Remarks by H.E. Mr. Abdulla Shahid, President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly

29 April 2022

 

I express my deep gratitude to the President of the Security Council, President of ECOSOC, Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission, Under-Secretary-General for Policy, representatives of international financial institutions (World Bank and IMF) and civil society for their active participation and contributions in today’s High-Level Meeting. 

 

Let me reiterate the crucial importance of peacebuilding in the context of the changing nature of conflict, where the costs of responding to crises have become unsustainable, unbearable, unwieldy. 

 

The peacebuilding construct is a complex, far-ranging development issue and a long-term process involving social cohesion, economic resilience, and political will.  

 

The financial gap we discussed weakens the peacebuilding actions as financing options are too unpredictable, unsustainable and inadequate for programs that are intended to be long-term.  

 

We, therefore, need to act collectively to address this global issue, in relation to our collective efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda.  

 

Excellencies, 

 

Today’s meeting illustrates both the challenges ahead and the innovative solutions we have at our disposal.  

 

We need more collaborative action and greater political will to address the critical gaps in peacebuilding financing. 

 

Different solutions with value propositions have been pointed out during our rich discussions today, and I am grateful for all your active participation.  

 

I hope this meeting will lead to sustained improvements of the peacebuilding financial architecture. 

 

Our discussions have been stimulating and constructive.  

 

I take note of the different proposals that have been raised. They will be reflected in the summary that will be circulated after this meeting. 

 

Let me take this opportunity to thank Peacebuilding Support Office and my team who have been working together to prepare and organize this meeting. 

 

Finally, I would like to reiterate my profound thanks for your participation and commitment.  

 

One thing is clear: the international community is essential into achieving adequate, predictable, and sustained financing for peacebuilding and sustaining peace. 

 

Under a Presidency of Hope, let us make this happen. 

 

Not by empty words but by concrete, meaningful, collaborative action. 

 

I thank you.