Namibia has warned that unilateral actions, the selective implementation of UN resolutions, and growing global fragmentation are weakening the foundations of international peace and security.
Its Permanent Representative to the UN, Penda Naanda, said, therefore, a reform of the Security Council is imperative.
Naanda delivered Namibia's contribution during the ongoing UN Security Council high-level open debate on “Upholding the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter and Strengthening the UN-Centred International System".
“If we are to strengthen the UN-centred international system, then reform is not optional; it is imperative, including a comprehensive reform of this Council,” said Naanda.
Ambassador Naanda further warned that the international landscape is becoming increasingly fragmented through “the mounting reliance on unilateral actions and the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity of states".
He said this trend further eroded international peace and security and reiterated Namibia's position that disputes must be resolved through dialogue, negotiation and peaceful means, not coercion or confrontation.
Namibia also raised concern over the continued failure to implement UN resolutions, including the General Assembly position on the U.S. embargo against Cuba.
“Since 1992, the General Assembly, the most representative and democratic organ, has year after year overwhelmingly demanded the lifting of the inhumane embargo against Cuba so that the country may fully realise the rights and opportunities denied to its people for far too long. However, these resolutions remain unheeded,” said Naanda.
Namibia also drew attention to the situation in Palestine during the debate.
Ambassador Naanda said Namibia cannot remain silent on the continuing plight of the Palestinian people, who endure prolonged occupation, displacement, violence, and denial of their fundamental rights.
"Decolonisation remains unfinished UN business, and the continued existence of such situations stands in direct contradiction to the UN Charter’s promise of freedom and equality for all nations and peoples,” he said.