Secretary-General Statements

I am shocked to the core by the latest allegations of abuse by international forces in the Central African Republic. Our focus must be on the victims and their families. We are talking about women and young children who have been traumatized in the worst imaginable way.

Thank you for this opportunity to brief you on important steps being taken and measures being put in place to end the exploitation and abuse of vulnerable people by United Nations personnel sent to protect them.  For many people caught up in poverty and conflict around the world, the United Nations represents their final hope for a better future. When sexual exploitation and abuse are perpetrated on these individuals by the United Nations personnel authorised to protect them, it further victimizes and violates them and inflicts untold harm on already fragile communities. 

Following are UN Deputy Secretary-General’s Jan Eliasson’s remarks to the General Assembly Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations opening debate, in New York today: It is a true pleasure to be here today at the opening debate of this year’s session of the Special Committee.  I want to thank you, Chair, for the invitation to speak today, and I congratulate you and the members of the bureau on your re-election. This year’s debate is taking place at a moment of singular challenge, but also of singular opportunity.

Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you. You represent collective security and international solidarity in action. I thank you for your dedication and leadership. I commend the thousands of peacekeeping troops who serve with honour under your command. Together, you have helped to separate forces, disarm fighters, monitor human rights, provide care and so much more. Our deployments are greater than ever before.