Delivered by Permanent Representative, H.E. Mr. Sven Jürgenson
Thank you Mr. President,
I would like to thank the briefers for their comprehensive reports of the developments in the region. I would also like to reiterate Estonia’s full support to the work of SRSG Chambas and the activities of UNOWAS over the last six months.
It is with great concern that we follow the overall deterioration in the security situation in West Africa and the Sahel. The growing number of terrorist attacks and the increase in intercommunal violence, most notably in Burkina Faso, but also in Central Mali and in the Liptako-Gourma triborder area are especially complex. It is positive that these transnational threats are being addressed through multi-national efforts such as the G5 Sahel Joint Force that together with the French-led Barkhane operation have conducted successful counterterrorist operations. Estonia has been actively participating in the joint efforts, and will continue to do so.
The key to long lasting stability in the region is the full political ownership of the region’s States. An effective State presence – that is state institutions, services as well as adequately trained military presence – is of utmost importance. An integral part of the State presence is the fight against impunity. We urge all countries in the region to strengthen the relevant dispute settlement mechanisms as well as very seriously address all grave violations and abuses of human rights. All perpetrators of such crimes must be held accountable regardless of their status.
We remain very concerned about the increasingly dire humanitarian situation in some areas of West Africa and the Sahel. The COVID-19 pandemic has added yet another layer to an already complicated situation and it is therefore especially important that the humanitarian aid reach all those in need.
Understanding the long-term grievances and addressing the root causes of the conflict needs to remain at the core of national and international efforts. We commend UNOWAS and ECOWAS for addressing the impacts of climate change on security in the region and encourage them to take further steps in this process. Moreover, ensuring full and meaningful participation of women and youth in the political process will bring the region closer to a long lasting stability and we urge all parties to take further steps in this regard.
Finally, Mr. President, conducting the planned elections in several countries of West Africa and the Sahel in the second half of this year is of key importance. We urge all parties to make every effort to ensure their inclusivity, transparency, credibility and peaceful conduct.
I thank you.