Remarks by H.E. Mr. Mogens Lykketoft, President of the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly at reception on the occasion of the Challenges Forum 20th Anniversary seminar on UN Peace Operations 2020
9 May 2016
Ambassador Skoog, Deputy Secretary-General Eliasson, Ambassador Power, ladies and gentlemen, good evening.
It is great that this 20th anniversary of the Challenges Forum coincides with the High Level Thematic Debate on Peace and Security.
Tomorrow’s debate comes on the back of a year when the UN really delivered for member states in the area of sustainable development; when it demonstrated how relevant it can be; when it responded to compelling analysis with a framework to help all states transition to more inclusive, just and sustainable world.
It also comes at a time when the peace and security landscape is becoming more and more complex in terms of the challenges we face (from horrific geopolitically complicated conflicts to evolving and emerging threats such as terrorism and epidemics); in terms of the tools we need to respond to those challenges; and in terms of what role member states wish the UN to play in all of this.
The relevent UN bodies and committees have already reacted positively to the 3 major reviews, but concrete action is now needed to repsond to specific recommendations and the broader context.
Networks of actors like the Challenges Forum have a key role to play in keeping the momentum going.
And I hope that tomorrow’s debate will do likewise.
It can help us to identify tasks the next Secretary General must address and steps to ensure the UN remains relevant for all member states (large and small, regional groups and others); looking at how to integrate relevant UN efforts on peace, development, rule of law, justice, inclusive political institutions and human rights; and helping us strengthen the UN’s toolbox so that it is better equipped to respond to today’s peace and security challenges (on mediation, on prioritizing political frameworks; on ensuring local communities are much more involved in sustaining peace; on addressing the barriers to women’s participation in peace efforts).
I look forward to two day’s of enriching discussion. Thank you.