Briefing: UNOWAS

Thank you, Madam President

I would like to welcome the Special Representative of the Secretary General, Mr. Leonardo Santos Simão, and thank him for his presentation.

West Africa and the Sahel have enormous potential. It is one of the youngest regions in the world, particularly the Sahel where the majority of the population is under 25. We must therefore strive to meet the needs and potential of these young people. Investments in health, education and vocational training could yield enormous gains from demographic development. However, if this potential is not strengthened and sustained, there may be significant risks and challenges beyond the sub-region.

The Security Council adopted a presidential statement on UNOWAS in May. This is a strong message of support, unity and solidarity from the Council, both with the region and for the work of the Special Representative. This text aims precisely to strengthen the region's potential and support it in meeting the challenges it faces, complementing the efforts of the African Union and ECOWAS.

I would like to raise three points in particular:

First, we call on all parties in conflict to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law to protect the civilian population. Large-scale attacks by armed groups and intensified clashes with national security forces are affecting civilians. Children and young people are particularly vulnerable to atrocities and forced recruitment. The authorities concerned should collaborate with the United Nations in the development of concrete action plans to put an end to violations of international humanitarian law and human rights, and to strengthen the protection of civilians and access to basic services. For example, Switzerland is working in Mali to provide educational opportunities in conflict-affected areas. In addition, we learn from the Secretary-General's report that the operational context for humanitarian agencies remains difficult due to insecurity and limited access. In this regard, we recall resolution 2730 on the protection of United Nations and humanitarian personnel.

Second, it is crucial to promote dialogue and coordinate multinational, regional and bilateral commitments to alleviate internal and inter-state tensions in order to prevent crises from escalating. The resurgence of tensions at sub-regional level is worrying. We welcome the advocacy activities and good offices undertaken by Special Representative Simão and other actors. We also welcome the decision taken by the AU Peace and Security Council in May 2024 to appoint a high-level facilitator for countries in transition. In order to rebuild trust and find a way out of the many crises shaking the sub-region, Switzerland remains committed to promoting forums for exchange and dialogue between different stakeholders.

Third, civil and political space is fundamental if the millions of young people in the region are to realize their economic and social potential. The reduction of these spaces in certain countries is worrying. In particular, the Secretary-General's report highlights the ban on the activities of political parties and civil society organizations. A vibrant civil society holds governments to be accountable, to ensure transparency and increases confidence in the government. We call on all States to create an enabling environment and ensure respect for the rights of peaceful assembly, freedom of association and freedom of expression, including for members of all political parties. In this respect, Switzerland takes note of Mali's recent decision to lift the suspension of political parties and activities of political nature of associations. We therefore encourage UNOWAS to continue its work on promoting good governance.

Madam President,

Switzerland will pursue its commitment to sustainable peace, development in the region and the mitigation of security risks linked to climate change. In view of our presidency in October, we will also ensure that exchanges with the Peace and Security Council of the AU allow for in-depth reflection on the Sahel, in line with regional expectations and those of the countries concerned. We urge both Councils to maintain their support and focus on the region.

Thank you.