Intervention by H.E. Ambassador Katalin Annamária Bogyay Permanent Representative at the Open Debate of the Security Council on “The Respect to the Principles and Purposes of the Charter of the United Nations as Key Element for the Maintenance of International Peace and Security” on 15 February 2016.
Your Excellency, Mr. President,
Honorable members of the Security Council, Dear Colleagues,
The purposes and principles of the UN Charter, our commitments to humanity, are being tested repeatedly today. It is our shared responsibility to work nationally, regionally and internationally to uphold them.
I wish to thank Venezuela for providing us the opportunity to reflect on this very important issue.
Hungary, of course, aligns itself with the statement to be delivered on behalf of the European Union.
Mr. President,
Let me share with you some of my country’s priorities:
We cannot overemphasize the importance of conflict prevention. The different ongoing review processes also reaffirm this. Instead of being stuck in a perpetual crisis management mode, we should make early warning, prevention and conflict resolution a greater priority.
The Security Council, with the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security, has a special responsibility in this regard. It should use all elements in its toolbox, including means related to the peaceful settlement of disputes, cooperation with regional organisations, as well as the adoption of smart targeted sanctions or the referral of situations to the International Criminal Court, if circumstances warrant taking such a decision.
We believe that preserving peace requires a synergy of the three pillars of the UN. We cannot achieve peace and security without ensuring respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, human dignity and the equal rights of men and women. The promotion of sustainable development is equally important. This is the only way solutions can be long lasting and more robust and thus the only way we can sustain peace and avoid a relapse into conflict.
Mr. President,
The UN Charter embodies a vision for a more peaceful, stable and prosperous world for all. We have to protect what and whom it stands for. We have to protect human dignity. Stopping the violent acts committed by terrorists, putting an end to widespread and gross human rights violations or eradicating various forms of modern slavery all require our joint and coordinated efforts.
In the past years, the Security Council has frequently referred to the principle of Responsibility to Protect. Hungary believes that on the 10th anniversary of the this principle, it is high time for the international community to renew and enhance its
enduring commitment to protect populations from genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing.
Hungary believes that ensuring accountability for atrocity crimes is one of the best ways to prevent their recurrence. States have the primary obligation to repress violations of international humanitarian and human rights law and we welcome all initiatives aimed at enhancing domestic prosecution. At the same time, we also acknowledge the crucial role played by the ICC in the battle to end impunity when national criminal accountability mechanisms are not available.
Mr. President,
As a member of the ACT group, Hungary actively participated in the elaboration of the “Code of Conduct regarding Security Council action against genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes”. 110 Member States have signed up to the Code so far. I encourage those who have not yet done so to join this important initiative that represents a unique opportunity to improve the Council’s ability to prevent and respond to atrocities in a timely and decisive manner.
I thank you for your attention.
