First, I would like to thank the briefers for their thorough update on the issue and I would also like to join my voice to those praising the work of Ambassador Nicolas De Rivière and Ambassador Kais Kabtani. We know that the adoption of resolution 2532 was a rocky road, it was not easy but the personal commitment and excellent diplomatic skill of both ambassadors made this possible.
The pandemic continues to pose a significant threat to the maintenance of International peace and security. This means that a potential increase in social unrest and violence, that would greatly undermine our ability to fight the disease is still on the cards. On July 1, we unanimously adopted resolution 2532, demanding an immediate cessation of hostilities in all situations on our agenda.
In some countries, like my own, we have had time to deal with the various outcomes of the pandemic, but this cannot be said about many others. There are countries that are ravaged by conflicts, violence, human rights violations etc., which makes dealing with the pandemic nearly impossible. It is for these reasons we must continue following the Secretary General’s call for humanitarian ceasefire. Only then can countries effectively deal with the pandemic, to protect their citizens, when all their effort is directed towards the number one enemy – COVID-19. Enabling safe, unhindered and sustained delivery of humanitarian assistance is as relevant now as it was a few months ago. And particular this applies to the situation in Syria.
We have seen cases where COVID-19 has been used as a pretext for various ideas that are not serving the common good of the people in need or have little to no links to the pandemic, including the campaign for the lifting of restrictive measures, rise in disinformation campaigns and attacks against healthcare sector, both physical and cyber. Some governments have curbed UN peacekeepers’ freedom of movement, which in turn curbs our ability to help the people in need.
We must focus our efforts to dealing with the pandemic, not fighting. As I have said in my previous speeches on the issue and I will not get tired of stressing it – The risks posed by the pandemic for the rights of women, including through gender-based violence and violations of human rights, are undeniable. Women’s role in the societies’ response to COVID-19, including in conflict and post-conflict situations, is crucial, as they represent the majority of health workers.
To beat the pandemic, we need to show solidarity and trust. We need to be transparent with each other. Without a coordinated response, we cannot win.
I thank you.
