Statement by Ambassador Trishala Persaud, Deputy Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations at the Security Council Arria Formula Meeting on “Unlocking the Potential of Science for Peace and Security”

Thank you Chair

I thank Switzerland for organizing today’s Arria Formula meeting which provides us with a platform to discuss the transformative potential of science in fostering peace and security. I also thank the briefers for their sharing their insights.

In an era defined by rapid technological advancements and unprecedented scientific discoveries, we stand at a crucial juncture where the application of science can either exacerbate our global challenges or can contribute to their resolution. It is imperative that we harness the transformative power of science, technology, and innovation to build a more peaceful and secure world. Today we heard about the potentials and risks of advanced AI, quantum computing and nano-technology.

Science can contribute to addressing the root causes of conflicts by providing policy makers with the tools for preventative measures and evidence-based solutions. The use of data capture technologies, for example, makes it increasingly possible to create early warning systems which can identify potential flashpoints and allow for timely interventions.  Science diplomacy can bridge divides, create common grounds for negotiations, contribute to dispute mediation, and support decision-making on foreign and security policies.

Guyana is supportive of initiatives that utilize satellite imagery, remote sensing, and other technologies for real-time monitoring that facilitate early conflict detection. We underscore the importance of using these technologies in full compliance with international law, including international human rights law.

Science is critical to strengthening environmental stewardship and advancing sustainable development. In countries confronting the twin challenges of climate change and conflict, enhanced international cooperation in climate science with emphasis on mitigation, adaptation, and resilience-building strategies guided by rigorous scientific research are especially important.

Poverty and hunger are inevitable consequences of conflict and drivers of instability. Conflict and hunger exist in a devastating feedback loop - war creates hunger and hunger has the potential to exacerbate war. Existing and emerging technologies have the potential to address food availability and accessibility, to make food more nutritious and to mitigate instability in agriculture and production. Through scientific development we can improve soil fertility, mitigate against crop destroying pests and diseases and employ state-of-the art harvesting tools. It must be emphasized that harnessing such technologies will require investments in research and development, and multilateral cooperation to ensure equitable access for developing countries.

Investing in science education and capacity building is fundamental to empowering our populations to contribute to peace and security. Guyana emphasizes the need for inclusive educational initiatives that foster scientific literacy, critical thinking, and innovation. By doing so, we can nurture a generation of problem-solvers capable of addressing complex global challenges.

Chair,

While the potential of science is boundless, we must remain mindful of the ethical implications of scientific advancements. The misuse of technology, including cyber warfare and autonomous weaponry, poses significant threats to international peace and security. Robust international frameworks and multilateral cooperation are essential to ensure the ethical use of science and technology. Guyana is committed to working collaboratively with the global community to ensure that scientific advancements are guided by principles of equity, sustainability, and shared prosperity.

As the Security Council seeks to strengthen its role, and the role of the United Nations, in maintaining international peace and security, the necessity of ensuring the effective and successful implementation of its mandates cannot be overstated. Scientific tools can be a critical in both providing reliable data in the phase of designing missions to effectively respond to the key drivers of conflict and instability, and also in the implementation phase, enhancing the ability to rapidly respond to changing circumstances in a conflict situations.

Let us harness the potential of science to build a world where peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice, security, and opportunity for all.

I Thank you.