Switzerland presides over UN Security Council at the height of tensions
Published: Friday, Sep 27th 2024, 10:20
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Switzerland takes over the chairmanship of the UN Security Council in New York for the second time on Tuesday. It will chair the discussions for a month while several conflicts intensify. The President of the Swiss Confederation, Viola Amherd, expressed her concern to the General Assembly last week. Violations of international humanitarian law are increasing and Security Council resolutions are not being implemented.
In October, topics such as Colombia, Africa and the Middle East will be on the agenda. However, Ukraine will also be discussed right at the start of the Swiss chairmanship. And nuclear weapons could also become an issue again.
The international community is offended by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who wants to remain in power and is now attacking Hezbollah in Lebanon despite the destruction of the Gaza Strip. A ceasefire sought by the USA is difficult as the major powers are deeply divided, especially in view of the upcoming presidential elections in the USA.
Delicate situation due to UNRWA
Switzerland was recently tasked with organizing a meeting of the parties to the Geneva Conventions on the Middle East conflict. It has also been under particular scrutiny and criticism for several months due to its aid to the Palestinian relief organization UNRWA.
The National Council called for an immediate halt to the support, but the Council of States has yet to decide on this. This stance has triggered questions and criticism on the international stage. In the event of a stop, the decision would put Switzerland in a politically sensitive position.
Amherd and Cassis set priorities
The Council has also been blocked in relation to Ukraine for two years as Russia has vetoed resolutions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently called for Russia to be forced to make peace. Despite Switzerland's efforts to advance talks, the conflict remains deadlocked.
In addition to debates on the major crises, Switzerland will seek to further promote its priorities such as lasting peace, the protection of civilians and the effectiveness of the Council. On October 24, President Amherd will chair a discussion on women, peace and security, while Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis will speak about the Middle East and the role of science for peace.
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