General Assembly: Reform of the Security Council | Cluster Debate on Working Methods + Model Discussion - Informal meeting of the plenary, 79th session
General Assembly
Date: 27 February 2025
Language: English
Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/en/asset/k1d/k1dir8cygk
Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations.

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IGN · Co-Chair [0:01]:

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. I call to order the 6th informal meeting of the Plenary on the question of equitable representation on an increase in the membership of the Security Council and other matters related to the Council. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all delegations for their active participation during the meetings of the IGN on 21 January. As indicated in the message circulated via e-delegate on 24 February, this meeting will be dedicated to cluster discussions on working methods. The model discussion originally scheduled for tomorrow, 28 February, will not take place. This discussion will be held in the format of an open meeting with webcast and will be followed by a closed interactive session without webcast as soon as the list of speakers in the open meeting is exhausted. Delegations were invited to inscribe on the list of speakers via eDelegate, and the live link to the list of speakers was circulated to all delegations. At this stage, if a delegation wishes to be added to the existing list of speakers, a representative should inform the Secretariat table. If a delegation wishes to speak on behalf of a group of states, a representative should inform the Secretariat in order to be given priority. Before we begin, I would like to remind members that delegations are encouraged to email a copy of their statements to eStatements for the publication on the repository website as well as to facilitate interpretation. I now give the floor to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.


Saint Vincent and the Grenadines · L69 [2:06]:

Thank you, co-chairs, for giving me the floor. I have the honor of delivering today's statement On behalf of the L69, a diverse, pro-reform group of 29 cross-regional developing countries united by the urgent need for comprehensive reform of the Security Council. Co-chairs, Excellencies, thank you for convening today's meeting on the Cluster of Working Methods. While we recognize the interconnectedness of the 5 clusters, we also note that the working methods of the Council would be dependent ultimately on the size of the reformed and expanded Council. However, working methods remain fundamental for the effective functioning of the Security Council in any configuration. The L69 has repeatedly emphasized that to preserve the credibility and legitimacy of the Security Council, the principles of equity and fair representation must guide our reform efforts As such, these very principles must also underpin the working methods of the Council. The informal system of penholdership, which concentrates power into the hands of a few countries, ultimately preserving the influence of old imperial powers, must be restructured. This current system has resulted in a skewed structure that favors the Global North, to the detriment of the Global South, which remains underrepresented and sidelined. To promote fairness, there must be a more inclusive mechanism that enables all Council members to play a more direct role in shaping the decisions and outcomes of the Council. Additionally, in an enlarged Council, it is imperative that non-permanent members be given the opportunity to hold the presidency of the Council at least once during their tenure. As the IGN navigates its current stalemate and explores avenues for concrete progress on reform, the Informal Working Group on Documentation and Other Procedural Questions remains crucial. In its current configuration, and even after reform is complete, it is this subsidiary body that would safeguard the effectiveness, transparency, efficiency, and agility of the Council. We have heard concerns that a Council that is too large can be detrimental to the efficiency of its work. However, with appropriate working methods, the Council can suitably address any potential gaps and maintain opportunities for the wider membership to contribute to its— to this process. Including by maximizing the use of existing mechanisms such as the open debate on working methods. As we are aware, the working methods of the Council require constant reflection, adaptation, and adjustment to ensure their effectiveness. The Council already has at its disposal very useful working methods that have been carefully negotiated and agreed upon. Their impact is wholly dependent their effective implementation. While the IWG is indispensable for the effectiveness of the Council, we underscore that its impact will be limited as long as the structural deficiencies in the representativeness and equity of the Council remain unaddressed. These flaws have rendered the Council incapable of fully discharging its mandate, fueling skepticism about its continued relevance in today's world. Therefore, comprehensive reform remains a vital next step. Strengthening the current working methods of the Council is not a substitute for concrete progress on reform. We recognize that reform will be transformative, catapulting us into uncharted territory. This is precisely why a review mechanism would be useful, as it offers a path to future adjustments. Thank you. One reform is that once reform is achieved, the IWG's role will be to evaluate the reformed Council and identify and address gaps to improve the functioning of an expanded Council. The debate on working methods also called for introspection of working methods of the IGN. It is time to move away from repetitive series of debates and discussions that fail to yield concrete outcomes. Actionable measures that result in tangible milestones are what we need. These may be pursued in a democratic manner, taking on board the views and concerns of L69 and the larger Global South. The very spirit of inclusivity, representativeness, and equity needs to be reflected in the functioning of this august forum as well. Co-chairs, Excellencies, The L69 will continue to engage constructively in the IGN throughout this session. We are hopeful that our inputs will be duly incorporated into the consolidated model. We underscore that such a product should neither be a mere compilation of positions nor a document with vagaries. Instead, it should be a document with actionable language that can form the basis of substantive text based negotiations in the next session. It bears reiteration that such a document may be drawn up in a democratic manner through a consultative, inclusive, and transparent process. We underline that this text will enable the commencement of real negotiations, taking us away from this cycle of repetition. It would allow us to better identify the convergences and move ahead towards achieving reforms in a time-bound manner. If member states are truly committed to reform, the negotiations would only enhance our discussions. The L69 is ready to contribute constructively to the preparation of this text and count on our colleagues to do the same. I thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [8:20]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and I give the floor to Italy.


Italy · Uniting for Consensus [8:30]:

Distinguished co-chairs, I will make this intervention on behalf of Uniting for Consensus, a diverse cross-regional pro-reform group that comprises Argentina, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Malta, Mexico, Pakistan, Republic of Korea, San Marino, Spain, Turkey, and my own country, Italy. I wish to thank you for convening this 3rd meeting of the IGN for this 79th session of the General Assembly, focusing on the working methods of a reformed Security Council. The UFC proposal stems from the understanding that any reform of the Council, and especially its enlargement, should take into thorough consideration the Council's working methods. And the impact on its ability to generate concrete outcomes. A more representative and accountable Council must also be a more efficient and transparent one. If the structure of the current Council needs to be reformed, its working methods must be equally reviewed. We must go beyond focusing solely on categories of membership and seat allocations, and follow a comprehensive and balanced approach to the reform of this body that takes into account the strong interlinkages between the 5 clusters of Decision 62/557. Flexible, inclusive and transparent decision-making processes are key aspects of any reformed and enlarged Security Council. So, how can we enhance the working methods of a reformed Council? First and foremost, the primary goal should be to promote inclusivity, efficiency, and further democratization of the Council by ensuring all elected Members play a central role in its decision-making processes. All Members of the Council must have the opportunity to participate equally in shaping the Council's agenda, drafting outcomes, engaging in consultations, and presiding over its work, order for decisions to be made jointly and transparently. Moreover, we advocate for institutionalizing a more equitable distribution of responsibilities, including the sharing of penholderships and chairships of subsidiary bodies between permanent and elected Members. We also support the adoption of inclusive working practices that ensure non-Council Members have timely a meaningful access to important documents such as draft resolutions, presidential statements, press statements, and other Security Council materials such as elements to the press and notes by the President, thereby fostering a more representative and participatory decision-making process. In addition, we propose improving the analytical quality of the Security Council's annual report ensuring that it provides a comprehensive and critical assessment of the Council's performance. The UFC advocates for measures that will boost the transparency of both the Council and its subsidiary bodies. This includes improving the availability, frequency, and quality of formal and informal reports, summary records, and briefings for non-Council members. This should also extend to strengthening collaboration with regional and sub-regional Many other improvements do not require changes to the UN Charter and can be applied to the current structure of the Council to improve its functioning. For example, increasing the involvement of elected Members in drafting resolutions and chairing subsidiary bodies is already feasible within the current framework. Distinguished Co-Chairs, the UFC also believes that the Security Council and the General Assembly must work in harmony, complementing and reinforcing each other's mandates. It is true that, due to its structure, the Security Council lacks the representativeness and democratic nature of the General Assembly, which includes all Member States. This makes it crucial to improve the Council's accountability to the broader UN membership. So, how can this be done? The answer lies in periodic elections to ensure Council members remain accountable to the General Assembly. The active involvement of elected members in Security Council decision-making is, at its core, an exercise in democracy. Adding new permanent members would diminish the Council's adaptability and further entrench exclusivity making the body less democratic and less representative. When it comes to consultations between the Council and the wider UN membership, there is a broad consensus that improvements are needed. Transparency should be considered as the cornerstone of any genuine democratic reform. Ensuring that the views and concerns of Member States directly affected by any issue under the Council's agenda are heard, and taken into account. As for enhancing cooperation between the Security Council and other UN bodies, the UFC advocates for closer collaboration with the Peacebuilding Commission. We look forward to seeing the Council regularly seek, deliberate on, and incorporate the PBC's targeted and strategic advice into its decision-making processes, particularly in the context of peacekeeping transitions and peacebuilding aspects of peacekeeping mandates, giving appropriate advance notice and timelines to the PBC to allow for the provision of timely advice to the Council. Additionally, we believe the Council should engage more consistently with multilateral and regional partners, such as the African Union's Peace and Security Council. As many African nations remind us during discussions at the IGN meetings, Much of the Security Council's agenda concerns Africa, and African states are among the largest contributors of troops and police personnel to UN peacekeeping missions. A more structured partnership between the UN Security Council and the AU's Peace and Security Council could enhance more local ownership and foster more effective responses to conflicts. Similarly, the Council should also promote cooperation with other relevant regional and cross-regional organizations. Distinguished Co-Chairs, the UFC believes that a Council enlarged with elected members will enhance its effectiveness and efficiency. For example, in the last decades, the vast majority of proposals, suggestions and practices to improve the working methods of the Security Council came from the elected members, commonly referred to as the E10. We have seen over the years many more concrete examples of how elected Members can contribute to the works of the Council, perform efficiently as innovators and bridge-builders. Distinguished Co-Chairs and colleagues, these are just some of the main ideas of the UFC regarding the cluster of working methods of a reformed Council. We look forward to continuing our constructive engagement in the discussions ahead. We remain convinced that pragmatism should lead us all when we approach an issue as delicate as the Security Council reform. We should all be ready to compromise and aim at a reform for all, in line with our times. I thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [16:29]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Italy. And I give the floor to Sierra Leone.


Sierra Leone · Africa Group [16:34]:

Distinguished co-chairs, I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the African Union member states. We sincerely appreciate your convening of today's meeting and acknowledge your introductory remarks. Africa is grateful for your steadfast commitment to the intergovernmental negotiation process on Security Council reform. We trust that this session will help member states better understand the various reform proposals and foster the political will necessary for meaningful progress. The Common African position on the Security Council's working methods has been consistently restated and is well known within this process and the Assembly. Our position on working methods of the Security Council is reflected in paragraph 5 of our letter dated 23 December 2009 addressed to the then-chair of the IGN, contained in July 2015 document and its annex, also known as the Framework Document. Africa's position on the working methods of the Security Council calls for a council that is accessible, accountable, democratic, representative, and more effective, particularly in an expanded format to better address contemporary challenges. In this regard, we acknowledge the ongoing efforts to enhance the working methods of the Security Council. Especially the increase in the number of public meetings, briefings, open debates, and consultations between the presidents of the General Assembly and the Security Council. We also recognize the valuable initiative led by the delegation of Algeria within the Security Council concerning access to documentation, particularly as reflected in the new Note 507, which ensures that elected members of the Council have the same level of access to documentation submitted to or originated by the Security Council or its subsidiary bodies throughout their term of membership. Building on these efforts, Africa believes that further actions are required to improve the working methods of the Security Council in the following areas. First, the Security Council must uphold the primacy of the UN Charter in its functions and powers. To this end, it should refrain from engaging in or initiating formal or informal discussions regarding the situation in any member state on issues that do not constitute a threat to international peace and security, in accordance with the provisions of Article 24 of the Charter. Second, the Security Council should strengthen its relationship with troop-contributing countries and police-contributing countries, as well as the UN Secretariat, including through more sustained, regular, and timely interactions. Meetings with TCCs should not be limited to the drafting of mandates, but should also include discussions on the implementation phase, particularly when there is a rapid deterioration of the situation on the ground. The Security Council Working Group on Peacekeeping Operations should engage TCCs more frequently and intensively in its deliberations, particularly in the early stages of mission planning and throughout the mission's implementation. Third, the Security Council should establish its subsidiary organs in full accordance with the letter and spirit of the UN Charter. These organs must function in a manner that ensures the timely and adequate dissemination of information about their activities to the broader UN membership. Furthermore, The Security Council should avoid being used to pursue national political agendas. It must prioritize impartiality and non-selectivity in its work, adhering strictly to the powers and functions granted to it by the member states under the UN Charter. The Security Council must also refrain from using Chapter 7 of the Charter as a blanket approach to addressing issues that do not necessarily pose a threat to international peace and security. Instead, it should exhaust the provisions of Chapters 6 and 8 where appropriate, reserving Chapter 6 as a measure of last resort. Additionally, the Security Council should refrain from using sanctions against any state as a tool to achieve the political objectives of one or a few states rather than serving the broader interests of the international community. Distinguished co-chairs, let me reiterate that the common African position, as espoused in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Serté Declaration, stresses that any reform of the United Nations system should be comprehensive, encompassing all its components, including the need to enhance the Security Council's working methods. It is important to note that the 5 clusters outlined in Decision 62/ 557 cannot be discussed in isolation from the broader principles set out in paragraphs 152 to 154 of the World Summit Outcome Document of 2005. These principles—equity, geographical representation, transparency, efficiency, legitimacy, and accountability—are foundational to any reform process. Moreover, the linkages between the clusters cannot be overlooked. This means that none of the 5 clusters can be negotiated independently of the others. Expansion in both the permanent and non-permanent categories is closely connected to issues of size and the veto. An expanded Security Council will also require equitable geographical representation, underscoring the need for comprehensive reform of the Council. In conclusion, we reaffirm our commitment to Decision 62/557 and call for a comprehensive reform of the Security Council, one that reflects the interlinkages of the 5 clusters. We also acknowledge the important consensus in this regard to also prioritize Africa and treat Africa as a special case in the reform process in the Pact for the Future. Moving forward, we will continue consultations with all groups that have demonstrated strong support for the common African position and look forward to transforming empathy for our position into tangible support in line with the Ezulwini Consensus and the Cotonou Declaration. In the spirit of an inclusive reform outcome, we will also continue to engage with member states and interest groups holding different views on the reform process. I thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [23:12]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone, and I give the floor to Mamlakat al-Bahrain.


Bahrain · Arab Group [23:23]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Arab Group. I would like to begin by expressing my sincere appreciation for your effort in conducting the work of the intergovernmental negotiations during the current session. We would also like to thank His Excellency Ambassador Alexander Marczyk, the permanent representative of the Republic of— the former permanent representative of the Republic of Austria to the United Nations, for his valuable efforts as co-chair of the IGN. Mr. Chair, the question of the working methods of the Security Council enjoys a convergence of positions and views on many of its elements. The Arab Group expresses its appreciation for the steps taken by the co-chairs during the last session to advance the discussion on the working methods of the current and future expanded council. This is especially pertinent to the Pact of the Future, which calls for the continued improvement and democratization of the working methods of the Council. The Pact also called for strengthening the Council's relationship with the General Assembly in accordance with the respective functions, authorities, powers, prerogatives, as set in the Charter. This is based on the understanding that this should not be an alternative to the reform of the Security Council. In light of the ongoing efforts of the Security Council to review and improve its working methods, the Arab Group emphasizes the importance of continuing to work to improve the Council's working methods and make it more transparent and inclusive. The Security Council is required to fulfill 2 important pillars. The first is to adopt decisions that ensure swift and effective action to maintain international peace and security. The second pillar is to obtain the support of the general membership to ensure the effective implementation of Security Council resolutions. Thus, enhancing the transparency of the working methods of the Security Council and ensuring the participation of the general membership in decision-making is critical to the performance of the Council. In this regard, consideration should be given to agreeing on permanent rules of procedures for the Security Council instead of the provisional ones that have been in place for decades. We should provide a real opportunity for non-members of the Security Council to contribute to the debate in the Council. We must minimize the holding of closed meetings and informal consultations to a minimum. The latter should be the exception rather than the rule, in accordance with the rules of procedures. There should also be consultations with and participation of countries concerned on items under discussion in the Security Council. In the same context, the Arab Group attaches importance to the subsidiary organs of the Security Council and its committees. We call for the provision of comprehensive information on their activities to the members of the United Nations. Particularly the states concerned in the case of sanctions committees. We emphasize the need for the Security Council to strictly adhere to the scope and mandate of its resolutions on the work of subsidiary committees. The Arab Group would also like to stress the importance of the participation of the Peacebuilding Commission and its country-specific configurations. We should take into account their views during Security Council discussions. on the issues on the agenda of the Security Council and that of the Peacebuilding Commission. In light of the clear relationship between the General Assembly and the Security Council pursuant to the relevant articles and provisions of the UN Charter, the Arab Group believes that it is important for the Security Council to share and inform the General Assembly of the issues before it. This would increase transparency between the General Assembly and the Security Council. It would also support complementarity between the 2 organs, enhance the exchange of views, and enable the GA to fulfill its role when discussing different issues. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that the 5 reform clusters are interrelated and indivisible. The intergovernmental negotiations are the only forum that would allow us to reach an agreement on the issue of the Security Council expansion and reform pursuant to GA Resolution 557, which calls for a solution that enjoys the widest possible political acceptance. The Arab Group encourages the continuation of discussions in a positive atmosphere with a view to converging views and finding common ground to achieve substantive and radical reform of the Security Council. For this is the body entrusted with the maintenance of international peace and security pursuant to the Charter of the United Nations. This would allow the Council to become more capable and more effective in addressing and overcoming relevant challenges in a more representative, transparent, impartial, and credible framework. Thank you, Mr. Chair.


IGN · Co-Chair [28:59]:

I would like to thank His Excellency the Representative of the Kingdom of Bahrain.


Luxembourg · Benelux [29:07]:

Thank you very much, Co-Chair. Excellencies, dear colleagues, I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Benelux countries— Belgium, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and my own country, Luxembourg— for today's meeting of the IGN. Co-Chair, you have asked us to focus on working methods. The topic of working methods is vast. And constantly evolving. If we look back at Decision 62557 of 15 September 2008, the foundational decision by which the General Assembly decided to commence intergovernmental negotiations, we see that the 5 key issues on which the IGN are based do not include working methods as a standalone issue. Rather, Decision 62557 mentions as the 4th key issue the following, I quote, size of an enlarged Security Council and working methods of the Council, unquote. In our view, this clearly signifies that while the working methods of the Security Council can be continuously improved, without structural reform of the Council, and many colleagues who have spoken before me have mentioned some examples in that regard, the IGN on Security Council reform should focus on the adaptation of the Council's working methods that are needed to accommodate an expanded membership of the Council. Such an understanding should allow us to focus our discussion in the IGN and we should not duplicate discussions that are held elsewhere on the continuous improvement of the Council's working methods and the implementation of Note 507 by the President of the Security Council, the most recent edition of which was adopted in December last year. Co-Chair, the most recent Co-Chairs' Elements Paper that you have circulated on 29 April 2024 shows that there is a very high degree of convergence when it comes to adapting the Council's working methods to the size of an enlarged Council. And building on these commonalities, we can make concrete progress toward a more representative and effective Security Council. The Benelux countries in particular support the need to adjust the required number of affirmative votes required for decisions by the Security Council in line with the current practice or ratio. We also support the idea that the Security Council, in light of the increase in its membership, should be invited to consider measures to ensure the full and equitable participation of all members of the Security Council in its work with a special emphasis on encouraging greater participation and responsibilities of non-permanent members, elected members, including the opportunity to serve as penholders and to hold the presidency of the enlarged Security Council at least once during their tenure. Co-chair, colleagues, by adopting the Pact for the Future, we agreed on all the guiding principles. Of Security Council reform, including on the principle that the total number of members of an enlarged Security Council should ensure a balance between its representativeness and effectiveness— that is Action 39E of the Pact— and we agreed on the principle that the working methods should ensure the inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic, and accountable functioning of an enlarged Council, that is Action 39F of the Pact. Based on the Pact for the Future and the clear convergences identified in the co-chairs' elements paper, the Benelux countries believe that the next logical step is to move towards text-based negotiations, ensuring that our discussions don't go around in circles but rather translate into concrete outcomes. This year we will mark the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations at a time when multilateralism is increasingly being challenged. We should seize this opportunity to make progress in the IGN on Security Council reform. We should indeed move from general discussions of the 5 key issues identified in Decision 62557 which have been thoroughly debated over the last 16 years, to detailed discussions on specific models for Council reform. And as we have agreed in the Pact for the Future, we should develop a consolidated model that will lead us to a reformed Security Council, a Council that is more representative, inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic and accountable to the wider membership. Thank you very much, Co-Chair.


IGN · Co-Chair [34:29]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Luxembourg. I give the floor to Brazil.


Brazil · G4 [34:37]:

Thank you, dear Co-Chair. As others, I join— I join others in thanking you and the former PR of Austria for the dedication, your commitment to progress and movement forward in this discussion. I deliver this statement on behalf of the G4, that is Germany, India, Japan, and my own country, Brazil. Today's meeting on the working methods of a reformed Security Council is yet another one in a long series of cluster-based discussions. On the issue at hand, we fully acknowledge that improvements to the Council's working methods can help enhance its efficiency, transparency, and inclusivity. In this spirit, we commend Japan's leadership in revising Note 507 during its IWG chairpersonship, a practical step forward in modernizing the Council's procedures. Enhanced transparency, equitable penholdership, and closer cooperation with the GA and the PBC are important and beneficial and should be fully implemented. Distinguished Co-Chair, however, we must be clear: any procedural adjustments, however meaningful they are in their own right, are not a substitute for structural reform, as other delegations have mentioned. The legitimacy and effectiveness of the Security Council depend fundamentally on comprehensive reform, particularly the expansion in its permanent and non-permanent membership, that reflects the realities of today's world. I emphasize the importance of having a comprehensive outlook in this regard, as a piecemeal approach is bound to fail. The time for inconsequential IGN debates that generate little concrete results— if there was ever such time— has long passed. If Member States are serious about making the Council accountable and credible, legitimate and effective, we must all unequivocally and immediately support text-based negotiations in a time-bound manner, wherein actionable steps are linked to defined timelines. This is the only realistic path for overcoming our deep differences. Once again, our focus must shift from general discussions of the 5 clusters, which are clearly exhausted, to examining specific models presented during this IGN cycle and developing a consolidated model that can facilitate genuine reform. To this end, We call on all delegations willing to do so to present concrete reform models to their earliest convenience, as the preparation of the consolidated model must strike the right balance between inclusiveness and movement forward. Anything less only further undermines the IGN process. I thank you, Co-Chair.


IGN · Co-Chair [37:49]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil. And I give the floor to Iceland.


Iceland · Nordic Group [38:00]:

Excellencies, co-chairs, I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic countries— Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and my own country, Iceland. Co-chairs, in the Pact for the Future adopted by the General Assembly last September, It was agreed to strengthen the framework of the intergovernmental negotiations on Security Council reform as a matter of priority and without delay. Not only does the Pact for the Future deliver a clear statement on the need to reform the Security Council, it also notes specific objectives to that end when discussing the importance of working methods, noting in Action 39F that the working methods should ensure the inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic, and accountable functioning of an enlarged Council. This provides us with specific agreed language and guidance, and it should be the basis of any discussion on working methods going forward. It should be our aim to consolidate and build on this language, as we are entrusted to ensure that an enlarged Security Council is able to deliver on its mandate and become fit for purpose. Before diving further into the topic, we wish to underline the distinction between working methods reform required to accommodate an expanded Council and those working methods issues we are already encountering with the Council in its current configuration. While both issues should be addressed as a matter of urgency, The latter should not await a comprehensive reform of the Council through the IGN process. Co-chairs, with reference to the working methods, the Security Council is expected to firstly make decisions that will ensure prompt and effective action to maintain international peace and security, and secondly gain the support of the wider United Nations membership for such Security Council decisions to be carried out. Enhancing the transparency, efficiency, and inclusiveness of the working methods of the Security Council in order to meet these expectations is crucial to the effective functioning of the Council. In this regard, the Nordic countries note that strengthened accountability, efficiency, and inclusiveness starts with transparency. Transparency may be reinforced through through increased dialogue with and involvement of non-Council members and bodies, in particular affected member states and civil society. Moreover, transparency may also be strengthened with added emphasis on increasing resources to open meetings and agreeing on a wider array of press elements. At the same time, the Nordic countries recognize that private discussions are paramount to FRAG diplomatic talks and the building of trust and cooperation among different members of the Security Council. But such discussions must be coupled with, as just mentioned, once common elements of transparency, like the routine issue of press elements from closed consultations. The Nordics note that the Pact for the Future calls for the working methods to ensure democratic functions, a core issue at the heart of the Security Council reform. In this context, the Nordics reiterate our support for a balanced expansion of the Security Council to ensure increased representation. We further support consideration on how to ensure the consistent application of Article 27 of the Charter. We also call on the IGN process and the Council to ensure that working methods in a future Council are guided by the fundamental principles of democracy, and that democratic values are generally strengthened. We must ensure that the working methods are updated so that an expansion of the Council does not negatively impact the full participation of all Security Council members in its work, in particular the elected members. We note that depending on the ultimate size of an enlarged Council, there may be need to revise the existing rotation rule of the Council presidency. In order to ensure that all elected members have the opportunity to hold the presidency at least during at least once during their tenure. Also, further work is needed in order to strengthen the role of elected members, in particular so that the elected members play a full role in all aspects of the council's work and can better fulfill the role as a member of the council and representatives of the general membership. Of the United Nations. This can be further strengthened through a fairer burden sharing amongst the P5s and elected members. The informal penholder system should be adapted and pens shared across the Council, especially where there is expertise or where an elected member is chairing the relevant subsidiary body. The perspectives of the relevant regions should be taken into account across the work of the Council. With African peace and security continuing to take up much of the Security Council's agenda, it is clear that more African voices are needed and African member states should have a more profound influence over its work. We would like to see more opportunities for the African members of the Council for penholdership or co-penholdership. Co-chairs, the general improvement of the working methods of the Council is an ongoing process. and a collective endeavour. The Nordic countries commend the progress made so far, and we look forward to the next steps. Reform is urgent and cannot wait. Finally, Co-Chairs, the Nordic countries reiterate our support for all your persistent work efforts towards Security Council reform. We shall continuously strive to meet the commitments and momentum achieved with the Pact. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [44:05]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Iceland.

And I give the floor to the Republic of Egypt.


Egypt [44:19]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

I'm going to start by aligning with the statements delivered by Sierra Leone on behalf of the African Group and by Bahrain on behalf of the Arab Group.

Thank you.

The working methods of the Security Council is a fundamental aspect of the Council reform. As outlined in Resolution 62557, improved and enhanced working methods shall be a component of the final comprehensive reform package. Despite this pillar often, often being overlooked in favor of the more big-ticket items such as the veto or categories of membership, enhanced and strengthened working methods remain a crucial aspect of the work of a reformed Security Council. One without which the Council could never be able to perform its functions soundly. In the Pact of the Future, Member States agreed a number of important provisions relating to improving the Council's working methods. In Action 41, we commit to actively reinforce the ongoing efforts of the Security Council to review and enhance its working methods, including inter alia penholding and co-penholding arrangements, and to strengthen the cooperation and communication between the Security Council Security Council and the General Assembly and its subsidiary bodies. These provisions reaffirm the importance member states attach to enhancing the Council's working methods, and indeed some improvements have been introduced in recent years. Yet if we are to ensure an inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic, and accountable functioning of an enlarged Council as per Action 39 of the Pact, more effort needs to be done. A few areas come to mind. First, the Council needs to enhance its engagement with the wider membership while avoiding selectivity, double standards, and politicization in the exercising of its mandate. This necessitates a further increase in the number of open debates, public briefings, and interactive dialogues, in addition to giving countries under consideration at the Council and troops-contributing countries a say in the processes of relevance to them. Second, democratization of decision-making inside the Council. One aspect of decision-making in dire need of such reform, for example, is penholdership, and while huge improvements have taken place, certain members of the Council still remain exclusive penholders for certain issues. It should never be forgotten that penholdership is merely a drafting task taken up by Council members and that it does not by any means entail political dominance over the matter under consideration. Third, meetings of the subsidiary bodies of the Council should include on a case-by-case basis non-Council members showing interest and possessing the relevant expertise. Member states, particularly those affected by sanctions, should at their request be allowed to participate in the meetings of the relevant sanctions committee. These are just a few ideas for consideration, and I trust that several other ideas will be have been and will be discussed. Discussed today and in the following meetings, and we remain confident that without a reform of the working methods, the reform of the Security Council will still be incomplete. I thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [47:22]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Egypt, and I give the floor to Germany.


Germany [47:28]:

Thank you very much, Co-Chair. At the outset, I would like to underline that Germany aligns itself fully with the statement that has been delivered by Brazil on behalf of the Group of Four. But I would like to take the opportunity to make 2 additional points in my national capacity. The first is on a more general reflection on working methods. I think in all the statements that we heard today, transparency, efficiency, accountability were raised. For us, all 3— transparency, efficiency, and accountability— are not just matters of presentation when it comes to the work of the Security Council. For us, all 3 are fundamental to the effectiveness and ultimately to the legitimacy of the Security Council. In the past year, we had a very lengthy but ultimately quite productive discussion on this matter during the negotiations of the Pact for the Future, and I think it has been raised by almost all delegations this morning at least I remember it being quoted by Bahrain, Sierra Leone, Luxembourg, Iceland, Egypt, that we should really follow up on the conclusions of the Pact when it comes to the Security Council. For instance, the Pact for the Future clearly emphasizes the importance of strengthening the relationship between the Security Council and the General Assembly and its subsidiary bodies. As the current Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission, Germany is strongly committed to realizing the full potential of this Commission and to fostering a more effective division of labor and greater synergies between the Peacebuilding Commission and the Security Council. We are convinced that by working together we can ensure that both the Peacebuilding Commission plays a more prominent role in peacebuilding efforts and at the same time the Security Council is better equipped and better informed. Mr. Chair, my second remark is on the use of the veto. Germany supports all efforts and initiatives to limit the use of the veto, particularly in cases where the veto is used to block Council action aimed at the prevention and punishment of genocide, mass atrocities, and war crimes, and we call on other member states to join these initiatives. We would also like to remind delegations that the G4 model promotes the idea of new permanent members who have the power to veto but refrain from using it for an initial period of time. We believe that this is a viable reform idea worthy of consideration. Mr. Chair, in conclusion, I would just like to reiterate that we are committed to engaging in constructive dialogue with other IGN members on these issues. With the goal of finding a path forward that promotes transparency, efficiency, and accountability within the Security Council.


IGN · Co-Chair [50:17]:

I thank you very much. I thank the distinguished representative of Germany, and I give the floor to India.


India [50:28]:

Shukran jazil, and see you at the—

Thank you very much, Mr.

Chair. I wish to convey our appreciation for the dynamism demonstrated by the Chair in imparting new momentum. I align myself with the statements delivered by Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on behalf of L69 and Brazil on behalf of G4. The previous speakers have already emphasized the pressing need for undertaking reforms of the Security Council on priority. The demand in this chamber for reforms is loud and clear. This call gains greater significance at a time when the world is expressing apprehensions at the ability of the United Nations to deliver to meaningfully intervene on issues of key importance to humanity in different parts of the globe, particularly in the realm of peace and security, which remains the core mandate of the Council. It is beyond doubt that the Security Council represents a different period of time. The core architecture, which has remained unchanged for 8 decades, is not in synchrony with today's global realities. To realize its functional mandate to match the expectations of the people, our citizens, and to maintain contemporary relevance, the Council needs to be made fit for purpose. Though an overwhelming number of member states acknowledge that reforms are indeed an imperative, there has been practically no progress along this direction. We have had numerous discussions and debates. We speak passionately, but we continue to be where we are. Co-chairs and colleagues, we cannot be losing any more time in exchanging ideas and engaging in discussions alone. It's time for member states to act. It's time to move forward. It's time to show results. In this backdrop, I'd like to make following specific points with regard to working methods. First, the Council needs to engage with the wider membership of the United Nations. A meaningful way to achieve this would be through a discussion on the report of the Security Council in the General Assembly. This report should not be merely a compilation of facts. It should be analytical in nature, offering an opportunity for the member states to effectively appraise the functioning of the Council. Second, there needs to be more transparency in the working of the subsidiary bodies of the Council. Let me give a specific example. While decisions on listing are made public, details pertaining to rejection or putting on technical hold of listing requests are the exclusive preserve of a select few. This is indeed a disguised veto. Third, implementation of peacekeeping mandate should duly factor in the concerns of troop and police contributing countries. For India, as the largest cumulative troop contributor, this remains a key issue. Fourth, obsolete and irrelevant items with no relevance in today's world have no basis to remain on the agenda of the Security Council merely for political purposes. Fifth, reforms pertaining to one cluster cannot be considered in isolation. A piecemeal approach is bound to fail. Therefore, the question of Council reforms needs to be dealt with in its entirety, in a holistic manner. In closing, I'd like to reiterate that the world does not have the luxury to hide behind the smokescreen of intergovernmental negotiations, a process which has no timeframe and no text to achieve real reforms. The pathway to reform starts with a text and attaching fixed timelines to achieving concrete outcomes. May I add that the reform of the working methods of the intergovernmental negotiation process itself is thus a very good starting point. I thank you, Chair.


IGN · Co-Chair [53:59]:

I thank the distinguished representative of India. I give the floor to Japan.


Japan [54:09]:

Thank you, Mr. President. Japan fully aligns with Brazil's statement on behalf of the G4. I will make additional remarks in my national capacity. As the international community faces numerous challenges and the role expected of the Security Council increases, it has become imperative to further enhance the effective functioning of the Council, which shoulders the primary responsibility of maintaining international peace and security. Enhancing the transparency efficiency, and inclusiveness of the working method is in particular a reform that can be achieved without amending the UN Charter. It is therefore crucial to continuously improve the working methods. It was in 2006 that Japan, as a chair of Informal Working Group on Documentation and Other Procedural Questions, IWG, reviewed the practices and agreements on the working methods of the Security Council, which had been recorded in more than 100 presidential notes since the establishment of the IWG in 1993. Japan systematically compiled the presidential notes, which are effective as of 2006, and in July of that year, the first Note 507 was adopted as a compilation of the working methods of the Security Council at that time. Since then, Japan has chaired the IWG every time it has served as an elected member of the Security Council and led the successful efforts to adopt the updated Note 507 in 2010 and again in 2017. Last year, Japan chaired the IWG again, and through an open debate in March and intensive discussions in the IWG, The updated Note 507 was finally adopted on December 13th last year. I am pleased that Japan's initiative to compile the adopted presidential notes and relevant documents into one handbook is now well known as Green Book, as the COVID page of that latest one is green. Following the completion of its most recent 2-year Security Council term, Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Japan remains committed to improving the Council's working methods, aiming for greater transparency and efficiency. To facilitate the implementation of the adopted rules and provisions, Japan is in the process of preparing the new printed edition of the Handbook, which is planned to distribute at an event scheduled next month. Mr. Chair, While we are at the center of efforts to improving working methods, we must point out that this is only an internal measure, and the core of Security Council reform is the expansion of both permanent and non-permanent categories in the Security Council. It is regrettable that the Pact for the Future adopted last year did not take into account the objective fact the majority of the member states supports the expansion of both permanent and non-permanent categories. In developing a consolidated model in the IGN, it is crucial to stipulate the expansion of both permanent and non-permanent categories, especially to redress the historical injustice against Africa. As set out in the Pact for the Future, Security Council reform is urgently needed. For this very reason, it is imperative to initiate text-based negotiations as soon as possible. Capitalizing on the 80th anniversary of the UN Foundation this year, Japan reiterates its commitment to make a constructive contribution to the ongoing discussions in the IGN, ensuring the UN aligns with the contemporary global landscape. I thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [58:08]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Japan, and I give the floor to France.


France [58:16]:

Mr. Co-chair, first of all, I would like to thank you and the Austrian co-chair for organizing this 3rd debate. Security Council reform is expected by the vast majority of this assembly. We reaffirmed this in the Pact for the Future. We are celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Charter. We must go from words to action. For France, the objectives of this reform are clear. The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrault, said this clearly before the General Assembly and then in Addis Ababa and before the members of the G20. They are improving the representativeness of the Security Council, in particular for the sake of— to the benefit of Africa. Preserving its legitimacy as the cornerstone in our collective security architecture, and strengthening its efficiency and effectiveness. The path to achieving this is known by everyone. It is provided for in the United Nations Charter and has been used several times, including to reform the Security Council in 1963. It involves the adoption of a resolution in the General Assembly with the support of at least 2/3 of member states. France calls for the immediate launching of text-based negotiations and, like the majority of delegations, calls for an expansion in the 2 categories of membership. France supports the creation of 2 permanent seats for African states and the creation of permanent seats for the Group of 4— Germany, India, Japan, and Brazil. This is not new, and I'm repeating it today. Co-chairs, regarding the Security Council's working methods, the aim is to find the proper balance between public diplomacy and work behind closed doors to make sure that the Council can play its role, and that role is the maintenance of international peace and security. Public meetings are useful because they allow for greater openness and transparency, They also make sure that the voice of civil society can be heard. Discussions behind closed doors allow compromises to be reached among all of the members of the Council on a text that is to be adopted. That allows for a broad and enlightened expression on the part of the Council. Improving the Council's working methods means being able to conduct substantive work in a spirit of respect for multilateralism. In the— if that were not to happen, the Council would find itself pronouncing itself on an insufficient approximative text that would be put to a vote without taking into account the views of the main stakeholders. But let us be clear-headed. Improving the working methods is necessary, but it's not enough. It doesn't replace the spirit of responsibility that is essential in order to find solutions to crises. It doesn't replace the need for having the Charter, the sovereign equality of states, and respect for the territorial integrity of states as our compass. When on the 24th of February 2025 in the Security Council, 6 member states refused to support references to the Charter, our shared Charter, and to its principles, including sovereignty and territorial integrity, it was not just working methods that were at issue. When Russia used its veto twice on amendments covering those messages and those essential principles, it was not just working methods that were at issue. When on the same day, 10 members of the Security Council voted for a resolution that skipped over respect for the Charter and its principles, even though the United Nations General Assembly had affirmed the importance of the Charter and its principles twice a few hours beforehand, it was not just working methods that were at issue. What is at issue is respect for international law and the primacy of law over force and the work of all of the organs of the United Nations. Mr. Co-chairs, on the 24th of February, 2025, France did not use its veto against an unjust resolution because we advocate for a responsible use of the veto. Since 2015, we have done that with Mexico and the support of 106 United Nations member states. This initiative of limiting the use of the veto in the case of— to the case of mass atrocities, that is to say genocide, crimes against humanity, and large-scale war crimes, aims to give the Security Council the tools it needs to act in those situations And I call upon all member states that believe in peace through law to join us in that. This initiative doesn't require an amendment of the Charter, and it does not create inequalities with new permanent members. And I recall that France considers that candidates for those seats can legitimately ask for the same prerogatives as the current permanent members, including the right of veto. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [1:03:38]:

I thank the distinguished representative of France. France, and I give the floor to the Russian Federation.


Russian Federation [1:03:48]:

Distinguished co-chairs, we welcome the continued consideration of the thematic clusters on UN Security Council reform in the context of the intergovernmental negotiations. We closely studied the renewed Security Council model that was circulated by CARICOM And we hope to be able to discuss it in detail during one of the upcoming meetings of the intergovernmental negotiations. Improving the Council's working methods is an important aspect of ensuring the effectiveness of the organ that bears primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. When executing its mandate, the Security Council should be in lockstep with the times and be able to take well-thought-through, timely, and sustainable decisions. In recent years, this organ has been holding more open meetings, regularly organizing informal ARIA formula meetings of its members, and listening to the positions of states that are not members of the Council. A leading role in the process of updating the Security Council working methods continues to be played by the Council itself, which within its Working Group on Documentation and Other Procedural questions holds a regular review of existing practice. The most recent significant result from this was the latest update of Note 507 in December last year. In particular, the document reflects the procedure for Security Council members accessing internal documentation. The section on informal penholdership has been expanded, and Russia consistently calls for strict compliance with all of the provisions in Note 507 in full. Any further changes on this track need to be geared towards truly improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the Council in fulfilling its main tasks. The use of poorly thought-out initiatives that don't take into account the specifics of the Council's work is counterproductive. For example, we categorically disagree with the proposal to do away with closed consultations. As practice has shown, it is behind closed doors that the Council can have an open dialogue and reach the necessary compromise on the most complex issues on its agenda. Open meetings, on the other hand, often are geared towards a domestic audience and boil down to repeating well-known positions in front of the cameras, which does nothing to bring positions closer together. They're not— they don't take account of the interests of other states, and they're not always able to find a balanced assessment given their geopolitical ambitions and regional specificities. The abuse of their informal status— in abusing their informal status, the penholders often negotiate resolutions of the Security Council under artificial time pressure that does not allow for a comprehensive expert study of the documents. Instead of discussions of the text in good faith, In those circumstances, they focus on putting pressure on the non-permanent members of the council that do not agree with them, and quite simply, they twist their arms. As a result, we often have poorly thought-out documents that do not take into account the key concerns of Security Council members, which give unclear instructions to the Secretariat, and which are sometimes unrealistic in terms of their goals and targets. This approach. Does nothing to support the effective settlement of conflicts. Russia consistently has advocated for and continues to advocate for expanding the number of penholders, primarily from among the non-permanent members. In particular, we pay attention to the opinions of African states in doing so. We are convinced that looking again at the issue of penholdership will help improve the effectiveness of the Security Council's work. In sum, improving the working methods must be continued by the Council on a regular basis according to the established procedure and on the basis of a rational study of its experience on an annual basis. A certain contribution to this could be made by the intergovernmental negotiations on Security Council reform. At the same time, we call upon colleagues to focus as a priority on the fundamental parts of reform, first and foremost on increasing— improving the representation on the Security Council of the countries of Africa, Asia, and Latin America, while ensuring that it also remains compact. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [1:08:41]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation, and I give the floor to Mexico.


Mexico [1:08:51]:

Co-facilitators, Mexico would like to align with the statement delivered by Italy on behalf of the Uniting for Consensus Group. Allow me to deliver A few additional comments in my national capacity. The discussion of the working methods of a reformed Security Council is not just a matter of form but of substance. That's because any proposal to expand its membership force includes a thorough analysis of its functioning. Focusing merely on increasing the number of members without having an in-depth look at how the working methods of a reformed council would work would lead to inefficiencies which could curtail the ability of the council to respond in a timely and effective way to threats to international peace and security. Because of this, we once again appeal to the various negotiating groups and delegations which have presented reform models or those which which are about to present them so that their analyses also take an in-depth look at how their proposals fully chime with the 5 clusters of Decision 62/557. The foregoing doesn't just allow us to understand the scope of their proposals but also to assess their effectiveness. Proposed reforms which merely focus on 1 or 2 clusters are not enough. Mexico believes that all members, especially elected members, must participate on an equal footing and have the guarantee— possibility of leading the subsidiary bodies of the Security Council, as well as acting as penholders or co-penholders for resolutions and the right to take up the presidency of that body throughout their mandate. To enhance the transparency of the subsidiary bodies, Mexico believes there's a need to improve the quality, frequency, and availability of their official and unofficial reports, as well as their meeting records. That would allow states who are not part of the Council to be better informed and more effectively participate in the debates and decisions related to the work of that body. Turning now to the chairship of subsidiary bodies, Mexico is of the view that in a reformed council it should be made clear that the 5 permanent members should not have veto power over which elected member chairs a subsidiary body. Regrettably, we have seen this practice as a form of overstepping of the powers of the 5 permanent members. This situation is tangible right now with the delay probably never before seen in the election of the chairs of the subsidiary bodies for 2025. Along similar lines, council reform should consider that the Security Council should not be the only vote which counts in the election of the Secretary-General. The General Assembly should have greater importance in that decision. In terms of draft decisions, presidents' declarations, press releases, elements of the press and presidential notes, all of these should be made available to non-member states in a way which is timely and observes the principle of multilingualism which governs our organization. Interrelatedness of working reform working methods and the veto. Mexico calls upon further states to join the Franco-Mexican proposal. We believe that this initiative could be duly codified within the context of a reformed council. Mexico, in its reform model, presented a list of seven initial measures which could be complemented and. Strengthened to ensure that the working methods of a reformed Security Council correct other imbalances which are not merely resolved with the addition of new seats. Uniting for Consensus also presented a similar list. These measures have been the outcome of discussions we held in the context of the IGN and our national experience as a country which served as an elected member in recent times. To conclude, we would reiterate that to achieve a reform which enables us to have a more democratic, transparent, representative, effective council which has better accountability, we need to substantially— substantively consider the improvement of the working methods as they stand today. Thank you very much.


IGN · Co-Chair [1:14:17]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Mexico and I give the floor to Pakistan.


Pakistan [1:14:27]:

Thank you. Thank you, Co-Chair. I would like to start by acknowledging the splendid work that was done by Ambassador Maschek and yourself over the past 2 years. We will miss Ambassador Maschek. But we are very glad to see you are holding the fort and guiding our process. Co-chair, everyone is agreed that Security Council reform is necessary and that it should be achieved as soon as possible. But I'd like to also note that the Pact of the Future called for comprehensive measures to strengthen the entire United Nations system. The actions listed in the Pact called for strengthening the General Assembly, the Economic and Social Council, and the peacebuilding Commission as well, and I think that we should all focus on moving on all fronts as far as the reform of the United Nations bodies is concerned. We attach importance to. The process that we are following. We do not believe that we are at the present moment in a stage where we can launch text-based negotiations or set some sort of an artificial deadline for the conclusion of our discussions. One of my colleagues has mentioned the need to reflect new realities, but the realities that we reflect in a Council expansion of permanent members would again freeze the Council at a particular time, as it is frozen in the 1945 framework, Any expansion of permanent members would freeze the Council at that moment. It is only through the process of elections that the new realities that constantly change can be reflected in the composition of the Security Council. Not by adding new permanent members. Our discussions for the Pact of the Future and the in the IGN last year revealed where the convergences are and where the divergences are. There is convergence on priority for Africa. There is convergence on. Expanding the membership of developing countries. There is a convergence on the need for representation of regional and cross-regional groups. And these are convergences that we can build on and that have been confirmed in the models for Security Council reform that have been presented. But these discussions and the presentation of models has also revealed the divergences, and these are considerable divergences on the size of the Council, on the issue of the categories of membership, on regional representation, on the veto, and on even on working methods where there is a large convergence, yet there are still areas Of divergence, and these have been reflected in our discussions here today. The discussion on working methods, co-chair, is not marginal to the reform of the Security Council. As was famously said, process is substance. And the working methods of the Council impact on its outcomes and its processes. My delegation has proposed a number of steps that could be taken to ensure improvement in the working methods of the Council. These have not all been reflected in Note 507, Although there have been some improvements. We need several things. We need first of all transparency, and transparency requires open meetings, the application of Rule 48 of the Provisional Rules of Procedure of the Security Council, more interactive open meetings, not set-piece statements that are made without any thought to interaction and action by the Council. There is most importantly the need for democracy, and that democracy can be inducted through the role of elected members, not permanent members. We need to have a larger role for the elected members And to break the oligopoly of the P5 in the Security Council. And this is manifest in at least 4 areas. Firstly, the penhold issue. There is an imbalance in the holding of pens between the P5 and the E10, and there is also an imbalance in the holding of pens between and among the P5, where some members hold a majority of the pens, and there is one permanent member who holds no pen and has been prevented from exercising pen holdership on one issue quite recently. So I think there is a need to review the whole process and I believe that the Security Council's Working Group will look into this and we hope this group will contribute and support this reform of the penholdership. Secondly, the issue of selection of chairs of subsidiary bodies. Again, these are arbitrarily vetoed in certain cases, arbitrarily, with no reason and no transparency. There must be a greater transparent process for selection or rejection of a chair for various groups. Certain groups cannot monopolize areas that are critical. Thirdly, the issue of documentation. Our Algerian friends have talked about the access, equal access to documentation, and they had to fight for it. It was not automatic. And fourthly, there is the issue of The revision of the periodicity of meetings of the subsidiary bodies. If you see the schedule, there are very few meetings. The subsidiary bodies exist, but they meet very infrequently, and there are good reasons for that. And we have to look into that. Thirdly, there is the issue of representation. There has to be a greater role for regional bodies and for cross-regional groups to be represented in all the interactive discussions Fourthly, the issue of accountability. We have sanctions regimes which are applied and adopted almost automatically when an issue comes before the Council. It's as if you have a hammer and you see everything as a nail. So that sanctions regimes are applied, and these are often counterproductive. When you apply sanctions regime on a country that is in internal conflict or in a crisis, it impacts on the population of that country and is counterproductive. And therefore, we have called— Pakistan has called for a review of the sanctions regimes of the Security Council. And we believe that the whole issue of how Chapter 7 resolutions are adopted needs to be reconsidered. Quite often, Chapter 7 resolutions are presented by P5 members or some P5 members without consultations with the E10 and imposed within 24, 48, 72 hours as such. And I think this is This is not an accountable process and it needs to be reviewed. There is also the issue of detailed reporting, and I think my colleague from India mentioned it. We need more detailed reports from the Security Council to the General Assembly as to what has happened, what are the results of processes, not just a listing of issues. And lastly, the issue of the monitoring and implementation of Security Council resolutions. The Security Council has no mechanism by which it can monitor the implementation of resolutions. We need to find a mechanism, perhaps first and foremost a compendium of unimplemented resolutions of the Security Council. And here I would say there are no— old items do not die. The Security Council resolutions are not rescinded by non-implementation over time. Security Council resolutions under Article 25 are binding. Those have to be implemented, but we have no mechanism to review implementation. I think this is an important reform that we need in the Council. Co-chairs, we will work with you constructively and we hope that we will find even greater convergence on the issue of working methods. This will be an important component of the convergences on the 5 clusters. Once we have convergence on the 5 clusters, we would be willing to move to the next stage of the negotiations, but I'm afraid we are not there yet. The divergences are still too large and too difficult at the moment. Thank you, Co-Chair.


IGN · Co-Chair [1:27:01]:

I thank the distinguished representative. Thank you, Representative of Pakistan. And I give the floor to Switzerland.


Switzerland [1:27:10]:

Mr. President.

Chairman, allow me first of all to thank Ambassador Marshek for his commitment and outstanding work in co-leading our work alongside you. I'd also like to thank you, sir. We welcome this thematic debate on working methods. Now, regardless of the composition of the Council, efficient and transparent working methods are essential, and we welcome the recognition of that need in the framework of the Pact for the Future. Switzerland, which has recently completed its mandate as an elected member, has been working for many years to improve these, notably as coordinator of the Accountability, Cohesion, and Transparency Group. Over the past 2 years, we have seen the importance of clear procedural rules and their consistent application, particularly in a context where substantive discussions are becoming ever more contentious. We commend the work of Albania in 2023 and Japan in 2024 as chairs of the Informal Working Group on Documentation and Procedural Matters. As well as the recent adoption of the update to Note 507 containing the most recent agreements on the Council's working methods. Despite this progress, we remain concerned by the erosion in the consistent application of these rules and the failure to respect the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter. In particular, The obligation for parties to a dispute to refrain from voting as stipulated in Article 27 of the Charter has not been repeatedly— has been repeatedly disregarded, notably during last Monday's votes. Similarly, 5 months after the date specified in Note 507, no agreement has yet been reached on the distribution of the chairs of the Council subsidiary bodies. The legitimacy of the Council's decisions also depend on the way in which they are taken. Efficient and transparent working rules should— must be at the core of the functioning of the current Council and will be even more crucial in the context of an enlarged Council. In this context, Switzerland would like to highlight 3 priority areas that need to be strengthened. Increasing transparency. The Council's legitimacy also depends on the transparency of its work, which should be further improved and could involve better use of its means of communication. For instance, by institutionalizing the practice of the presidency making comments to the press following closed consultations, or by communicating the text prepared for the vote and their co-sponsors to all member states in real time. Like last year's visit to Colombia, which Switzerland co-led with the United Kingdom and Guyana, field missions are also a powerful instrument of engagement, communication, and transparency that the Council should use more often. Second, strengthening participation. During its Council presidencies in May 2023 and October 2024, Switzerland endeavored to increase the involvement of civil society representatives and to strengthen the participation of women in its deliberations. We must also ensure that a future Council is more representative, not only geographically, but also in the line— in line with the Women, Peace and Security and Youth, Peace and Security agendas. Third, better foresight. In October 2024, the Council adopted a presidential statement on the impact of scientific developments on international peace and security. As this document emphasizes, Switzerland believes that it is important to anticipate future developments, but also to strengthen interaction with scientific actors and make full use of their resorts in order to put the power of science at the service of peace and security. Chair, the Council must always strive to be effective in its work of maintaining international peace and security. While we favor A Council that better reflects today's world, we also advocate for a Council that is more capable of taking action. In the face of current and future challenges, the peoples of the world should expect nothing less. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [1:32:07]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Switzerland and I give the floor to Indonesia.


Indonesia [1:32:15]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Improving the Security Council's working method is central to our effort in making the Council more effective effective, efficient, transparent, inclusive, and accountable. It is key to ensure the Council is better fit for purpose in responding to the evolving security landscape. And not less importantly, improving the Council's working method is crucial to maintain the Council's credibility and legitimacy. Towards this direction, allow me to share 4 points. First, ensuring greater opportunities of non-Council members to engage with the Security Council. Regular consultation between the Council and wider member states on specific issues must be increased, such as with the TPCCs on the mandates of the UNPKO, as well as with relevant member states on sanctions. Among others, views from non-Council members on how to improve the annual report of the Security Council can be taken into consideration, in particular on how to make the report more analytical and reflects the trend in a year that enhances transparency and accountability, ultimately strengthening the effectiveness of the Council. Second, promoting more interactions between the Council with regional organizations and other subsidiary bodies, including the Peacebuilding Commission. Strengthening the collaboration will foster synergy and better understanding on real situation on the ground. It will lead to more concrete and effective responses. We also support continued interactions between the Informal Working Group on Documentation and Other Procedural Questions, or the IWG, with the IGN process. It is therefore important for the IGN to receive regular briefing from the IWG Chair to update the discussion in the Council. Third, ensuring greater equality between the E10 and the permanent members. The E10 must have equal opportunities as the penholders of issues based on the principles of openness, shared responsibility, and fair burden sharing among all Council members. Also, in the reformed Council, a mechanism should be arranged to ensure that each member of the Security Council serves as President of the Council at least once during their term. Lastly, a periodic review of the working method must be in place after the reform takes place, to identify further areas for improvement and incorporate feedbacks, and to ensure that the working methods remain adaptable for the Council to respond to continuously evolving challenges. Co-chairs, improving the working methods is part of the whole reform of the Security Council that we must undertake. A comprehensive reform process will only be achieved with our proactive approach and and strong political will. Therefore, let us demonstrate our utmost political commitment in making progress to reforming the Security Council that will contribute not only to the maintenance of international peace and security, but also to improving the whole multilateral architecture that is fit for the 21st century. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [1:35:24]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia and I give the floor to Thailand.


Thailand [1:35:31]:

Co-chairs, thanks very much for holding this very important discussion. I know that it is a cliché to repeat this statement, but it's a fact that improving the Council's working method is one of the low-hanging fruits which we believe could help enhance the Council's credibility and effectiveness. On today's discussion of the working methods of the Security Council, my delegation would like to emphasize the following points. First, to strive for a more effective, credible, and accountable Council, it is Thank you very much. It is very important that we need to see political will and the Council unity. It is undeniable that the rising political tensions have made the Council more polarized and less able to take a decisive action. But to maintain the primary responsibility for the maintenance of peace and security, able to put down their differences, in particular on the issues of humanity and humanitarian adversity. Secondly, we recognize a vital role of the elected members of the Council in shaping a more productive outcome. Greater participation of the elected members should be strengthened. Independent holdership or co-penholdership. We are of the view that their role may become more significant in terms of the threshold of the affirmative votes needed to adopt a resolution, depending on how an expanded council will take shape in the future. Third, peace and security cannot be considered in silo. A multidimensional approach is crucial for tackling current global challenges. We therefore support increased coordination among the Council and other UN bodies, including of course the General Assembly, ECOSOC, and the Peacebuilding Commission. It is essential that these relevant bodies work in synergy in addressing geopolitical tensions and global challenges. And lastly, Thailand supports timely and more intense consultations with countries, regions, and regional organizations on the peace and security issues, including any draft resolutions that may impact them. We also look forward to enhanced consultations with troop-contributing countries with regard to mandate renewals. Co-chairs, I would like to reaffirm Thailand's commitment to working with other member states to intensify our collective efforts for the reform of the Security Council. We need to pursue and make progress not only in the working methods but all remaining clusters in tandem on the revised co-chairs' element paper. We should narrow down areas of divergence and It proposes broadened areas of convergence based on progress achieved so far within IG and in line with Actions 39 to 41 of the Pact for the Future, and it condenses with General Assembly Decision 62/557 and other relevant resolutions and decisions of the General Assembly. Our ultimate aspiration co-chairs to strengthen the United Nations and the multilateral system with the UN at the core. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [1:39:35]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Thailand and I give the floor to China.


China [1:39:41]:

Thank you, co-chairs. First of all, I thank you for convening today's meeting. China is about to conclude its work as Council Presidency for the month of February. In light of the experience we gained from serving as President of the Council, I would like to share my understandings and views on the issue of the Council's working methods. The Security Council is currently having quite some problems that need to be addressed in terms of both the symptoms and root causes. If underrepresentation of the Council is to be addressed as root causes, then Erroneous thinking and irrational working methods are to be rectified as symptoms. This is an essential element to improve the Council's work and make it more efficient. The Council's working methods need to keep pace with the times, function in a democratic, efficient, and transparent manner, give expression to the equal participation and shared responsibility of members, enable the Council to maximize its role and enhance the international community's confidence in and expectation of the Council. China believes we can start our work in the following areas. The first is to strengthen unity and cooperation. Among the numerous issues under the Council's working methods, Unity is the most important one. The Council belongs to the broad membership. No matter how involved and complex the challenges are, jointly maintaining international peace and security has always been our primary responsibility. Council members should respect each other, consult on an equal footing, accommodate the legitimate concerns of all parties, ensure that the Council takes timely and effective actions and that the resolutions adopted by the Council are effectively implemented. Disagreements and differences should not be intentionally aggravated, let alone creating any man-made divisions and confrontations. The second is to reform— the second is to reform the penholdership. One of the critical issues in the Council's working methods, the penholdership, is about responsibilities, not privileges. Change needs to be made in the unjust and unreasonable situation where most items on the Council's agenda have long been penned by a small number of countries. Penholders should be objective and fair, focus on coordination and consensus building, instead of being arbitrary, having double standards, and imposing on others. China supports having multiple Council members acting as co-penholders, recommends promoting the practice whereby both categories of Council members hold the pen, and supports non-permanent members in playing a bigger role. This will help the council better address hotspot issues and is conducive to maintaining the unity and a cooperative atmosphere of the council. The third is to be more open and inclusive. The countries in question, regional countries, and regional organizations usually have the best understanding of the historical context and present-day challenges of hotspot. Issues. The Security Council should give attention and listen to their voice, put ideas together, and work jointly for a solution. This is also an aspect that China is paying the most attention to during its Council presidency. We have all along endeavored to make sure that the door of the Council presidency is always open to the broad membership and to all concerned China trusts that the co-chairs will follow the mandate contained in GA Decision 62/557, take a holistic view of members' discussions around the 5 clusters of the Council's reform, and inspire all parties to engage in even more in-depth and pragmatic reflections and discussions. China would like to work together with all parties to push the ITM process to continue on the track of frank dialogue and consultation to build consensus and narrow down differences. Thank you, co-chairs.


IGN · Co-Chair [1:44:30]:

I thank the distinguished representative of China and I give the floor to the Republic of Korea.


Republic of Korea [1:44:38]:

Thank you, Chair. I wish to thank you for convening this 3rd IGM meeting. Genuine reform should go beyond simply enlarging the Council. It must focus on improving the Council's capability and effectiveness. In this context, we believe the 2024 Presidential Note updating Presidential Note 507 on working methods is a step forward toward greater transparency and efficiency. Now, it is crucial to build on such efforts to shape a more representative and capable Council. In this regard, my delegation would like to briefly highlight the following points. First, a reformed Council must improve its working methods in a way that empowers elected members. The fact that elected members can bring diverse global perspectives through their different backgrounds and their stronger ties to the broader UN membership sets them apart from permanent members. However, based on our experience as a current elected member, We've observed that the disparities between permanent and elected members go beyond the veto power outlined in the Charter. While the veto is the most significant imbalance from the outside, in practice elected members also face less visible procedural challenges which can limit their ability to participate fully and effectively. Thus, it is important that these structural barriers are addressed in a fair and constructive manner. The UFC's reform model— longer-term non-permanent seats with the possibility of an immediate reelection— also offers a practical path to improving the Council's working methods. Indeed, the possibility of reelection would incentivize greater accountability, leading to a more sustained commitment and transparent decision-making processes. Second, the Council's working methods must be further refined to strengthen its interaction with other relevant UN bodies based on the comprehensive approach to peace. Peace is inherently a continuum spanning from conflict prevention, resolution, and peacekeeping to peacebuilding, all of which are closely intertwined. Connecting these dots is essential if the Council is to effectively fulfill its primary responsibility of maintaining international peace and security. At the same time, the Council cannot work in a silo, and collaboration with other relevant bodies, including the Peacebuilding Commission, is crucial for sustaining peace. As a member of both the PBC and the Security Council, and as the informal coordinator between the two, Korea will redouble its efforts to facilitate interactive discussions and explore concrete ways to enhance synergies between the two bodies. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [1:47:46]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Korea, and I give the floor to Estonia.


Estonia [1:47:56]:

I thank the permanent representatives of Austria and Kuwait for leading the intergovernmental negotiations on the Security Council reform, and I very much welcome today's discussion on UN Security Council working methods. It appears that everyone agrees that the Security Council must be more transparent, must be more efficient, must be more inclusive in conducting its business to better respond to the current and future global threats. Where we cannot agree is whether improving the working methods is a substitute to a real comprehensive reform or not. I think that the most rational way forward is actually to push forward common understanding when it comes to comprehensive Council reform while assuring in parallel rapid progress when it comes to the working methods of the Security Council. And improving the working methods have its own merit and is absolutely indispensable if we want to make any solid progress in the short term. And indeed, there is a pressing need to improve Security Council working methods as soon as possible to ensure the Council can already now better fulfil its mandate. Towards international peace and security. We do not need to wait for the full reform to adjust and advance Security Council working methods. Therefore, we thank Japan for their tremendous work in the Security Council with updating the Note 507. It is a living document that, of course, requires continuous review, but it's a good one. Meanwhile, it is important to ensure the full participation of all members of the Security Council in its work. This includes, for example, more burden sharing among all Council members in terms of penholdership, indeed, and systematic consultations with affected countries like host countries or TCCs or PCCs. We call also for fully implementing Action 41 of the Pact for for the future, namely improving the working methods of the Council, strengthening its relationship with the General Assembly, fully implementing and adhering to all provisions of the Charter, including Article 27 of the Charter, support credible, timely, and decisive action by the Council to prevent or end the commission of genocide, crimes against humanity, or war crimes. Reinforced by the events undermining, in my view at least, the UN Charter and its principles that were unfolding this very Monday in the Security Council, let me specifically emphasize the urgent need to full and consistent implementation of Article 27 of the Charter. We call on all Council members to ensure the implementation of an obligatory abstention of a party to a dispute from voting. By the way, text of resolution adopted in the Security Council on 24th of February leaves no room for interpretation when it comes to who are the parties to the dispute in this concrete case. Finally, we sincerely believe that under the able leadership of our co-chairs, We can indeed make solid progress during the IGN session and broaden the scope of elements of consensus for the Security Council reform with a view to develop a consolidated model, preferably already by the end of the current IGN cycle. And the consolidated model should be based on the large area of convergences of the 5 clusters and the models presented by member states. as prescribed in the Pact for Our Future. And progress mentioned would help us to move directly to the text-based negotiations. And Estonia is ready to contribute its share towards these ends. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [1:52:21]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Estonia, and I give the floor to Zimbabwe.


Zimbabwe [1:52:28]:

Thank you, Co-Chair, for convening this debate. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by Sierra Leone on behalf of the African Group. and I'll make the following remarks in a national capacity. When our heads of state and government adopted the Pact for the Future in September 2024, they gave renewed impetus to discussions on the reform of the Security Council. It is therefore our responsibility to translate commitments made by our leaders to tangible actions that will enhance the representativeness, effectiveness, transparency, accountability, and inclusivity of the Security Council. In that regard, my delegation underscores the need to fully implement Action 41 of the Pact for the Future, which emphasizes enhanced working methods, stronger engagement between the Security Council and the General Assembly, adherence to all Charter provisions, including Article 27, and decisive action to prevent or end genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. Co-chair, the Security Council cannot work in isolation if it is to achieve its mandate of promoting international peace and security. Greater coordination with the General Assembly, the Peacebuilding Commission, ECOSOC, as well as enhanced engagement with regional organizations such as the African Union and troop and police contributing countries will enhance transparency, inclusivity, inclusivity, inclusivity, and the credibility of the Council. The voices of non-Council members, regional organizations, and stakeholders must be meaningfully integrated into decision-making processes. The current system where decisions are largely predetermined before broader consultations take place must give way to a more participatory approach. Further, additional platforms such as the AREIA formula meetings promote engagement between council and council and non-council members and should remain a tool that supports our efforts towards transparency and inclusivity. Co-chair, the Pact for the Future also underscores the importance of adhering to the decision-making provisions of the UN Charter, including Article 27, which requires parties to a dispute to abstain from voting. Full implementation of this provision would prevent the misuse of the veto in situations where impartiality is needed, ensuring that Security Council decisions serve the collective interests of peace rather than geopolitical rivalries. The frequent use of the veto continues to undermine the Council's credibility and effectiveness. That is why the common Africa position, as espoused in the Ezulwini Consensus and Citi Declaration, states that while Africa is opposed in principle to the veto, so long as it exists and is a matter of justice, it should be made available to all permanent members of the Security Council. Co-Chair, the commitment to reviewing working methods including the penholder and core penholder system, is another welcome step. We commend the extension of the penholder system to members of the E10, as this promotes burden sharing and brings different political and functional capacities. The core penholdership should become the standard practice, ensuring that affected regions, particularly Africa, have a direct role in shaping decisions that impact This would not only enhance the legitimacy of the Council's work, but also improve the quality and effectiveness of its resolutions. While structural reform may take time, the penholder system and the Council's broader decision-making processes can and must be reformed immediately. The Council must also reform its sanctions regime and mandate implementation mechanisms. Sanctions, sanctions should be fair, targeted, and designed with input from the countries and regions they affect. Similarly, peacekeeping mandates must be shaped through inclusive dialogue with host countries and regional actors to ensure realistic objectives and meaningful outcomes. To conclude, let me stress that improving working methods is integral to the broader reform of the Security Council. Improving the working methods is particularly relevant in light of the geopolitical realities that often impede the Council's ability to effectively address global peace and security challenges. I thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [1:57:21]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Zimbabwe, and I give the floor to Morocco.


Morocco [1:57:32]:

Thank you, Mr. Co-Chair. First of all, I would like to commend the remarkable work by Mr. Alexander Maršić, the former Permanent Representative of Austria co-chairing the IGN process on the question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council and matters related to the Security Council. Key thematic debate on the working methods of the Security Council in the context of the intergovernmental negotiations. This is a central subject for the effectiveness and credibility of this principal organ responsible for international peace and security in carrying out its mandate. Co-chairs, for the Kingdom of Morocco, reform of the Security Council must be comprehensive and not gradual, and take into account the 5 clusters without exclusivity or exclusion, as is stipulated in Resolution 62/557. We attach a great deal of importance to effectiveness and the efficiency, as well as responsibility, in the working methods of the Security Council, and we are convinced of the need for the Council to adapt and to evolve in the face of the complex challenges in the 21st century. We underscore the importance of considering an expansion of the Security Council, not just in terms of numerical terms, but also in terms of equitable representation. In this regard, the Kingdom of Morocco considers that it is necessary to expand the Security Council in the 2 categories of membership provided for in the United Nations Charter, that is to say, permanent and non-permanent, and this in a contemporary way that better reflects the geopolitical and cultural diversity of our current world. The Kingdom of Morocco fully supports the common African position contained in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirt Declaration. My country supports just and equitable representation for Africa in the 2 categories of seats with at least 2 permanent seats with all of their prerogatives and privileges, which includes the right of veto if such continues to exist, as well as 5 non-permanent seats in order to do do justice to our continent and to repair an unconscionable and unjustified injustice done to one of the most important regional groups among the permanent members of the Security Council. Also, as an Arab country, we support greater representation of Arab countries that are heavily concerned by the issues that the Council is seized of through a permanent Arab seat with all prerogatives. As well as appropriate representation in the category of non-permanent members. Mr. Co-Chair, regarding the working methods of the Security Council, Morocco welcomes the significant progress that has been made towards a more inclusive and responsive Council. We underscore our appreciation for the continued efforts to improve the Council's working methods and practices, including through the adoption of Note 507 that has been updated As soon as they join the Council, as well as a more balanced sharing of the role of penholder, which ensures that the elected members can make an active contribution to the drafting of texts. Mr. Co-Chairs, although the number of public meetings has increased in recent years, the holding of private consultations continues to be essential in order to effectively and efficiently discuss sensitive subjects and to find compromises. These closed meetings allow for delicate issues to be addressed that require discretion and confidentiality, which are key elements in making a success of negotiations within the Council. I would also like to pay tribute to the Security Council Affairs Division for its crucial role in the continuous improvement of the Council's working methods through its activities, reports, and analyses. As well as its readiness to— its disposition vis-à-vis UN member states. We support the better restructuring of the Council's work, in particular by making the annual reports more complete by now including special reports on the use of the veto as well. Mr. Koches, as a troop-contributing country, and this since the 1960s, and a major contributor to United Nations peace efforts, The Kingdom of Morocco is in a good position to bear witness to the positive results of the actions of the Security Council for peace, security, and the peaceful settlement of disputes, particularly on the African continent. In this context, consultation meetings among the members of the Security Council and troop-contributing countries, as well as triangular meetings among the 2 aforementioned parties and the Secretariat, is a fundamental asset for the implementation of the mandates of peacekeeping operations, and it's also an effective way to strengthen transparency, cooperation, and interaction between the Security Council and United Nations member states. In this regard, we welcome the strengthening of the relationship between the Security Council and the Peacebuilding Commission, particularly when it comes to participation and contribution of the chairs of the Commission and the chairs of the country configurations to members of the Council. As well as through the advice of country configurations during the adoption of resolutions concerning member states that are on the agenda of both organs. This coordination should continue and strengthen itself in order to achieve benefits and also to strengthen the link between conflict prevention, peacekeeping, peacebuilding, and sustaining peace. As regards the relationship between the Security Council and the General Assembly, Thank you very much. The preservation of the institutional balance between these 2 organs is essential. The United Nations Charter is very clear as to the functions, powers, and prerogatives of each respective organ. The Security Council is designated by the United Nations Charter as being the principal organ responsible for the maintenance of international peace and security. This is a clear mandate that has no ambiguity in it. Compliance with the provisions of Article 12 for the United Nations Charter is essential for the implementation of the mandates of both organs and to avoid interference, duplication, and overlaps between their respective functions and powers. In conclusion, I would like to reiterate the Kingdom of Morocco's support to the format and the intergovernmental nature of our work. My delegation reaffirms its commitment to supporting the implementation of the reforms undertaken and to contributing alongside all member states to to a more representative Security Council that better represents the interests of all members of the United Nations. I would like to reiterate to you, co-chairs, the full support of my delegation and reiterate our determination to continue to participate constructively and positively in our work. Thank you for your attention.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:04:54]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the Kingdom of Morocco, and I give the floor to Argentina.


Argentina [2:05:05]:

Good afternoon. Thank you very much. Co-chairs, distinguished Permanent Representative of Kuwait, allow me at the outset to thank on behalf of the Republic of Argentina the fact that you have organized this new— renewed meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiations on Reform of the Security Council of the United Nations. Today we are discussing the working methods, one of the 5 clusters established by Decision 62/557 of Argentina aligns with the statement delivered by the distinguished Permanent Representative of Italy on behalf of the Uniting for Consensus Group and wishes to deliver the following comments in our national capacity. We believe that the question of the Security Council's working methods is very relevant indeed so as to improve the functioning of that organ. But what is more, to harness efforts to make it more agile and democratic. With that in mind, Argentina understands that efforts deployed by various member states over recent years are very valid and positive, but they are insufficient. It should be highlighted that in general these achievements were the outcome of efforts from elected members of the Council, and that's no coincidence because we know that a more agile, effective Council will only be achieved through a system based on greater participation of elected member states and a diminished participation of states with veto powers. Argentina believes it's totally feasible and possible to make progress towards improving the working methods of the Security Council in the short term. Given that this doesn't involve any reform of the United Nations Charter, but rather in many cases the proper implementation of what is already enforced. Historically, Argentina has defended the need to have a Security Council with working methods which are transparent, inclusive, open, democratic, and efficient. Along these lines. We are guided by our conviction that much work remains to be done when it comes to access to information, both past and present. Presentation of resolution and penholders. The election of chairs and co-chairs of the subsidiary bodies. The use of Article 27.3 of the United Nations Charter and the implications of the use of the veto. Without undermining efficiency in the Council's decision-making, we must strive to ensure that it is more transparent and democratic in how it relates to the rest of the organization's member states. And here it is very clear that we need to promote a complementary and cooperative relationship between the Council and the General Assembly with respect for the principles of the Charter in favor of international peace and security. Because of all I have just explained, Argentina favors in the context of the Uniting for Consensus negotiating group a comprehensive reform of the Council, which foresees a series of substantive improvements at every level of the Council's functioning. This is also how decision— the 2008 decision came into being, noting that in the middle of the 21st century it would be ineffective to grant to other states equal or greater prerogatives to those which are already held by the 5 permanent members. On the other hand, Argentina would like to also refer to the functioning of the sanctions committees of the Council where we're not fully aware of their implementation or their efficiency. Because of that, we believe that due process here needs to be applied. Something similar happens with referrals made by the Security Council to the International Criminal Court where the process and lack of results tend to undermine the authority of these bodies. Another aspect of the utmost importance to my country is the preparation of the annual report of the Security Council. In the context of the competencies of that body and in terms of the binding nature of its decisions, such a descriptive report is not sufficient or productive. There's a need to share information which gives account of the advantages of the decisions functioning of the Security Council. However, Argentina recognizes the progress made, particularly in terms of considering a section on the use of the veto. In sum, the Republic of Argentina is committed to improving the working methods of the Council and believes that in the end this will only be brought about by. By changing that body's culture in terms of how it adopts decisions, the efficiency of its performance, and accountability. All of this is urgent and can no longer be delayed, given that 2024 was complex for the Security Council, and that's because of the excessive use of the veto. Our country isn't in favor of such an excessive use of the veto, and so we are committed to a reform process which in the main promotes a more agile, effective, democratic UN system. We will need to work closely together to bring this into being. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:10:39]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Argentina. I give the floor to Australia.


Australia [2:10:48]:

Thank you, Co-Chair. Australia has consistently championed transparent and effective working methods of the Security Council. To enable the Council to start its mandate. Australia welcomes the progress made in this regard, particularly under the leadership of Japan to revise Note 507, the comprehensive compilation of working methods of the Council. Today, I wish to elaborate on 3 key ways to improve the working methods of the Council. First, Australia supports enhancing participation by briefers in the Security Council. This includes participation in Council meetings by those working in the field, often at greatest risk to their own personal safety, whether civil society representatives or humanitarian briefers. Their expertise provides valuable firsthand insights to the Council on threats to international peace and security. Second, Australia supports increasing consultation and coordination between the Security Council with other UN bodies, particularly the Peacebuilding Commission. The Commission, as per its mandate and functions, provides valuable advice to the Council on cross-cutting peacebuilding needs and priorities. This includes to assist Council decision-making on the formation, review, and drawdown of peace operations and special political mission mandates. As a current member of the Commission, Australia recognizes the need to strengthen the Commission's advisory role to the Council amid a concerning rise in armed conflict. We welcome this progress to date, including strengthened language on collaboration between the Council and the Commission in the revised Note 507 on Council working methods. But more can be done. We call for the implementation of the revised Note 507 and to explore ways for the Commission to advise the Council in a more timely manner. Third, Australia supports ongoing implementation of initiatives to improve the transparency of the Council. Especially regarding the use of the veto, like the veto initiative which Australia has championed. In this regard, we appreciated the most recent annual report of the Security Council to the General Assembly, which included for the first time a dedicated chapter on the special reports on the use of the veto. We encourage UN member states' continued participation in General Assembly debates on the use of the veto, especially the participation of States to explain their use of the veto. In summary, Australia will continue to get to engage on pragmatic ideas and proposals to strengthen the working methods of the Security Council in support of maintaining international peace and security. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:13:27]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Australia, and I give the floor to Nigeria.


Nigeria [2:13:37]:

Thank you, Chair, for bringing us together again on this very important discussion towards an eventual reform of the UN Security Council. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone on behalf of the African Group and the distinguished representative of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines For the group of L69, Nigeria remains fully committed to the efforts to ensure a comprehensive reform of the United Nations system that will uphold the principles, objectives, ideals, and adherence to the values of democratization and inclusiveness, anchoring this organization on the respect for these principles as well as the promotion of common interests and inclusivity will ensure international harmony. During the High-Level Summit of the Future at the 79th UNGA session, world leaders adopted the Pact for the Future and once again called for the total overhaul of the global governance structure. Our leaders agreed to strengthen their commitment to the IGN process. In addition to the demand for Africa and the underrepresented regions to be given a just representation at the Council, in light of the prevailing global geopolitical tension and as a matter of urgency, we need to conclude this process. We agree with the representative of Saint Vincent and Grenadines that it is time. To move away from repetitive series of debates and discussions that fail to yield concrete actions, we ever wish to note as follows: The Council, as presently constituted, is deprived of valuable contributions that should be made by a diverse range of voices in its decision-making process. These contributions would have instilled the much-needed values, restored its confidence, enhanced the legitimacy of its works, as well as contributed to sustainable peace, security, and global development. A reformed and restructured Security Council should be representational, as set out in Article 24 of the Charter. The global multilateral system must ensure the participation of all sovereign states and their regional groupings in all spheres of the UN system to engender a balanced, fairer, and robust debate on global matters. The new Council should adapt working methods that will ensure transparency, efficiency, and accountability, and should take cognizance of the anticipated increase in its membership. There is also the need for the Council to refrain from applying Chapter 7 of the Charter to issues that do not pose a threat to international peace and security. It should also refrain from any recourse to the imposition of prolonged sanctions on any state which serves only in the interest of one or a few states as against the general interest of the international community. Multilateral measures may only be adopted as a last resort to enforce compliance by a state with its international obligations. In same vein, It will be imperative for the new Council to undertake a revision of its provisional rules and procedures. We must strengthen the cooperation and communication between the new Security Council and General Assembly. The annual reports and special reports of the Council to the General Assembly should be more analytical in nature, while full implementation of the decisions of the Council and the General Assembly should be carried out in accordance with the UN Charter. To further enhance accountability and transparency in the Council, there is a need for the continuous holding of open sessions, open briefings, and open debates. We also call for an open, inclusive interaction or close consultation between the Council and the regional groupings on issues affecting any of its members. As well as the region. The new Council should also enhance consultation and transparency between it and troop and police contributing countries, especially on the mandate of the Council on peacekeeping operations. Regional representation is a desideratum for a more functional and representative Council that is reflective of our current geopolitical realities. It is in light of this that we remain unequivocal in respect of Africa's demand for a reform of the UN Security Council that will ensure Africa's legitimate right to fair and equitable representation in the Council. From recent developments, the veto has become a weapon of interest. That is why Africa believes that the veto should be abolished. However, in the situation that the holders of the veto are unwilling to relinquish it, then it should be extended to all the new members in the permanent category. In conclusion, co-chairs, Nigeria is committed to strengthening regional, international, and global peace and security. We reiterate the urgent need for the reform of the Council that will be efficient, transparent, and inclusive, and have the capacity to address current global security challenges. We also join others in reiterating that text-based negotiation is an idea whose time has come. We can no longer run away from it if we must move this process forward. I thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:19:41]:

I thank the distinguished representative. representative of Nigeria, and I give the floor to South Africa.


South Africa [2:19:50]:

Thank you, Co-Chair. South Africa aligns with the statements delivered by Sierra Leone on behalf of the Africa Group and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on behalf of the L69, and would like to make the following additional points in our national capacity. Co-Chair, the Council's structural deficiencies have rendered it unable to shoulder its responsibility of maintaining international peace and security on behalf of the membership of the United Nations, as set out in Article 24 of the Charter of the United Nations. Its configuration has resulted in the Council reflecting a relic of the past, representing neither today's geopolitical realities nor the current membership of the United Nations. Comprehensive reform of the Security Council is a necessary step that must be guided by the principles of equity and representation. As such, in a reformed Council, its working methods must also be reinforced by these principles. The informal working group on documentation and other procedural questions plays a critical role in shaping these working methods in an expanded Council, ensuring that in spite of its size, it can function effectively and benefit from the geographically diverse range of voices that will be contained in it. Co-Chair, concerns have been raised about the— how the size of an enlarged Council will impact its efficiency and effectiveness. However, once reformed, the Informal Working Group shall continue to be the subsidiary body responsible for developing working methods that ensure the Council's effectiveness, efficiency, transparency and agility as it currently does. While the 5 clusters are inextricably linked, we note that the working methods of a reformed Council cannot be developed unless we know what the constitution of a reconfigured Security Council would be. Therefore, the discussion on working methods is second to that of the categories of membership And, as the master of its working methods, a reformed Security Council, through the Informal Working Group, will have to reflect on the most appropriate working methods for its functioning. We express our hope that the positions emphasized during today's discussions will inform the consolidated model that will be prepared by yourselves and presented in this session. We trust that this document will contain actionable language that can eventually form the basis of text-based negotiations. Such negotiations need to commence as soon as possible, as it will be the way whereby we as UN Member States are able to address and find solutions to the divergences that trouble some Member States and that are presented as a justification why these text-based negotiations, negotiations is apparently impossible. As we delay progress, Co-Chair, on reform, skepticism continues to grow about the Council's relevance and credibility in today's world and its legitimacy as the principal organ for the maintenance of international peace and security. I thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:23:02]:

I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa and I give the floor to Ecuador.


Ecuador [2:23:11]:

Thank you, Co-Chair. Various facts surrounding the Security Council meeting on the war in Ukraine held 4 days ago speak volumes as to the importance of working methods and their improvement so as to provide certainty to members of the Council and particularly the UN membership as it follows the Council's agenda with attention. This improvement has been duly interpreted in Action 41 of the Pact for the Future. We need to ensure that the Council's— this is a key tool to make the Council more transparent, efficient, and democratic, but the constant improvement of the working methods is essential to bring this about. Reflected by Action 41 of the Pact for the Future in keeping with Action 39. The working methods could be a key tool to ensuring that the Security Council is in line with today's world, ensuring that it is able to discharge its ultimate responsibility of maintaining international peace and security in accordance with Article 24 of the Charter. To do so. As an elected member for the 2023-2024 biennium, Ecuador granted great importance to transparency and accountability. Ecuador recognizes the improvements which have been introduced into the Council's working methods over recent years, which has been possible thanks to cooperation and will from all of its members. Including in the unofficial work on documentation on other procedural matters. The update of Note 507 is an important and necessary step, and Japan clearly deserves particular recognition and thanks as its leadership allowed us to successfully achieve this task. Text incorporates, for instance, for the first time, the special reports on the use of the veto in the annual report to the General Assembly. Which makes progress with a longstanding aspiration, as has been mentioned here by various representatives. However, it was not possible to adopt the proposal to make visible to all member states the list of co-sponsors for draft resolutions of the Security Council on the e-delegate platform, despite the fact that this received majority support of the Council's members. Hopefully something so simple and reasonable can be rolled out in the near future. Much remains to be done including the following aspects. First, the importance of penholder responsibilities which need to be taken up in a just and balanced fashion by all members of the Security Council permanent and non-permanent alike. Progress has been made in this direction as we've seen in Note 507. There's a need now to implement that practice. The fact that elected members draft on situations involves— increases the involvement— their involvement in the works of the Council leads to knowledge and it can contribute to strategies of the Council to ensure that its strategies in favor of peace are more consistent. Second, the Council must increase its interaction with members of the United Nations. This means more transparency and more opportunities for members of the General Assembly to interact with the work of the Council. For example, the wrap-up sessions we've seen at the end of each month which allow us to address the matters approached by the Council, which should therefore be interactive. This clearly to a great degree depends on the membership, which should take advantage of these meetings and not merely settle with the holding of formal sessions despite the usual openness of rotating presidencies. Third, the transparency and responsibility of the Council towards— in terms of documentation and how this is made available to member states, this could be improved and this could be more timely. And some progress has been made in this area as reflected in the recently updated Note 507. Co-chair, often it is repeated that the Security Council has ownership of its own procedures. Article 30 of the Charter is crystal clear in that connection. Given the real challenges, the real difficulties of bringing about this reform, Its working methods are essential to ensure that this body can carry out its daily tasks in an efficient, transparent, inclusive, and effective measure— manner, particularly because its decisions have a direct impact on all UN members. And, Kocia, I'd like to conclude by congratulating you as well as the former Permanent Representative of Austria for the excellent work which you have been carrying out in the leadership you've shown in these discussions, and you can count on Ecuador's support in this endeavor. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:29:04]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Ecuador, and I give the floor to Portugal.


Portugal [2:29:12]:

Thank you, Mr. President, and I'm pleased to see you sharing this timely and important meeting and also to congratulate you for the very good job you have been doing in this important topic. Excellencies and colleagues, Portugal advocates for a more transparent, inclusive and effective Security Council. Reform must go beyond composition to improve working methods, ensuring the Council can address today's security challenges. Let me very briefly highlight 5 key priorities. First, on enhancing transparency and inclusivity. The Council must strengthen its engagement with non-members, particularly affected countries, to ensure that its decisions reflect the realities on the ground. The relationship between the Council and key UN bodies, including the GA, ECOSOC, and the PBC, must be enhanced to foster greater coherence in conflict prevention and resolution. This includes thematic discussions and field visits. The Council should also improve coordination with regional organizations such as the African Union, European Union, ASEAN and others to ensure a more effective and regionally anchored response to crises. Second, improving planning and implementation of peacekeeping mandates. Regular consultations with troop and police-contributing countries must be reinforced to ensure a more strategic and informed approach to peacekeeping mandates. Mandates must be clear, realistic, context-specific, ensuring that peacekeeping operations effectively fulfill their role to protect civilians and maintain security. Third, promoting more open and inclusive formats. Portugal supports reducing closed formats, ensuring that closed-door formats, ensuring that the Council operates with greater transparency and accountability. Civil society briefers must be protected from reprisals and their geographic balance safeguarded to ensure broader perspectives are considered. Wrap-up sessions of the Council President should be instituted institutionalized to ensure a more systematic and transparent review of each month's work. Fourth, strengthening the role of elected members. Elected members should have a greater role in drafting Council outcomes and holding penholderships, ensuring a more equitable distribution of responsibilities. My country supports ensuring that all elected members preside over the Council at least once during their term to enhance fairness and participation. Fifth and last, limiting and increasing scrutiny of the use of the veto. Portugal has been a vocal advocate for limiting the use of the veto, particularly in cases of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. We support the Franco-Mexican Declaration and the ACT Code of Conduct. Which has gained the endorsement of over 2/3 of the membership, as well as strengthening the veto initiative, which brought greater accountability to the use of the veto. We also underscored the need to fully implement Article 27 of the UN Charter, thus ensuring that Council members with a direct stake in a conflict abstain from voting on related resolutions. Excellencies and dear colleagues, Mr. Chairman, Portugal supports a more representative, effective and accountable Security Council, with improved working methods as a key pillar of reform. We remain committed to building a Council that responds to global challenges while upholding its legitimacy and credibility. I thank you, Mr. President.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:33:19]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Portugal. And I give the floor to the United Kingdom.


United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland [2:33:28]:

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The UK remains focused on ensuring the UN Security Council can deliver on its crucial mandate, the maintenance of international peace and security. To do that, it must be able to take action to respond to conflict, resolve disagreements, and build consensus through constructive and informed debate. All of this relies on effective and efficient Council working methods. The UK supports efforts to review, improve, and strengthen the Council's working methods and welcomes the efforts of the Council's Working Group on this issue. I will touch on 3 particular issues relating to working methods which I know are of particular interest to Members. Firstly, we recognize the General Assembly's appetite for increased transparency in the work of the Council on matters of international peace and security. As penholder of the 2023 UNSC Annual Report, we convened an informal General Assembly meeting ahead of the drafting process to garner input on how the report can best service the needs of the wider membership, engaging constructively on proposals put forward by member states. We are encouraged that an informal meeting with the wider membership took place again ahead of the drafting of the 2024 report and hope this now becomes standard practice. Second, on the question of penholding, the UK recognizes the appetite from the wider UN membership to improve this informal convention. We have worked with elected Council members as co-penholders on a variety of files and have benefited from our co-penholders' insight and expertise. More broadly, UK works closely with Council members on all files on which we penhold or co-penhold, consulting and engaging extensively. This is an approach we will continue to take. Finally, I would like to touch on the frequency of Council meetings and their conduct. The UK continues to push back against efforts to call meetings which do not have a clear purpose and artificially overload the Council's agenda. The Council's programme of work must be be sufficiently streamlined to allow it to remain agile as we face an increase in conflict around the world. And Council meetings must be focused, with competent briefers, including from civil society, civil society, who enrich, not distract from, Council discussions. Effective, efficient meetings ensure the Council can focus on delivering its core mandate. I thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:35:58]:

I thank the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom. And I give the floor to Slovenia.


Slovenia [2:36:07]:

Thank you very much, Mr. Co-Chair. Slovenia has presented both its general and more detailed views on the reform several times in the past, most recently at the General Debate in the General Assembly. But since this is our first time speaking at this session of the IGN, let me briefly summarize the main points. The reform of the Security Council must be part of a broader reform of the UN. UN, and it must make the Council more efficient, effective, legitimate, democratic and responsive. More specifically, Slovenia supports the expansion of the Security Council in both categories of membership, with the aim of ensuring that the Security Council reflects today's and tomorrow's realities and changing global relations. At the same time, the reform must ensure or enhance the effectiveness of the Council's response. The Council must respond quickly and responsibly. It needs to be inclusive and representative. The fact that the UN membership has increased significantly since the last enlargement is a strong enough argument for reform and the increase of membership. Likewise is the fact that some groups are clearly underrepresented, most notably Africa, and Slovenia holds a very positive view of the African Common Position. Securing stronger and more permanent voice from the region is both a question of correcting historical injustice as well as a necessity to maintain legitimacy, credibility and relevance of the Council. Slovenia also strongly advocates for an additional non-permanent seat for the Group of Eastern European Countries. Since 1964, The membership of the Group has more than doubled. One of the reform's aims must also be to provide for equal opportunities for the membership of the regional groups to be elected. On the working methods, let me emphasize the following. First, the reform of the Security Council has to tackle the question of the working methods. They are, of course, linked to other issues. Size in particular. If the number of the Security Council is to increase, even only to low 20s, it is clear that all the current methods would not be sustainable. With increased membership, the efficient management of the day-to-day business will become even more important. As a current elected member of the Security Council, we strive to contribute towards updating and streamlining the methods that would make the work efficient and effective, which would make the process predictable and would enable the Council to react promptly, in particular in the situations of mass atrocities or the threat of it. We have seen progress in the working methods of the Council in recent years, and many of them would or could be applicable in the changed Council with increased membership. We are happy to discuss this issue further. Likewise, we have noted that elected members of the Council have, particularly in recent years, contributed significantly to drafting the Council's outcome. However, there is still a lot of space for improvement. We are supportive of the shared responsibility and fair burden sharing, as elected members have much value to add. In our view, Second, in our view, the Security Council should strengthen its engagement with the wider membership through the General Assembly, the Peacebuilding Commission, the Human Rights Council, and possibly others. PBC in particular could provide very valuable advice, including on prevention and cooperation with regional and sub-regional organizations. It can also contribute to discussions on mandates and could include common field missions. And speaking of the mandates, we believe there is still space to enhance the cooperation of the Council with the TCCs. ARIA formal meetings are a means for engagement informally with wider membership and diverse stakeholders, including civil society. We recognize its value in the reformed Council as well. And third, of course, the Council will have to strike a balance between between public and private meetings and consultations. Therefore, the members of the Council will have to make compromises and changes on how to present their position, including not having every statement read at every briefing. It is important for the Council to maintain its visibility and transparency, but they, they will have to go hand in hand with the efficiency. On another crucial point, it would be extremely important that every elected member holds the presidency of the Council at least once during their term. We would encourage an enlarged Council to continue to include civil society briefers— of course, with all the safety precautions— in its deliberations. They add a lot of value to the perspective of the issue debated. Changes in the work of the Council should be properly reflected in the methods of work of the subsidiary bodies. Co-Chair, we welcome the increased communication between the IGN co-chairs and the Chair of the IWG, and we encourage this practice to continue. I thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:41:25]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Slovenia, and I give the floor to Türkiye.


Türkiye [2:41:35]:

Thank you, Co-Chair. Türkiye fully aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Permanent Representative of Italy On behalf of the Uniting for Consensus Group, I would also like to make the following remarks in my national capacity. During previous IGN sessions, we have repeatedly pointed out to the necessity for the UN to be fit for purpose so that it can properly address contemporary challenges in an efficient and urgent manner. Stressing once again the strong interlinkages between the 5 clusters of General Assembly Decision We believe that in-depth deliberations on the Security Council's working methods is imperative. We therefore thank the co-chairs for convening this meeting. Today, we would like to draw attention to 4 key aspects on the working methods of the Security Council to enhance its accountability, representativeness, efficiency, transparency, and its democratic quality. First, we are increasingly witnessing the constructive role undertaken by the elected members of the Council, and we welcome their efforts. We further encourage their meaningful, equal, and active participation in decision-making processes and in all the endeavors of the Security Council. Second, we call for more equitable and balanced distribution of responsibilities and labor to ensure inclusivity in the Council especially on penholderships and chairships of subsidiary bodies along with other central tasks. Third, we remain convinced that the more transparency the Council displays while undertaking its work, the more accountable it will be. The more it shares information with non-Council Members, consults and accepts input, the more effective it will become. A more responsive Council to the UN membership will be better placed to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex world. Fourth, the coordination and cooperation between the General Assembly and the Security Council must be strengthened. The votings in the beginning of this week also displayed that the General Assembly, where all States are represented on the basis of sovereign equality, can and will continue to play a critical role regarding matters of international peace and security. We look forward to continuing our constructive engagement and further discussions. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:43:58]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Türkiye and I give the floor to Spain.


Spain [2:44:07]:

Muchas gracias. Thank you very much, Chair. It's always a pleasure to see you at the helm of our meetings. You can count on our full support. Thank you very much for your commitment and leadership. Spain, as part of the Uniting for Consensus Group, obviously Italy would like to align with the statement delivered by the Permanent Representative of Italy. In a national capacity, I'd like to make the following comments. First of all, I'd like to welcome the convening of this meeting on the theme of the working methods of the Security Council, which as we know is one of the 5 clusters related to the reform of this organ, which in our view needs to be comprehensive. We also would recall that the only agreed-upon established forum for reform of the Security Council is this intergovernmental negotiation, the IGN. We believe that the United Nations Four Consensus Group's principles is based on the principles of democracy, effectiveness, and representativeness, and that these principles should also guide our proposals as we seek to reform the Council's working methods. We would need to reform them, such as by adapting the number of votes required for a majority in line with the number of members of the council. However, while the reform—if the reform doesn't—while the reform is still pending, a number of important changes could also be. Carried out without needing to amend the UN Charter, I'd like to point some which have already been touched on by other delegations. We also believe that these are important. First, the form and content of the annual report of the Security Council. We believe that it's very important to include substantive information about deliberations and decisions taken by the Security Council. So that these can be considered by the General Assembly and more specifically the vetoes which have been used. Second, another point which delegations have stressed to a great extent is the greater allocation of and better distribution of responsibilities among elected and non-elected members. Third, the rotating membership The rotating presidency of the Council is important and elected members should be able to take up this role the same number of times while members of the Council. Another point which has been touched on at a great deal by delegations is the link between the Peacebuilding Commission and the Security Council. We think it's very important that when advice is sought from the Peacebuilding Commission, We would therefore recall that the Uniting for Consensus model proposes increasing solely the number of elected members, which we believe are essential to improving democracy, accountability, efficiency, and representative— representativeness on the Security Council. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:47:44]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Spain, and I give the floor to Micronesia.


Micronesia (Federated States of) [2:47:58]:

Thank you, Co-Chair. My credentials align with the statement delivered by the distinguished representative of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on behalf of the group, L69 group. Co-Chairs, it is incumbent on us to address the issue of paramount importance to the future of international peace and security: the reform of the UN Security Council. We must reflect on the evolving dynamics of global governance and adapt our primary organ for maintaining peace and security to the challenges of the 21st century. The Security Council has played a pivotal role in maintaining international peace and security since its inception. However, the world has changed significantly since 1945, and the Council's, Council's working methods must evolve to reflect these changes. We must ensure that the Council remains efficient, effective, and representative of the diverse and interconnected world we inhabit today. One of the most— one of the foremost priorities in reforming of the Council is enhancing transparency and inclusivity in its decision-making process. The Security Council must be more accountable to the broader UN membership and the international community. This can be achieved through regular consultations with the UN, with the UN wider membership, regional organizations, and other relevant stakeholders. By fostering greater inclusivity, the Council can benefit from a wider range of perspectives and expertise. Leading to more informed and effective decisions. The Council's decision-making processes must be reformed to ensure timely and decisive action in response to emerging threats. We advocate for the adoption of measures that streamline the Council's procedures, reduce bureaucratic delays, and promote more efficient coordination among member states. To reflect the geopolitical realities of the 21st century, the composition of the Council must be more representative and equitable. We support the expansion of both permanent and non-permanent membership to include underrepresented regions and countries with significant contributions to international peace and security. A more inclusive Council will enhance its legitimacy and strengthen its capacity to address global challenges. Finally, the Council must enhance its cooperation with other UN organs, regional organizations, and civil society. By fostering partnership and leveraging the strengths of different actors, the Council can adopt a more holistic and comprehensive approach to conflict prevention, peacekeeping, and post-conflict reconstruction. Strengthening these synergies will enable the Council to better address the root causes of conflicts and contribute to sustainable peace. Co-chairs, the reform of the Council's working methods is essential to ensure that it remains a robust and credible guardian of international peace and security. We must seize this opportunity to adapt the Council to the realities of our time and reaffirm our collective commitments to the principles and purposes of the UN. But we run the risk of repetitive gatherings, if no real negotiations, where text-based negotiations does not commence in earnest. Let us work together to rebuild a more inclusive, transparent, and effective Council for the benefit of humankind. Thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:52:36]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Micronesia. And I'll give the floor to the last speaker in our morning session. It will be Malaysia.


Malaysia [2:52:47]:

Thank you, Co-Chair. The debate on Security Council reform within our IGN process focuses on 5 interconnected clusters. All are essential for achieving comprehensive and sustainable reform. The Working Methods Cluster before us today is especially vital Due to its potential to transform the Council's functioning, ensuring it is inclusive, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic, and accountable. Co-chairs, for today's debate, Malaysia wishes to highlight the following 3 points. First, the Security Council holds the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. As part of this mandate, the Council determines the priority issues that make it into its agenda. While there are instances where consensus is reached to deliberate on particular issues, there are times when this consensus is lacking. This is not always problematic, but the real concern here is when crucial issues important to the countries involved, specific regions, or particular regional groups fail to be discussed. More concerning is when the determination of the Council's agenda is subject to the narrow political interests of certain members. It is essential that the Council's agenda be shaped by the importance of issues to international peace and security, not by the political expediency of a few. Second, Malaysia supports increasing the frequency of open meetings. Where discussions and decisions are made accessible not only to Council members but also to non-members, as well as the public. This encourages transparency and accountability in the Council's work. Additionally, the expanded use of ARIA-formula meetings provides a valuable and innovative means to include non-Council members in deliberations on critical issues, offering a platform for diverse perspectives. Such practice not only enhances transparency but also fosters trust and cooperation between Council and non-Council members, contributing to a more inclusive and effective decision-making process. Third, Malaysia believes that mandating regular reporting by Council members on their actions and decisions is essential for ensuring transparency and accountability. In this regard, Malaysia commends the veto initiative introduced by Liechtenstein, adopted in 2022. Penholders play an important role in the Security Council's work, guiding the drafting of resolutions, building consensus, and facilitating negotiations among Council members to secure their adoption. Regular reporting on penholder activities is crucial, not only for accountability, but also to identify opportunities for collaboration with non-Council members, helping to advance important issues. Co-Chairs, since becoming a member of the UN, Malaysia has had the honour and responsibility of serving as an elected member of the Security Council on 4 occasions. This role is one we approach with the highest level of commitment, given the significant stakes involved. particularly in safeguarding international peace and security. In this spirit, Malaysia remains committed to contributing constructively to the work of the IGN. I thank you.


IGN · Co-Chair [2:56:23]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Malaysia. Colleagues, we heard the last speaker for this morning. We will reconvene at 3 PM in this chamber to continue the discussion, followed by a closed interactive dialogue without webcast. Meeting is adjourned.