Mr. President,
Switzerland thanks you for this debate and congratulates Niger for its important contribution to the work of the Security Council over the past two years.
The challenges related to the fight against terrorism and the impact of climate change on peace and security in the Sahel are complex and require a concerted response. The Council's recent trip to Mali and Niger underlined this. Around the world, nearly 4 billion people have suffered from climate-related disasters over the last decade. That devastation will only grow. With the adoption of a thematic resolution, which Switzerland would welcome, the Council would give itself a coherent framework for action.
Switzerland has joined the Group of Friends' statement on climate and security. In addition, we would like to highlight three areas for action by the Council:
First, natural disasters reinforced by climate change are already causing a great deal of disruption, including displacement, which can lead to tensions and conflicts. The consequences disproportionately affect women, children and the most vulnerable. The Security Council should be active in addressing the security implications of climate change. Its actions must be based on international law and the rule of law. From a general perspective, it remains important to limit global warming to 1.5°C and reduce the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, and to support people to adapt to climate change.
Second, climate change acts as a risk multiplier. Switzerland welcomes the integration of the effects of climate change into the mandates of several peacekeeping and special political missions, including in the Sahel. Security risks related to climate change should be adequately and more systematically integrated into peace operation mandates, as well as in the context of transitions and withdrawals of operations. To this end, the Council should capitalise more on the resources available within the UN system and on the advisory role of the Peacebuilding Commission. Collaboration with academia, civil society and regional organisations promotes innovative approaches that can guide the Council's work. The African Union, for example, recognises climate-related security risks as part of its peace and security agenda.
Third, the Council has a role to play in breaking the vicious cycle of conflict and the emergence of terrorism and violent extremism. Switzerland strongly condemns terrorism in all its forms. It is crucial that measures to combat terrorism be designed and implemented in strict compliance with international law, in particular human rights and international humanitarian law. When developing such measures, the Council must ensure, in particular, that they do not have a negative impact on humanitarian activities.
Mr. President,
As a candidate for the Security Council, Switzerland remains firmly committed to combating the adverse effects of climate change on peace and security. We continue to work to ensure that people can live in security and dignity.
Thank you.