Pakistan, speaking on behalf of the ten elected members (E-10) of the UN Security Council, delivered a strong collective message calling for veto restraint, greater transparency, and comprehensive reform of the Council during the UNSC open debate on working methods.
Ambassador Asim Iftikhar, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN delivered the joint statement on behalf of Algeria, Denmark, Greece, Guyana, Panama, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Slovenia, the Republic of Korea, and Pakistan.
He stressed that the E-10 members “take very seriously the responsibility entrusted upon us” and remain committed to a Council that is “more transparent, inclusive, responsive and representative.”
Call for veto restraint
The statement expressed serious concern over UNSC inability to perform on crisis situation, stating: “We remain concerned over the frequent use of the veto.” It added that the Council had “failed to adopt important resolutions due to the use of the veto,” and warned that veto use or even its threat “may prevent the Council from acting on vital topics.”
The E-10 therefore “reiterates its call for restraint on the use of, and limits on the scope of the veto.”
Reform and strengthening of working methods
The E-10 underscored the growing urgency for reform in the UNSC affiliated bodies“more effective, efficient, representative, inclusive, transparent, accountable and democratic.”
They highlighted the importance of correcting “the historical injustice against Africa” and emphasized support for the UN’s intergovernmental negotiations process on reform.
Inclusive decision making and access
The E-10 demanded “equal access to documentation” noting that “the legitimacy and effectiveness of the Council can be greatly improved through a more inclusive and representative approach.”
They also reaffirmed the need for “full, equal and meaningful participation of women” in the Council’s work.
United voice of the E-10
Concluding the joint message, ambassador asim iftikhar said: “we, the ten elected members of the security council, speak with one voice” to build a council capable of “taking timely and effective action” to maintain global peace.
