Statement by the Republic of Slovenia at a UN Security Council debate on cooperation between the UN and regional and subregional organizations

Mr. President,

I wish to start by thanking Assistant Secretary Spehar for her briefing. I also thank the Secretaries-General and the representatives of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), the Commonwealth of Independent States (CSI) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) for their contribution to today’s debate.

This meeting is an opportunity for the Council to re-emphasize the fundamental role of regional action in maintaining international peace and security as provided in Chapter VIII of the Charter. The unique position of regional and sub-regional organizations complements the Security Council in effectively addressing the full spectrum of the conflict cycle.

There is no real alternative to their in-depth understanding of the dynamics and background to regional and local hotspots. They also have a unique ability to act preventively and offer an excellent platform for cooperation and confidence building that can be an entry point into solving or alleviating the crisis.

Mr. President,

Slovenia recognizes the value added and the potential of cooperation between the United Nations and regional and sub-regional organizations.

In this regard, I would also like to underscore the critical role that regional organizations have been playing in conflict prevention, pacific settlement of regional or local disputes and promotion of peace. For instance, information sharing between the United Nations and regional organizations enhances early warning mechanisms, which in turn contributes to conflict prevention.

Mr. President,

Regional organizations enhance our collective capacity to prevent, address and resolve crises. However, such cooperation must be based, first and foremost, on the principles of international law, respect for human rights and in full accordance with the provisions of the Charter.

As we discuss how to strengthen cooperation between the United Nations and regional and sub-regional organizations, in particular with the CSTO, CIS and SCO, we call on their member States to uphold the principles and obligations enshrined in the UN Charter.

Advancing cooperation between United Nations and regional organizations is more vital than ever. The myriad of threats to international peace and the complexity and scope of contemporary security challenges demand nothing less. It is up to all of us as members of such organizations to ensure that their conduct is fully in line with international law, including the UN Charter.

I thank you, Mr. President.

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