Keresés: %s

Intervention by H.E. Amb. Katalin Bogyay Permanent Representative of Hungary to the United Nations, at the Meeting of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Revitalization of the work of the General Assembly Strengthening the Office of the President of the General Assembly,
23 May 2016.

Distinguished Co-chairs,

Hungary commends your leadership in this process, and fully appreciates the draft text introduced just now.

Hungary supports the statement of the European Union and the statement made on behalf of the ACT Group. The next couple of comments we will make in our national capacity.

The draft builds on the dynamics created by the adoption of resolution 69/321. This year we have a chance to repeat the success story, and adopt another meaningful resolution by consensus.

While the draft text contains a number of new elements in all of its chapters, which will surely entice lively debate, let me focus on two major issues.

On the selection of the Secretary-General, we support the redrafting of OPs 32, 33, 34,. Those paragraphs reinforce the practical advances that the United Nations has made in the field of inclusivity, transparency, and openness of the selection process.

Having said that, we consider the adjustment in OP37 as a significant step back, compared to the original OP38 of resolution 69/321. The principle of geographical balance is missing from OP37, as it only speaks of gender balance and qualifications. As the trinity of “qualifications, gender and geographical balance” is a traditional, agreed element, leaving out one of the principles a couple months before the end of the selection process would amount to “a change in the rules of the game” at its very late stage. This has to be rectified through building on agreed language, putting geographical balance back into the text.

On the question of the strengthening of the Office of the PGA, our aim is to adopt a comprehensive reform package. The report of the Secretary-General and the current draft creates an excellent basis for that. If a few elements do not enjoy consensus, those can be retained for future discussions, without hampering the adoption of the package.

We strongly support most of the proposals on the Office as they are, including the ones that would provide more support, continuity, accountability and transparency and put the President-elect into a more favorable position already in the preparatory phase.

In the meantime we will put forward some amendments that would enhance the text by bringing it more in line with the proposals in Paragraph 68. of the Secretary-General’s Report. These will include a request to the Presidents to make use of the record keeping and archiving facility that form part of the archives of the United Nations; requesting the Presidents to hand over written reports at the end of their tenure; widen the financial transparency requirements of the Office beyond the Trust Fund.

Hungary agrees with the approach of the Co-Chairs to include only those elements into the draft that do not have budgetary implications. However, some of the shortcomings and inequalities exist because more than two-thirds of the staff and financial resources s of the Office must come from extra-budgetary resources. This is unprecedented in the UN System. The issues with potential program budget implications should be taken up in the Fifth Committee as it is promulgated by the draft.

Thank you Co-chairs!

Remarks by Ambassador Katalin Bogyay, Permanent Representative of Hungary to the UN at a roundtable organized by the Permanent Mission of Kazakhstan to the UN, 8 May 2016, on the role of water in the era of sustainable development.

Your Excellency Minister Erlan Idrissov, Ambassador Abdrakhmanov, Distinguished Colleagues,

I am honored to be part of this distinguished panel and to speak to you on water security at this very special event organized by the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kazakhstan at such a beautiful setting.

Let me start by thanking the government of Kazakhstan for including the issue of water among its four priority areas in the Security Council as it is not only a key driver and enabler for sustainable development, related to the implementation of all the SDGs, but it is an element which impacts every country, influences our quality of life, our social and economic relations, and which is also intrinsically linked to peace and security.

When speaking about water security and cooperation I always refer to the striking conclusion by Dénes Gábor, Hungarian-born Nobel laureate physicist: “Until today man has fought nature. From now on man has to fight his own nature.”

What makes this statement relevant in the context of the future of our water resources is that the looming water crisis up to a large extent is man-made. Consequently, it is mankind only that can change this situation and turn the planet into a sustainable system. Climate change is also a major factor which adds to the complexities, of course. However, it is also induced to a large extent by human activities ever since the dawn of the industrial revolution.

Looking at the ever more worrying analyses and statistics, it is clear that water is the most critical natural resource of the 21st century. Let me repeat the data provided by the President of Hungary that the High-Level Thematic Debate on Achieving the SDGs on 21 April: Two-third of Earth’s population – about 4 billion people – suffer from water shortage for at least one month a year. Every second one of them – about 2 billion people – lives in places, where water shortage persists for half a year, for six months. Half a billion people live in settlements, where the daily water uptake is double the amount that nature can replenish. Thus it is only a matter of years, or decades at the most, before these settlements run out of their fresh water reserves.

Therefore, it is safe to say that water stress is already an everyday reality rather than a threatening future vision. On the top of that, water quality is also a major problem is many places, where potable water is simply not available.

The excessive growth of the global population, the accelerating urbanization trends as well as the rapidly changing climatic conditions necessitates a fundamental shift in the mindsets and in how we manage our freshwater resources. Without responsible and sustainable management of water the stable environment ensuring the livelihood of future generations cannot be maintained. The challenges faced by our ecosystem and natural resources also demand adaptive and integrated management of water resources.

Only through such a shift in the mindsets towards sustainable management of freshwater resources can the international community ensure water security, by safeguarding sustainable access to adequate quantities of water of acceptable quality for sustaining livelihoods, human well-being, and socio-economic development, ensuring protection against water-borne pollution and water-related disasters and preserving ecosystems in a climate of peace and political stability.

To tackle the growing uncertainties surrounding the availability and quality of water all the stakeholders – government, businesses, civil society and academia – will have to act together in partnerships.

Due to the water shortage, we will witness further increase of the mutual dependencies between countries, regions and sectors; therefore water must become one of the highest political priorities, integrated into other policy areas.

Cooperation is essential, not only between sectors, but also across geographical and political boundaries, as more than 40% of human lives on shared waters. Water is our shared responsibility and we the only solution to the looming crisis is to work together. Transboundary cooperation hinges on political will and understanding of the political community. In history, water cooperation prevailed over water conflicts, and the very simple truth of “Water connects, it does not divide” has to be reconfirmed in the era of sustainable development as well.

Distinguished Colleagues,

In view of all these objectives, Hungary hosted the Budapest Water Summit 2013 where all the stakeholders, governments, scientists, civil society and business gathered to discuss the role of water in sustainable development. The conference, co-hosted with the World Water Council and supported by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, was instrumental in developing a dedicated goal on water featuring today in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Budapest Statement, adopted at the end of the Summit proved to be a key document for the formulation of principles and targets of Sustainable Development Goal 6. The conference also gave guidance for the efforts geared towards reforming the international institutional architecture on water cooperation.

With the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and SDG6 we now have a clear pathway towards realizing sustainable management of water. It also has to be understood that water will be a key enabler in achieving a multitude of other, directly and indirectly related goals and targets. However, the more challenging part, translating the political commitment into implementation, is still ahead of us.

For effective implementation, a robust, effective, participatory, transparent and integrated follow- up and review framework is required. The UN Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Water and Sanitation concluded in its final report however that there is currently a mismatch between the integrated and ambitious Agenda 2030 vision of freshwater and sanitation management and the international political structures available to contribute to its implementation and its follow-up and review. This is due to the fact that the global water governance structure is highly fragmented; there is disconnection between the water-specific processes on the international level. Moreover, unlike other for other cross-cutting themes, there is no dedicated UN intergovernmental body for water endorsed by UN Member States. The report therefore makes a number of important structural recommendations to address the shortcomings:

            -  Creation of a UN intergovernmental body for comprehensive and integrated follow-up and review of water related goals and targets at the global level, as already recommended by the Budapest Statement adopted at the 2013 Budapest Water Summit; 


            -  Strengthening UN-Water, as the coordinating structure of UN actions on water and sanitation and as the Secretariat and support entity for the UN Intergovernmental Committee on Water; 


            -  Setting up a comprehensive global water and sanitation monitoring framework to support follow-up and review with high-quality data. 
Such an intergovernmental body would enable regular dialogue among governments and stakeholders at the global level to provide guidance and recommendations for implementation of the SDGs targets related to water, while feeding into the High-Level Political Forum overseeing follow-up and review of the SDGs at the global level. This intergovernmental body on water would also offer a forum for knowledge exchange and mutual learning and for building partnerships for implementation and cooperation. 
Building on and engaging with the existing structures, water-relevant thematic networks and multi-stakeholder partnerships, the body would safeguard an integrated water perspective in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, while reflecting interlinkages with other themes, thereby promoting a cross-cutting understanding across the goals and targets. This would also allow the High-Level Political Forum to carry out its mandate fully and comprehensively. 
The new body should be as lean as possible, with minimal implications on the UN budget. A more effective, integrated and coordinated approach to support the implementation of the Agenda 2030 with regards to water compensates the expenses, which will cost much less than the fragmented nature of the water landscape does today. 
Integrated monitoring of progress will be a prerequisite for full and effective implementation. The intergovernmental body would therefore be tasked to coordinate monitoring and evaluation 
for water related targets, including the means of implementation to provide a comprehensive assessment of the progress in implementation.

To monitor progress made in implementing the water related SDG and targets, a unified and coherent water data collection and monitoring mechanism will have to be built. If you don’t measure it, you can’t manage it. Without putting in place effective monitoring and data collection systems the water related goals cannot be achieved in a timely fashion. Data collection capabilities will therefore have to be increased, especially in developing countries. Data sharing over transboundary river basins and aquifers is of crucial importance. Apart from political will, and creating “win-win” situations, an effective science-policy interface is also needed to strengthen the transboundary cooperation for achieving water-related goals and targets.

Meaningful and precise indicators are prerequisites to measuring progress. In this regard, Member States have made a fundamental step towards an effective follow-up and review system, including in the field of water, when the Statistical Commission last week agreed as a practical starting point with the proposed global indicator framework and asked the Inter-Agency and Expert Group on SDG Indicators to continue its activities. To start measuring progress and collecting data in a timely fashion, Member States will have to politically endorse this package the soonest possible.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

With a view to maintain the political momentum achieved with the adoption of the 2030 Agenda and the Paris Climate Agreement and to mobilize effective and early action to accelerate the implementation of SDG6 on water, Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon and President of the World Bank Group Jim Yong Kim appointed 10 Heads of State and Government and two Special Advisors to form an international coalition. H.E. Mr. János Áder, President of Hungary also joined the High-Level Panel on Water which, during the course of the next two years, will play a leadership role by developing an improved and comprehensive narrative on water, shining a light on examples of policies and institutions that could help the world onto a more sustainable pathway, and – in line with the commitments made in Addis Ababa – advocating approaches to financing and implementation that would help change reality on the ground. The Panel held its inaugural meeting on 21 April in New York, on the margins of the High-Level Thematic Debate on Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, where the members reiterated their commitment to move expeditiously towards fulfilling these tasks and high expectations during the limited time available by working together and in collaboration with other UN Member States and stakeholders.

Distinguished Colleagues,

Hungary also remains to be committed to contribute to the solution of the looming water crises and spares no effort to mainstream water on the international development and environment agenda.

Under the patronage of H.E. Mr. János Áder, President of Hungary and Member of the High Level Panel on Water convened by the UN Secretary General and the President of World Bank, Hungary will be hosting the Budapest Water Summit 2016, a high-profile conference and expo to be held between 28 and 30 November 2016 in Budapest. The aim of the three-day event is to promote in a very concrete manner the implementation of the sustainable development water goal and all related targets on water and sanitation, as well as to achieve progress on the implementation of the water-related aspects of the Paris Climate Agreement.

The main objectives of BWS 2016 are to give momentum to the implementation of the water- related agenda transpiring from SDGs and the Paris Climate Agreement, to link political decision-making closer with technology development, financing and public perceptions on sustainable water management, and to facilitate the reform of international institutional architecture supporting cooperation on water.

The ultimate aim of the Budapest Water Summit 2016 is to help understanding how water, a key natural resource of the 21st century, is connected to the implementation of the interlinked and integrated sustainable development agenda. The event is planned to pursue a pragmatic, solution- oriented approach open to innovative and cost-efficient technologies and methods to be turned into bankable projects as soon as possible. The Summit will help to build on the success of the Climate Summit in Paris in order to promote the sustainable management of water based on an integrated approach, supported by international cooperation.

The mission of the Summit is to promote the message that for all the countries helping sustainable water resources development should be the source of cooperation and peace. To this end the Budapest Declaration 2016 is expected to summarize viable proposals for the High Level Panel on Water, the United Nations, the World Bank Group, regional development banks and other relevant actors and international fora.

The Budapest Water Summit 2016 will take place half way between the Daegu and the 2018 Brasilia World Water Fora and will also be an important milestone in preparing the 2018 global water event. The main policy discussions of the Summit will be accompanied by parallel events, including a Science Forum, Civil Forum, Youth Forum, a Women’s Forum and a Water Expo.

The Summit is organized by the Government of Hungary in cooperation with the World Water Council. Co-Chairs, Members and Special Advisors of the High Level Panel on Water, along with the UN Secretary General, the President of the World Bank Group and the President of the World Water Council are invited. Invitation will be extended to all Member States of the United Nations, competent UN bodies as well as other international organizations, international development banks, civil society organizations and the private sector.

We are looking forward to once again host an international conference with the aim to synchronize and boost efforts towards the achievement of our shared goals on water, which underpin the realization of sustainable development.

Thank you for your attention.

Intervention by H.E. Ambassador Katalin Annamária Bogyay Permanent Representative at the High-Level Conversation on Religions for Peace, on 6 May 2016.

Mr. President, Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I wish to thank the President of the General Assembly for convening today’s High-Level Conversation on Religions for Peace. Let me also thank the UN Alliance of Civilizations and the Permanent Missions of Kazakhstan and Jordan for contributing to this event.

Hungary is deeply committed to the promotion of freedom of religion and belief. Hungary became a Christian state in 1000. The Edict of Torda, adopted in 1568 in in the Kingdom of Hungary and also known as the Patent of Toleration, was an early attempt in Europe to guarantee religious freedom, inspired by the Hungarian Unitarian minister Ferenc Dávid. Today, the Fundamental Law of Hungary affirms „we value the various religious traditions of our country.” The recognition of freedom of religion and belief is an essential component of peaceful and democratic societies.

We believe that religions play an integral role in promoting peaceful coexistence. Despite their many differences, every major religion strives for peace and they all share the fundamental messages of humanity and compassion.

We strongly support efforts made around the world for better understanding among religions. The Hungarian Government and consider inter-religious dialogue an issue of high priority. We assist this process by facilitating dialogue among various churches, such as promoting contacts between smaller religious communities in Hungary (Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim) and the representatives of more traditional and historical churches (Christian and Jewish denominations). We organize an annual inter-religious conference in Hungary, which has originally served as a platform for Christian-Jewish dialogue; but over time has expanded to include representatives of other religious communities as well.

We also believe that religion is an integral part of culture. That is why we have to stress the crucial role of intercultural dialogue and the promotion of a culture of peace.

Hungary is deeply concerned about the recent rise of barbaric attacks committed by violent extremist groups against religious minorities, including Christians and minorities of other faiths. The protection of these persecuted religious communities in the Middle East is a topic of great concern for our Government. My Government has recently adopted a decision to support Christian families and other persecuted families belonging to different religious and ethnic minorities in the Middle East.

We need to address the underlying causes of violent extremism by building inclusive societies, where peaceful dialogue of faiths is protected, and vulnerable groups are empowered. In order to effectively counter the threat of radicalization, we must tackle the socioeconomic root causes that often leave young people marginalized and susceptible to violent extremists.

In this context, I strongly believe that education and awareness-raising must be a priority in our efforts to combat radicalization and intolerance, break down stereotypes,

build trust and mutual respect and promote peaceful coexistence in societies with diverse cultural and religious communities. Faith-based organizations and religious leaders should play an important role in providing education for children and youth which is aimed at promoting the values of understanding, peace and tolerance by encouraging an open and respectful exchange of views among individuals with different cultural or religious backgrounds.

Thank you, Mr. President. 

Statement by H.E. Ambassador Katalin Bogyay Permanent Representative of Hungary at the panel discussion on Combatting forced labour and modern slavery through new legal instruments and partnerships on 31 March 2016.

Mr. Chair, distinguished Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Thank you for joining us today and devoting your lunch time for attending our panel discussion. 

Slavery as a global problem

Two days ago we gathered in the General Assembly hall to observe the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. While it may sound shocking to many of you present in this meeting room, forced labour, child labour, human trafficking, debt bondage and other contemporary forms of slavery are very common even in the 21st century. According to recent estimates, modern slavery affects between 20 and 36 million women, men and children across the globe.

Modern slavery is one of the most horrific crimes of our times that violates the most fundamental, inalienable human rights of its victims, it steals the most precious values of human beings, namely their freedom and dignity.

At every fora where we discuss this issue, I always stress that modern slavery affects people from all nationalities, including many Hungarians. Although outlawed universally, we can find victims, as well as perpetrators in every part of our world.

Due to the increased interest of the media representatives to report on specific cases of modern slavery, we can more and more often hear and read about the child slaves working in cocoa fields or in the textile sector, the young girls and women enslaved by Boko Haram and ISIL, the migrant slave workers of the seafood industry and in the construction business, the many women and children exploited in the sex industry, the Hungarian men found in the UK working 16 hours every day for 10 pounds in a bed making factory whose owner has been jailed just last month for 2 years and three months, and the list could be continued.

The relevance of the 2030 Agenda

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In September 2015, the world leaders adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which is a far-reaching plan of action to promote a peaceful and prosperous planet and to ensure that “no one will be left behind”.

Target 8.7 of the 2030 Agenda specifically calls for the eradication of forced labour, ending modern slavery and human trafficking, and securing the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour.

Member States also committed themselves “to eliminate human trafficking and sexual and other exploitation” (in Target 5.2), “to promote labour rights and safe and secure working environment” (in Target 8.8), and “to end abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against and torture of children” (in Target 16.2).

In Goal 17, we – Member States – also called for establishing global and multi-stakeholder partnerships to support the achievement of the SDGs. 

Key steps for success

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In order to ensure the successful implementation of the aforementioned targets, Hungary is of the view that the following will be necessary:

Step 1

First of all, we need political leadership.

Today’s panel discussion, the many side events during the 60th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, or the high-level event to be organized by the Holy See on 7 April clearly prove that there is growing interest among UN Member and Observer States to fight modern-day slavery.

We – States – need to play a proactive, leading role in the fight against modern slavery. Without devoting more time, energy and resources to this noble cause, the war cannot be won. While Hungary is a relatively small country, we are ready to be active and we welcome that more and more states feel the same.

Step 2

Secondly, raising awareness both at the national and global levels is crucial. In this respect, the media, the advocacy groups and civil society in general can also contribute significantly.

Step 3

Thirdly, the calls for the UN system to be “fit for purpose” and “deliver as one” when implementing the SDGs are equally valid for the specific Target 8.7.

While the International Labour Organization (ILO) in Geneva and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Vienna both carry out extremely important work in their respective areas, the attention devoted to these issues here in New York could and – in our opinion – should be greater. We also recognize the important work carried out by the Inter-Agency Coordination Group against Trafficking in Persons (the so-called ICAT) in the field of human trafficking.

On the other hand, we have to keep in mind that Target 8.7 is not limited to human trafficking, but also refers to forced labour, child labour and modern slavery. For this reason, we encourage the exploration of further measures or mechanisms that could improve inter-agency coordination and result in meaningful, effective collaboration among the UN actors for the achievement of this ambitious target.

In this context, I propose – as a first step – the conclusion of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) or cooperation agreement between the UN agencies relevant for the implementation of Target 8.7. In this consensual document, the UN agencies could mutually recognize the respective mandates of each other, decide on a clear division of labour, and agree on joint projects and sharing information with each other with the view to avoid any duplication of efforts or competition.

Step 4

Fourthly, the size and complexity of the problem requires not only a UN system fit for purpose, but also the positive engagement of the numerous stakeholders willing to play a role in the fight against modern slavery. The establishment of effective partnerships is particularly important with business actors, civil society, and religious organizations.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am, of course, aware that many of the issues I raised require a series of discussions and careful exploration by Member States and other relevant actors. In order to assist this process and initiate such a dialogue, I am hosting an informal working lunch tomorrow that will offer an opportunity for the ambassadors of the most active Member States and key UN agencies to discuss such questions.

Thank you for your attention.

Statement by H.E. Ambassador Katalin Bogyay, Permanent Representative of Hungary to the UN at the event entitled “Women’s role and involvement in measuring the progress of SDG 6: How should we monitor and report on water and gender issues?” on 18 March 2016.

Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let me start by quoting a Hungarian Nobel laureate physicist, Mr. Dénes Gábor. He said: „Until today man has fought nature. From now on man has to fight his own nature.” This in an ever more relevant and quoted ascertainment in the context of water, as we are facing with a looming, man-induced water crisis.

The excessive growth of global population and the rapidly changing climatic conditions necessitate a fundamental shift in the mindsets and in how we manage our freshwater resources. Without responsible and sustainable management of water the stable environment ensuring the livelihood of future generations cannot be maintained. The challenges faced by our ecosystem and natural resources also demand adaptive and integrated management of water resources.

With the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and SDG6 we now have a clear pathway towards realizing sustainable management of water. It also has to be understood that water will be a key enabler in achieving a multitude of other, directly and indirectly related goals and targets.

It is clear that for effective implementation of the SDGs, a robust, effective, participatory, transparent and integrated follow-up and review framework is needed. However, the UN Secretary-General’s Advisory Board on Water and Sanitation (UNSGAB) concluded in its final report that there is currently a mismatch between the integrated and ambitious Agenda 2030 vision of freshwater and sanitation management and the international political structures available to contribute to its implementation and its follow-up and review. The report makes a number of structural recommendations to address the shortcomings, first and foremost, on the creation of a UN intergovernmental body for comprehensive and integrated follow-up and

review of water related goals and targets, as already recommended by the Budapest Statement adopted at the 2013 Budapest Water Summit.

Such an intergovernmental body would enable regular dialogue among governments and stakeholders at the global level to provide guidance and recommendations for implementation of the SDGs targets related to water, while feeding into the High-Level Political Forum. This body would also offer a forum for knowledge exchange and mutual learning and for building partnerships for implementation and cooperation.

The body would safeguard an integrated water perspective in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, while reflecting interlinkages with other themes, such as gender equality, thereby allowing the High-Level Political Forum to carry out its mandate fully and comprehensively.

Integrated monitoring of progress will be a prerequisite for full and effective implementation. The intergovernmental body would therefore be tasked to coordinate monitoring and evaluation for water related targets, including the means of implementation to provide a comprehensive assessment of the progress in implementation.

Member States have made a fundamental step towards an effective follow-up and review system, including in the field of water, when the Statistical Commission last week agreed as a practical starting point with the proposed global indicator framework and asked the Inter- Agency and Expert Group on SDG Indicators to continue its activities. With a view to start measuring progress and collecting data in a timely fashion, Member States will have to politically endorse this package without delays.

Distinguished participants,

Driven by the recognition that water is a key natural resource in the implementation of the interlinked and integrated sustainable development agenda, Hungary will be hosting the Budapest Water Summit 2016 (BWS 2016), a high-profile conference and expo to be held between 28 and 30 November 2016 in Budapest. The aim of the three-day event is to promote in a very concrete manner the implementation of the sustainable development water goal and all related targets on water and sanitation, as well as to achieve progress on the implementation of the water-related aspects of the Paris Climate Agreement. In addition to giving momentum to implementation, the conference would link political decision-making closer with technology development, financing and public perceptions on sustainable water management, and facilitate the reform of international institutional architecture supporting cooperation on water. The mission of the Summit is to send the message for all the countries and stakeholders that helping sustainable water resources development should be the source of cooperation and peace.

The Summit will be accompanied by events focusing on key stakeholders: business, the scientific community, civil society, youth, and women.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Empowerment of women and girls, the promotion of gender equality is also a cornerstone of the Hungarian agenda and as well as a deal breaker in achieving sustainable development. The establishment of a dedicated goal and the mainstreaming of gender equality throughout the SDG framework were important first steps, now we have to make sure that gender inclusiveness is also ingrained in our efforts towards implementation.

This is especially valid in the case of SDG6, as women play an essential role in realizing sustainable water management and in achieving a water-secure world. The close interlinkages between SDG5 and SDG6 cannot be overlooked during implementation. Likewise, it is essential that sustainable water management is gender inclusive and recognizes the important role of women as agents of change and takes into account the specific challenges women and girls face.

We know well that worldwide, an estimated 2.5 billion people – half of the developing world – lack access to adequate sanitation. This needs urgent action. But we also know that gender- sensitive water management means much more that just access to adequate sanitation. Women and girls are traditionally responsible for domestic water supply and sanitation, bearing the responsibility of fetching water, often going at long distances and exposing themselves to unsafe circumstances on the way. These women often live in conflict and post-conflict areas and are vulnerable to assault and sexual violence. In addition to the obvious effects on health, lack of access to clean water and sanitation has a huge detrimental effect on the education opportunities and outcomes of women and girls.

Sustainable management of water resources and sanitation, on the other hand, provides great benefits to families and the society as a whole.

But apart from highlighting the impact of water management on gender equality, we must also emphasize how women’s participation is necessary for effective water management.

Studies show that projects designed and run with the full participation of women are more sustainable and effective than those that doesn’t include women, especially in the field of water and sanitation management. It is therefore imperative that women participate and play leadership roles in sustainable water management decision-making, capacity building, education and mobilizing political will. We must support these women in reaching their full potential and advance a gender perspective in the implementation of the SDGs at national, regional and the global level.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I would like to take the opportunity and invite everyone to an event on women, sustainable development and ICTs, convened by Women for Water Partnership, UNESCO World Water Assessment Programme, Business and Professional Women International and Soroptimist

International, to be held at the Permanent Mission of Hungary from 5pm today. The aim of the event is to discuss the way forward in empowering women in managing and monitoring water resources and to highlight some concrete examples of modern technologies in this regard.

Thank you for your attention.

Intervention by H.E. Ambassador Katalin Annamária Bogyay Permanent Representative at the Open Debate of the Security Council on “Post-conflict Peacebuilding: Review of the Peacebuilding Architecture” on 23 February 2016.

Your Excellency, Mr. President,

Honorable members of the Security Council, Dear Colleagues,

I wish to thank Venezuela for convening this timely open debate which offers us the opportunity to contribute to the undergoing peacebuilding architecture review process facilitated by Angola and Australia.

While fully supporting the statement delivered by the European Union, please allow me to add a few observations in my national capacity.

Mr. President,

At the outset, Hungary supports all efforts which aim at making peacebuilding more effective and recognize the need to apply a holistic and integrated approach in order to be able to sustain peace.

As rightly pointed out by the Advisory Group of Experts and also recognized in the resolution currently being drafted, peacebuilding must be understood as an inherently political process that requires strengthening the synergy among the related efforts of conflict prevention, peacemaking, peacekeeping, recovery and development.

Mr. President,

We believe that a much stronger emphasis should be given to conflict prevention through early engagement using all available tools for early warning and for political mediation in order to prevent the outbreak or escalation of conflicts.

As a simple pragmatic justification, we could argue that while responding to violent conflicts is very expensive, preventing lapse and relapse into conflict requires relatively little resources. Moreover, it allows us to save hundreds of thousands of human lives.

For these reasons, Hungary particularly welcomes the call for strengthening the role of global-regional partnerships in peacebuilding with a special focus on prevention and mediation. We believe there is a need to further strengthen the formal and informal mechanisms of engagement at the strategic level, including, if possible, through the adoption by the Security Council of a clearer methodology for consultation with its counterparts at the regional and sub-regional levels.

Mr. President,

While we recognize the central role of the UN in sustaining peace, there are numerous other stakeholders – public and private, domestic, regional and international – who share this responsibility and play an active and important role in this field. We are of the view that the great potential of effective partnership between the UN and the international financial institutions should be fully utilized. In addition, we consider the engagement of civil society, local communities, religious leaders, women and youth groups also essential in assisting the realization of sustained peace.

Mr. President,

The Hungarian Government is of the view that in order to be successful in preventing conflicts or rebuilding conflict-torn countries we must tackle the root causes.

Hungary as Co-Chair of the Open Working Group on Sustainable Development Goals, worked with Member States to ensure that Goal 16 explicitly recognizes the linkage among peace, inclusion, sustainable development, justice and accountability. We – Member States – all agreed that the rule of law, equal access to justice, effective, accountable and transparent institutions as well as responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels are equally necessary for establishing peaceful and inclusive societies.

Mr. President,

The importance of women’s participation in peacebuilding cannot be overemphasized. Women are crucial partners in the transition from war to peace. They are key agents for promoting social cohesion, political legitimacy and economic recovery. This is especially relevant in places where peace had broken down and conflict has shifted focus away from cooperation towards division and hatred. We hope that the outcome of the review process will also adequately recognize this.

In this context, I would also like to stress that education in general– but of women, youth and marginalized groups in particular – also has an important role both in preventing conflicts and in post-conflict peace building. We believe that the only way to achieve and preserve peace within and also among societies is through dialogue, tolerance, and the respect of cultural diversity. We consider the realization of the right to education as the cornerstone of lasting peace, since ignorance, misunderstanding, the erosion of culture, and the loss of cultural identities are often the starting points for fanaticism and thus conflicts.

Mr. President,

Let me close my statement by emphasizing that ensuring accountability for serious international crimes – due to its proven deterrent effect – should be a key component of peacebuilding efforts. Bringing perpetrators to justice helps to heal the wounds of societies torn by such crimes. In this context, we support the strengthening of national justice mechanisms, but we also acknowledge the possibility of choosing alternative means, such as the International Criminal Court, ad hoc tribunals or hybrid mechanisms, when national judicial institutions are not available.

I thank you for your attention. 

Intervention by H.E. Katalin Bogyay Permanent Representative of Hungary at the Inter-governmental negotiations on the question of equitable representation, increase in the membership of the Security Council and related matters, on 22 February 2016.

Madam Chair,

I am happy to participate in this meeting that cannot be more Member State driven. I also see the advantages of the step-by-step approach. Collecting and cross referencing the latest opinions of the Member States gives the entire process new impetus. As I believe in the power of dialogue we are ready to unpack those proposals, revisit, clarify or modify ideas.

Turning to the size and working methods of the Council, the only enlargement of the Council took place in 1965. The reason for increase was to mirror the growth and changes in the membership, which then stood at 115, compared to the original 50 Member States. After fifty years the membership stands at 193. Enlargement is as warranted, as it was in 1965. The new political, and socio-economic changes should be reflected in the Security Council.

There is no clear guidance yet, with regard to how this goal can be achieved. In our view there are two interrelated questions that have bearings on the issues of size and working methods.

The first question is: In which categories do we enlarge the Council?There are three suggestions. One is to enlarge in both traditional categories. The other is to create a new interim category and also to enlarge the number of non-permanent members. These two options would result is a larger Council. The third option would be to enlarge in the non- permanent category only, resulting in a smaller Council. The size of the Security Council is therefore strongly influenced by the answer to the first question, which we will revisit in May.

With regards to the first two options, Hungary’s request is that enlargement in the traditional non-permanent category shall, at least, match the growth in the permanent or any other new category. Should this principle be agreeable, we will be a step closer to bridging ideas in May.

The second question is about the relationship between the size and effectiveness of the Council. To unpack this issue, we need to answer the following questions:

              Is there, a negative correlation between size and effectiveness?

              How can negative effects be mitigated?

              Is there a “cut-off” number, beyond which there is no hope for a working Council? 
Why is that? What is that number?

              Or can we say that size is of secondary importance; therefore, we should be able to 
examine all options on their merits?
Our maneuvering room will depend on the agreements we reach on these questions.

Madam Chair,

Enlargement will necessarily mandate a complete overhaul of the Security Council’s working methods. There is again, more convergence than divergence of ideas in this field. Hungary supports all proposals that ensure that the new Council is fit for purpose, discharging its functions in a more effective, efficient, accountable, coherent and transparent manner. Besides better division of labor within the Council, and substantive involvement of non- permanent Members, Hungary supports proposals aimed at strong cooperation with the main organs of the UN, Member States and other stakeholders, including regional arrangements.

However, I again emphasize the need for sequencing and for clear division of labor:

           The IGN must propose language to the General Assembly on issues that necessitate the 
amendment of the UN Charter, such as Articles 23., 27., 53.)

              Further recommendations could also be put forward by the IGN to the General Assembly.

However, new Rules of Procedure, and other regulations will have to be adopted by the 
Security Council and by the entry into force of the Charter amendments.
 Therefore, prior agreement on the full package of working methods cannot be a 
precondition to the agreement on Security Council reform. 
Therefore, when consolidating the proposals on working methods, we also suggest to create three hypothetical baskets. One for Charter amendments, and one for recommendations that should be part of our final package on reform: The third one is for issues that could or should be left for later in the process, especially the elements that the new Council will have to decide on. 


Thank you, Madam Chair !

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.

Intervention by H.E. Ambassador Katalin Annamária Bogyay Permanent Representative at the open debate of the Security Council on “Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict”, on 19 January 2016.

Always thinking the unthinkable!

Always expecting the unexpected!

Being totally vulnerable.

Living the solitude of the global world.

Just being a non-military, ordinary, private citizen in armed conflict...

Your Excellency, Mr. President,
Honorable members of the Security Council, Dear Colleagues,

Thousands of civilians are not only suffering from the impacts of armed conflicts, but are becoming subjects of military strategies of different parties to conflicts. The international community must step up all its efforts to enhance the respect of international humanitarian law (IHL).

Hungary hopes that the International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent will end with an agreement on a mechanism to strengthen compliance with IHL, although discussions will continue on the issue.

Mr. President,

We must also take into account that the lines that separate international and internal armed conflicts have been increasingly blurred, which may lead to uncertainty regarding the applicable rules and their interpretation. For this reason, it is of utmost importance that we continue this dialogue on current IHL issues.

Hungary attaches especially great importance to the protection of women and children. We support international initiatives aimed at combating sexual violence in conflicts, particularly against women and girls, and have contributed to UN projects for the elimination of all forms of such crimes. The Hungarian Government has also provided assistance to international projects aimed at the protection of children affected by armed conflicts and humanitarian crises, including for children in Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, Sudan, and the Central African Republic.

We firmly believe that the protection of civilians should be integral to the whole of UN peace operations having such a mandate. It is important to keep continuous consultations and enhance communication between the Security Council, the Secretariat and contributing countries about possible gaps in mission mandates.

As we always stress, accountability and ending impunity are key for the protection of civilians in armed conflicts.

Hungary wishes to actively contribute to the initiative on a multilateral treaty for Mutual Legal Assistance and extradition in domestic prosecution of atrocity crimes, an initiative that is supported by the ICC and a number of states and aimed at enhancing and making horizontal cooperation among states more effective in the process of prosecuting war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.

Mr. President,

Hungary believes that the best way to protect civilians is through the prevention of armed conflicts. The UN should use all available tools for early warning and for political mediation in order to prevent the outbreak and reverse the escalation of hostilities.

We would also like to reaffirm the relevance of the Responsibility to Protect for today’s discussions. In order to ensure more timely and decisive response by the Security Council, Hungary actively participated in the elaboration of the “Code of Conduct regarding Security Council action against genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes”. As my closing remark, I would like to strongly encourage those Member States, who have not done it yet, to join this initiative, which represents a unique chance to not only improve the Security Council’s ability to prevent and respond to atrocities, but also an opportunity to preserve the Council’s legitimacy as the guardian of international peace and security.

Mr. President,

Hungary aligns itself with the statement to be delivered on behalf of the European Union.

I wish to thank Uruguay for organizing today’s open debate on the protection of civilians in armed conflict.

As this is the first time for me to speak in the Security Council this year, let me congratulate the new members of the Council and wish the Council members successful deliberations!

I thank you for your attention.

Intervention by H.E. Ambassador Katalin Bogyay, Permanent Representative of Hungary to the United Nations on 2 December 2015, the International Slavery Day.

Mr. Chair, distinguished Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let me congratulate the UN University, in particular Dr Cockayne and Ms Panaccione, for the two extremely timely, thought-provoking, and user-friendly policy reports which both contain a list of strategic, policy-oriented, but at the same time very pragmatic recommendations addressed to States and other relevant actors active in the fight against modern slavery.

In addition, I would also like to commend the Freedom Fund for offering financial support for the development of these policy reports.

What is modern slavery and why we need to fight it?

Excellencies, dear Colleagues,

Modern slavery is one of the most horrific crimes of our times that violates the most fundamental, inalienable human rights of its victims, it steals the most precious values of human beings, namely their freedom and dignity.

Hungary did not play any part in historic slavery. We do not have a Gorée Island to remember the lost souls transported from Africa to build the developed world. But I am here today to stress that modern slavery can be found in every part of our world. No country is immune from it. While the number of modern slaves is the highest in Asia, we may find people working under slave-like conditions in highly developed countries, even here in the U.S. While my country may not be the most affected by this phenomenon, Hungarians also fall victim to modern slavery.

Sexual slavery, slavery based on fraudulent contracts and bonded labour are the most common forms of modern slavery affecting Hungarians.

As an example of sexual slavery, I could mention the numberless Roma girls and women trafficked to the Netherlands and other European countries to work in the sex industry.

The victims of “contract slavery” are typically those women and men who were promised good wages, perhaps even accommodation and food for a job usually abroad. These people often find themselves forced to work long hours for virtually no wage and living in horrific conditions. This is what happened in a recent case brought by the British authorities, which involved Hungarian nationals trafficked to the UK and being subjected to slave labour in a bed-making factory in northern England.

Bonded labour is also common in Hungary and usually affects the people living in extreme poverty.  According to recent estimates, appr. 30000 Hungarians are subjected to exploitative servitude which is most common in small villages and farms in the Eastern part of my country. The victims typically come from vulnerable groups of society, i.e. they are homeless or disabled people, youth separated from their parents, alcoholics, or people living in isolation with no family. The recent case of a 69-year-old Hungarian man who was sold for appr. 150 USD by his own son-in-law to a family that forced him to feed their horses and carry out other tasks on their farm could be mentioned as an example for this category of modern slavery.

One-third of the estimated 35.8 million victims of modern slavery cross national borders. Such cases cannot be solved by individual states on their own, but require international cooperation between the countries of origin, destination and transit.

While we may not be always aware of it, we can feel the touch of modern slavery in the clothes we wear, the mobile phones we use or when we watch the latest news about ISIL or Boko Haram enslaving women and girls.

In addition, modern slavery generates unfair competition and results in huge tax revenue loss, public health burdens and significant legal costs for prosecuting such crimes.

What are the weaknesses of the current institutional framework and why we need to establish a global partnership to end modern slavery?

Mr. Chair,

I believe that there is an urgent need to establish a global partnership to end modern slavery.

Hungary fully recognizes the important results achieved in previous years by UN entities in the fights against human trafficking and forced labour. I believe the fact that Hungary is a member of the Geneva-based Group of Friends on Decent Work and that we are an active member of the UNODC prove this.

Nonetheless we are of the view that modern slavery can be fought most successfully and effectively if we apply an integrated, holistic, coordinated approach. Fragmentation and competition within the system significantly limit the effectiveness of our response and often result in duplication of efforts. An effective institutional framework requires working across the existing silos within the UN, and bringing all the different forms of leverage in the UN arsenal to bear on this complex problem all at once.

This would require the involvement of not only the organizations based in Geneva or Vienna, but also many of those located here in New York and elsewhere.

We support the idea of appointing a time-bound Special Envoy who could be tasked to assist the brokering of a system-wide partnership, of course, in close cooperation with actors already active in this field. It is without question that the ILO and UNODC would be essential partners, but given the complexity of the problem and its expanding effects on peace and security, we think that other UN entities (such as the principal organs of the UN, including the Security Council, the UN Women, UNICEF, UNDP, etc.), the World Bank, the ICC, Interpol, regional organizations, as well as the private sector would also need to be involved or play a more active role. These actors would bring different skills and capacities to the table, which would be all necessary for winning the fight against modern slavery.

As the reports point out, the private sector is now making significant resources available for anti-slavery work. If the UN manages to find an innovative way to work in partnership with all the concerned stakeholders, it could harness these resources to achieve SDG 8.7. This is a unique opportunity that – in my opinion – should not be missed, especially if we take into account the scarcity of available resources in the UN system.

What can States do to assist the fight against modern slavery and the implementation of the policy recommendations of these report? 

We – Member States – can create the political willingness necessary for establishing such a global partnership. Hungary wholeheartedly supports the call for political mobilization in this field. Of course, any action on modern slavery should be seen as building on the excellent work being done to fight human trafficking and to eradicate forced labour, rather than as an effort to compete with those efforts.

None of this should surprise anyone, since in Goal 17 of the 2030 Agenda we – Member States – already called for enhancing policy coordination and coherence and establishing global and multi-stakeholder partnerships to support the achievement of the SDGs, including target 8.7.

Hungary’s pledges

Hungary is right now discussing the details of offering financial contribution for UN Women projects that aim to assist, amongst others, the investigation of sexual and gender-based crimes (including enslavement) committed against women and young girls.

We are also planning to provide further funds for a UNICEF project that focuses on child soldiers, the rights of the child in armed conflicts, and forced child labour.

We are organising an event in March that would focus on the enslavement of women and children by terrorist groups such as the ISIL and Boko Haram.

In order to assist the implementation of the brilliant recommendations of the two reports, Hungary would also be ready to play an active role in setting up a small “task force” which could start the preparatory ground work necessary for the realization of some of the proposed ideas, including the possibility of the adoption of a General Assembly resolution on ending modern slavery.

Thank you for your attention.

Intervention by H.E. Ambassador Katalin Annamária Bogyay Permanent Representative at the Ministerial Open Debate of the Security Council on “Trafficking in Persons in Conflict Situations”, 20 December 2016.

Your Excellency, Mr. President,

Honorable members of the Security Council, dear Colleagues,

I thank Spain for convening this Security Council open debate on Trafficking in Persons in Conflict Situations. We would also like to congratulate Spain for initiating the adoption of today’s historic Council resolution on this extremely important topic. Hungary was one of the co-sponsors of the resolution.

Let me also join the others in thanking Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, ExecutiveDirector Yury Fedotov, Special Representative Zainab Bangura, activist for the Yazidi Women’s rights Ms. Ameena Saeed Hasan, as well as, Goodwill Ambassador for the Dignity of Survivors of Human Trafficking Ms. Nadia Murad Basee Taha for their informative briefings.

Hungary aligns itself with the statement (to be) delivered on behalf of the European Union.

Mr. President,

We are deeply troubled that trafficking in persons, often, but not only, for sexual purposes, has become a recurring feature and by-product of armed conflicts. In conflict and post-conflict situations, the level of insecurity, as well as the breakdown in family and community structures and other safety nets, raises the exposure of both women, men, girls, and boys, to diverse forms of human exploitation.

It is particularly disturbing that both Daesh and Boko Haram openly promote and engage in the enslavement and trade of women and girls, often targeting religious and ethnic minorities. They do so to facilitate recruitment by promising male fighters access to women, to generate revenue, to terrorize civilian populations, or to displace inhabitants from strategic territories.

We cannot let this happen in the 21st century!

Mr. President,

In order to fight trafficking in persons in conflict more effectively, Hungary proposes the following:

First, the UN and its Member States will need to play a more active, leading role in the fight against human trafficking and other forms of modern slavery. We encourage Mr António Guterres, the incoming Secretary-General, to place fighting this global threat affecting tens of millions on the top of his agenda. Member states will also have the opportunity to reflect on these issues during, for instance, the 2017 review process of the Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons.

Second, the ratification and effective implementation of the relevant international instruments such as the Palermo Protocol and the 2014 ILO Protocol on Forced Labour are essential.

Third, strong prevention and protection efforts are also urgently required to ensure that those impacted by conflict situations do not become vulnerable to traffickers.

Fourth, accountability for trafficking in persons in conflict is also a must. Certain acts associated with trafficking in persons, such as sexual slavery, enforced prostitution, forced pregnancy or any other forms of sexual violence constitute war crimes in both international and non-international armed conflicts. Furthermore, they could be constituting elements of genocide and could constitute crimes against humanity. While under specific circumstances, the ICC and other international accountability mechanisms could also play a role, we must not forget that the primary responsibility for bringing those responsible to justice lies with the States. The States should step up their efforts to find the perpetrators and bring them to justice in front of their national courts. In this regard, States should make efforts to train their immigration authorities, police forces, prosecutors, and judges, and effectively carry out criminal procedures, with special regard to the sensitivities and the particular nature of these crimes.

Fifth, Hungary supports the inclusion of perpetrators of trafficking in persons in UN and unilateral sanctions. In this context, we encourage the wider use of involvement in human trafficking as a basis for listing in UN sanctions regimes. We also encourage the Special Representatives on Sexual Violence in Conflicts and on Children and Armed Conflicts to submit the names of individuals who are instrumental in the trafficking in persons to possible designation and listing.

Sixth, Hungary is of the view that coordination and cooperation among all relevant UN entities, including UNODC, IOM, UNHCR, ILO, UNICEF and UN Women will also need to be improved. The new Secretary-General will need to play a key role in this regard.

Seventh, we need more, and more reliable data on the subject. In this regard, Hungary welcomes the launching of the UNODC’s 2016 Global Report on Trafficking in Persons.

I would like to close by expressing my country’s hope that from now on the Council will address this important topic on a regular basis. Hungary is ready to participate actively in the discussions on how to strengthen the UN response to this global threat.

I thank you for your attention.

On 10 January 2017, the Security Council – on the initiative of Sweden - held a ministerial-level open debate on conflict prevention and sustaining peace. Ambassador Katalin Bogyay spoke at the event and thanked Secretary-General Guterres for resolving already on his first day in office to “put peace first”.

The Hungarian ambassador started her statement by quoting the famous words of Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Betty Williams, “Peace is Action, Not Words.”

She highlighted that there was a need for greater focus on prevention across all stages of conflict, more UN police involvement in peace operations, as well as women participation in particular in post-conflict activities. To answer these calls, Hungary offered voluntary contribution for the work of DPA in mediation and deployed Hungarian police experts as well as female officers to peace operations in Africa.

She reminded the audience that Hungary had a firm and longstanding dedication to contribute to the elaboration and realization of Agenda 2030, this universal and ambitious roadmap. According to the Hungarian Ambassador: “Our ultimate goal should be to ensure everyone peaceful and secure living conditions in their homelands. But this can only be achieved by tackling the root causes.”

To achieve this goal, Hungary was ready to deal with diverse transnational risks as it is also demonstrated - amongst others - by the provision of the Hungarian contribution to a UN Women project focusing on preventing violent extremism, by the organization of the Budapest Water Summit at the end of 2016, as well as by the country’s efforts to strengthen UN response to eradicate modern slavery.

Ambassador Bogyay announced that as a member of the Human Rights Council for the term 2017-2019, one of the Hungarian priorities will be to work towards the prevention of atrocity crimes and to promote already existing tools that can contribute to effective and timely response. She also invited Member States to join the Code of Conduct elaborated by the ACT Group, and “by doing so, to pledge to support timely and decisive action by the Council aimed at preventing or ending the commission of atrocity crimes”

The ambassador closed her statement by expressing Hungary’s support to the Secretary-General’s leadership efforts aimed at creating a strong, efficient, responsible and credible United Nations. As she said “We are ready to contribute to the work of this noble organization with our best efforts. We will play our own part proactively and we encourage other member states to do the same.”

To read the full statement of the Ambassador, please click here.

Intervention by H.E. Ambassador Katalin Annamária Bogyay Permanent Representative at the Open Debate of the Security Council on “Conflict Prevention and Sustaining Peace”, 10 January 2017.

“Peace is Action, Not Words.”

Betty Williams, Northern Ireland,

Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, 1977

Your Excellency, Mme President,

Mr. Secretary-General, honorable members of the Security Council, dear Colleagues,

I wish to thank Sweden for convening this important and long-awaited debate and Secretary-General Guterres for outlining his vision for prioritizing prevention and even more for resolving on his first day in office to “put peace first”.

In a world full of complex challenges and emerging threats, numberless unresolved conflicts, violent extremism and terrorist attacks carried out on a daily basis, mass atrocities being committed at this very moment in many countries, this is the approach that the world so terribly needs and the only one that can save us and succeeding generations from the scourge of war.  

While we align with the statement delivered by the EU, I wish to add a few observations in my national capacity.

Mme President,

As the three reviews of the UN’s peace and security architecture recognize, there is a need for greater focus on prevention across all stages of conflicts. Since Hungary fully shares this view, last year we offered a voluntary contribution of 50000 USD to support the work of the Department of Political Affairs in preventive diplomacy and mediation.

Given that UN police can contribute across the entire spectrum of peace and security, there is a growing need for police participation in peace operations. To answer this call, we decided to deploy police experts to two African missions, and we seek further opportunities to boost our police presence in other UN peace operations.

Women’s participation in UN peace and security efforts, including post-conflict governance and peacekeeping, is still under the desired level. In order to cure this situation, Hungary intensified its efforts to identify, nominate and deploy female military experts and police officers to UN peacekeeping and EU CSDP missions. I am happy to announce that in the coming months, female Hungarian officers will be deployed to UNAMID and MINUSCA and serve as good examples for their compatriots.

Mme President,

As many already said today, there is no sustaining peace without sustainable development. Therefore, the effective implementation of Agenda 2030 is crucial. Hungary has a firm and longstanding dedication to contribute to the elaboration and realization of this universal and ambitious roadmap.

Generations are growing up without secure food and water supply, proper healthcare and education, denied their human rights, which all lead to regeneration of conflicts. With the increasing number of terrorist attacks and conflicts, the masses of people who are forced to leave their homes are growing day by day. Our ultimate goal should be to ensure everyone peaceful and secure living conditions in their homelands. But this can be achieved only by tackling the root causes.

As part of our prevention efforts, we must deal with transnational risks such as violent extremism, climate change, water scarcity, and modern slavery.

In that context, Hungary just increased its voluntary contribution for a UN Women project that focuses on preventing violent extremism and mitigating its impact by addressing root causes through integrated responses. At the end of 2016, we hosted the Budapest Water Summit to give momentum to the implementation of the water-related SDGs and to recognize the interlinkage between water, sanitation, climate change and peace. In addition, we will continue to work towards achieving the various SDG targets aimed at eradicating modern slavery, human trafficking, forced and child labor. Given the seriousness and complexity of this global problem as well as the shocking number of victims, we encourage the new Secretary-General to strengthen UN response by adopting specific measures to improve internal UN coordination in this area.   

Mme President,

We also believe that there is no sustaining peace without respecting human rights and international humanitarian law. Human rights mechanisms together with the Human Rights Up Front initiative provide useful tools to respond early and effectively to signs of serious violations of human rights that often are early warnings of potential atrocity crimes.

Ending the culture of impunity is also a major contributor to conflict prevention and sustaining peace on national and international levels. Since ensuring accountability for serious crimes helps us to bring about reconciliation, address injustice, promote human rights and build peaceful, stable and resilient societies, Hungary provides voluntary contribution for a joint UN Women and Justice Rapid Response project aimed at securing accountability for sexual and gender-based crimes. We also highlight and commend the important role played by international and national judicial institutions in this respect, and we welcome the recent General Assembly decision to establish an international, impartial and independent mechanism to assist in the investigation and prosecution of the most serious crimes committed in Syria.

As a member of the Human Rights Council for the term 2017-2019, one of our priorities will be to work towards the prevention of atrocity crimes and to promote already existing tools of the international community that can contribute to effective and timely response.

Mme President,

The need for the UN is greater than ever. The UN has a central role to play in preventing conflicts and securing sustaining peace, but it has to be fit for purpose in order to be able to deliver. My country is a longtime advocate and supporter of reforming the UN. It is more important than ever to enhance the performance of the Security Council that faces unprecedented number of conflicts and complex crises. The Council should pay more attention to further improving its working methods and increasing transparency. Its elected members should become active players of the game and seek opportunities – just like Sweden by organizing today’s debate – to strengthen the Council’s preventive role.

I invite Member States to join the Code of Conduct elaborated by the ACT Group and already signed by 112 Member States, and by doing so, to pledge to support timely and decisive action by the Council aimed at preventing or ending the commission of atrocity crimes.

Mr. Secretary-General,

With respect to the working relationship between the Council and Secretary-General, we encourage you, Mr. Secretary General, to use more frequently the prevention tool provided by Article 99 of the UN Charter and – as also called for in the ACT Code of Conduct – bring situations that, in your assessment, involve or are likely lead to genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes to the attention of the Council. 

In addition, we encourage your office to convene regular situational awareness briefings for Council members in order to assist them in making more informed decisions and to aid conflict prevention, preventive diplomacy and early engagement.

We also commend you for establishing the Executive Committee to support senior decision-making, rearranging the Executive Office, and the additional steps you already took to enhance performance in the peace and security pillar. We are convinced that these measures will assist in translating your Appeal for Peace into reality.  

Hungary will support your leadership efforts aimed at creating a strong, efficient, responsible and credible United Nations that is able to tackle the challenges of the 21st century. We are ready to contribute to the work of this noble organization with our best efforts. We will play our own part proactively and we encourage other member states to do the same.

Thank you.

The President of the General Assembly convened a high level dialogue on Building Sustainable Peace for All on 24th January in order to discuss synergies between the Agenda 2030 for sustainable development and sustaining peace. Hungary was represented at the event by Under-secretary of State for International Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr Ádám Zoltán Kovács, who talked about the importance of sustainable water resources management based on the outcome of the Budapest Water Summit.

Chief of Protocol of UNSG Antonio Guterres, Mr. Peter Van Laere, conveyed the message of the Secretary General of the United Nations in the Book of Condolence for the loss of so many young lives at the tragic bus crash.

Sixteen people died in the coach accident which occurred in the vicinity of Verona, in Italy, just before midnight, one person in a critical condition is being kept in an artificially induced coma, two persons are severely injured, ten persons have serious injuries, while thirteen have light injuries. Twelve people survived the accident without injuries, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó told the press.

He indicated: the list of the uninjured is now more or less complete, while the list of those treated in hospital is also „more or less final”.

Upon expressing his condolences and sympathy on behalf of the Hungarian Government, Mr Szijjártó said that he had informed the head of state and the Prime Minister of the accident. The Government will cover all the costs of getting the victims of the accident back home and helping parents visit their children, and will make every effort to alleviate the pain of the families, he said.

The head of Hungarian diplomacy told the press: at this point in time, there is no information as to what caused the accident, but the Italian police did not find any skid marks. There is also contrary information on the number of passengers on board the bus which first hit the motorway barrier on the section between Venice and Verona, and finally crashed into the pillar of a flyover. Following this, an extremely fast spreading, fierce fire broke out in the front section of the bus which created suffocating smoke, he added.

He also said that the Hungarian Consul General to Milan and a colleague arrived in Verona, where the injured are being treated in three hospitals, in the early hours of the morning. Thanks to the assistance of the Mayor of Verona, the others were taken to a hotel in the southern part of the city, and a psychologist has already been appointed to help them to process the trauma, he added.

There are already four Hungarian diplomats on site, while two highly experienced consuls have set out from Budapest: one of them has experience regarding Italy, while the other one attended to similar crisis situations in the past. The consul to Rome has also been directed to the site, and the Minister of State of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade will arrive in Verona on Sunday. The particularly hard part of their job will begin on Sunday: the identification of the bodies and the issuance of the death certificates, Mr Szijjártó informed the press.

Parents may also enquire about the state of their children at the duty number of the Consulate General in Milan, he added.

The Foreign Minister also said that he had spoken to the principal of the Budapest secondary school whose students were involved in the accident, but he did not name the institution in question. (According to press reports, the participants of the ski trip of the Szinyei Merse Pál Secondary School were the victims of the accident, which is also supported by the fact that a black flag of mourning was displayed on Saturday on the building of the secondary school located in the 6th district.)

Mr Szijjártó said: the Director General and a senior physician of the National Ambulance Service are also on their way, while he likewise consulted with the Director General of the Heim Pál Paediatric Hospital, and the institution is ready to receive the injured upon their return to Hungary.

He further mentioned that the Prime Minister of Italy expressed his condolences via the Hungarian representation in Rome, and so did the Foreign Minister.

Hungary co-sponsored a very successful ministerial-level side event at the 60th session of the Commission on the Status of Women with Liechtenstein and the USA on “Combatting the Trafficking of Women and Girls: What Role Can the Private Sector Play in Addressing and Preventing Human Trafficking and Modern-day Slavery?” 
Ambassador Bogyay, who co-chaired the meeting, stressed that raising awareness and strengthened coordination among the key actors were necessary to fight modern slavery that affected women, men and children of all nationalities, including many Hungarians.

The side event offered an excellent opportunity to start the discussion on how Member States, relevant UN agencies, the private sector, and civil society could work together to ensure the implementation of Target 8.7 of the 2030 Agenda and to explore how the gap between the strong international norms against modern-day slavery and their lack of enforcement could be closed.

Ms Katalin Novák, the Hungarian Minister of State for Family and Youth Affairs, who also spoke at the event, listed political leadership, prevention, awareness raising, improved coordination, positive engagement of stakeholders, and sharing best practices as key steps to eradicate this global problem.

According to Dr. Aurelia Frick, Liechtenstein’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, slavery disregards and undermines the humanity of its victims and ending the culture of immunity for such crimes should be a priority. Other speakers included H.E. Ambassador Sarah E. Mendelson, U.S. Representative to the ECOSOC; senior representatives of the UNODC, ILO and the UN’s Global Compact; Ms Shirley Pryce trade union activist and former domestic worker; as well as representatives of the private sector.

Yesterday the 60th session of the Commission on the Status of Women kick started with the opening remarks by His Excellency Ban Ki-moon. The Secretary General highlighted a major step in realizing the Security Council’s historic resolution 1325 on women, peace and security, namely that during the last nine years more than 150 distinguished women have been appointed Assistant Secretary-General or Under-Secretary-General, furthermore, today, nearly a quarter of UN missions are headed by women.

In the spirit of the theme of the CSW60 and the 2030 Sustainable Development Framework, H.E. Ambassador Katalin Bogyay chaired Hungary’s full-house side event today on the empowerment of women and girls through education and talent support, one of the cornerstones of the solid Hungarian agenda. On this particular event, Hungary worked closely together with the state of Qatar. The speakers included the head of the Hungarian delegation H. E. Ms. Katalin Novák along with H.E. Ms. Alya Ahmed Saif Al-Thani, Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar, Josephine Bourne, Associate Director for Education of UNICEF, Patience Stephens, Director on Education of UN Women and Susan Myers, Senior Vice President of the UN Foundation. The event featured a lively discussion with the young audience on how governments and UN agencies can harness the talent and energy of women and girls for development. 

In the course of the day, the Minister of State held bilateral meetings with her Lithuanian Minister of Social Security and Labour, Algimanta Pabedinskiené, Wojciech Kaczmarczyk the Polish government plenipotentiary for civil society and equal treatment and Maria do Carmo Godinho Delgado, Vice-Minister for Policies for Women’s Work and Economic Autonomy of Brazil.

After two relatively easy topics, international negotiations on Security Council reform entered rockier terrain, with Member States discussing the controversial issue of veto. While there are divergent views on the usefulness of the veto, and on whether new members should receive veto rights, more convergence can be found in the field of the use of veto. Member States continued to show genuine willingness to discuss the substance of proposals.

A large majority of states would be ready to abolish veto in entirety, but if that does not happen, the same groups and would grant veto rights to new permanent members. Importantly, three of the Permanent Members are not ready to grant veto rights to new members, while one major group would not consider extension in permanent seats, rendering the question on veto moot. Some countries cautioned the Membership not to let the question of veto become an obstacle of reform. Interestingly, even aspiring new permanent members suggest deferring the issue of veto to a review conference in 15 years’ time. There is much more convergence around the possible restrictions on the use of veto, where proposals tend to dovetail elements in the ACT Group’s Code of Conduct.

In his statement H.E. Amb. Zsolt Hetesy, Deputy Permanent Representative expressed support for the consolidation of the text around the main options, and also through regrouping the proposals and by presenting some recurring elements only under one subchapter. The statement supported proposals aimed at restricting the use of veto in case of atrocity crimes and put forward concrete suggestions on how to achieve such outcome. Hungary acknowledges the ultimate responsibility of the Security Council with regard to its activities and working methods. This is precisely why Hungary suggests that the Security Council keep its procedures on the use of veto under review, and regularly inform the broader membership about the outcome of such deliberations.

Please find the full statement here.

Member States have come together in the Working Group on General Assembly Revitalization to consider the possibility of further reforms related to the selection of the Secretary-General. Among the issues discussed were the question of single term non-renewable appointment, and the possibility of multiple candidates nominated by the Security Council.

The candid discussion revealed strongly divergent views on the single term non-renewable appointment, and the possibility of multiple candidates to be nominated by the Secretary Council. On one hand, support was announced for wider authority of the General Assembly, including taking decisions the above-mentioned pertinent issues.

However, other important countries favored no further changes at this time, since the selection process has already started with six candidates nominated, and dates for hearings already set. Even the ACT Group could not agree completely on the merits, while the group strongly supported full consideration of the two questions.

Hungary advocated for full implementation of the already agreed preform provision of the selection process. On the two remaining issues it still have to be seen whether the new rules, if any, would be agreed on in such a time so that they would be applicable for the next Secretary-General. Hungary also noted that the introduction of the single term rule could improve chances for the implementation of principles related to geographical rotation and gender balance. Fairness dictates that a decision on single term appointment is not taken on a case-by-case basis, but it must become the general norm for the future Secretaries-General to come.