Fourth Committee, 18th plenary meeting - General Assembly, 81st session

The 80th meeting of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee, First Committee, is called to order. This afternoon, the committee will continue and conclude its general debate on agenda item 51, entitled "Questions relating to information." and take action thereafter on draft resolutions A and B contained in the report of the Committee on Information at its 48th session, contained in document A/81/21. I appeal to all speakers to deliver shorter versions of their statement and to submit the full text to eStatements@un.org. for posting in the UN Journal. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Dominican Republic.

Chairman,

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, our delegation would like to begin by expressing our thanks to Ms. Mirza Fleming, Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications, for her work, and we thank also her team for the work carried out by their department. Likewise, we would like to express our thanks for the presentation of the report of the Secretary General on questions relating to information and the report of the Committee on Information. The Dominican Republic aligns itself with the statement delivered by Spain on behalf of the Group of Friends of Spanish and by Uruguay on behalf of the G-77 and China. At this stage, we would like to make the following statement in our national capacity. Chair, our country commends the efforts made by the Department of Global Communications to continue promoting strategic communications campaigns focused on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, climate action, promoting and protecting human rights, ensuring financing for development, multinational cooperation, and on matters relating to international peace and security. In addition, we underscore the Department’s role in disseminating information about the UN80 initiative and its aim to make the Organization increasingly efficient, fit for purpose, and capable of responding effectively to the global challenges of today and tomorrow. Furthermore, my country reaffirms its steadfast commitment to freedom of the press and the protection of journalists and media workers. As a country recognized for its leadership in press freedom rankings in Latin America and the Caribbean, we firmly believe that the work of the media is essential to strengthening democracy. In this light, my delegation also stresses the importance of enhancing the protection of journalists and media workers working in situations of violence, natural disasters, and armed conflict. This because their work is essential to bringing the humanitarian consequences of crises to light and facilitating a timely international response based on verified information. Mr. Chairman, another matter of great importance to our delegation is the promotion of multilingualism as a fundamental value of the UN and a pillar of multilateral diplomacy. This year, the Dominican Republic, together with Andorra, facilitated the resolution on multilingualism, achieving a short, concise, action-oriented text in line with the UN80 initiative, which was adopted by consensus. We hope that this resolution will serve to further strengthen efforts to mainstream multilingualism across the working culture of the United Nations. From the Dominican perspective, multilingualism should no longer be seen as an operational expense, rather a strategic investment in one of the areas that best reflects the nature of this organization. To conclude, the Dominican Republic welcomes the efforts of the Department of Global Communications to promote information in multiple languages drawn from reliable, evidence-based sources and supported by verifiable data. These efforts seek to foster informed reflection and critical thinking, and above all, to educate present and future generations about the importance of building increasingly just, sustainable, and resilient societies, leaving no one behind. Thank you.

I thank you. I give the floor to Bangladesh. You have the floor, sir. Bangladesh, please. You can press the button.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. My delegation thanks Under-Secretary-General Fleming for her informative briefing. We commend the Department of Global Communication for its unwavering commitment to disseminating reliable information about the work and activities of the United Nations. My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by Uruguay on behalf of G-77 and China. Negative impacts of misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech have made the already vulnerable situation even more complicated. We are deeply concerned at the rampant use of artificial intelligence and social media to spread fake news, giving rise to ethnic tensions and political rivalries among societies. I would like to emphasize the following points in our national capacity. First, we would like to emphasize the importance of multilingualism. Preserving small languages from extinction can build inclusive, creative, and tolerant societies. Bangladesh has a historic legacy of commitment to multilingualism. We strongly believe that education in mother tongue is critically linked with sustainable development of communities. We thank DGC for partnering with us in observing the International Mother Language Day on 21st February every year, which promotes respect for pluralism, diversity, tolerance, and the value of multilingual education. We call for increased dissemination of UN materials and information in other languages, in addition to UN official languages. In this regard, we acknowledge the role of United Nations Information Centre in complementing the government's efforts towards multilingualism. Second, Bangladesh wishes to emphasize the importance of the safety of journalists and media workers. It is urgent to disseminate information and create awareness regarding the unprecedented humanitarian crisis happening in Gaza. At the same time, we express our deep concern on the killing of journalists in Palestine, Lebanon, and other parts of the world, and strongly condemn these killings. We want to reiterate our request to undertake activities in raising awareness with regard to genocide and atrocity To this end, we also request DGC to raise awareness on the atrocity crimes committed against the Rohingyas in Myanmar. Third, UN must continue to build trust through accurate and accessible information and close the digital divide. UN should also support traditional means of communications, such as radio, in parts of the world where ICT is not accessible. Fourth, as one of the most climate vulnerable countries, we emphasize wide publicity of adverse impacts of climate change to draw the attention of the developed world and to disseminate the information on the UN's activities to reach a wider audience. Before concluding, I would like to reiterate our full support to the work of the Committee on Information. I thank you.

I thank you. I give the floor to Thailand, please.

Mr. Chair, Thailand aligns itself with the statements delivered by Uruguay on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and by our delegation on behalf of ASEAN. Thailand expresses a sincere appreciation to the Department of Global Communications for its steadfast commitment to advancing the United Nations mandate, fostering public trust, and promoting multilateralism in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. We also commend Ambassador Raintamsoo of Estonia and his team for their effective leadership during the 48th session of the Committee on Information. Mr. Chair, information and communication technologies offer tremendous opportunities for sustainable development and economic growth, yet they also present severe risk when weaponized. In an interconnected world, state and non-state actors can exploit digital networks to fuel polarization, erode trust, and undermine peace. Ensuring that information serves as a force for unity rather than division remains our shared responsibility. In this regard, Thailand wishes to highlight four key priorities. First, we must protect information integrity and safeguard United Nations personnel and field missions. The rampant spread of misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech poses a direct threat to social cohesion and global peace. Crucially, malicious and weaponized content creates severe security risk for UN peacekeeping operations and special political missions. By manipulating local perceptions and inciting hostility, deceptive narratives can undermine trust in missions, impede mandate implementation, and place the UN personnel at heightened risk. Falsehoods must be countered not with retaliatory rhetoric, but with verifiable truth, fact-based communication, and respect for the UN Charter. Furthermore, we urge the DGC to coordinate and cooperate with digital platforms and technology companies in strengthening algorithmic transparency and content accountability while respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms, with a view to curbing coordinated disinformation campaigns. Second, we must ensure that information ecosystems are guided by shared governance principles. Emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, must be developed and utilized responsibly. Thailand reaffirms its support for the UN Global Principles for Information Integrity as a benchmark for ethical digital governance. To this end, Thailand champions the safe and ethical use of AI and digital innovations to promote human rights, advance sustainable development, and foster inclusive growth. Thailand welcomes the newly adopted ASEAN Work Plan for Information and Media 2026-2035, which strengthens collective resilience, combats disinformation, and advances responsible technology governance in alignment with the ASEAN Community Vision 2045. Third, we must empower individuals through media and digital literacy. A resilient society requires an informed public. Equipping all generations, especially youth, women, and older persons, with critical digital skills and media literacy enables them to navigate online spaces responsibly, foster civic participation, and build mutual understanding. Fourth, we must continue to expand multi-stakeholder partnerships. Building a trustworthy information ecosystem demands whole of society collaboration. We urge the DGC to intensify outreach through UN information centers, engaging women, youth, and educators as trusted messengers and grassroots multipliers of reliable information. Thailand also stresses that multilingualism across all six official UN languages is vital to ensure that no community is left behind. Mr. Chair. The biennialization of the Committee on Information's resolutions should translate into more effective and impactful work by the Department in advancing the UN's communication priorities. Thailand looks forward to a substantive and constructive dialogue with all delegations and the DGC next year to descend. Information carries the power to unite or divide, to protect or to harm. Taiwan reaffirms its steadfast support for the DGC and the UN in cultivating an information landscape where truth prevails. Dialogue bridges divides, and communication serves as an instrument for enduring peace and sustainable development. I thank you.

Thank you. And I give the floor to India.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. In today's interconnected world, Access to accurate and timely information is vital for peace, social harmony, and informed decision-making. India emphasizes that information should transcend barriers of nationality, gender, religion, or culture. An informed citizenry combats misinformation, curbs corruption, and holds governments to account. As a democracy that guarantees the right to information, India empowers citizens to seek information from public authorities, promoting transparency and reinforcing democracy. This framework has strengthened public trust in governance. Mr. Chair, misinformation, disinformation, and digital fraud pose serious risks. India has expanded digital access and taken measures to combat digital fraud. This proactive approach reflects India's commitment to ensuring safe, transparent, and reliable digital interactions for its citizens. Over the past nine years, broadband subscription in India have increased by over 262% from around 300 million to over a billion connections. India's internet economy is projected to reach $1 trillion by 2030. Government initiatives have been taken to enhance internet access across the country. Project BharatNet connects over 250,000 village councils with high-speed broadband, ensuring rural communities benefit from digital infrastructure, e-governance, online education, telemedicine, and digital payments. The Prime Minister’s Rural Digital Education Initiative has successfully trained around 64 million individuals in rural areas. India values UN peacekeeping missions and appreciate DGC’s efforts in highlighting the contributions of peacekeepers. We remain vigilant about the safety of peacekeepers and urge DGC to collaborate with field missions to tailor communication strategies accordingly. Maintaining the peacekeeping websites in local languages would be a useful step to further broaden the outreach of this information. We appreciate the DGC's commitment to multilingualism, recognizing the importance of communication beyond the six official UN languages. The success of UN social media accounts in Hindi, which have gained substantial followings, highlights the importance of outreach in diverse languages. Expanding such efforts will enhance inclusivity and foster greater engagement with communities in their native languages. reinforcing the UN's role as a trusted source of information across cultures. We acknowledge the News and Media Division of DGC for its extensive work in promoting multilingualism. I also take this opportunity to thank the Division's support in commemorating the International Day of Yoga and helping the global yoga community in promoting the message of mental, physical, and holistic well-being. Mr. Chair, recognizing financial constraint affecting DGC, India is open to exploring innovative resource mobilization methods beyond regular budgetary allocations, especially for content in non-official languages. In conclusion, India reaffirms its strong support for the Department of Global Communications activities and initiatives. I thank you, Chair.

I thank you very much, and I give the floor to Kuwait.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The State of Kuwait thanks Ms. Melissa Fleming, USG for Global Communications, for her briefing, and the State of Kuwait expresses its appreciation for the efforts of the DGC in introducing the purposes and principles of the United Nations and conveying its message to the peoples of the world. The State of Kuwait emphasizes the importance of promoting multilingualism and ensuring parity among the six official languages at the United Nations, in particular in terms of enhancing the presence of Arabic and expanding access to reliable information, combating disinformation and hate speech. while also employing modern technology and artificial intelligence in a responsible manner. Mr. Chair, the challenge facing media today is no longer limited to the transmission of information. It has become a challenge related to its credibility and integrity, and in the distinction between freedom of expression and incitement to hatred. Accordingly, the State of Kuwait expresses its deep concern over the growing phenomenon of Islamophobia and the accompanying media campaigns and political narratives which are based on negative stereotyping of Islam and Muslims. We are concerned regarding the fueling of feelings of fear and hostility towards them. in practices that are contrary to the principles of equality, non-discrimination, and respect for human dignity. Here we are talking about a religion that has made mercy its message, and justice a duty, and familiarization between people an objective. a religion whose noble Prophet Muhammad, may the peace and blessings of God be upon him, came as a mercy to the world, not for one group over another, nor for one nation alone. Islamic civilization, with its centuries of contributions to science and knowledge, cannot and must not be reduced to the actions of individuals or groups that use religion as a cover to justify violence. Just as an entire faith cannot be held responsible for the actions of those who misbehave within it, the nearly two billion Muslims cannot be reduced to stereotypes created by incitement campaigns or fueled by political calculations. We do not demand immunity for any religion from legitimate criticism, but rather we reject criticism becoming incitement and freedom of expression becoming a pretext for discrimination and exclusion. In this context, the State of Kuwait welcomes the establishment of the mandate of the UN Special Envoy on Combating Islamophobia and calls on the DGC to strengthen its efforts in media and awareness to counter stereotypes and promote mutual understanding and mutual respect between religions and cultures. Mr. Chair, any talk of media freedom and the protection of journalists remains incomplete unless we pause to mention the grave violations that journalists are subjected to in the occupied Palestinian territory at the hands of the Israeli occupation authorities. While international journalists continue to be denied independent access to the Gaza Strip, attacks on Palestinian and foreign journalists continue in the occupied West Bank. Last October, there were attacks against journalists working for France Press and the Washington Post, in addition to media staff being detained and targeted with tear gas and rubber bullets. Media outlets were also shut down and their offices were stormed, including Al Jazeera's office in Ramallah. What freedom of the press Can we talk about when carrying a camera becomes a cause for being attacked, and when a press vest is not enough to protect those who wear it? In this regard, the State of Kuwait refers to the report of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the occupied Palestinian territory, Ms. Francesca Albanese, which addressed the role of some media outlets in justifying violations and spreading misleading narratives and dehumanizing victims. It also documented the killing of nearly 300 journalists and media personnel. since October 2023. Mr. Chair, these practices do not target journalists alone. Rather, they seek to obscure the truth and control the narrative that reaches the world. However, the transformation that we are witnessing in international public opinion and the ongoing popular movement in various capitals confirm that the truth is no longer subject to monopoly, and that the images and testimonies that emerge from Gaza have transcended borders, checkpoints, and attempts to obfuscate them. The State of Kuwait calls for an end to the restrictions imposed on the work of the media in the occupied Palestinian territory, and the immediate granting of independent access to the Gaza Strip for international journalists, and an end to attacks on journalists and ensuring accountability for crimes committed against them. In accordance with international law and Security Council resolution 2222, of 2015. Mr. Chair, the State of Kuwait commends the DGC’s Special Information Programme on the question of Palestine and calls for enhancing its efforts to publicize the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and expand multilingual content and support media capacity-building for Palestinian journalists. In conclusion, Mr. Chair, the State of Kuwait affirms that freedom of the media is not just a right to transmit and convey information; it is a responsibility to investigate the truth and preserve human dignity and protect those who risk their lives to transmit it to the world. Disinformation may obscure the truth for a while, but it cannot eliminate it. It may silence the voice of a witness, but it cannot erase the testimony of an entire people. Thank you, Mr. Chair, and may the peace and blessings and mercy of God be upon you.

I thank you. I give the floor to Brazil.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Brazil aligns itself with the statement delivered by Uruguay on behalf of the Group of 77 plus China and would like to add the following remarks in its national capacity. We thank the Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications, Ms. Melissa Fleming, for her report and for the Department of Global Communications continued efforts to promote the work and principles of the United Nations. On the question of multilingualism, Brazil continues to value the linguistic diversity of the United Nations in not only reaffirming our commitment towards the equitable use of its six official languages. but also promoting the use of other languages, like Portuguese, which contribute to expand the reach of messages from the UN to the far corners of the world and to reinforce its global legitimacy. We commend the DGC's work on maintaining a Portuguese channel on UN News, in addition to the Portuguese page on Instagram, as well as other efforts which encompass languages spoken by large populations around the world. Brazil is a close partner to the United Nations when it comes to information integrity. We align ourselves with the DGC's effort to combat misinformation, hate speech, and disinformation, and in working toward equal access to information and communication technologies so that all levels of society are able to equally participate in a global digital environment. Last month, Brazil held national elections not only for the president and vice president to serve over the next four years, but also 27 state governors, 54 senators, 513 members of the lower house of Congress, and 1,059 state legislators. During this highly contested process, held over two rounds of voting, which mobilized more than 158 million people registered to vote, The damaging impact of fake news, disinformation, and hate speech, which included threats against democratic institutions and vulnerable groups, once again was made clear. There were also complaints, currently under investigation, that large tech companies may have favored certain candidates in the distribution of content, as well as failed to impartially implement effective moderation policies to verify information and remove profiles that consistently share false information and hate speech. Algorithm distribution of content without transparency may have distorted freedom of speech and interfered in the political campaign. The public deserve access to truly free, verified information. The question of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, also cannot be ignored. While these technologies bring opportunities, they can also spread They can also spread fake content and use of data scrapping in detriment to the rights of children, consumers, authors, artists, and citizens in general. As President Lula stated last September in the General Assembly, it would be an unforgivable historical oversight not to address the challenge of regulating big tech and artificial intelligence. Mr. Chair, I wish to conclude by saying once again that Brazil also commends the DGC's global strategic communications response to challenges such as climate change. In that sense, Brazil actively organized events at the UN headquarters in New York and in Belém during COP30 with a view to raise awareness on the importance of information integrity in issues relating to climate change. Two years ago, together with the UN, UNESCO, and other countries, we also launched the Global Initiative for Information Integrity on Climate Change. Even as we leave the COP presidency this month, Brazil will continue to be an ally in this effort. In that sense, we will continue to support the further strengthening of the work of the Department. I thank you.

I thank you. I give the floor to Kenya.

Mr. Chair, as a global information landscape evolves, misinformation and disinformation continue to proliferate. Access to credible information remains uneven, straining public trust. These shifts bring into focus a set of fundamental questions. Whose stories are shared? Whose voices receive attention? And who holds the power to shape the information through which we understand the world? For Kenya, the answers must be clear. We must build an international information environment that is more equitable, inclusive, trustworthy, and representative. In this regard, I wish to make three interconnected points. First, we must advance a more equitable international information and communications order. The call for a more balanced international information order has become more urgent. We must not only address access to information, but also the capacity to produce and shape it, as well as participate meaningfully in global conversations, particularly at a time when the perspectives of many developing countries remain inadequately represented in global narratives. We call for investment in communications infrastructure, independent and pluralistic media, local content production, research, and digital skills to provide the visibility required in the global information space. States should be able to tell their own story, in their own voice, and on their own terms. international information environment must, however, be anchored in the free flow of information, freedom of expression, media pluralism, and respect for cultural and linguistic diversity. Equity and openness must reinforce each other. Second, we must safeguard information integrity while embracing technological transformation. Kenya recognizes the transformative potential of artificial intelligence to expand access to information, overcome language barriers, and support multilingual communication. At the same time, we are deeply concerned by the rise of AI-generated disinformation and deepfakes. Recognizing that citizens are the first line of defense against misinformation and disinformation, Kenya is strengthening the resilience of its information ecosystem. This includes implementing the Data Protection Act and developing national frameworks on cybersecurity and the digital economy. We are also promoting digital literacy, responsible use of technology, and informed public engagement. Kenya supports efforts to advance information integrity, including the implementation of the United Nations Global Principles for Information Integrity. We emphasize that responsibility must be shared among states, technology companies, media organizations, and other relevant stakeholders. Multilateral forums, such as the Internet Governance Forum, scheduled for 14 to 18 December 2026 in Nairobi, can provide platforms for dialogue on information integrity, digital inclusion, and multilingual access to accurate and reliable information. Equally important is the safety of journalists and media workers. Their protection, particularly in situations of armed conflict, must remain a collective responsibility. Attacks, intimidation, and impunity have no place in a society that values truth and accountability. Third, we must strengthen the United Nations as a credible, accessible, and multilingual source of information. Kenya welcomes the ongoing efforts by the Department of Global Communications to modernize its operations, leverage technology, innovation, and trusted partnerships to bring the work of the organization closer to the people it serves. We underscore the importance of preserving and strengthening the networks of the United Nations Information Centers as a vital link between the United Nations and local communities. translating global priorities and commitments into accessible, relevant, and content-specific information. Multilingualism remains central to an inclusive, accessible, and representative United Nations. In this regard, we welcome the GA resolution 78/330, which recognizes the value of using other languages where appropriate to reach local audiences and enhance the impact of the organization's work. As host to the United Nations Office at Nairobi, Kenya recognizes the critical role of effective and inclusive communications in connecting the work of the United Nations with the people around the world, particularly across Africa. We therefore support efforts to strengthen the capacity reach and impact of the United Nations information networks, including through enhanced support for regional information centers and multilingual communications to improve public understanding of the organization's work and its contribution to peace, security, and sustainable development. Kenya particularly underscores the importance of recognizing widely spoken languages, including Kiswahili, which serves as a bridge across national and cultural boundaries, and would expand access to information, promote intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding, and bring the work of the Organization closer to the communities it seeks to serve. Mr. Chair, we call for renewed international cooperation to build an equitable information order that gives all voices space, that gives all voices space, upholds information integrity, and makes United Nations communications accessible and multilingual. We must move beyond simply measuring how much information is disseminated. We must ask whether that information reaches people, whether it reflects their realities, whether it is understood, whether it is trusted. and whether it enables them to participate in shaping our common future. I thank you.

I thank you. And I have one last speaker, which is the League of Arab States. You have the floor.

I thank you, Mr. Chair, dear Ambassador of Senegal, allow me to congratulate you on your accession to the chairmanship of this committee. We're grateful for the efforts of the Department of Global Communications. We applaud the report of the Secretary General as well as the report of the Committee on Information, which have highlighted the various initiatives that make it possible to serve peace development, security. Our discussion today is taking place while the digital revolution is overlapping with humanitarian crises, with the risks of disinformation, hate speech, as well as both opportunities and risks related to artificial intelligence. The Arab League, under the leadership of its new Secretary General, His Excellency Mr. Nabil Fahim, insists on the need to promote information to raise awareness in societies to consolidate a culture of peace and dialogue. The credibility of information is not measured by the speed with which information circulates, but rather is measured by transparency of the information, as well as describing the facts and presenting them, and to reflect the reality. without altering content in the service of political agendas. We must put events in their concrete context, we must avoid double standards and ensure the right of populations to know the truth. Mr. Chairman, our region is experiencing political, humanitarian and security crises, whether in Sudan, Syria, Libya, Yemen, and Somalia. Most of these crises are linked to flagrant foreign interventions. This situation is complicated further by recent dangerous developments in the Strait of Hormuz and geopolitical competition over strategic maritime navigation ways. Certain states are seeking to make the situation to a leverage to exercise pressure here The responsibility of information should not be limited to presenting visible aspects of crises, but rather to tackle the root causes of them and putting them in the proper humanitarian, legal, political context without any selective approach. In order to participate in efforts of reaching peace and avoiding throwing fuel on the fire. Mr. Chair, the question of Palestine requires a particular responsibility in terms of information in light of persistence of Israeli occupation and the atrocities committed in Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Events should not be placed outside their legal or historical context. We must shed light on the reality of occupation and the responsibilities that derive from it pursuant to international law. This is why we applaud the Special UN Information Programme on the question of Palestine. We must shed light, highlight the reports of the UN, in particular UNRWA reports. We must ensure the protection of journalists. because hiding the images deprives the world of the right to know the truth. Furthermore, we call for highlighting the aspects related to development in the Arab region, the contributions of young people and women in terms of science and technology, but also as part of climate action, and not simply reduce our region to a series of crises. Mr. Chair, we must use AI in a transparent and responsible way by avoiding any falsification and disinformation while preserving the right to freedom of expression. We insist on the equality of the six official languages. We must strengthen the presence of all languages, and in particular Arabic, on different platforms in conformity with Arab status as an official language and a growing number of Arabs, Arabic speakers. We welcome the role played by the UN Service Information Service, including radio and digital platforms, and we must strengthen the technical and human capacities of this of these platforms to reach isolated societies and and categories affected by the digital divide. The restructuring as part of the UN80 initiative should not weaken these essential functions. Combat against disinformation must take place in a framework that expects freedom of expression of the press, the right of access to information without making these efforts as a pretext to restrict fundamental freedoms. Mr. Chairman, we welcome our partnership with the United Nations, and we hope that this cooperation will make it possible to have an exchange of information and a regular partnership, an effective one, based on credibility and objectivity. The opening of a liaison office in Cairo in 2019 is a sound foundation to strengthen our cooperation with the Department of Global Communication. The value of this partnership is not simply the scope of the message, but the credibility of the information, the need to describe the situation in our region and its real context without any political exploitation, while respecting the reliability and objectivity of information. To conclude, responsible information is not simply a reflection of events or description of events, but rather we must make sure that information is conveyed in a responsible way to preserve the memory of peoples and their rights. We hope that information will continue to build bridges and make it possible to achieve peace, justice, and development. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the League of Arab States. Excellencies, we have just heard the last speaker in the general debate and the agenda item 51. The committee will now consider draft resolutions A and B recommended by the Committee on Information in the report of its 48th session. Draft resolution A entitled "Information in the Service of Humanity" is contained in chapter 4 of document A/81/21, on page 10 of the English text. Draft resolution B, entitled United Nations global communications policies and activities, is contained in the same report on page 11 of the English text. May I propose that we hear general statements or explanations of vote before the vote on either or both draft resolutions together. Thereafter, we would... I see an objection. Thereafter, we would take action on each draft resolution individually. After that, I would open the floor for explanations of vote after the vote and general statements on either or both draft resolutions. I hear no objection. It is so decided. I open the floor to delegations wishing to make general statements or explain their vote before the vote on either or both draft resolutions A and B. As agreed at our organizational meeting, delegations will have five minutes to make a general statement or explain their vote. Do we have requests? So I give the floor to the United States. You have the floor, sir.

Thank you. Colleagues, once again, the United States will call a vote and vote no on resolutions A and B. Allow me to reiterate some of our previously stated concerns. And that seems fitting, since, as many of my colleagues in this room are painfully aware, repetition is the defining feature of these texts. A resolution on communication should at minimum be readable. It should also be concise. Instead, it remains 30 pages of bureaucratic jargon. The UN should focus on the basics: peace, security, and lifesaving humanitarian aid. Instead, it loses sight of its mandate and ultimately loses its audience. This resolution is mission creep in print. Nowhere is that drift more troubling than in how this text treats protected speech. The United States will always defend freedom of expression. We will not accept efforts to restrict that freedom under the banner of disinformation or misinformation. Then there is the familiar list of divisive topics, sustainable development goals, climate change, gender. These don't clarify the Department of Global Communications' mandate. They're just this building's default talking points. The solution is straightforward. We welcome the move to take up this item every two years. Let's use that time, let's all use that time between now and then to start from a blank page and focus on what really matters. the basics: promoting peace and ending conflict. The UN should communicate clearly, directly, and with purpose. Thirty pages of jargon does nothing to make the world more peaceful. Thank you.

I thank you, and I give the floor to Ireland on behalf of the European Union.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the European Union and its member states, the candidate countries North Macedonia, Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Georgia, and the EFTA countries Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. members of the European Economic Area, as well as San Marino, align themselves with this statement. The European Union welcomes the adoption of both resolutions. We will vote in favour of draft resolution A, information on the service of humanity, and draft resolution B, United Nations global communications policies and activities. We consider the agreement on a technical rollover of the two resolutions and the introduction of a biennial adoption cycle a constructive basis for preserving continuity in the work of the Committee, while allowing for a more efficient use of its time and resources. In substance, we strongly support resolution B, in particular its emphasis on the importance of fundamental freedoms. such as the freedom of opinion and expression, freedom of the press, as well as the right to privacy. In line with the text of the resolution, we stress the need to protect the safety of journalists, and we condemn all attacks, reprisals, and violence against journalists and media workers. We are concerned by the spread of disinformation and misinformation, which can negatively impact the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms. The EU and its Member States are determined to strengthen resilience in this regard and to counter information manipulation and interference, including by the Russian Federation. We regret that, following 38 years of consensus, last year's resolutions could not be adopted without a vote. We remain convinced that consensus on item 51, questions relating to information, reflects our collective commitment to the importance of communication as a global public good, as well as our shared interest in ensuring that the United Nations can communicate effectively, credibly, and inclusively. The European Union remains committed to constructive engagement with all delegations to preserve this tradition of consensus and to advance our common objectives under this agenda item. Thank you, Chair.

I see no further request for the floor. We will now take action on draft resolution A, entitled "Information in the service of humanity", contained in document A/81/21. A recorded vote has been requested. We shall now begin the voting process.

The Committee is now voting on draft resolution A, entitled "Information in the service of humanity", contained in document A/81/21. Will all delegations confirm that their votes are accurately reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the machine.

The result of the vote is as follows: in favor, 157; against, two; abstentions, zero. Draft resolution is adopted. We are just getting the machine ready. We will now take action on draft resolution B, entitled United Nations global communications policies and activities, contained in document A/81/21. A recorded vote has been requested. We shall now begin the voting process. Those in favor of draft resolution B, please signify; those against, abstention.

The Committee is now voting on draft resolution B, entitled United Nations global communications policies and activities, contained in document A/81/21. Will all delegations confirm that their votes are accurately reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the machine.

The result of the vote is as follows: in favour 157, against 2, abstentions 0. Draft resolution B is adopted. I now open the floor to delegations wishing to explain their vote after the vote or make general statements on either or both draft resolutions A and B. I give the floor to Canada on behalf of CAENS.

Chair, I have the honor to deliver this explanation of vote on behalf of Australia, New Zealand, and my own country, Canada. We wish to convey our sincere appreciation to the Secretary General for his 2026 report on questions relating to information, to Under-Secretary-General Melissa Fleming for her insightful briefing earlier this week, and to the members of the Committee on Information for their ongoing commitment to carrying out their mandate with diligence, impartiality, and a spirit of consensus. Chair, These resolutions address key priorities for CANS, including, first, promoting and protecting human rights, particularly the right to freedom of opinion and expression, including the freedom to seek, receive, and impart information. Second, creating the conditions necessary for the full realization of these rights by bridging digital divides, protecting journalists, advancing multilingualism, and supporting independent, pluralistic, and diverse media. Third, strengthening resilience to disinformation, misinformation, and information manipulation through coordinated, multilateral, and whole-of-society efforts. And finally, the implementation of mandate reform with the objective of creating a UN that is more effective and efficient. UNESCO is already undertaking substantial work in support of these priorities. We encourage the Secretariat to build on these efforts by identifying synergies, addressing duplication, and leveraging UNESCO's important contributions in these areas. The resolution on UN global communications policies and activities recognizes the potential of the safe, secure, and trustworthy use of artificial intelligence to accelerate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. However, the rapid evolution of AI also presents increased risks. These include the creation and spread of misinformation and disinformation that can incite violence, erode trust in institutions, and undermine peace and security. The evolving landscape reaffirms the importance of multilateral and whole-of-society efforts to safeguard information integrity, uphold human rights, and enhance collective resilience. As agreed in A/RES/82/51, mandate reform is a critical avenue for revitalization and rationalization of processes in the United States system. We welcome the proposal to consider this resolution biannually as an important step in this regard. We also welcome the commitment to review implementation of the resolution to identify next steps as an important measure. In future resolutions, we encourage proponents to consider triennialization, and we likewise encourage a streamlining of the resolution’s substantial text to facilitate meaningful review.

Mr. Chairman, the members of CANS also welcome the provisions underscoring the importance of multilingualism and local content. Multilingualism is an essential part of international relations and diplomacy, particularly here at the United Nations. It reflects the diversity of member states, promotes expression and mutual understanding, and strengthens our ability to build a common future. In addition, multilingualism is essential to communicating with the international public and guarantee information is available to all. In conclusion, we would like to thank the Department for Global Communications of the United Nations. We thank them for promoting and encourage them to promote linguistic diversity. Thank you very much. Thank you.

Paraguay would like to take the floor. Paraguay.

Thank you very much, Chairman. Paraguay voted in favour of the draft resolutions A and B. However, my delegation would like to go on record with regard to certain interpretative considerations in resolution B, in particular with regard to the references to misinformation, disinformation, hate speech. Paraguay reaffirms that the interpretation or any measure to address these phenomena should be in line with our national constitution, domestic legislation, and international obligations applicable in the area of human rights, ensuring full respect for freedom of expression and the principle of of legality. We also understand that these provisions do not establish uniform legal definitions or additional obligations for criminalization or punishment for Member States. In addition, we reaffirm the guarantees in Article 26 of our national constitution and the need to respect the principles of legality, necessity, and proportionality, and the applicable international human rights obligations. In addition, with regard to the references to gender, we maintain our understanding of this term in line with our national legislation and the previously expressed positions in multilateral fora. On the 2030 agenda and the sustainable development goals, we reiterate their voluntary, non-legally binding nature and the sovereign right of every state to determine their national implementation priorities. Consequently, Paraguay's support should be understood without prejudice for the interpretive considerations and the national positions that I've just highlighted. Thank you very much, Chair.

I thank you. I now give the floor to El Salvador.

Mr. Chairman, El Salvador reaffirms its support for the work of the Department of Global Communications. particularly in promoting multilateralism, access to information, and the dissemination of the principles and purposes of the Charter. Turning to the resolution entitled UN Global Communications Policies and Activities, we would like to go on record with regard to the fact that the reference in the text will be interpreted in accordance with our national legal order, international obligations made by the State, and national positions in this area. Thank you.

I thank you. I see no further request for the floor. The exercise of the right of reply has been requested. Delegations are reminded of the maximum of two interventions, with the first intervention limited to five minutes and the second one to three minutes. I call now on the representative of Lithuania, on behalf of the Baltic States.

Mr. Chairman, I am exercising the right of reply on behalf of Baltic States in response to earlier statement by Russia, particularly accusations against the Baltic States, including Lithuania. We note that it is essential to distinguish independent journalism from that of participation in a state-controlled and directed propaganda operations or activities by Russia, which may violate our legislation. The Baltic States have provided refuge to numerous journalists fleeing repression, including Russian journalists, allowing them to continue their work freely and safely. In cases cited by Russia, The cases cited by Russia concern responses to alleged violations of EU sanctions, not restrictions of independent journalism or freedom of expression. We encourage all Member States to critically assess such claims, verify facts, and examine their sources. Finally, it is important to note that this year’s Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index ranks the three Baltic states in top 20 out of 180 countries surveyed, while Russia ranks only 172nd. Meanwhile, independent journalists in Russia continue to face imprisonment, censorship, and systematic repression. I thank you.

I thank you, and I give the floor to Israel.

Mr. Chair, the general debate on information has been exploited by certain delegations to advance their political campaign against one Member State, Israel. This is as regrettable as it was expected, given the obsessiveness of many Member States to espouse lies and disinformation at the expense of facts and verified information. Member States are not, of course, bound by the UN rules of neutrality and impartiality, but is it too much to expect that they will not behave hypocritically? Unfortunately, the conclusion of the general debate is that it is indeed too much to expect. For those attacking Israel in the last few days have accepted at face value allegations and claims of the terrorist organizations Hamas and Islamic Jihad regarding the deaths of Palestinian journalists in order to advance a false narrative of Israeli war crimes in general and deliberate targeting of journalists in particular. Claims of hundreds of journalists allegedly killed in Gaza are repeatedly disseminated without care as to the sources of such reports, which are invariably the very same terrorist organizations in which so many of them had military commands. Yet when the same terrorist organizations proudly and openly publish martyr videos and posters glorifying members of their organizations and describing their military activities and ranks, lo and behold, such information is routinely ignored and retractions are not made. My delegation would like to make it clear: Israel does not target journalists. But commanders and other armed terrorists belonging to recognised terrorist organisations do not and will not be entitled to protection just because they are holding a camera or a press card. Israel has published documentation, including documents recovered in Gaza and material produced by the terrorist organizations themselves, identifying at least 170 individuals described as journalists or media workers killed in Gaza as operatives in the military wings of Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and other terror groups. And given the repeated call for press freedom, let it be quite clear that it is the exploitation of press status as cover by terrorists that endangers genuine journalists. The conclusion to draw from the statements of certain Member States that have espoused falsehoods to promote their political narrative is that, when it comes to Israel, the overriding principle in this debate is that one is entitled not only to one’s own opinions, but also to one’s own facts. This is outrageous, as it is predictable; preposterous, as it is expected; and pitiable, as it is hypocritical. I thank you.

I thank you. I now give the floor to Ukraine.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Ukraine welcomes the adoption of these two resolutions and commends all efforts aimed at promoting access to reliable information, protecting journalists, and strengthening freedom of expression. At the same time, I am exercising this right of reply in response to the statement delivered earlier by Russia, in particular its accusations against Ukraine and the Baltic States. Ukraine expressed its full solidarity with the Baltic States and all member states that stands in defense of freedom of expression and in countering disinformation. Once again, Russia is attempting to present the aggressor as a victim and propaganda as journalism. We were particularly surprised to hear Russia speaking on behalf of the so-called Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. Russia could perhaps represent a group of friends of violation of the UN Charter, or a group of friends of industrial scale disinformation. Russia once again attempted to shift attention away from its own record. Yet it remains Russia that continue to detain, persecute, and silence Ukrainian journalists in temporary occupied territories of Ukraine. So Russia is no position to lecture other on protection of journalists. Let us recall some facts. The names of Russian journalists persecuted for telling the truth are well known. Anna Politkovskaya, a Russian journalist, was murdered. Natalia Estemirova, a Russian journalist and human rights defender, was abducted and killed. Russia has criminalized independent reporting on its war of aggression against Ukraine, forced independent media into exile, labeled journalists as the foreign agents, and imprisoned those unwilling to repeat official propaganda. Not all these are merely crimes of the past. Russia continues to target journalists today, including Ukrainian journalists documenting its aggression and occupation. Ukrainian journalist Victoria Roschina died in Ukrainian captivity after being detained in occupied territory. Numerous other Ukrainian journalists remain imprisoned in Russia simply for reporting facts, expressing pro-Ukrainian views, or refusing to cooperate with the occupation authorities. And while this committee is discussing freedom of information, one of the Russia's best known newspapers, Novaya Gazeta, has announced to the end of its existence. In a statement published just days ago, its editors declared, "We were killed." They directly blamed Russian authorities and security service for forcing a newspaper to shut down. The newspaper announced that on 9th of November, it will switch off its lights. shut down its servers and cease operations after more than 30 years of work. Dmitry Muratov, a Russian journalist, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and editor-in-chief of this Novaya Gazeta, was labeled as foreign agent by Russian authorities. So, before accusing others of suppressing freedom of expression, Russia should explain why independent journalism is disappearing inside Russia itself. A state that martyrs journalists, imprisons reporters, shuts down independent newspapers has no credibility when speaking about media freedom. Thank you.

I thank you. I see no further request for the floor. The Committee thus concluded its consideration of agenda item 51. The Committee will meet again tomorrow afternoon at 3 PM in this conference room to begin its consideration of agenda item 49, entitled “Comprehensive review of the whole question of peacekeeping operations in all their aspects.” The meeting is adjourned. Thank you. Thank you.