Statement delivered by Ms. Stephanie Savory, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of Guyana to the UN, at the Arria Formula meeting organized by the Russian Federation on "Understanding and Resolving the Ideological Roots of the Ukrainian Crisis”

Thank you, Chair,

Guyana appreciates this opportunity for a discussion on the root causes of conflicts and thanks the Russian delegation for the detailed concept note provided. We also thank the briefers for sharing their insights.

Mr. Chair,

Guyana fully agrees with the premise that understanding the root causes of a conflict is essential for establishing a solid and enduring peace. The root causes of a conflict can be multifaceted, with a combination of complex and intricately linked factors encompassing historical grievances, exploitation of natural resources, or competition over them, security concerns, economic inequality, social injustice, racial or identity-based tensions, inter alia.

Time is needed to identify and address grievances and develop a comprehensive strategy focused on long-term peacebuilding and ultimately ending the conflict. Taking the current context as an example, this systemic change cannot be achieved in an environment of active hostilities. In the immediate  term and central to achieving a permanent ceasefire, is the need to agree on the immediate cessation of hostilities, unimpeded humanitarian access to the temporarily occupied territories, and the provision of necessary security guarantees.  

Addressing the root causes of this or any other conflict and promoting reconciliation requires a comprehensive, long-term strategy. Guyana believes diplomacy and the instruments of international law are crucial for creating the mechanisms and tools needed to address these underlying causes. This approach requires an environment that supports open and respectful dialogue and should aim to reach a comprehensive peace settlement. One that is rooted in the fundamental principles of international law, including the United Nations Charter.

To succeed in these efforts, the relevant parties must engage constructively and in good faith. They must also exercise restraint and avoid destructive rhetoric, which not only belies the high human cost of war but also undermines any effort to achieve a peaceful resolution. For the bells of peace to ring, the drums of war must be silenced.

In the context of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, where civilians, especially women and children, have paid a considerably high price, we underscore the need, as outlined in the Council’s Presidential Statement of 18 June 2018 - to prioritize the protection of children and civilians as a whole. This must be included in any strategy that seeks to resolve the conflict and build and sustain peace.

In closing, Chair, Guyana calls on the leaders of Russia and Ukraine to take bold and decisive steps to create a pathway for ending the conflict.

I Thank You.