Accountability is one of the most important pillars holding up our rules-based order. And so, we thank the Government of Iraq and UNITAD for their hard work and continued cooperation to hold ISIS accountable for its atrocities.

To President Wiewel; Dean Suttmeier, distinguished alumni, faculty, and staff; and most importantly to the Lewis & Clark College Class of 2021: Congratulations! You did it! And you have so much to be proud of. You worked hard. Maybe you spent late nights at Watzek – or perhaps early mornings at the Co-Op. However, you …

While we’ve all been impacted by this pandemic, the work of the Country Task Forces on Monitoring and Reporting has faced particular challenges. Their work tracking human rights violations and abuses against children has always been difficult, sensitive work. As we heard from the briefers, health precautions, teleworking, and changing dynamics on the ground have …

When countries came together after World War II to form the United Nations, virtually all of human history up till then indicated that might made right. Competition inevitably led to collision. The rise of a nation or group of nations necessitated the fall of others. Then our nations united in choosing a different path. We …

The United States assesses that the regime’s innumerable atrocities – some of which rise to the level of war crimes, crimes against humanity – include at least 50 chemical weapons attacks since the conflict began. The OPCW and the UN-OPCW Joint Investigative Mechanism – together with this latest report – have now attributed eight chemical …

Russia held an informal Arria-formula meeting at the UN today to again promote a false narrative about Ukraine. We regret this deliberate attempt to divert the attention of the international community from Russia’s ongoing destabilizing activities against Ukraine over the last seven years. We remain saddened by the tragic loss of lives in Odessa on …

Let us all be clear about why we are here today. Russia continues to misuse its Security Council seat by convening events on Ukraine as part of Russia’s broader disinformation campaign. Russia aims to weaponize history, distorting and obfuscating Russia’s role in both the origin and continuation of the failed so-called “Russian spring” of 2014, …

I have one question for the panel’s thoughts: what can all of us do to reaffirm the foundational values, the principles, the rules of the free and open international rules-based order that we have all built together?

The U.S. position on the Dayton Peace Accords, and Bosnia and Herzegovina’s future as a single state destined for the Euro-Atlantic community, remains unchanged. We are committed to the principles of Dayton – that Bosnia and Herzegovina is a democratic, multi-ethnic, sovereign, and independent state with unquestioned territorial integrity. There is no future for either …

Today, we remember a leader and a partner who dedicated his life to the fight against violent extremism. His passing is a seismic development for Chad and the entire region. Most Chadians have never experienced another person in the presidency. President Déby’s death is a reminder to us all that the dangers faced by the …

To the people of Burma, and especially the journalists in Burma: The United States stands with you. We commend the brave journalists who are circumventing the military’s media ban, documenting the horrors committed by the junta, and sharing them with the world. And we condemn the arbitrary arrests and violence against journalists. Journalists must be …

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantees journalists, and all people, a right to the freedom of expression. This is a foundational value of the UN system. The United States and our partners at the United Nations, including the Group of Friends for the Protection of Journalists, will continue to condemn and call out governments …

You may have heard President Biden say that “we’re in a battle for the soul of our nation.” As leading trackers of hate, extremism, and antisemitism, you know that better than anyone. Right now, as you’ve recently reported, our country is experiencing an alarming increase in white supremacist propaganda. We’re also experiencing more bullying and …

Jazz has a long history of cultural diplomacy. That’s just one reason we were so proud to partner with UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute to launch International Jazz Day. And today, I’m thrilled to be celebrating the 10th International Jazz Day with all of you.

The “public” in public health has to mean everyone. Especially those who aren’t in the room to represent themselves. Because time and time again, I’ve seen how the most vulnerable are the least likely to be heard. My father never learned to read. My mother raised me with only a middle school education. Their perspectives …

The United States stands with these people, and all of the people of Syria. So, we demand the Assad regime adhere to a nationwide ceasefire. We call for a political resolution to the Syrian conflict. And in the meantime, we beseech this Council to support the Syrian people and give them access to the humanitarian …

When we work together – when we take a multi-stakeholder, multi-hazard approach to disaster response – we can save lives. We can save entire communities. That is what we are here to do for our friends in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and our hearts go out to the people. We are proud to be …

Our charge – to advance peace and security – has to put people first. Their lives, their dignity, their wellbeing – that is what we are here to protect. And although we have not spoken at such length to the specific issue of civilian infrastructure before, I’m glad we are now. Because it is not …

Today is the 35th anniversary of the Chornobyl nuclear accident, a tragedy that demonstrated the Soviet Union’s disregard for nuclear safety and the safety of its own citizens. I wish to recognize, in particular, the representatives of Ukraine and Belarus, whose people were most seriously affected by the disaster.

Today, Vice President Kamala Harris and United States Representative to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield each addressed UN representatives and stakeholders urging bold actions needed to prevent, detect, and respond to the threat of future infectious disease outbreaks and ensure resilient health systems. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield opened today’s event by highlighting the heartbreaking spike in COVID …

The United States wants to reiterate its commitment to support stability in Abyei, along the border between Sudan and South Sudan, and in the broader region. The overall recent deterioration of the security situation within and between countries in the region is of deep concern to the United States. Several overlapping crises could further endanger …

I want to take a moment to talk about the heartbreaking situation in India. The most recent spike of COVID-19 cases there has been devastating. The United States stands in solidarity with the people of India. We are doing everything we can to help, including deploying raw materials for vaccines, as well as therapeutics, rapid …

On World Malaria Day 2021, the United States joins the global community in celebrating continued progress in the fight against malaria. Over the past two decades, the United States has provided more than $140 billion in global health assistance and is the world’s leading donor to programs that work to eradicate malaria, including through the …

The members of the Security Council expressed their deep concern about the continued political impasse and disagreement among Somalia’s political leaders on the model for elections.

The members of the Security Council acknowledged the efforts by the Government of Ethiopia to provide humanitarian assistance and to provide increased humanitarian access. The members of the Security Council recognized, nevertheless, that, humanitarian challenges remain. They called for a scaled up humanitarian response and unfettered humanitarian access to all people in need, including in …

Here in America, this past year, we experienced extreme wildfires in California, unprecedented storms and blackouts in Texas, and devastating hurricanes in my own home state of Louisiana. And of course, we were far from alone. The world saw monsoons, and droughts, and rising sea levels, toxic air pollution. My point is, it doesn’t matter …

This Administration has been very clear about the United States’ commitment to advancing a negotiated two-state solution in which Israel lives in peace and security alongside a viable Palestinian state. We’ve also been clear about our desire to reengage with the Palestinians, and to restore U.S. assistance programs that support economic development and humanitarian aid …

For over a decade now, the Syrian people have endured the unimaginable: from torture, to attacks on hospitals and healthcare, to cutting off humanitarian aid. That inability to even imagine what that must be like is exactly why we need the International, Impartial, and Independent Mechanism. Their work builds on the work of the United …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield will deliver remarks and moderate a panel discussion on climate security at 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 22, as part of President Biden’s Leaders Summit on Climate. The session will highlight the global security challenges posed by climate change and discuss what international partners are doing to address them.

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met virtually yesterday with the Commissioner-General for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini. The two discussed U.S. re-engagement with UNRWA, including the recent announcement of the resumption of U.S. assistance to the agency. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield underscored the critical role that UNRWA plays in providing vital services to a …

As Vice President Harris has pointed out, the people in this region are so often driven by hope. Hope that change is possible. That life can be better. That humanity will win out over cruelty and suffering. Today, we are calling for solidarity. We’re calling for support to bring hope and help to vulnerable people …

Our renewed commitments to indigenous people extend beyond our borders. The United States will continue to actively engage in UN bodies which consider the many issues directly affecting indigenous people. We will proactively reach out to institutions representing indigenous people, seek their input, and advocate for them throughout the UN system. And that’s what it …

The U.S. position on the JCPOA is clear: we are ready to return to the agreement if Iran returns to full compliance with its nuclear commitments. And, as demonstrated by our participation in ongoing talks in Vienna, we are working with international partners to determine whether that is possible. At the same time, we will …

With Indigenous knowledge, our world can usher in a new era of peace, justice, and strong institutions to meet this moment and move our planet toward a more sustainable future. Our ancestors lived sustainably and survived famine and drought with the understanding that future generations would rely on their hard work and sacrifice in moments …

Regional organizations are essential partners in working toward peace and security. They are engines of diplomacy. We at the United Nations have to be in close contact with them to secure our success. So, we look forward to continuing to coordinate and collaborate with all of these organizations, as well as others, in the days, …

The United States commends the UK delegation as penholder on the two resolutions adopted today, particularly for the cooperative spirit in which they led the process. We also welcome the genuine commitment of members of this Council to crafting a strong resolution in support of the UN-facilitated political process in Libya and the extension of …

I should start by stating the obvious: the use of chemical weapons constitutes a threat to peace and security for all states. The United States remains firmly committed to upholding the integrity of international non-proliferation regimes, which is the stated topic of today’s meeting. We certainly share this goal, and we certainly call on all members of this Council to uphold what …

Today the United States raised again in the Security Council its grave concern regarding the deteriorating humanitarian and human rights situation in Ethiopia’s Tigray region and credible reports that Eritrean forces are re-uniforming as Ethiopian military in order to remain in Tigray indefinitely. The Eritrean government must withdraw its forces from Ethiopia immediately.

First: diplomacy can, should, and must end the war in Yemen. And we heard that from Martin. U.S. Special Envoy Timothy Lenderking is leading our diplomatic efforts, working closely with the UN to bring the parties together and conclude this conflict. The goals are clear: achieve a comprehensive, nationwide ceasefire, re-open Sana’a’s international airport, implement …

We acknowledge – as always – that our nation is imperfect. But every day we strive to make it more perfect. It’s that striving that sets us apart. And today represents a remarkable step forward in that effort. Because you can’t aim for that more perfect union without a plan. You can’t strive without a …

Like in Burma, where Rohingya and others have been oppressed, abused, and killed in staggering numbers. Or in China, where the government has committed genocide and crimes against humanity against Uyghurs and members of other ethnic and religious minority groups. The prevalence – and pervasiveness – of racism and racial inequality might make the situation …

Speaking more broadly on gender-based violence, the United Nations has called the increased rate of violence over the last year “the shadow pandemic.” Well, I’d say it’s time to bring gender-based violence out of the shadows. Together, we have to work to shine a light on it. And let’s treat this like an emergency, with …

The United States Mission to the United Nations today announced the U.S. delegation to the 20th Session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, to be held April 19-30 in a hybrid format at United Nations Headquarters in New York and virtually. The theme of this year’s session is “Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: …

The United States wants to begin by applauding Kosovo for conducting free and fair, transparent elections in February, elections that ushered in a new government, which, as the foreign minister mentioned, reflects the will of Kosovo’s population for reforms, reforms to strengthen peace, justice, and prosperity in country.

We are facing a global health crisis of unprecedented proportions. While the prospect of a fully vaccinated world offers a glimpse of life beyond COVID-19, we must remember that we are not safe until we are all safe. That is why the United States is proud to be the world’s largest donor to COVAX, with …

We know from last week’s briefings that the consequences of inaction are dire. We are particularly troubled by protests in North Kivu last week that turned violent, and highlighting civilian anger about unceasing armed group attacks. The Congolese people, our colleagues in MONUSCO, and the tens of millions of people in the region need us …

So, to the people of Burma, if you can see this or hear this – and certainly our briefers can – I want you to know that the United States stands with you. And we will do everything in our power, in coordination with our allies and our partners, here in the Security Council and …

The good news is, we can build resilience, we can stave off security threats, and we can even generate economic opportunity, if we work together. And that’s why we were proud to rejoin the Paris Agreement hours after President Biden was sworn into office. It’s why we are encouraging everyone to join us in raising …

President Biden believes we need to curtail the use of landmines. Now, there has been some discussion of the previous administration’s landmine policy this week, so let me speak plainly: President Biden has been clear that he intends to roll back this policy, and our administration has begun a policy review to do just that. …

As we commemorate Yom HaShoah, we honor the lives of six million Jewish men, women, and children who were systematically murdered in the Holocaust, and also remember the many others – including Roma, Slavs, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ persons – who were victims of Nazi persecution. We also pay tribute to those who survived …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met virtually this morning with United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield raised the United States’ deep concern over the human rights situations in Burma, China, Ethiopia, Venezuela, and Yemen, and the importance of holding accountable those who commit human rights violations and abuses. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield reiterated U.S. …

On this somber anniversary, we reflect on the more than 800,000 people murdered during 100 days of terror in Rwanda in 1994. Today we grieve for the innocent lives lost and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the families who will forever cherish them and the survivors who suffer as both victims and witnesses to one of the …

Let me say again that the United States firmly supports the impartial and independent work of the OPCW and its investigative bodies. That includes the Investigation and Identification Team, the Fact-Finding Mission, and the Declaration Assessment Team. We applaud the OPCW’s leadership and the Technical Secretariat for the professional manner in which it carries out …

As the largest humanitarian donor to the Sahel region, the United States remains a steadfast partner to the Malian people. We recently announced more than $80 million in humanitarian assistance to the region. This aid will provide shelter, clean drinking water, emergency food assistance, and hygiene services for refugees, internally displaced, and vulnerable host communities.

The co-chairs of the United Nations Group of Friends for the Protection of Journalists – Lithuania, France and Greece – and the undersigned Members of the Group of Friends and the UN Member States, express their deep concern over the attacks on the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the situation of journalists …

The members of the Security Council noted ongoing efforts to find agreement between leaders of the Federal Government of Somalia and the Federal Member States on implementation of the 17 September electoral model.

I mentioned to you when I spoke to you a month ago that I was hitting the ground sprinting. Today I can take a little bit, just a tiny bit of a breather. At the beginning of this month, I said America was back at the table. I declared we would re-engage with the world, …

The members of the Security Council met on 30 March 2021 to discuss the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo and activities of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). They were briefed by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General Bintou Keita.

As we mark International Transgender Day of Visibility, the United States celebrates the contributions, progress, and empowerment of transgender and gender non-binary people. Today, we also acknowledge and reflect upon the continued struggle faced by transgender and non-binary people to be safe, equal, and free in every part of our globe.

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the heinous and cowardly terrorist attack that took place at Makassar Church in Makassar, Indonesia, on 28 March 2021. The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest sympathy to the families of the victims and to the Government of Indonesia and they wished …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Representative to the United Nations, will deliver brief remarks and take questions from members of the media Wednesday, March 31, at approximately 1:00 p.m. EDT at the UN Security Council stakeout to mark the conclusion of the U.S. presidency of the Security Council. The press briefing will be livestreamed on UN …

The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and their means of delivery, including to terrorists and other non-state actors, remains among the most serious threats facing the international community. Our collective efforts to address this threat are as important now as they have ever been.

Confronting the challenges in the eastern DRC also requires the full implementation of commitments under the 2013 Peace, Security, and Cooperation framework. That means enhancing security, ending impunity for human rights abuses, and supporting stabilization efforts.

Just yesterday, Secretary of State Blinken and I participated in a UN Security Council meeting to discuss the humanitarian situation in Syria. We heard from UN officials and from Dr. Amani Ballour about the dire need for humanitarian aid and the necessity of the UN’s cross-border mechanisms.

So today, I’m proud to announce over $596 million in new humanitarian assistance in support of vulnerable Syrians in Syria, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Turkey, from the United States.

Let’s make the simple question that guides our decision on reauthorizing cross-border crossings, and on all questions of delivering aid to people in Syria: What will do the most to reduce the suffering of Syrian children, women, and men?

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield will lead the virtual United States delegation to the fifth Brussels Conference on “Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region” March 29-30, co-chaired by the European Union and the United Nations. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield will deliver remarks on March 30th on behalf of the U.S. delegation, underscoring the United States’ commitment to …

Yet again, we urge the Russian Federation to immediately end its occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol, and fully implement the relevant UN General Assembly resolutions on the situation in Crimea. We welcome in principle Ukraine’s initiative to establish an International Crimean Platform to consolidate the international community’s efforts …

It’s clear the Security Council has a serious responsibility here. And the fact that nearly every member of this Council is co-hosting this meeting shows that, in theory, we all agree. But we owe it to our slain and injured peacekeepers to turn these words into action.

The United States welcomes the spirit of the political declaration circulated today, and thanks Lebanon and others for their leadership in its development. We signed the declaration in solidarity, recognizing that COVID-19 is a global challenge that requires a global response, and we will post a few clarifying points on our mission website.

We, representatives of the Peoples of the United Nations and its Member States, are determined in the face of the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating and multifaceted effects it has on humanity, to work together as one to defeat the pandemic and help people and the planet to recover better.

For our part, President Biden is restoring U.S. assistance programs that support economic development and humanitarian aid for the Palestinian people. Specifically, the United States is pleased to announce today $15 million in humanitarian assistance to support the most vulnerable communities in the West Bank and Gaza.

Humanitarian organizations continue to face challenges in both identifying and accessing beneficiaries, especially those in rural areas, and humanitarian workers continue to face threats to their own safety and ability to operate.  Fighting continues in some areas of Tigray making access difficult and posing a continuing threat to civilians.  

On this day of solemn remembrance, as we face the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, we remind ourselves that we are still working to disentangle ourselves from slavery’s wicked web. Too often, Black Americans are funneled into overcrowded schools, receive poorer treatment in hospitals, or are unfairly denied jobs, housing, and access to capital. And …

The lessons you take from this forum will save lives. After all, you are literally on the front lines. Your teams take enormous risks each and every day to serve the world’s most vulnerable. I’ve seen your work up close. I spent over half of my 35-year career working on humanitarian and refugee issues in …

The vote of confidence by the House of Representatives and swearing-in of the cabinet of a new, unified, interim Libyan government, which has been charged with leading the country up to the elections, could mark a turning point for Libya. We commend all Libyan actors for constructively participating in this process, as well as the …

The Security Council stresses that the democratic will of the Haitian people must be respected, and underscores the need to address essential security, transparency, and logistical considerations in connection with upcoming electoral processes.

As Secretary Blinken told our Congress recently, the United States is enlisting the help of international partners, including the UN, in support of Afghanistan’s peace. Afghanistan’s neighbors and other supporters, including the members of this Council, have a critical role to play in securing the region and ensuring peace and stability in Afghanistan. Last week’s …

I spent over half my 35-year career working on humanitarian and refugee issues in the Foreign Service. Each and every day, I saw the vital importance of the partnership between the United States government and UNICEF. Whenever I traveled, whatever country I lived in, there was UNICEF, on the ground, working with urgency to help …

Let me reiterate the United States’ position remains unchanged: the only way to end the conflict is a political solution in accordance’s with Security Council Resolution 2254. And we have continuously called on the regime – and, most importantly, it’s enabler in the Council – to stop obstructing the UN’s efforts to advance the peace …

Religious freedom, including choosing not to practice or believe, is a fundamental freedom, and it’s one that we have enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. We hold it among our highest values.

In the first 60 days, the President has made this a priority: from redressing racial discrimination in housing, to ending private prisons that warehouse young black and brown men, to respecting the sovereignty of Native American tribes, to combatting xenophobia and discrimination against Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders.

The Members of the Security Council condemned the escalation in Marib, which places one million internally-displaced persons at grave risk and threatens efforts to secure a political settlement when the international community is increasingly united to end the conflict. They condemned the cross-border attacks against Saudi Arabia, and expressed concern about military developments elsewhere in …

But if putting women in leadership roles makes this world more peaceful and reduces gender-based violence and economic hardship, then threats to women and girls do just the opposite.

It is time to bring gender-based violence out of the shadows, out of the dark, out of the walls where people hide in. It’s time to shine a light on it. And it’s time to treat this as an emergency, with the urgency that it demands.

Today’s meeting is a continuation of Russia’s misuse of its seat on the Security Council to organize events on Ukraine that are designed to distort the realities of the Russia-fueled conflict in eastern Ukraine and its purported annexation of Crimea.

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield will participate in two side events on Wednesday, March 17, during the 65th session of the Commission on the Status of Women.

At its best, democracy protects human rights, promotes human dignity, and upholds the rule of law. It is a means to establish peace and shared prosperity. It should ensure every citizen – regardless of gender – has an equal voice. And free and fair elections that will respect the will of the people. At the …

The United States is working tirelessly, in full coordination with Special Envoy Griffiths, to create the conditions for the parties to reach a ceasefire and a negotiated end to the conflict. One that incorporates the perspectives and the experiences of the Yemeni people.

In keeping with the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to gender equality, diversity, equity, and inclusion, the United States is sending an historically diverse delegation. This is the first time the United States will be represented at the White House level at the Commission on the Status of Women and the first time two women of color …

Today, exactly 10 years ago, the Syrian people peacefully took to the streets. They chanted slogans for freedom and held up pictures of detained friends and relatives. They called for an end to government corruption. They asked the government to respect their human rights. The people were filled with hope, solidarity, and song. And what …

The Security Council calls on all Libyan authorities and actors to ensure a smooth handover of all competences and duties to the new interim government. The Security Council welcomes Prime Minister Serraj’s statement in this regard.

This mandate renewal demonstrates the leadership of the Security Council in support of peace and security in South Sudan. While the signatory parties to the Revitalized Agreement have taken important steps toward fulfilling their commitments, the risk of a return to widespread violence is real. Violence against civilians has surged, and UNMISS remains critical to …

The United States is engaging with the world once again. Not just by saying those words, but by actions. And I hope you’ve seen some of those. On Inauguration Day, President Biden said, “we will be a strong and trusted partner for peace, progress, and security.” And immediately after delivering those remarks, the President instructed …

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the alarming number of attacks deliberately targeting civilians in Afghanistan. These heinous attacks have targeted civil servants, the judiciary, the media, healthcare and humanitarian workers, including women in prominent positions, those who protect and promote human rights, and ethnic and religious minorities.

As President Biden said last month, when Russia invaded its neighbors, it did not just violate another country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, it violated international law and the very norms by which modern countries engage with one another.

So, when we use these technical terms – food security, acute malnutrition, conflict-induced hunger – let us not forget what they really mean. We’re talking about raw humanity here. We’re talking about pure suffering. We’re talking about real people. We’re talking about children and mothers, like the ones that I met in 1993 – more …

This open debate is the signature event of the U.S. presidency of the Security Council, and will aim to advance efforts by the Council, the United Nations, and Member States to break the cycle of conflict-driven food insecurity. Conflict is the primary driver of hunger worldwide, affecting tens of millions of people each year. The …

Today, the United States and every other member of the United Nations Security Council spoke with one voice to condemn the ongoing violence against peaceful protestors in Burma. We commend their courage and determination in the face of continued, brutal attacks by military and security forces.

“The Security Council strongly condemns the violence against peaceful protestors, including against women, youth and children. It expresses deep concern at restrictions on medical personnel, civil society, labor union members, journalists and media workers, and calls for the immediate release of all those detained arbitrarily. The Council calls for the military to exercise utmost restraint …

As President Biden has made clear, the United States is renewing its commitment to multilateralism and trans-Atlantic cooperation. We welcome and celebrate Sweden’s prioritization of strengthening the OSCE’s activities on the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. And as I said earlier this week, it’s time for all of us to turn our commitments on the …

The United States stands willing to work with partners in the region to support efforts to de-escalate and find solutions. We stand with the people of Sudan. We will continue to work closely with them, and the international community, to help create the peaceful, prosperous future they deserve.

Women are on the front lines of this urgent humanitarian crisis – and so many crises around the world. And that’s why, during my presidency of the UN Security Council this month, I’m bringing the voices of women experts into our Council meetings wherever possible, to ensure that their voices are valued and that their …

We believe that the agenda needs to go beyond mere rhetoric. It is time we translate our noble commitments into concrete actions. Women should be part of mediation and negotiation teams. They should also serve in roles behind the scenes that are just as powerful – such as technical experts, or civil society leaders consulted …

Perhaps most important of all, you have shared your stories with the world – often at great personal risk to your lives. That is a tremendous service, because your courage is contagious. I have no doubt that each of you has inspired other women to organize, demand equity, break down barriers to a stronger, more …

Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield will deliver brief remarks during the 2021 International Women of Courage Award Ceremony (IWOC), hosted virtually by Secretary Antony Blinken and featuring a keynote by First Lady, Dr. Jill Biden. Now in its 15th year, the Secretary of State’s IWOC Award recognizes women from around the globe who have demonstrated exceptional courage and …

The United States is alarmed by the humanitarian and human rights situation in Ethiopia. What’s happening in Ethiopia has had, and will continue to have, devastating consequences for thousands of innocent people, and it poses a direct threat to regional peace and security. We need to address it immediately.

The use of chemical weapons by any state constitutes an unacceptable threat to every state. We all know and understand this, and the United States remains committed to holding those who use these horrific weapons to account.

Civil society, particularly women in civil society, must be heard during our discussions in the Council on issues of international peace and security. Their ears are on the ground. They see and understand what no one else does. And at times, they suffer like no one else does. So, during our Presidency this month, and …

This month marks a full decade of untold suffering at the hands of the Assad regime. How tragic that this is the first time in those 10 years that the General Assembly will finally hear directly from Syrian survivors and the Commission of Inquiry about these appalling atrocities. Atrocities so terrible that some of them, …

In President Biden’s inaugural address, he declared America would engage with the world, we would repair our alliances, and be a strong and trusted partner for peace, progress, and security. He pledged that he would be, that we would be a nation that leads, in his words, not only “by the example of our power, …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield participated in a series of bilateral meetings today with UN Security Council counterparts. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield has now held meetings with all 14 of the Permanent Representatives to the UN on the Security Council in advance of the U.S. assuming the Security Council presidency in March.

For the first time addressing the General Assembly as the Representative of the United States to the United Nations, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield delivered remarks to the UN General Assembly on the situation in Burma. The Ambassador strongly condemned the military coup and the security forces’ brutal killing of unarmed people and urged the world to speak …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Representative to the United Nations, will hold a press conference at the UN Monday, March 1 at 12:30 p.m. EST. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield will outline the March program of work for the UN Security Council and highlight U.S. priorities for the month. A livestream of the press conference will be available here: …

As I said the last time we met on the Palestinian question in the Middle East, the United States remains committed to working towards a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous future for the people of the Middle East. For both Israelis and Palestinians, this means focusing our efforts on advancing their freedom, security, and prosperity …

Let me be clear from the outset: The United States continues to strongly condemn the military coup in Myanmar. And we condemn the security forces’ brutal killing of unarmed people. And I would – like others – like to welcome and commend the courageous and brave statement made by the Myanmar Perm. Rep. here this …

Yesterday, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield presented her credentials to UN Secretary-General António Guterres. Following the ceremony, the two met to discuss the important leadership role the United States plays in the UN system, the global pandemic, climate change, humanitarian issues, and human rights. She then made a brief statement to the UN press corps.

The United States remains clear-eyed about the Houthis’ malign actions, and their aggression, particularly in their current military offensive against Marib. Likewise, we hold them responsible for attacks and threats against civilian and commercial shipping, which must cease.

The United Nations is the world’s most important forum for bringing people and countries together, and I take that seriously as a U.S. diplomat. As I made clear in my testimony to the U.S. Senate, this administration knows that when America is at the table and acting in accordance with our values, the United States* …

As Secretary Blinken underscored earlier this month, the United States remains committed to the international community’s long-standing, comprehensive, and sustained efforts to bring a political solution to the conflict in Syria.

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Representative to the United Nations, will deliver brief remarks Thursday, February 25, at approximately 3:00 p.m. EST at the UN Security Council stakeout following her presentation of credentials to the UN Secretary-General. Her remarks will be livestreamed on UN Web TV: http://webtv.un.org/.

Stepping into this role is a deeply meaningful coda to my 35-year career in the Foreign Service. When I first joined the service, I was, as a Black woman from Louisiana, an outsider. I was warned it would be harder for someone with my background to succeed. And it was. But over the years, I …

We seek greater transparency, predictability, and inclusivity for NGOs and civil society. And we welcome your efforts to ensure broad and meaningful civil society representation at the UN and in UN processes.

As the Secretary-General noted in his report, “the crisis in the country is inextricably linked to the dynamics in the Central African region.” The United States welcomes the decision of the Economic Community of Central African States to appoint a mediator for the Central African Republic and looks forward to the naming of this mediator …

We are here today because in 2014, Russia occupied Crimea and instigated a conflict in the Donbas region. We are here today because Russia’s actions in eastern Ukraine have led to the deaths of more than 13,000 people, displaced millions of Ukrainians, and left an additional 3.4 million in need of humanitarian assistance. And we …

I think it’s particularly important we are before the Security Council because the climate crisis is indisputably a Security Council issue. Our Pentagon has for years described the impact of climate as a threat multiplier. In fact, it is among the most complex and compelling security issues that I think we have ever faced. We’re …

Let me begin with something we all know: legislative elections were due in Haiti in October 2019. Both before and after that date, members of this Council repeatedly called on Haiti’s political stakeholders to come together, to set aside their differences, and to find a way forward to address Haiti’s most pressing challenges. They chose …

Our remarks on Somalia over the past several months in this Council have focused on the need for Somalia’s leadership to seize the opportunity before them and make concerted efforts to advance peace and security for Somalia’s people.

As the briefers noted this morning, the United States is preparing to reinvigorate diplomatic efforts, alongside the United Nations and others, to achieve a ceasefire and end the war in Yemen. As we do so, I want to be clear that we will fully support the Special Envoy’s efforts to bring all parties to consensus …

Here’s how else we plan to contribute to ending this pandemic. As some of you will have seen, President Biden’s first National Security Memorandum made clear that the United States will once again serve as a global health leader. The United States believes that multilateralism, the United Nations, the World Health Organization are essential – not just as an …

The Biden Administration supports a strategic partnership with a stable, democratic Iraq. The Administration will be a steady, reliable partner that supports Iraq’s anti-corruption and economic reform efforts, strengthens regional relationships, holds accountable human rights violators and those who abuse human rights, provides humanitarian assistance, backs efforts to control militias and to control Iran’s destabilizing …

UN peacekeeping remains among the most effective mechanisms to address the global challenges to international peace and security. Yet more progress and reform is required. The United States is committed to strengthening and reforming peacekeeping operations so that they can deliver on their vital global mission.

We stand with the people of Burma and will continue to use our renewed engagement in the international community to commit to human rights in Burma and press for an immediate return to democracy.

The United States reaffirms its unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. We will never recognize Russia’s attempted annexation of Crimea. As a result, U.S. sanctions on Russia in response to its aggression in eastern Ukraine and occupation of Crimea will remain in place unless – and until – Russia reverses course.

Under President Biden, the United States is committed to working with the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS to ensure this terrorist group is defeated on a lasting and comprehensive basis.

As several of my colleagues have mentioned, on his very first day in office, President Biden signed the instrument to rejoin the Paris Agreement. Other steps have been taken as well by the Administration; important steps related to climate change.

We recognize the UN Human Rights Council has its flaws, but we also believe it can help promote fundamental freedoms around the world. The only way we can ensure the Human Rights Council fulfills this important mandate is by being at the table as an observer and working with our partners and allies in a …

The United States is pleased to join the Board in adopting all Country Program Documents presented for approval at this session. We thank UNFPA for their proactive, productive, and effective engagement in addressing Member States’ concerns regarding the CPDs. We also thank program countries for their constructive efforts to address Member States’ concerns which demonstrate …

The High Representative reiterated an important message from the Secretary-General in her remarks just now, so I’d like to reiterate a key message from the United States on this issue: the Assad regime has repeatedly used chemical weapons against the Syrian people, and then subsequently sought to avoid accountability by obstructing independent investigations and undermining …

Madam President, we commend UNFPA’s advocacy on protecting access to sexual and reproductive health services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in ongoing humanitarian crises; on sounding the alarm on the pandemic-related spike in gender-based violence; and on stressing the critical role of gender-disaggregated data collection for understanding the full scope of the problem and effectively …

We will continue to encourage discussions to further align and improve the effectiveness and transparency of the development of Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks and CPDs. This is an important year for implementation of the QCPR and review of the Resident Coordinator system. Board discussions will continue to provide an effective platform to further these efforts.

We thank the Board of Auditors for these reports and the management of UNDP, UNFPA, and UNOPS for managements’ responses. We commend UNDP for a fifteenth consecutive clean audit. We strongly support the Board’s recommendation for swift implementation of all BoA recommendations, especially outstanding Board recommendations.

The current situation we face – with more than 8,000 children of foreign terrorist fighters residing in camps in Syria and Iraq – is not tenable. The international community can and we must do more. We cannot continue to let these children languish in overcrowded environments where they suffer from inadequate shelter, food, sanitation, educational …

The United States believes, as we’ve just heard in SRSG Williams briefing, that Libya faces a critical turning point. A viable path to a unified government, national elections, and an end to the conflict lies ahead of us. The Libyan parties themselves must now seize the opportunity before them to select an interim national executive …

The United States will never shrink from its commitment to combat anti-Semitism. We honor the sacred memory of those murdered in the Holocaust when together we act to prevent future atrocities and uphold the rights and the dignity of all.

Under the new administration, the policy of the United States will be to support a mutually agreed two-state solution, one in which Israel lives in peace and security alongside a viable Palestinian state. This vision, as I know we have just heard, though under serious stress, remains the best way to ensure Israel’s future as …

The United States is committed to advancing Holocaust education and working with the international community to increase Holocaust awareness. We are also committed to combating anti-Semitism and other forms of hatred, to preventing atrocities worldwide, and to bringing those responsible for atrocities to justice. By so doing, we hope to honor the memory of the …

The United States is committed to working together with other countries to combat this deadly virus. As a first sign of our renewed commitment to supporting multilateral efforts to fight the pandemic, on January 20, President Biden signed a letter to the Secretary-General retracting the previous administration’s notification of the United States’ intent to withdraw …

The Government of Belarus is reverting to such oppressive, drastic means to hide the truth to avoid its own accountability for human rights violations. But what’s inspiring, what’s inspired me listening today, is hearing how, that even in the face of this, brave journalists continue to play an essential role in covering, uncovering the facts …

The Verification Mission has played a vital role in supporting Colombia’s peace and reconciliation efforts and the Mission should be proud of its contributions. The United States also wants to acknowledge here the government of Colombia’s commitment to Peace Accord implementation, particularly in the face of the daunting public health challenges posed by COVID-19, and …

Mr. President, the United States extends our deepest condolences to the families of the two Burundian peacekeepers killed on December 25, the Rwandan peacekeeper killed on January 13, the Burundian peacekeeper killed on January 15, and the Gabonese and Moroccan peacekeepers killed in an ambush on January 18. We also express our deep condolences to …