76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly
UN Security Council briefing on MINUSMA
Statement by Ambassador Sven Jürgenson
October 29, New York
At the outset, I thank SRSG Wane for his briefing and express support to his work.
After having returned from the Security Council’s visit to Mali and Niger just two days ago, I would like to add a few of my own observations and remarks to the summary provided by the co-leads of the visit, France, Kenya and Niger.
Firstly, the preparations for the credible, inclusive and transparent elections must continue. It is crucial that the transition period be just that – a transition to the civilian rule and return to constitutional order according to the agreed Transition roadmap.
Women’s full, equal and meaningful participation in all political and peace processes needs to be emphasized every step of the way. It is regrettable that the representation of women in the transitional government remains at 21.4 per cent, which is below the 30 per cent legal requirement.
Secondly, the Algiers Peace Agreement remains the basis of the peace process in Mali. The modest progress in its implementation is very concerning. We call on all Malian parties to refocus their attention and continue efforts on taking concrete steps in the implementation process.
Estonia reiterates its full support to the work of MINUSMA, including its ongoing technical, logistical and financial support the DDR and SSR processes in Mali. However, the international efforts can only succeed if the Malian authorities will fully commit to achieving peace and stability in the country. That includes adopting and implementing a comprehensive strategic approach on restoring and maintaining an effective state presence all over the territory.
It is important to note that all those obstructing the peace process in Mali need to be held accountable. Security Council has adopted, at the request of the Malian government, a sanctions regime to support this objective. In this connection, I reiterate Estonia’s support to the work of the Panel of Experts on Mali and hope that the Panel will be soon fully operational to continue their valuable work in assisting the Security Council on the implementation of the sanctions measures.
Thirdly, the appalling human rights and humanitarian situation in Mali needs to be addressed. Constant stream of human rights violations and abuses can be reduced by establishing an effective state presence, including police and judicial presence. Establishing accountability and fighting against the culture of impunity are central elements here. We strongly urge the Malian authorities to follow through with all announced investigations.
Finally, the international and regional cooperation to support the peace process in Mali remains crucial. Estonia welcomes the engagement of the African Union and ECOWAS, in supporting the political transition in Mali.
For Estonia, today’s Security Council quarterly discussion on Mali is our last opportunity in a while to engage in as an elected member of the Council. Nevertheless, Estonia will continue its contributions to support peace efforts in Mali and in the wider Sahel region. We will continue contributing through multilateral training missions and counter-terrorist efforts, as well as through the peacebuilding and conflict prevention initiatives.
