Delivered by Permanent Representative of Estonia to UN Mr. Sven Jürgenson
I would like to begin by thanking France and all the co-organizers of this meeting: Germany, the Dominican Republic, Belgium, Saint Vincent and Grenadines, Niger, Tunisia, United Kingdom and Viet Nam. I join others in thanking briefers.
Estonia, has traditionally not been at the forefront of major disasters caused by climate change, but shifting climate patterns have had a considerable effect on our agriculture, biodiversity and forestry sectors.
Climate change impacts are clear drivers to insecurity and a well-recognised risk for peace and security in many regions around the world. We are seeing the existential threat it poses to the very survival of countries worldwide, like small island developing States. Therefore, Estonia fully emphasizes the need to address severe security implications, and the need to take concrete action to change the course of these developments.
First, we need a comprehensive strategic planning in order to effectively respond to security threats posed by climate change and to ensure our preparedness and response for such security risks. That can be achieved only through coordinated action, nationally, regionally and internationally as well as strengthened coordination and integration within the UN and its agencies and Missions. It also remains important that peacekeeping missions continue to consider the environmental impacts of its operations when fulfilling its mandated tasks and broadens its expertise on climate-related security risks.
Second, it is important to create a framework for sharing knowledge and best practices presenting international analytical and forecasting information to serve as a tool available to all member states. In that regard, systematic reporting by the Secretary-General on the climate-related security risks would be important
Third, the tools of modern technology should be used, as proved by early warning systems. We need to strengthen foresight capacity by working towards accessible and interoperable international data on climate-related security risks and to develop digital infrastructure and skills. Aggregating data will improve our overall understanding and thereby, assist and help countries to find the right tools to tackle the challenges they face.
In conclusion, it is our common responsibility to take more effective actions to minimize the climate-related security risks and prevent conflicts – it requires strengthened multilateralism, global leadership and cooperation.
The Security Council has a very big part in this work.
I thank you!