I thank the briefers for their insights on the latest developments in the Sahel region and on the operationalisation of the G5 Sahel Joint Force.
It is extremely concerning that the security situation in the Sahel region keeps deteriorating despite ongoing efforts by the regional and international security forces. The reported increase in the attacks against civilians makes the call for the “civilian surge” ever more relevant as expressed in the N’Djamena summit in February this year. The civilian population can only be effectively protected when a credible state presence is restored across the territories of the region’s countries. In this connection, it is essential to continue the efforts of re-establishing not only the security presence, but also the police and judicial institutions.
We commend the role of the African Union and ECOWAS in coordinating and mobilizing both the operational as well as strategic support to the G5 Sahel Joint Force. The regional and national ownership in the counter-terrorist efforts is crucial to their success.
Combating terrorism and violent extremism in the Sahel is clearly a joint effort by the national, regional and international security forces. In order to ensure its effectiveness, we need to keep our constant attention on the coordination. Sharing relevant information is of key importance, as well as ensuring clear command lines.
Estonia remains committed to playing its part in achieving security and stability in the Sahel region. We contribute with personnel to MINUSMA, the French-led Barkhane operation and EUTM Mali and financially to the EU Trust Fund for Africa. Estonia is also part of Task Force Takuba that has recently achieved full operational capacity.
We are encouraged by the further strengthening of the G5 Sahel Joint Force. As a member of the European Union, we are glad that the financial support from EU has allowed MINUSMA to offer operational and logistical support to the Joint Force. Additionally, we acknowledge the calls from the region’s states to ensure a more predictable and sustainable funding to the G5 Sahel Joint Force. From the Estonian side, we are open for the discussions on the more comprehensive solutions to this question.
Mr. President,
Estonia shares the concern expressed by the Secretary-General in his most recent report over the continued human rights violations that have allegedly been committed by the security forces during the counter-terrorist activities. We welcome the prompt announcements to conduct investigations by the Joint Force and the region’s states and we encourage all announced investigations to be conducted thoroughly and fully. Strengthening trust between the state and the population is of key importance. In this connection, it is essential that all human rights violations and abuses are be investigated and the perpetrators held fully accountable.
Lasting peace in the Sahel region can only be achieved when together with the military efforts the root causes of the conflict are being actively addressed. Issues that are exacerbating existing grievances such as the negative effects of climate change and the economic impact of COVID-19 need to be addressed. It is of utmost importance to empower women by ensuring their full, effective and meaningful participation in all aspects of the society. Children and young people need to have safe access to education that would provide an alternative to a life of poverty and violence.
