Full statement delivered by H.E. Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Permanent Representative of Guyana during the UNSC debate on “Maintenance of International Peace and Security: The Role of Young Persons in addressing security challenges in the Mediterranean
I thank Malta for convening today’s debate. I also thank USG De Carlo for her briefing and Mr. Kamel and Ms. Messaoudi for sharing their valuable perspectives on the subject.
As our world experiences unprecedented conflicts, with conflicting parties seemingly unmoved by the misery and suffering of innocent civilian populations, the Security Council must continue to engage on effective ways of reversing this downward spiral. Prevention must be the priority. This requires a holistic approach that addresses risk factors and makes maximum use of resources, including human resources.
We have the world largest youth population in history. While youth are among those most affected by armed conflict, they also have the enormous, mostly untapped potential to contribute towards sustainable peace.
The adoption of Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security in 2015 was an important shift in the perspective of the role of young people from victim or perpetrator of violence to positive agents of change, who can contribute to preventing and resolving conflicts and building peaceful, resilient and prosperous societies.
Mr. President
The Security Council can lead by example and demonstrate confidence in the world’s youth. This includes increasing opportunities for young persons from different regions to brief the Council to hear their perspectives and understand their challenges and needs. Today, we heard one such briefing.
The Council must also continue integrating and strengthening the youth, peace and security agenda into mandate renewals of peacekeeping operations and special political missions. Young people must be at negotiating tables and integrally involved in implementing peace agreements. Adequate resourcing for youth empowerment and participation should be built into mandates.
We also recognize the important role of the new UN Youth Office, which has a specific mandate on peace and security, and the Peacebuilding Commission in supporting youth participation in matters related to peace and security.
Mr. President
The existential issue of our times is that of climate change and our young people are at the forefront in advocating for action. The Mediterranean is one of the world’s most vulnerable regions to climate risks and represents a microcosm of what many regions - including the Caribbean – are experiencing. As we prepare for the Summit of the Future and consider the Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace, we must put climate change at the center as a risk-multiplier, contributing to food insecurity, water scarcity, and driving forced displacement. These have the potential to fuel and exacerbate tensions and conflict, particularly when resources become scarce and overwhelmed governance systems are unable to meet the needs of besieged communities.
The Council has seen numerous examples of how in the face of drought, internal displacement and chronic food insecurity, extremist groups have capitalized on grievances and the vulnerability of young people to bolster recruitment and radicalization. Poverty, unemployment, lack of economic opportunities and desperation have driven millions of children and young people into the arms of extremist groups.
Targeted action must be taken to provide opportunities and build the resilience of the young and most vulnerable in our world to withstand these challenges. Access to education, science and technology can strengthen their resilience as well as build their capacity to be part of solutions. Their meaningful participation in peace processes and decision-making can build trust and break cycles of violence, yielding positive and sustainable outcomes.
Mr. President
As we discuss the role of young people in the Mediterranean and the world, in addressing security challenges including those exacerbated by climate change, Guyana reiterates that the international community must act on the numerous climate commitments including climate finance, and in creating an environment for inclusive development. Peace and security and development are interdependent. If developing countries continue to lack the finance necessary to adapt to climate change and meet the development needs of their people, including their youth, peace and security will be a casualty in many other places. We must work to ensure this is not the case.
I thank you.
