Member States to support initiatives and mechanisms adopted by regional organisations aimed at improving the participation of youth, including young women in peacebuilding, conflict mediation and resolution, including countering violent extremism as and when conducive to terrorism.

“The Security Council recognises the importance of interactions between civil society and the Council and, in this regard, expresses its intention, where appropriate, to invite young persons, including their representative organisations, to brief the Council in thematic issues.

“The Security Council requests the Secretary-General, where appropriate, to consider including in his reporting to the Security Council information on the progress made towards participation of youth in peace processes, including disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration processes and interlinked programmes such as community violence reduction.

“The Security Council notes the independent Progress Study on Youth, Peace and Security, “The Missing Peace” presented by the independent lead author and of the Advisory Group of Experts.”

United Nations Security Council

Statement by the President of the Security Council S/ PRST/2020/13

Presidential Statement Drafted by South Africa (12/2020)

On 21 December 2020, in connection with the Council’s consideration of the item entitled “The promotion and strengthening of the rule of law in the maintenance of international peace and security”, in accordance with the procedure agreed in light of the extraordinary circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and set out in S/2020/372, the President, H.E. Ambassador Jerry Matjila who was the President of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) of December 2020 issued the following statement on behalf of the Council:

“The Security Council, on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, reaffirms its commitment to international law and the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, which are timeless, universal, and indispensable foundations of a more peaceful, prosperous, and just world, and to an international order based on international law, which is essential for cooperation amongst States in addressing common challenges.

“The Security Council notes the 75th anniversary of the United Nations Charter and the one hundredth anniversary of the Statute of the Permanent Court of International Justice and underlines the importance and value of the work of these two organs.

“The Security Council stresses the importance of all the provisions of the United Nations Charter regarding the peaceful settlement of disputes and the International Court of Justice, including those pertaining to interaction between the Security Council and the International Court of Justice.

“The Security Council recalls its commitment to bring about by peaceful means, and in conformity with the principles of justice and international law, adjustment or settlement of international disputes which might lead to a breach of the peace.

“The Security Council recalls its previous presidential statements, including on 22 June 2006 (S/PRST/2006/28), 29 June 2010 (S/PRST/2010/11) and 19 January 2012 (S/PRST/2012/1), which reaffirmed the importance of the International Court of Justice in the international architecture and maintenance of international peace and security.

“The Security Council recognises the positive contribution of the Court to the rule of law at the international level, and its key role in adjudicating disputes amongst States, thus defusing tensions and restoring peaceful relations amongst States.

“The Security Council notes the growing number of cases brought to the International Court of Justice on all aspects of international relations, demonstrating confidence in the Court.

“The Security Council recognises the need to enhance efforts aimed at capacity-building and assisting Member States, upon their request, in the implementation of their respective obligations under the Charter, including the obligation to settle disputes by peaceful means.

“The Security Council notes the importance of the Judicial Fellowship Programme of the International Court of Justice and commends the Court for its efforts to make it as widely accessible as possible to law graduates, inclusive of young women, from a wide range of geographic and linguistic backgrounds, in particular developing countries, to familiarise themselves with the work of the Court and develop their skills in the field of the peaceful settlement of international disputes through the law.

“The Security Council expresses its continued commitment to foster interaction between the International Court of Justice and the Council in accordance with their respective mandates under the Charter of the United Nations.”

United Nations Security Council

Statement by the President of the Security Council S/ PRST/2020/11

PRST Drafted by South Africa, December 2020

On 4 December 2020, in connection with the Council’s consideration of the item entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organisations in maintaining international peace and security”, in accordance with the procedure agreed in light of the extraordinary circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and set out in S/2020/372, the President of the Security Council, H.E. Ambassador Jerry Matjila issued the following statement on behalf of the Council:

“The Security Council recalls its previous relevant resolutions and statements of its President which underscore the importance of developing effective partnerships between the United Nations and regional organisations, in particular the African Union, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and the relevant statutes of the regional organisations.

“The Security Council reiterates its primary responsibility under the Charter for the maintenance of international peace and security and recalls that cooperation with regional and subregional organisations in matters relating to the maintenance of international peace and security and consistent with Chapter VIII of the Charter of the United Nations can improve collective security.

“The Security Council welcomes the African Union’s determination to rid Africa of conflicts and create conditions favourable for growth, development, and integration of the continent as encapsulated in its goal of Silencing the Guns in Africa including its Master Road map outlining practical steps that underpin the actions necessary for its attainment of the goal of a conflict-free Africa as well as its African Peace and Security Architecture and its African Governance Architecture, in particular, its African Solidarity Initiative, Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development Policy, Security Sector Reform Policy, and Transitional Justice Policy, amongst others.

“The Security Council commends the work of the United Nations Office to the African Union (UNOAU) to strengthen the partnership between the United Nations and the African Union.

“The Security Council recognises that since the strengthening of the strategic partnership between the United Nations and the African Union, and with the efforts of Member States of both organisations, significant gains have been made in finding sustainable solutions to African armed conflicts and moving the continent onto a path towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as well as the African Union Agenda 2063, Africa’s blueprint for development.

“The Security Council commends the increasing contribution of the African Union to the maintenance of peace and security and its continued efforts to enhance the peacekeeping role of the African Union and subregional organisations, consistent with Security Council resolutions and decisions, to prevent, mediate, and settle conflicts on the African continent, paying tribute in this regard to the courage and sacrifice of those serving in African-led peace operations.

“The Security Council expresses concern at the growing threat to peace and security posed by terrorism and violent extremism as and when conducive to terrorism on the African continent. The Security Council reaffirms that terrorism in all forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable regardless of their motivations, whenever and by whomever committed, and remains determined to contribute further to enhancing the effectiveness of the overall effort to fight this scourge on a global level in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and other obligations of States under international human rights law, international refugee law, and international humanitarian law.

“The Security Council commends the efforts of African Member States and subregional organisations, with the valuable support of the United Nations and other international partners, in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism as and when conducive to terrorism on the African Continent notably with the deployment of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in the Lake Chad Basin, and the G-5 Sahel Joint Force, as well as the Nouakchott and Djibouti processes.

“The Security Council expresses concern about the dire humanitarian situations on the continent, including large-scale displacement, destruction of lives, and the risk of famine, and commends efforts by the international community, including donors, in providing humanitarian assistance in response to these crises. The Security Council also takes note of the efforts of the African Union in establishing the African Humanitarian Agency (AFHA) aimed at assisting African members’ States with coordinating, managing, and responding to humanitarian crisis situations.

“The Security Council reiterates that regional organisations have the responsibility to secure human, financial, logistical, and other resources for their organisations, including through contributions by their members and support from partners, and welcomes the valuable financial support provided from partners in this regard, acknowledges the need for more support to enhance AU peace operations, and encourages further dialogue between the UN and AU to achieve this.

“The Security Council continues to encourage the United Nations and the African Union to strengthen their efforts to coordinate their engagement in a mutually supportive manner, across the range of possible responses to conflict

-from prevention and mediation to peacekeeping and peacebuilding to post-conflict recovery and development in line with their Joint Framework for Enhanced Partnership in Peace and Security, particularly in ensuring effective implementation of peace agreements by warring parties to conflict, and in this regard, stresses the need to continue enhancing strategic dialogue, partnerships, more regular exchange of views, analyses and information at the working level to build capacities in relation to the preventive diplomacy tools, invigorate and engage potential and existing capacities and capabilities, particularly through United Nations’ regional political offices, contribute to the coherence and integration of their preventive diplomacy efforts, inter alia, through mediation and the Secretary-General’s Good Offices including coordination between the special envoys of the two organisations, as appropriate.

“The Security Council notes with appreciation the progress made in efforts undertaken by the Secretary-General to mobilise all partners and stakeholders, including the African Union, in support of more effective United Nations’ peacekeeping through the Secretary-General’s ‘Action for Peacekeeping’ initiative, which places high importance on the safety and security of peacekeepers, advancing political solutions, promoting the Women, Peace, and Security agenda, strengthening protection of civilians, supporting effective performance and accountability, strengthening the impact of peacekeeping on peacebuilding and sustaining peace, improving peacekeeping partnerships, and strengthening the conduct of peacekeeping operations and personnel.

“The Security Council expresses deep concern about the serious and continuous allegations and underreporting of sexual exploitation and abuse by United Nations’ peacekeepers and non-United Nations forces authorised under a Security Council mandate, including military, civilian, and police personnel, and underscoring that sexual exploitation and abuse, amongst other crimes and forms of serious misconduct, by any such personnel is unacceptable, and commending the troop-and police-contributing countries that have taken steps to prevent, investigate, and hold accountable their personnel for acts of sexual exploitation and abuse. The Security Council reaffirms its support for the United Nations’ zero-tolerance policy on all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse, and urges all troop-and police-contributing countries to redouble their efforts to take the steps necessary to vet and train their personnel and conduct investigations of allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse by their personnel and take appropriate steps to hold accountable those responsible.

“The Security Council reaffirmed the indispensable role of women in increasing the overall performance and effectiveness of peacekeeping operations and encourages cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organisations, including the AU, in advancing greater participation and role of women in peacekeeping operations.

“The Security Council expresses its willingness to continue its cooperation and collaboration with the African Union Peace and Security Council on issues of peace and security in Africa, building on the annual joint consultative meetings between the Members of the United Nations Security Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council.

“The Security Council reaffirmed the important role of women and youth in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and in peacebuilding as well as in post-conflict situations, encourages the United Nations and the African Union to continue to make use of their annual consultations to encourage the implementation of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda as it relates to their specific contexts, and further encourages cooperation and sharing of best practices as they relate to implementation of the agenda, as requested by regional and subregional organisations.

“The Security Council reaffirmed the important and positive contribution youth can make to the efforts for the maintenance and promotion of peace and security, prevention and resolution of conflicts, and as a key aspect of the sustainability, inclusiveness, and success of peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts.

“The Security Council emphasises also the need for joint action between the UN and AU to end sexual violence in armed conflict and post-conflict situations, stresses the importance of the full implementation of the measures for the prevention and response to sexual violence in conflict in relevant Security Council resolutions.

“The Security Council emphasises the importance of addressing the fundamental root causes and the drivers of conflicts in Africa and calls for all stakeholders to intensify their efforts towards the realisation of the objectives outlined in the AU Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want and UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.”

United Nations Security Council

Statement by the President of the Security Council S/ PRST/2020/12

Presidential Statement Drafted by South Africa, 12/2020

On Burundi Advocating that Burundi be Dropped from the Agenda of the UN Security Council, Successful

On 4 December 2020, in connection with the Council’s consideration of the item entitled “Cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organisations in maintaining international peace and security”, in accordance with the procedure agreed in light of the extraordinary circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and set out in S/2020/372, the President of the Security Council issued the following statement on behalf of the Council:

“The Security Council takes note of the improved security situation in Burundi and of the six principal priorities presented by President Ndayishimiye for his Government in his inauguration speech on 18 June 2020 following the broadly peaceful elections which marked a new phase for Burundi. It welcomes the steps taken to fight impunity as well as the progress made in some aspects of gender equality and women’s empowerment and encourages the Government of Burundi to further strengthen its efforts in these areas.

“The Security Council recognises the gains made thus far and stresses that there is important work ahead to advance national reconciliation, promotion of the rule of law, and of an independent and effective judiciary, preservation of democratic space, and respect of fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of expression, including for members of the press and civil society actors, peacebuilding, social cohesion, and development. The Security Council notes continued concern regarding human rights violations and abuses and calls on the Government of Burundi to ensure an end to such violations and abuses and hold perpetrators accountable. The Security Council calls on the Government of Burundi to cooperate with the United Nations to tackle these challenges.

“The Security Council takes note of the report of the Secretary-General on the Strategic Assessment Mission for UN engagement in Burundi with respect to its relevant recommendations and encourages the discussions between the Secretary-General and the Government of Burundi to allow sufficient time for a smooth transition of the Office of the Special Envoy.

“The Security Council encourages bilateral and multilateral partners and the Government of Burundi to continue their dialogue with a view to the Government of Burundi creating conducive conditions for resumption of financial and technical assistance. The Security Council further encourages continued engagement of the Peacebuilding Commission as a viable platform for dialogue between Burundi and its partners and encourages Burundi to maximise these opportunities for resource mobilisation and in support of the National Development Plan. The Security Council underscores the importance of continued support to Burundi as it embarks on the next stage of its development and welcomes the willingness of the United Nations, alongside the AU, the region, and the international community to continue its engagement with the country, in an effort to support Burundi in achieving sustainable peace, reconciliation, and development.

“The Security Council reaffirms its strong commitment to the sovereignty, political independence, territorial integrity, and unity of Burundi. It welcomes the commitment by President Ndayishimiye to strengthen relations with African countries, regional organisations, such as the AU and the EAC, and international organisations. The Security Council calls upon the United Nations, the AU, the EAC, ICGLR and the Guarantors of the Arusha agreement to coordinate their efforts in assisting Burundian stakeholders in the implementation of the Arusha Agreement, which has helped to sustain a decade of peace in Burundi.

“Recalling its intention to review its request to the Secretary-General to report on the situation in Burundi every three months, as expressed in presidential statement S/2017/13, and noting that the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy to Burundi completed his assignment on 30 November 2019, the Security Council requests the Secretary-General to cease his periodic reporting on the situation in Burundi and looks forward to the Secretary-General covering Burundi as part of his regular reporting on the Great Lakes region and Central Africa.”

Resolutions

United Nations Security Council Resolution 2493 (2019)

Adopted by the Security Council at its 8649th Meeting, on 29 October 2019 S/RES/2493 (2019)

South Africa Drafted SC Resolution on Women, Peace and Security During the Presidency of Security Council,October 2019

The Security Council,

Reaffirming its commitment to the continuing and full implementation, in a mutually reinforcing manner, of resolutions 1325 (2000), 1820 (2008), 1888 (2009), 1889 (2009), 1960 (2010), 2106 (2013), 2122 (2013), 2242 (2015), and 2467 (2019) on Women, Peace, and Security, and relevant statements of its Presidents,

Bearing in mind the Purposes and Principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the primary responsibility of the Security Council under the Charter for the maintenance of international peace and security,

Reaffirming in this regard the importance to achieve sustainable peace and security by dialogue, mediation, consultations, and political negotiations to bridge differences and to end conflicts,

Recognising the progress made as well as the opportunity and need for far greater implementation of the women, peace and security agenda, remaining deeply concerned by persisting barriers to the full implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) and the frequent under-representation of women in many formal processes and bodies related to the maintenance of international peace and security, the relatively low number of women in senior positions in political, peace, and security-related national, regional, and international institutions, the lack of adequate gender-sensitive humanitarian responses and support for women’s leadership roles in these settings, insufficient financing for Women, Peace, and Security, and the resulting detrimental impact on the maintenance of international peace and security,

Recognising that an understanding of the impact of armed conflict on women and girls, effective institutional arrangements to guarantee their protection and full participation in the peace process can significantly contribute to the maintenance and promotion of international peace and security,

Recalling the commitments of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and reaffirming the obligations of State Parties to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, the Optional Protocol thereto, urging states that have not yet done so to consider ratifying or acceding to them, noting General Recommendation 30 of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women on Women in Conflict Prevention, Conflict and Post-Conflict Situations,

Reaffirming the primary role of Member States to implement fully all Security Council resolutions on Women, Peace, and Security, and the important complementary role of United Nations entities and regional organisations, further recognising that States bear the primary responsibility to respect and ensure the human rights of all persons within their territory and subject to their jurisdiction as provided for by international law, and reaffirming that parties to armed conflict bear the primary responsibility to ensure the protection of civilians,

Recognising the important role and contribution of civil society, including women’s organisations, in the full implementation of Security Council resolutions on Women, Peace, and Security,

Taking note of the report of the Secretary-General of 9 October 2019 and its operational recommendations for the UN and Member States in the lead-up to the 20th anniversary of Resolution 1325 and,

Recalling the report of the Secretary-General of 17 September 2015 (S/2015/716) which submitted the recommendations of the Global Study on the implementation of resolution 1325,

Welcoming the efforts of Member States, and regional and subregional organisations, in implementing resolution 1325 (2000) and subsequent resolutions on Women, Peace, and Security at the regional, national and local levels, including the development of action plans and other complementary implementation planning frameworks, with sufficient resources, and encouraging Member States to continue to pursue such implementation, including through strengthened monitoring, evaluation and coordination,

Recognising the opportunity presented by the number of significant anniversaries in 2020 notably the 20th anniversary of Resolution 1325, the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and calling on all Member States to commit to the promotion of women’s and girls’ empowerment in peace and security processes and to use these anniversaries to intensify their national efforts and international co-operation,

1. Urges Member States to fully implement the provisions of all previous Security Council Resolutions pertaining to the Women, Peace, and Security agenda and to reinforce their efforts in this regard;

2. Further urges Member States to commit to implementing the Women, Peace, and Security agenda and its priorities by ensuring and promoting the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women in all stages of peace processes, including through mainstreaming a gender perspective, and remaining committed to increasing the number of civilian and uniformed women in peacekeeping at all levels and in key positions;

3. Urges Member States supporting peace processes to facilitate women’s full, equal, and meaningful inclusion and participation in peace talks from the outset, both in negotiating parties’ delegations, and in the mechanisms set up to implement and monitor agreements, encourages Member States to support

efforts, including timely support to women to enhance their participation and capacity-building in peace processes, in order to address the unequal representation and participation of women in the peace and security agenda;

4. Noting the Peacebuilding Commission mandate pursuant to resolution 1645 (2005) and its gender strategy and calls for its full implementation to further promote women’s participation in peacebuilding efforts, and in the prevention of conflict, and encourages the Peacebuilding Commission to continue to support the participation of women-led peacebuilding organisations, in planning and stabilisation efforts in post-conflict reconstruction and recovery;

5. Calls on Member States to promote all the rights of women, including civil, political, and economic rights, urges them to increase their funding on women, peace and security, including through more aid in conflict and post-conflict situations for programmes that further gender equality and women’s economic empowerment and security, as well as through support to civil society, and to support countries in armed conflict and post-conflict situations, including through access to education, training, and capacity-building, in their implementation of women, peace, and security resolutions, further calls for increased international development cooperation related to women’s empowerment and gender equality, and invites aid providers to continue to track the gender focus of aid contributions and provide further information and assessment on this progress;

6. Strongly encourages Member States to create safe and enabling environments for civil society, including formal and informal community women leaders, women peacebuilders, political actors, and those who protect and promote human rights, to carry out their work independently and without undue interference, including in situations of armed conflict, and to address threats, harassment, violence, and hate speech against them;

7. Takes note of the work of the Informal Experts Group on Women, Peace, and Security as expressed in resolution 2242 (2015) to facilitate a more systematic approach to Women, Peace, and Security within its own work and enable greater oversight and coordination of implementation efforts; and acknowledges UN Women’s important role in this regard;

8. Encourages regional organisations to consider convening meetings in the lead-up to the 20th commemoration of resolution 1325 with the participation of governments, relevant stakeholders, and civil society to review the implementation of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda in their respective regions, and further encourages them to identify practical and measurable steps for fully implementing the agenda, and invites them to report on this progress, during the annual open debate of the Security Council;

9. Requests the Secretary-General to ensure the full implementation of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda, requests that all Heads of UN Entities, lend all possible support to the Secretary-General in this matter to:

a. develop context-specific approaches for women’s participation in all UN-supported peace talks, including country-specific situations, in order to contribute to full, equal, and meaningful participation of women in peace and security, to ensure more inclusive participation;

b. to continue to make use of the UN’s annual consultations with regional organisations to encourage the implementation of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda as it relates to their specific contexts, further encourages cooperation and sharing of best practices as it relates to implementation of the agenda, as requested by regional and subregional organisations;

c. continue mainstreaming a gender perspective in the Secretariat and United Nations’ agencies, including through the system-wide gender parity strategy;

10. Requests the Secretary-General to include the following in his next annual report on the implementation of resolution 1325 (2000) and its subsequent resolutions:

a. further information on progress made and the remaining challenges in the Women, Peace, and Security agenda as well as recommendations to address new and emerging challenges;

b. the implementation of the appointment of gender advisers and / or women protection advisers, provisions to facilitate women’s full and effective participation and protection in: the election preparation and political processes, disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration programmes, security sector, and judicial reforms, and wider post-conflict reconstruction processes where these are mandated tasks within the UN mission;

c. an assessment of the progress and commitments made on dedicated gender expertise in expert groups and monitoring teams in UN Security Council Sanctions Committees and how this commitment is met, as articulated in previous resolutions;

11. Decides to remain actively seized of the matter.

United Nations Security Council Resolution 2553 (2020)

Adopted by the Security Council on 3 December 2020 S/RES/2553 (2020)

South Africa Drafted Resolution on Security Sector Reforms Adopted During SA Presidency, UNSC December 2020

The Security Council,

Reaffirming its primary responsibility under the Charter of the United Nations for the maintenance of international peace and security,

Recalling its resolutions 2151 (2014) on security sector reform and 2282 (2016) on the review of the United Nations peacebuilding architecture, and the statements by its President of 21 February 2007 (S/PRST/2007/3), 12 May 2008(S/PRST/2008/14) and 12 October 2011 (S/PRST/2011/19),

Recalling its resolution 2282 (2016) which recalled General Assembly resolution A/RES/70/1, entitled “Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”, which adopted a comprehensive, far-reaching and people-centred set of universal and transformative Sustainable Development Goals and targets,

Recognising that development, peace, and security and human rights are interlinked and mutually reinforcing,

Stressing that reforming the security sector in post-conflict environments is critical to the consolidation of peace and stability, promoting poverty reduction, rule of law and good governance, extending legitimate State authority, and preventing countries from relapsing into conflict, and further stressing that, in this regard, a professional, effective, and accountable security sector and accessible and impartial law-enforcement and justice sectors are equally necessary to laying the foundations for peace and sustainable development,

Reiterating the need for a comprehensive approach to peacebuilding and sustaining peace as well as gender mainstreaming measures including through security sector reform in the broader framework of the rule of law,

Recalling the sovereign right and the primary responsibility of the country concerned to determine the national approach and priorities of security sector reform and recognising that it should be a nationally owned process that is rooted in the particular needs and conditions of, and at the request and in close consultation with the country in question and encouraging the involvement of all relevant stakeholders in security sector reform and the development of expertise in the field of security sector reform at the national and local level,

Recognising that the political leadership and political will of national authorities are critical for the progress of security sector reform, and reaffirming the lead role of national authorities in developing an inclusive national vision for security sector reform, which takes into account the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and stressing that coordinating the implementation of the vision, dedicating national resources towards national security institutions, and monitoring the impact of the security sector reform process are an integral part of national ownership and leadership of security sector reform,

Reaffirming its commitment to address the impact of armed conflict on women, youth, and children, and recalling its resolutions 1325 (2000), 1820 (2008), 1888 (2009), 1960 (2010), 2106 (2013), 2122 (2013), 2242 (2015), 2467 (2019), and 2493 (2019) on women, peace, and security, resolutions 1265 (1999), 1296 (2000), 1674 (2006), 1738 (2006), and 1894 (2009) on the protection of civilians in armed conflict, as well as resolutions 2250 (2015), 2419 (2018) and 2535 (2020) on youth, peace and security, and resolutions 1261 (1999), 1612 (2005), 1882 (2009), 1998 (2011), 2068 (2012), and 2143 (2014) on children and armed conflict,

Recognises the role of United Nations’ peacekeeping operations and special political missions in supporting national authorities, where and as mandated, to develop inclusive, national strategies, programmes and priorities for security sector reform and support the coordination of international assistance to security sector reform, as appropriate, that is aligned with national priorities and takes into account international support in order to effectively assist countries to build and sustain peace, stressing the importance of peacekeeping missions and special political missions to be provided with adequate, predictable, and sustainable funding and / or resources to implement mandates and United Nations’ support related to security sector reform,

Recalling reports of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations of the General Assembly, which have provided guidance to the United Nations Secretariat on the subject of security sector reform and the development of a United Nations’ approach to security sector reform,

Expressing concern at the range of challenges that weak and dysfunctional security institutions face, including impairing the ability of the State to build and sustain peace, extend public security, rule of law, and access to justice within its boundaries, and noting that good governance and oversight of the security sector is important in ensuring that security institutions provide security and protect the population, and further noting that failure to address governance, operational, and accountability deficits can undermine the positive gains of peacekeeping, and necessitates the return of peacekeeping and special political missions in previous areas of operation and recognising that, effective and inclusive security sector reform processes have been an important element of the political processes, national reconciliation, transitional justice, stabilisation, and reconstruction of some post-conflict countries,

Reaffirming that a representative, responsive, efficient, effective, professional, and accountable security sector without discrimination and with full respect for human rights and the rule of law is the cornerstone of peace and sustainable development, and is important for conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and sustaining peace,

Recognising that security sector reform is an important element of United Nations’ peacebuilding efforts and noting the important work of the Peacebuilding Commission as a dedicated intergovernmental advisory body that brings a strategic approach and coherence to international peacebuilding efforts including United Nations’ support to security sector reform,

Recalling that the bulk of Security Council-mandated United Nations’ assistance in the area of security sector reform takes place in, and is directed to, countries in Africa and that a number of African countries are becoming important providers of such assistance, and in this regard recognising the important contributions of, and capacities put in place by, the African Union and the sub-regional organisations to support and guide national security sector reform efforts,

Noting the support provided by bilateral actors, regional organisations, multilateral financial institutions, as well as, expert organisations including academia and research organisations to security sector reform efforts and other initiatives in the area of security sector reform, and recognising the importance of establishing strategic partnerships and coordinated funding to enhance the impact of international support that is aligned with, and takes into account, national security sector reform priorities,

Stressing the importance of national ownership and the role that coordination plays, as appropriate, between the different actors involved in supporting security sector reforms through bilateral and multilateral contributions and emphasising the role United Nations’ peacekeeping operations and special political missions can play in enhancing this coordination with a national vision and priorities, and taking into account the need to ensure transparency, inclusivity, and accountability of support provided for security sector reform in line with national priorities,

Recognising the centrality of security sector reform as a key element of peacekeeping and special political mission mandates, stressing the role of peacekeeping operations and special political missions in support of political solutions, and emphasising the importance of the United Nations, including through its peacekeeping operations and special political missions, supporting national Governments, upon their request where appropriate, to strengthen security sector governance and develop security institutions that are inclusive, representative, accessible, and responsive to the needs of their population, and the important role of the Peacebuilding Commission and the Peacebuilding Fund in supporting security sector reform,

Recalling the important role that the United Nations has played in supporting national efforts to enhance security sector governance and build sustainable security institutions, and commending the efforts of the United Nations, in particular the Department of Peace Operations, including the Security Sector Reform Unit and the United Nations Inter-Agency Security Sector Reform Task Force, in further strengthening a comprehensive United Nations’ approach to security sector reform, through the development of system-wide and specialised guidance and civilian capacities, coordination mechanisms, and development of strategic partnerships with regional and subregional organisations, in particular the African Union,

Underlining the importance of the close coordination of the range of United Nations Security Sector Reform activities, both at headquarters and in the field, in particular between Security Council-mandated missions and the United Nations Country Team, and noting the role of the Global Focal Point for Rule of Law in the context of security sector reform in enhancing the United Nations’ integrated responses and joint approaches at the country level, and encouraging relevant United Nations entities mandated for security sector reform activities to work through the existing coordination mechanisms, as appropriate,

Acknowledging that security sector reform in some contexts will include defence, police, justice and corrections, disaster management, and border, customs, and immigration services, as well as customary and traditional security providers as determined by each Member State, and stressing the importance to adequately consider initiatives that address strategic security sector governance, management, and oversight aspects in order to ensure the long-term sustainability of the security sector, based on the particular needs and conditions of the country in question,

Reiterating the importance of the rule of law as one of the key elements of conflict prevention, peacekeeping, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding, and reiterating the statement by its President of 21 February 2014 (S/PRST/2014/5), and recalling that security sector reform must take place within a broad framework of the rule of law, and noting in this regard the contribution that effective, professional, and accountable police services that provide security to the population, can make in building trust between State authorities and the public and restoring the rule of law in post-conflict countries,

Recognising that security sector reform constitutes a key element of the political processes of States recovering from conflict and of the strengthening of the rule of law institutions, and that the establishment of representative, effective, and accountable security sector governance ensuring the security and justice needs of the entire population and development of sustainable capacities of national security institutions able to fulfil their responsibilities to protect all civilians is central to the transition, where and as mandated, of security responsibilities to the host state, and to the gradual withdrawal and exit of peacekeeping operations and special political missions,

Recognising the interlinkages between security sector reform and other important factors of stabilisation and reconstruction, such as, but not limited to, national reconciliation, transitional justice, disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration, as well as long-term rehabilitation of former combatants and all those affected including in particular women, youth, and children, national small arms and light weapons management, arms embargo implementation, reduction of armed violence, organised crime and anti-corruption measures, protection of civilians, including in particular women, youth, and children, as well as gender equality and human rights issues,

1. Reaffirms the importance of security sector reform in peacebuilding, and sustaining peace, including conflict prevention and in the stabilisation and reconstruction of States in the aftermath of conflict and resolves to continue to include and prioritise, as appropriate, security sector reform aspects as an integral part of the mandates of United Nations’ peacekeeping operations and special political missions;

2. Reiterates the centrality of national ownership for security sector reform processes, and further reiterates the responsibility of the country concerned in the determination of security sector reform assistance, where appropriate, and recognises the importance of considering the perspectives of the host countries in the formulation of relevant mandates of United Nations’ peacekeeping operations and special political missions;

3. Encourages Member States undertaking reform, to take the lead in defining an inclusive national vision and strategy on security sector reform, informed by the needs and aspirations of the entire population, and acknowledges the important role of the United Nations, including its Peacebuilding Commission, and Member States, regional and subregional organisations in assisting States in this regard;

4. Recognises that security sector reform needs to be in support of, and informed by, broader national political processes, inclusive of all segments of the society, including the participation of civil society, that lay the foundations for stability and peace, social and economic development, through the promotion of the rule of law, justice, national dialogue, and reconciliation efforts, and resolves to prioritise security sector governance and reform activities that directly support such efforts;

5. Reaffirms that the promotion of women’s full, equal, and meaningful participation in the security sector makes an important contribution to building inclusive, accountable, and legitimate institutions that more effectively protect populations and promote lasting peace and sustainable development, and expresses concern that women continue to face significant barriers to their equal participation in security sector institutions where they are often underrepresented; and in this regard, encourages Member States to develop context-specific security sector reform strategies and programmes that, inter alia, mainstream a gender perspective to remove legal, institutional and regulatory barriers to women’s equal participation in the security sector and increase their representation at all levels within the security sector;

6. Recognising that youth should be actively engaged in shaping lasting peace and contributing towards conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and recovery, including the promotion of the rule of law, justice and reconciliation, and that a large youth population presents a unique demographic dividend that can contribute to lasting peace and economic prosperity if inclusive policies are in place;

7. Stresses that security sector reform is critical to addressing impunity and promoting accountability for violations and abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law, where applicable, and contributes to upholding the rule of law and access to justice;

8. Encourages Member States, when undertaking security sector reforms, to mainstream child protection, such as the inclusion of child protection in military training, and standard operating procedures, as well as in military guidance as appropriate, the establishment of child protection units in national security forces, of effective age assessment mechanisms to prevent underage recruitment, of vetting mechanisms to ensure that those responsible for violations and abuses against children are not included in the ranks of national security forces, and of measures to protect schools and hospitals from attack and to prevent the military use of schools in contravention of applicable international law;

9. Stresses the importance of security sector reform, which better integrates policing, justice and corrections, defence, border management and security, maritime security, civil protection, and other relevant functions, including through the development of professional, accessible, and accountable policing capabilities that strengthen community resilience, as well as the institutions responsible for their oversight and management, and urges the effective integration as regards sector-wide and component levels of United Nations’ support both at headquarters and in the field, as appropriate;

10. Recognises the need for governance and reform which better integrates all security functions, by ensuring a clear delineation of roles and responsibilities between relevant security institutions, and in this regard, recognises the important role that national defence actors play in protecting the sovereignty and integrity of States and their populations;

11. Encouraging the United Nations’ peacekeeping operations and special political missions to continue to play a role in supporting efforts that enhance the trust and confidence between national security actors and institutions, and the population;

12. Stresses the importance of the relevant bodies of the United Nations undertaking mission-planning processes for security sector reform, where mandated, that gives full consideration to support national security sector reform efforts, taking into account the specific needs of the host country and its population, including through partnerships with other relevant international and regional actors providing security sector reform assistance to the national government;

13. Underlines the importance of strengthening support for sector-wide initiatives that aim to enhance the governance and overall performance of the security sector and address the foundations upon which security institutions in each component area are built, and ensuring that strategic partnerships and coordination mechanisms prioritise support and funding for security sector governance initiatives; and notes that security sector governance and institutions can be enhanced through support to and inclusive of national security dialogues; national security sector reviews and mappings; national security policy and strategy; national security legislation; national security sector plans; security sector public expenditure reviews; and national security oversight, management and coordination;

14. Underlines that the management of a transition from a peacekeeping operation or special political mission in relation to its security sector reform activities

should be based upon a timely analysis, in consultation with the host country, and in close coordination with the United Nations Country Team of any assistance beyond the duration of the mandate to enable peacebuilding and development actors to undertake the necessary strategic planning and fundraising, working in close partnership with national authorities, and local communities and organisations, including women and youth, as appropriate, and to transfer skills and expertise to host-country officials and experts as quickly as possible in order to ensure a successful and durable transition;

15. Notes that the United Nations is particularly well positioned to support Member States with coordinating security sector governance and reforms aligned with, and taking into account, an inclusive national vision and priorities as necessary in specific situations, that it has broad experience as well as comparative advantages in this area, working in close collaboration with relevant international and regional actors, and urges all relevant actors to align their support with national priorities in a transparent and coordinated manner to ensure their desired effectiveness and enhance the impact of international support to national security sector reform efforts;

16. Encourages Member States to continue to be engaged and to facilitate strategic discussions on strengthening the United Nations’ approach and role in this critical area, including through the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations of the General Assembly and the Peacebuilding Commission;

17. Notes the important role that United Nations’ police can play in supporting, and coordinating international support for reform of national police institutions and building police capacity in a comprehensive way that emphasises a community-oriented approach, and inter alia builds strong governance, oversight, and accountability mechanisms within the framework of a functional judicial and corrections system;

18. Recognises the need for the United Nations’ peacekeeping operations and special political missions with relevant mandates and the Inter-Agency Security Sector Reform Task Force to further strengthen the monitoring and evaluation of United Nations’ security sector reform initiatives with the aim of ensuring the effectiveness, coordination, and coherence of the support provided by the United Nations and other regional, bilateral, and multilateral partners to national Governments;

19. Encourages Member States to provide voluntary support to security sector reform and governance efforts, and to ensure adequate resources for security sector governance efforts including at a sector-wide level, and where possible, and as agreed upon, through the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund, in accordance with the priorities set forth by national authorities;

20. Resolves to continue to promote the role of the United Nations Secretariat in supporting security sector reform, and requests the Secretary-General to consider undertaking the following in the context of relevant country-specific andates:

a. Strengthen the comprehensive, integrated, and coherent approach of the United Nations in security sector reform;

b. Develop additional guidance, including on mainstreaming of a gender perspective for relevant United Nations officials, including for Special Representatives of the Secretary-General and Envoys, and assist all relevant United Nations representatives to understand how to deliver mandated security sector reform tasks;

c. Encourage the Secretary-General’s Special Representatives and Special Envoys and United Nations Resident Coordinators to fully take into account the strategic value of security sector reform in their work, including through their good offices, and to give due consideration to the role of United Nations’ special political missions, where and as mandated, in advancing operational and structural prevention initiatives through security sector reform activities and efforts;

d. Encourage the Secretary-General’s Special Representatives in United Nations’ peacekeeping operations and special political missions to fully integrate security sector governance and reform, where and as mandated, into their good offices and consider the role of security sector reform in mission efforts to advance peace processes, extend state authority and strengthen a protective environment for civilians;

e. Highlight in the Secretary-General’s regular reports to the Security Council on specific United Nations operations mandated by the Security Council, updates on progress of security sector reform, including by developing country-specific benchmarks to assess the effectiveness of the assistance provided by the United Nations, where mandated, and commitments of host countries to security sector reform and identify potential obstacles to reform, and taking into account the comprehensive approach, integrated and coherent efforts of the United Nations in security sector reform, where mandated, in order to improve Security Council oversight of security sector reform activities;

f. Highlight in his regular reports to the Security Council on specific United Nations operations, mandated by the Security Council, efforts to support the coordination of international support to security sector reform, to include updates on support provided by all relevant actors engaged in supporting security sector reform, to enhance Security Council oversight of security sector reform activities;

g. Encourages, in the context of all phases of UN-supported peace processes including during draw-down and exit of peacekeeping operations and special political missions, the timely and coordinated support to the transition of security sector reform-related activities, and relevant peacebuilding partners, to ensure adequate support to national authorities by the United Nations Country Team and other multilateral and bilateral partners;

h. Continue to build on integrated technical guidance notes and related training modules, as well as other tools as appropriate, to promote coherent and coordinated United Nations’ support to security sector reform, and develop modalities for joint delivery of assistance to national reform efforts and by encouraging the allocation of resources for security sector reform

efforts of United Nations Country Teams and the peacebuilding components of United Nations’ peacekeeping operations and special political missions;

i. Continue to incorporate security sector governance and reform into strategic partnerships such as with the African Union and through existing partnership mechanisms as relevant to strengthen the United Nations comprehensive approach to security sector reform and foster strategic coherence of efforts, including by formalising partnerships, defining a distribution of responsibilities, and integrating security sector reform objectives in mission planning and transitions;

j. Strengthen the capacity of senior leadership of United Nations Country Teams to absorb relevant peacebuilding functions, including any activities related to security sector reform following the drawdown and exit of Security Council-mandated missions;

k. Ensure that assistance related to security sector reform takes into account the operation of Security Council-mandated arms embargoes, where applicable, including the availability of exemptions to such embargoes specifically intended to support security sector reform;

21. Underlines the importance of partnerships and cooperation with regional and subregional arrangements and organisations, in accordance with Chapter VIII of the United Nations Charter, and in supporting security sector reform, as well as fostering greater regional engagement;

22. Encourages the Secretary-General to continue to promote cooperation between the United Nations and the African Union, consistent with the Joint UN-AU Framework for Enhanced Partnership in Peace and Security (2017) and the AUUN Framework for the Implementation of Agenda 2063 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (2018) in order to strengthen the implementation of its continent-wide policy framework for security sector reform, informed by and in support of the African Peace and Security Architecture, and further encourages all partners to continue to assist the African Union in building its capacities in this regard and recognising the efforts of all international partners in supporting Member States, as appropriate, to implement their commitments stemming from regional policies;

23. Reiterates the importance of sharing experiences, best practises, and lessons learned, knowledge, and expertise on security sector reform amongst Member States, and regional and subregional organisations, expert institutions including academia and research organisations, and relevant stakeholders including women and youth organisations, and in this regard encourages a deepening of South-South exchange and cooperation;

24. Underscores the importance of women’s equal and effective participation in all stages of the security sector reform process, given their vital role in the prevention and resolution of conflict and peacebuilding, with the aim of increasing the participation and representation of women in all security sector institutions, and recognises the need to address specific needs of women and girls formally associated with armed forces or groups as well as wives and widows of former combatants, and in strengthening civilian protection measures in security services, including the provision of adequate training for security

personnel, the inclusion of more women in the security sector, and effective vetting processes in order to exclude perpetrators of sexual violence from the security sector and ensure accountability;

25. Requests the Secretary-General to prepare a report to the Security Council on his efforts to strengthen the United Nations’ comprehensive approach to security sector reform in September 2021 in order to inform the Security Council’s deliberation on this matter;

26. Decides to remain actively seized of the matter.

Pictures

Jerry Matthews Matjila (right), new Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, presents his credentials to Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. Production Date 07/05/2016 11:55:45 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Evan Schneider

Jerry Matthews Matjila (left), new Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, presented his credentials to Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. Production Date 07/05/2016 11:56:10 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Evan Schneider

Mogens Lykketoft (centre right), President of the 70th session of the General Assembly, meets with singer, song writer and UN Messenger of Peace Stevie Wonder (centre left). Also pictured: Jerry Matthews Matjila (left), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN; and Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson. Production Date 07/18/2016 10:57:22 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Evan Schneider

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN, addresses the General Assembly’s informal meeting in observance of Nelson Mandela International Day (18 July). Production Date 07/18/2016 11:53:42 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/JC McIlwaine

Following a special General Assembly meeting to commemorate Nelson Mandela International Day (18 July), senior UN officials joined UN staff in donating and delivering gently used professional clothing to Dress for Success, which empowers women to achieve economic independence; Bottomless Closet, which supports economically disadvantaged women in securing a job; and Career Gear, which helps men in poverty become stronger contributors to their families and communities. Mogens Lykketoft, President of the 70th session of the General Assembly, speaking at the clothing donation event. Participants at the event included Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN; Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson; Mette Holm, wife of the Assembly President; and Stevie Wonder, singer, song writer and UN Messenger of Peace. Production Date 07/18/2016 12:36:09 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Following a special General Assembly meeting to commemorate Nelson Mandela International Day (18 July), senior UN officials joined UN staff donating and delivering gently used professional clothing to Dress for Success, which empowers women to achieve economic independence; Bottomless Closet, which supports economically disadvantaged women in securing a job; and Career Gear, which helps men in poverty become stronger contributors to their families and communities. Participating at the clothing donation event (front row from right): Mogens Lykketoft, President of the 70th session of the General Assembly, his wife, Mette Holm; Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson; Singer, song writer and UN Messenger of Peace Stevie Wonder. Also pictured (second from left, front row): Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN. Production Date 07/18/2016 12:38:25 PM City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Special Event on Impact of Balfour Declaration on Palestinian people Caption Description Jerry Matthews Matjila (centre), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN and Vice-President of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), addresses a lecture on the impact the Balfour Declaration has had on the Palestinian people. Production Date 11/02/2017 3:06:28 PM City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Manuel Elías

Special Event on Impact of Balfour Declaration on Palestinian people Caption Description Jerry Matthews Matjila (centre), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN and Vice-President of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), addresses a lecture on the impact the Balfour Declaration has had on the Palestinian people. Also pictured: Rashid Khalidi (left), the Edward Said Professor of Modern Arab Studies at Columbia University and Director of the Middle East Institute of Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs; and Riyad H. Mansour, Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine. Production Date 11/02/2017 3:07:35 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York

Press Briefing on Conclusions of Financing for Development Follow-up Forum Caption Description Frederick Musiiwa Makamure Shava (centre), Permanent Representative of the Republic of Zimbabwe to the UN and President of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), briefs journalists on the adoption of inter-governmentally agreed conclusions and recommendations of the 2017 ECOSOC Forum on Financing for Development follow-up. He is flanked by Jerry Matthews Matjila (left), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa; and Marc Pecsteen de Buytswerve, Permanent Representative of Belgium. Production Date 05/23/2017 12:44:47 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Manuel Elías

UN Conference on Treaty to Prohibit Nuclear Weapons Caption Description Jerry Matthews Matjila (right), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN and Acting President of the United Nations conference to negotiate a legally binding instrument to prohibit nuclear weapons, leading towards their total elimination, chairs a meeting of the conference. Production Date 03/31/2017 10:46:56 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Manuel Elías

Special Memorial Service to Honour Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Caption Description Secretary-General António Guterres (right) speaks with Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN, prior to a Special Memorial Service to honour Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. Mrs. Madikizela-Mandela, who passed away 2 April, was a South African anti-apartheid activist and politician, and the ex-wife of Nelson Mandela. The service was organised by Permanent Mission of South Africa. Production Date 04/13/2018 11:30:56 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York

Special Memorial Service to Honour Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Caption Description Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN, takes part in a Special Memorial Service to honour Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. Mrs. Madikizela-Mandela, who passed away 2 April, was a South African anti-apartheid activist and politician, and the ex-wife of Nelson Mandela. The service was organised by Permanent Mission of South Africa. Production Date 04/13/2018 11:59:09 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

ECOSOC Special Segment on Economic, Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Assistance Caption Description Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations and Vice-President of the Humanitarian Affairs Segment of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), addresses the session on the theme “Restoring humanity, respecting human dignity and leaving no one behind: working together to reduce people’s humanitarian need, risk and vulnerability”. Production Date 06/19/2018 3:12:03 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

ECOSOC Special Segment on Economic, Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Assistance Caption Description Mark Lowcock (left), Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, moderates the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) session on the theme “Restoring humanity, respecting human dignity and leaving no one behind: working together to reduce people’s humanitarian need, risk and vulnerability”. At centre is Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations and Vice-President of the Humanitarian Affairs Segment of ECOSOC.

Opening of Exhibit “Building on the Legacy of Nelson Mandela” Caption Description Jerry Matthews Matjila (left), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa, attends the opening of the exhibit “Building on the Legacy of Nelson Mandela” in the Visitors Lobby at UN Headquarters. The exhibit, organised by the UN Department of Public Information with the support of the Permanent Mission of South Africa, highlights Nelson Mandela International Day and celebrates the centenary of his birth by featuring his contributions to the work of the United Nations in peace and security, human rights, and sustainable development. It also illustrates initiatives taken by the UN General Assembly in recognition of the South African leader’s legacy on conflict resolution, reconciliation, gender equality, the rights of children and other vulnerable groups, and the fight against poverty. Production Date 07/17/2018 6:48:40 PM Production Date 06/19/2018 3:22:36 PM Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

GA President Holds Morning Dialogue with UN Permanent Representatives Caption Description Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, attends a morning dialogue with Representatives of UN Member States organised by Miroslav Lajcák, President of the 72nd session of the General Assembly. Production Date 07/13/2018 8:58:07 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Manuel Elías

Annual Observance of the Nelson Mandela International Day Caption Description Participants of the annual observance of Nelson Mandela International Day pose for a photo prior to the event. The 2018 observance marks 100 years since Mandela’s birth (18 July 1918). Secretary-General António Guterres (centre left) and Miroslav Lajčák (centre right) are joined by (left to right): Forest Whitaker, UNESCO Special E for Peace and Reconciliation and SDG Global Advocate; Edna Molewa, Minister of Environmental Affairs of South Africa; Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa; and Penny Abeywardena, Commissioner of the City of New York. Production Date 07/18/2018 10:59:45 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Rick Bajornas

Security Council Considers Peace and Security in Africa Caption Description Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed (left) speaks with Jerry Matthews Matjila (centre), Permanent Representative South Africa to the UN, and Margot Wallström, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden and President of the Security Council for the month of June prior to the Security Council meeting on peace and security in Africa. Production Date 07/10/2018 10:03:38 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Loey Felipe

The General Assembly elected five non-permanent members for two-year terms on the Security Council starting on 1 January 2019: Belgium, Dominican Republic, Germany, Indonesia and South Africa. Jerry Matthews Matjila (left behind nameplate), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa, and other members of the delegation of South Africa seen in the Assembly Hall after their country is elected to the Security Council. Production Date 06/08/2018 11:04:40 AM Credit UN Photo/Manuel Elías

María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés (second right), President of the 73rd session of the General Assembly, speaks with Deputy Secretary-General Mina Mohammed before the start of the ceremony held to unveil the Nelson Mandela Statue gifted to the United Nations by the Republic of South Africa. Also pictured is Jerry Matthews Matjila (second left), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa, speaking with Catherine Polla (left), Under-Secretary-General for General Assembly and Conference Management. Production Date 09/24/2018 8:26:11 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Ariana Lindquist

Secretary-General António Guterres (front centre) poses with members of the High-level Panel on Water during the handover of their outcome document.Pictured (left to right): Roberto Ramirez de la Parra, Director General of the National Commission for Water of Mexico; Gillian Bird, PermanentRepresentative of Australia; Gorgui Ciss, Deputy Permanent Representative of Senegal; Katalin Bogyay, Permanent Representative of Hungary; Masud BinMomen, Permanent Representative of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh; Sima Sami Bahous, Permanent Representative of the Hashemite Kingdom ofJordan; Rafael Pacchiano Alamán, Minister of Environment and Natural Resources of Mexico; Juan José Gómez Camacho, Permanent Representative ofMexico; Mr António Guterres; Lise Gregoire-van Haaren, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Netherlands; Jagdish Dharamchand Koonjul, PermanentRepresentative of the Republic of Mauritius; Gustavo Meza-Cuadra Velásquez, Permanent Representative of Peru; Jennifer Sara, Acting Vice- President ofthe World Bank group; Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa; and Mahmadamin Mahmadaminov, PermanentRepresentative of the Republic of Tajikistan.Production Date 03/14/2018 11:44:45 AM Country United States of America City/Location New YorkCredit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Pictures

The General Assembly elected five non-permanent members for two-year terms on the Security Council starting on 1 January 2019: Belgium DominicanRepublic, Germany, Indonesia and South Africa.Pictured (left to right): Christoph Heusgen, Permanent Representative of Germany to the UN; Heiko Mass, Minister for Foreign Aff airs of Germany JerryMatthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the UN; Lindiwe Nonceba Sisulu, Minister for International Relations and Cooperation ofSouth Africa; Miguel Vargas Maldonado, Minister for Foreign Aff airs of the Dominican Republic; Francisco Antonio Cortorreal, Permanent Representativeof the Dominican Republic to the UN; Retno Lestari Priansari Marsudi, Minister for Foreign Aff airs of the Republic of Indonesia; Dian Triansyah Djani, Permanent Representative of Indonesia to the UN; Didier Reynders, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Aff airs of Belgium; Marc Pecsteen deBuytswerve, Permanent Representative of Belgium to the UN.Production Date 06/08/2018 11:51:49 AMCountry United States of America City/Location New YorkCredit UN Photo/Mark Garten

The General Assembly elected five non-permanent members for two-year terms on the Security Council starting on 1 January 2019: Belgium, DominicanRepublic, Germany, Indonesia and South Africa. Pictured are (left to right): Christoph Heusgen, Permanent Representative of Germany to the UN; Heiko Mass, Minister for Foreign Aff airs of Germany;Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the UN; Lindiwe Nonceba Sisulu, Minister for International Relations and Cooperationof South Africa; Miguel Vargas Maldonado, Minister for Foreign Aff airs the Dominican Republic; Francisco Antonio Cortorreal, Permanent Representativeof the Dominican Republic to the UN; Retno Lestari Priansari Marsudi, Minister for Foreign Aff airs of the Republic of Indonesia; Dian Triansyah Djani,Permanent Representative of Indonesia to the UN; Didier Reynders, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Aff airs of Belgium; Marc Pecsteen deBuytswerve, Permanent Representative of Belgium to the UN.Production Date 06/08/2018 11:50:06 AM Country United States of America City/Location New YorkCredit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Pictures

Assembly President Holds Morning Dialogue with UN RepresentativesCaption Description Miroslav Lajčák (centre left), President of the 72nd session of the General Assembly, poses with participants of a dialogue, heldregularly with Representatives of UN Member States and other offi cials.Left to right: Lewis Garseedah Brown II, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Liberia to the United Nations; Dian Triansyah Djani, PermanentRepresentative of the Republic of Indonesia; Geraldine Byrne Nason, Permanent Representative of Ireland; Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, Pe Representative of Ghana; Mr. Lajčák; Fatima K. Mohammed, Permanent Observer of the African Union; Mohamed Khaled Khiari, PermanentRepresentative of Tunisia; Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa; Marc Pecsteen de Buytswerve, PermanentRepresentative of Belgium; Tijjani Muhammad Bande, Permanent Representative of Nigeria.Production Date 06/01/2018 9:47:47 AM

Assembly President Holds Morning Dialogue with UN RepresentativesCaption Description Miroslav Lajčák (by window centre right), President of the 72nd session of the General Assembly, holds a morning dialogue withRepresentatives of UN Member States and other offi cials.From left to right in the inner circle: Mohamed Khaled Khiari, Permanent Representative of Tunisia to the United Nations; Marc Pecsteen de Buytswerve,Permanent Representative of Belgium; Lewis Garseedah Brown II, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Liberia; Tijjani Muhammad Bande,Permanent Representative of Nigeria; Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa; Geraldine Byrne Nason,Permanent Representative of Ireland; Dian Triansyah Djani, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Indonesia; Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, PermanentRepresentative of Ghana; Fatima K. Mohammed, Permanent Observer of the African Union.Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Loey Felipe

Pictures

Unveiling Ceremony of Nelson Mandela Statue from South AfricaCaption Description Secretary-General António Guterres (third from right), flanked by María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés, President of the seventy-third session of the General Assembly, and Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, pose with Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa (centre), President of the Republic of South Africa, and Graça Machel (fifth from left), member The Elders and widow of Nelson Mandela, at the unveiling of the Nelson Mandela Statue gifted to the United Nations by the Republic of South Africa.Production Date 09/24/2018 7:18:34 AMCountry United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Ariana Lindquist

Jerry Matthews Matjila (at podium), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, makes his remarks at a ceremony held to unveil the Nelson Mandela Statue gifted by his country to the United Nations. Production Date 09/24/2018 8:01:09 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Cia Pak

Secretary-General António Guterres (third from right), María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés (fourth from right), President of the 73rd session of the General Assembly, and Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa (not visible), President of the Republic of South Africa, unveil the Nelson Mandela Statue gifted to the United Nations by the Republic of South Africa. At right is Ralph E. Gonsalves, Prime Minister, Minister for Finance, the Public Service, National Security, Legal Affairs and Grenadines Affairs of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and second from right is Deputy Secretary General Amina Mohammed. At left is Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations Production Date 09/24/2018 8:02:14 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Cia Pak

Preparations for a ceremony held to unveil the Nelson Mandela Statue gifted to the United Nations by the Republic of South Africa. Jerry Matthews Matjila (right), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, looks on. Production Date 09/24/2018 7:26:26 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Cia Pak

Secretary-General António Guterres (front centre) meets with the current ten non-permanent members of the Security Council, as well as the five newlyelected non-permanent members of the Council.Pictured in front row (left to right): Job Obiang Esono Mbengono, Deputy Permanent Representative of Equatorial Guinea to the UN; Berios Morrison,Counsellor of the Permanent Mission of the Dominican Republic to the UN; Gbolié Desiré Wulfran Ipo, Deputy PermanentRepresentative of Côte d’Ivoire to the UN; Taye Atske Selassie Amde, Permanent Representative of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to the UN; Mr. António Guterres; Olof Skoog, Permanent representative of Sweden to the UN; Gustavo Meza-Cuadra, Permanent Representative of Peru to the UN; Joanna Wronecka, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Poland to the UN; Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic ofSouth Africa to the UN. Back row from left to right: Jeroen Cooreman, Deputy Permanent Representative of Belgium to the UN; Mathias Licharz, Minister of the Permanent Mission of Germany to the UN; Karel van Oosterom, Permanent Representative of the Netherlands to the UN; Sacha Sergio LlorenttySolíz, Permanent Representative of Bolivia to the UN; Kairat Umarov, Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the UN; Mansour Al-Otaibi, PermanentRepresentative of the State of Kuwait to the UN; and Dian Triansya Djani, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Indonesia.Production Date 11/21/2018 2:58:56 PM Country United States of America City/Location New YorkCredit UN Photo/Manuel Elías

Flag Installation Ceremony for Newly elected Non-permanent MembersCaption Description A flag installation ceremony is held to honour the newly elected non-permanent member countries to the Security Council for theterm 2019-2020.The presidency of the Security Council for the month of January is represented by Miguel Vargas Maldonado (centre right), Minister for Foreign Aff airs ofthe Dominican Republic; Francisco Antonio Cortorreal (third from right), Permanent Representative of the Dominican Republic to the UN; and José SingerWeisinger, Special Envoy of the Dominican Republic to the UN.Also pictured from left to right are Christoph Heusgen, Permanent Representative of Germany to the UN; Marc Pecsteen de Buytswerve, PermanentRepresentative of Belgium to the UN; Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN; Kairat Umarov,Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the UN; and Dian Triansyah Djani (second from right), Permanent Representative of the Republic of Indonesiato the UN. Production Date 01/02/2019 4:19:53 PM

Installation Ceremony of Flags of Newly elected Non-permanent Members Caption Description Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, waves his country’s flag during the flag installation ceremony held to honour the Newly elected Non-permanent Members of the Security Council for the term 2019-2020. Production Date 01/02/2019 4:19:09 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, addresses the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East (Yemen). Production Date 01/09/2019 11:26:27 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York

Federica Mogherini (right), High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, speaks with Job Obiang Esono Mbengono (left), Deputy Permanent Representative of Equatorial Guinea to the UN, and Jerry Matthews Matjila (centre), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN, ahead of the Security Council meeting on cooperation between the United Nations and regional and sub-regional organisations in maintaining international peace and security, with a focus on European Union. Production Date 03/12/2019 10:33:49 AM Country United States of America Credit UN Photo/Manuel Elías

Jerry Matthews Matjila (second from right), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN, speaks with Amparo Mele Colifa (right), Third Deputy Permanent Representative of Equatorial Guinea to the UN, and two delegates ahead of the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East (Syria). Production Date 06/27/2019 9:42:00 AM Credit UN Photo/Evan Schneider Credit UN Photo/Loey Felipe

Vasily Nebenzya (at podium), Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the UN, speaks to press on the 2nd Anniversary of Former PermanentRepresentative Vitaly Churkin’s death.Behind him is, from left to right: Bashar Ja’afari, Permanent Representative of the Syrian Arab Republic to the UN; Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, PermanentRepresentative of United Arab Emirates to the UN; François Delattre, Permanent Representative of France to the UN; Olof Skoog, Permanent RepresentativeSweden to the UN; Omar Hilale, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Morocco to the UN; Aksoltan Ataýewa, Permanent Representative of Turkeyto the UN; Kairat Umarov, Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan to the UN; Abdallah Y. Al-Mouallimi, Permanent Representative of Saudi Arabia to the UN and Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN.Production Date 02/20/2019 10:57:53 AMCountry United States of America City/Location New York

Pictures

Retno Lestari Priansari Marsudi (centre), Minister for Foreign Aff airs of the Republic of Indonesia and President of the Security Council for the month of May, and Dian Triansyah Djani (left), Permanent Representative of Indonesia to the United Nations, poses for a photo with Joanna Wronecka (second from right), Permanent Representative of the Republic of Poland to the UN; Vasily Nebenzya (second from left), Permanent Representativeof the Russian Federation to the UN; and Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN, in their colourfulshirts ahead of the Security Council debate on protection of civilians in armed conflict.Production Date 05/23/2019 10:02:25 AM Credit UN Photo/Loey Felipe

Jerry Matthews Matjila (second from left), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN, speaks with Amparo Mele Colifa (left), Third Deputy Permanent Representative of Equatorial Guinea to the UN, ahead of the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East (Syria). Production Date 06/27/2019 10:42:31 AM Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Jerry Matthews Matjila (at podium), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, speaks to the press regarding the situation in Sudan. He is joined by Kacou Houadja Léon Adom (left), Permanent Representative of Côte d’Ivoire to the UN, Fatima K. Mohammed (second from right), Permanent Observer of the African Union, and a representative from the Permanent Mission of Equatorial Guinea to the UN. Production Date 06/06/2019 2:18:30 PM Credit UN Photo/Mark Garten

Security Council Considers Challenges to Peace and Security in Middle East on Description Michael Richard Pompeo (centre right), Secretary of State of the United States of America, greets Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, ahead of the Security Council meeting on challenges to peace and security in the Middle East. Production Date 08/20/2019 2:57:59 PM Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, addresses the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Sudan and South Sudan. Production Date 09/18/2019 11:11:09 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Ariana Lindquist

Event to unveil a new installation titled “”The Best Weapon””, a tool for dialogue in form of a bench, at the visitors’ entrance to the UN Headquarters.The bench designed by Snøhetta, is inspired by Nelson Mandela and engraved on it is his quote; “The best weapon is to sit down and talk.” As a symbol ofdiplomacy and dialogue, the peace bench pays tribute to the Nobel Peace Prize laureates and their eff ort to bring people together in order to find eff ective solutions for peace. Sitting on the bench, amongst others, are Mona Juul (third from left), Permanent Representative of Norway to the United Nations; Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane (centre), Minister of Tourism of the Republic of South Africa; Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti (third from right), Chef de Cabinet to Secretary-GeneralAntónio Guterres; and Jerry Matthews Matjila (right), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations.Production Date 07/18/2019 10:53:05 PM Credit UN Photo/Mark Garten

Pictures

An event to unveil a new installation titled “The Best Weapon”, a tool for dialogue in the form of a bench, at the visitors’ entrance to the UNHeadquarters. The bench designed by Snøhetta, is inspired by Nelson Mandela and engraved on it is his quote; “The best weapon is to sit down and talk.”As a symbol of diplomacy and dialogue, the peace bench pays tribute to the Nobel Peace Prize laureates and their eff ort to bring people together in order tofind eff ective solutions for peace.Mona Juul (second from right), Permanent Representative of Norway to the United Nations, cuts a ribbon to mark the unveiling together with JerryMatthews Matjila (third from right), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, and Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane(fourth from right), Minister of Tourism of the Republic of South Africa.

Kacou Houadja Léon Adom (at podium), Permanent Representative of Côte d’Ivoire to the UN, briefs the press on the situation in the Sudan. Behind him at second from left is Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the UN, and a representative from the Permanent Mission of Equatorial Guinea to the UN. At right is Fatima K. Mohammed, Permanent Observer of the African Union. Production Date 09/10/2019 3:27:31 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Jerry Matthews Matjila (centre), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, chairs the Security Council meeting on the situation in Colombia. Production Date 10/10/2019 10:02:00 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, chairs the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo). Production Date 10/09/2019 10:02:06 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Jerry Matthews Matjila (centre), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, chairs the Security Council meeting on the situation in Mali. Production Date 10/08/2019 10:13:44 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Secretary-General António Guterres briefs the Security Council meeting on the centrality of preventative diplomacy, conflict prevention and resolution, under the topic of peace and security in Africa. At right is Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October. Production Date 10/07/2019 10:06:06 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Jerry Matthews Matjila (centre), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for October, chairs the Security Council meeting on the centrality of preventative diplomacy, conflict prevention and resolution, under the topic of peace in Africa. At left is Secretary-General António Guterres, and at right is Hasmik Egian, Director of the Security Council Affairs Division of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA). Production Date 10/07/2019 10:03:19 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

“Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, chairs the Security Council meeting on maintenance of international peace and security. The Council unanimously adopted resolution 2491 (2019) condemning all acts of migrant smuggling and human trafficking into, through and from the Libyan territory and off the coast of Libya.” Production Date 10/03/2019 3:12:56 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Ariana Lindquist

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, chairs the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Great Lakes region. The Council heard a report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of the Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region. Production Date 10/03/2019 10:42:54 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Laura Jarriel

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, chairs the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Great Lakes region. The Council heard a report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of the Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region. Production Date 10/03/2019 10:34:00 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Kim Haughton

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, chairs the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Great Lakes region. The Council heard a report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of the Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Region. Production Date 10/03/2019 9:13:38 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Laura Jarriel

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, chairs the Security Council meeting on mobilising the youth towards silencing the guns by 2020, under the topic peace and security in Africa. Next to Mr. Matjila is Hasmik Egian, Director of the Security Council Affairs Division of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA). UniProduction Date 10/02/2019 10:48:42 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Kim Haughton

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, briefs journalists on the programme of work for the Security Council. Production Date 10/01/2019 11:41:59 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Laura Jarriel

Jerry Matthews Matjila (centre), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, briefs journalists on the programme of work for the Security Council. Production Date 10/01/2019 12:10:38 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Laura Jarriel

Jerry Matthews Matjila (left), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, and Karen Pierce, Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the UN and President of the Security Council for the month of November, pose together with a rugby ball to mark the final match between South Africa and England in the 2019 Rugby World Cup as well as the handover of the Presidency in the Council. Production Date 10/31/2019 2:50:53 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Loey Felipe

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, chairs the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Central African Republic. Production Date 10/25/2019 10:02:16 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Jerry Matthews Matjila (left), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, chairs the Security Council meeting on the situation in Somalia. Production Date 10/25/2019 3:02:28 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Secretary-General António Guterres (in the back) shares a laugh with Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa tothe United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, during the Security Council meeting on Women and Peace and Security.The theme of the meeting was to aim towards the successful implementation of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda: moving from commitments toaccomplishments in preparation for the commemoration of the 20th anniversary of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000). The Council unanimously adopted resolution 2493 (2019) on Women and Peace and Security, urging Member States to fully implement the provisions of all previous Security Council Resolutions pertaining to the Women, Peace, and Security agenda and to reinforce their eff orts in this regard. Production Date 10/29/2019 10:22:27 AM

Pictures

Jerry Matthews Matjila (right), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Councilfor the month of October, speaks with Secretary-General António Guterres ahead of the Security Council meeting on Women and Peace and Security.The theme of the meeting was to aim towards the successful implementation of the Women, Peace and Security agenda: moving from commitments toaccomplishments in preparation for the commemoration of the 20th anniversary of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000). The Council unanimously adopted resolution 2493 (2019) on Women and Peace and Security, urging Member States to fully implement the provisions ofall previous Security Council Resolutions pertaining to the Women, Peace and Security agenda and to reinforce their eff orts in this regard. Production Date 10/29/2019 10:05:46 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder DebebeCountry United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Evan Schneider

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of October, addresses the Security Council meeting on Yemen. Production Date 10/17/2019 10:02:11 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Manuel Elías

Alya Ahmed Saif Al-Thani (third from right), Permanent Representative of Qatar to the United Nations, speaks with Jerry Matthews Matjila (second from right), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, ahead of the high-level meeting of the General Assembly to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the United Nations. At right is Mona Juul, Permanent Representative of Norway to the United Nations. Production Date 09/21/2020 8:56:57 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Vasily Nebenzya (centre), Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation and President of the Security Council for the month of October, speaking with Jerry Matthews Matjila (right), Permanent Representative of the Republic of South Africa to the United Nations, ahead of the Security Council meeting on the situation in Mali. Production Date 10/08/2020 10:00:18 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of December, briefs reporters on the programme of work of the Security Council for the month of December. Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Manuel Elías

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of December, briefs reporters after the videoconference with Security Council members in connection with cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organisations (African Union). Production Date 12/04/2020 11:52:31 AM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Evan Schneider

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of December, chairs the Security Council meeting on the situation concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Unique Identifier UN7877905 Production Date 12/07/2020 3:05:08 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Manuel Elías

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of December, chairs the Security Council meeting on the situation concerning the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Production Date 12/07/2020 3:04:33 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

Jerry Matthews Matjila, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations and President of the Security Council for the month of December, briefs reporters. Production Date 12/22/2020 9:16:04 PM Country United States of America City/Location New York Credit UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe