In October, the UN Security Council addressed a variety of topics ranging from Africa, the Middle East, Ukraine to Haiti. Slovenia requested two briefings – together with Algeria on the humanitarian situation in Gaza and together with the US on Ukraine. State Secretary of the Foreign Ministry Dr Melita Gabrič participated in the annual open debate on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), where she advocated for greater inclusion of women in all peace processes, enhanced funding for women’s organizations at the local level and reinforced accountability for severe violations of the rights of women and girls.

Empowering women and girls is an essential brick in building a more peaceful world and reaching more durable and sustainable peace agreements. “Making peace processes more inclusive is thus critical for building resilient and successful societies,” State Secretary Gabrič emphasized. She added that combating impunity and preventing sexual and gender-based violence is of paramount importance.

Middle East

October 7 marked the anniversary of Hamas’ devastating terrorist attack on Israel that unleashed a year of conflict with tragic consequences for the Palestinian people. It is high time to bring an end to this war, release hostages and reach a ceasefire agreement. The implementation of the two-state solution is a prerequisite for a common future for Israelis and Palestinians. “Slovenia will not lose hope that the Security Council will speak with one voice,” stressed Ambassador Samuel Žbogar.

Given the deteriorating situation in the Middle East, with the broadening of conflict across the region, Slovenia repeated its calls for an immediate all-out regional ceasefire, de-escalation, restraint and respect for international law, including international humanitarian law by all actors. “The circle of violence must stop,” voiced Deputy Permanent Representative Ondina Blokar Drobič.

Members of the UN Security Council affirmed their full support for the UN Secretary-General following Israel’s decision to declare him persona non grata.  

In response to Israeli attacks on UNIFIL, the group of 10 elected members of the Council reacted with a press release, calling on Israel to stop the attacks immediately. They also called for full respect and implementation of Security Council resolution 1701.

Slovenia strongly condemned the passing of legislation on UNRWA in the Knesset. Given UNRWA is the main UN agency established by the UN General Assembly to provide aid to the Palestinians, the implementation of bills banning it would have a severe impact on the agency’s operations.

Ukraine

Together with the US, Slovenia requested a briefing on Ukraine to discuss the latest security and humanitarian situation. Ambassador Žbogar expressed grave concern about the escalation of the war resulting in record high civilian casualties and collapsed critical civilian infrastructure. It is imperative to prevent a nuclear incident and keep working towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. In addition, the deployment of DPRK troops in Europe is particularly concerning.

Haiti

At the Council meeting on Haiti, Slovenia strongly condemned the gangs’ brutal violence, including the attack in Pont Sondé. As the situation has regrettably worsened, the urgent improvement of the security situation must be accompanied by political progress. Deputy Permanent Representative Ondina Blokar Drobič echoed also the Secretary-General’s call to increase humanitarian efforts.

Africa

With regard to the war in Sudan, where almost 25 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance, Slovenia reiterated that there is no military solution to this conflict. A cessation of hostilities, the protection of civilians, and safe and unhindered humanitarian access remain a priority. To end the unspeakable atrocities, Slovenia expressed its willingness to support united and decisive action for peace in Sudan.

The UN Security Council also discussed the situation in Somalia. Slovenia underlined the vital role of UNSOM and empowerment of Somali women leaders. It further condemned the attacks on civilians by Al Shabaab and called for a collective response.

On 17 October, Slovenia participated at the annual informal seminar between the members of the UN Security Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council. This year’s retreat in Tarrytown addressed a wide range of peace and security issues.

On United Nations Day, celebrated on 24 October, Ambassador Žbogar underlined the UN’s role, not merely as a forum for dialogue but an organization equipped with mechanisms to stabilize crises and maintain international peace and security.

During the UN International Law Week between 21 and 25 October, Slovenia in partnership with Hungary hosted an event on Strengthening Legal Frameworks for the Protection of Water in Armed Conflicts.

In October, the Security Council extended the mandates of UN missions in Colombia, Libya, Somalia and Western Sahara.

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