Adoption of Draft Resolution on Restructuring of the United Nations Peace and Security Pillar
– As delivered –
Statement by H.E. Mr. Miroslav Lajčák, President of the 72nd Session of the UN General Assembly, at the adoption of draft resolution on restructuring of the United Nations peace and security pillar
Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen,
We can all agree on one thing: we want the United Nations to be able to respond to today’s challenges in the best way it can.
Peace has always been at the core of this Organisation. But today we have more complex and different threats and challenges to peace.
The signs that conflict is on the horizon can look different now to how they did in 1945. And, in many ways, they are harder to identify. For example, the online recruitment of terrorist fighters is less visible than traditional conscription. Furthermore, it is easier to identify planes, tanks or troops moving across frontiers, than it is to track splintering rebel groups.
Different threats require different responses. This is a matter of logic. Likewise, we need new thinking and structures to solve old, persistent challenges. We cannot expect to achieve peace today without adjusting mechanisms and systems from 70 years ago.
We must observe. We must monitor. We must listen to experiences from the ground. And, in doing so, we must adapt – and we must evolve. Today’s resolution is part of this process.
Today’s resolution calls for a second comprehensive report on the United Nations’ peace and security pillar. And, I hope that it will be adopted by consensus. For that, I want to express my sincere thanks. First, to our co-facilitators, Ambassador Rugwabiza and Ambassador Mlynar. They had my full trust and support throughout this process. And secondly, to you – the Member States for your constructive engagement. After three rounds of negotiations, you found agreement – a delicate balance of interests. We would not have achieved this without our most valuable tool – dialogue. When peace is at stake – dialogue is not an option, it is our duty.
Excellencies,
Before I conclude, I want to acknowledge that some Member States have called for more detailed information on the proposed reform of the United Nations’ peace and security pillar. The next step is for the Secretary-General to provide a second comprehensive report to answer these calls.
Today, we took a firm step in the right direction. And, through a consensus adoption, we will set a constructive tone for future discussions in this member-state driven process.
There is more work ahead. I hear the questions and concerns of member states regarding this important process. And I am confident that the next step will provide the opportunity to answer these concerns. I appreciate that we approached this draft resolution in the spirit of mutual responsibility. The result is a member-state owned draft resolution.
I stand ready to use my convening power to ensure member state ownership of this important process and its outcome. As we move to the next phase of this process, let us continue to talk and listen to one another.
I thank you.
