The United States remains committed to helping vulnerable persons from Burma seeking protection and assistance, including Rohingya, and is the leading contributor of humanitarian assistance in response to the Rakhine State and Rohingya refugee crisis. But the long-term crisis in Rakhine cannot be addressed if the ongoing violence does not cease.

​We also call on the CAR authorities to cooperate fully with MINUSCA, ensuring that UN peacekeepers are fully empowered to carry out their mandate. A key component of that mandate is the protection of civilians against any and all actors who threaten them.

It’s important that we recognize the role that gender stereotypes play in radicalization. In June, the White House released our first National Strategy for Countering Domestic Terrorism, which highlights the threat from racially or ethnically motivated violent extremism. It notes the need for specialized analysis, including on ways gender-motivated violence can have implications for domestic …

I was at the Syria border and I saw the extraordinary work that was being done by humanitarian workers, NGOs, United Nations, as well as local organizations to support people who were in need. And I asked the question, and I’ve repeated this several times so people have heard it over and over again, but …

The United States has zero tolerance for manifestations of anti-Semitism, racism, or other forms of hatred in UN agencies, and that includes UNRWA. This is why our framework of cooperation – the most robust to date – outlines expectations and include benchmarks to increase UNRWA’s transparency and accountability, consistent with UN principles, including neutrality.

We emphasize that the primary responsibility to protect civilians remains with the Government of Sudan. We support UNITAMS fully utilizing its mandated authority to assist Sudan in protecting civilians and building trust between Darfuris and new Joint Force. We urge the Government of Sudan to take full advantage of this assistance and actively cooperate with …

We have to do everything possible to ensure that whatever experiences women have right now in Africa that we find a way to turn those around. There is a lot at risk, but it’s not just for women and girls. It’s for their entire families, because we know that when women are empowered, they empower their families, they empower their communities, they empower their countries.

We have to look for opportunities to invest in the continent, and we have, through our institutions, worked to do that. So to give you another example through the Department of State and U.S. Agency for International Development, we’ve provided roughly $541 million to health and humanitarian and economic support assistance to more than 40 …

Members of the Presidential Delegation to the funeral of President Moïse have arrived safely back in the United States. The people of Haiti deserve peace, security, and a better future. Now is the time for the international community to come together to support the Haitian people in a time of great suffering.

At the UNAIDS PCB, civil society, represented through the NGO delegation, is an invaluable voice, one that firmly—and necessarily— grounds us in the reality of the AIDS epidemic. They push each of us to do better as governments – voices who question or disagree with governments are important as they keep us accountable and shed …

Our delegation is here to bring a message to the Haitian people: You deserve democracy, stability, security, and prosperity, and we stand with you in this time of crisis. So, we come here in solidarity with the Haitian people during this difficult time. And also, it’s important that we share our condolences with First Lady …

Ahead of the Presidential Delegation’s travel to Haiti this morning, U.S. Representative to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield and Representative Gregory Meeks, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, participated yesterday in a virtual dialogue with civil society representatives in Haiti hosted by U.S. Ambassador to Haiti Michele Sison. The officials heard from diverse civil …

The objective and critical role of the High Representative in this process is essential to ongoing efforts for peace and security and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and remains so until the conditions of the 5+2 Agenda are met. These conditions have been endorsed by the Security Council numerous times, most recently in November 2020. …

Around the world, young people are following President Mandela’s footsteps and driving change with resilience and creativity. Young people have been at the frontline of global movements against systemic issues like racism and climate change, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. They are driving campaigns to ensure that the most impacted and vulnerable communities have access …

I once had the great honor and fortune of a lifetime to meet Madiba. His leadership, his courage, and his commitment to doing what was right – in the face of difficult odds and grave danger – continue to inspire me today. As the international community honors him today, let us follow in his footsteps …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met today in New York with Mexican Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard and discussed issues of common interest. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield thanked Foreign Secretary Ebrard for Mexico’s support in the Security Council on renewing the Bab al-Hawa humanitarian border crossing in Syria.

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met today with Libyan Interim Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dabaiba to discuss the Libyan political process, and the need to maintain forward momentum. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield expressed concern that there is not yet a constitutional basis for timely elections, and emphasized the importance of holding elections on December 24, 2021, as outlined in …

Humanitarian workers represent the best of us and they deserve our protection. And as Mr. Mardini said, without exceptions. So today, let us recommit ourselves: to protecting them, to holding those that threaten them accountable, and to ensuring they have the space and the resources they need to serve the world.

The truth is, no one country can eliminate racism and uproot white supremacy on its own. We need strong leaders like you – people positioned to push for progress, advance equity, and serve as examples in your own society. So together, let’s dismantle systemic racism, brick by brick. Let’s fight for civil rights and fundamental …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met today with India’s Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield and Foreign Secretary Shringla discussed enhancing multilateral cooperation between the United States and India, including at the Security Council, as the two countries deepen their strategic partnership. The Ambassador also expressed the need for continued coordination between the two countries to combat …

The international community clearly and fully supports the Libyan people on their road to national elections. Now, we must do everything we can to help ensure potential spoilers – both internal and external – do not derail months of hard-fought progress. Mr. President, in this final stretch, it is incumbent upon all of the parties …

I join my distinguished colleagues here today in expressing our shock, and sadness, and strong condemnation over the horrific assassination on July 7 of President Jovenel Moïse and the attack on First Lady Martine Moïse. I only just met them in Ecuador in May. We wish the First Lady a full recovery and extend our …

Mr. President, despite these ongoing challenges, we believe Colombia continues to be on the road toward a great success story, and a model to countries seeking a way out of entrenched conflict. The work that both the Colombian government and the Verification Mission have done over the last four years is admirable, and Colombians from …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met today in New York with Colombian Vice President and Foreign Minister Marta Lucía Ramírez. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield thanked Vice President Ramírez for Colombia’s consistent engagement with the Security Council and its democratic leadership in the region. The two officials discussed the ongoing implementation of the Colombia Peace Accord and the importance of …

This humanitarian agreement was possible thanks to the strong leadership of the co-penholders at the UN Security Council, Ireland and Norway, who worked tirelessly over the last year to help preserve this crossing, and thanks to all of our colleagues aligning on this issue in the Security Council. The result was a 15-0 unanimous Security …

This humanitarian agreement was possible thanks to the strong leadership of the co-penholders, Ireland and Norway. It is possible thanks to all of my colleagues who were able to align on this vitally important outcome. And it was possible, above all, because the United States and Russia were able to come together, work diplomatically, and …

Thanks to this resolution, millions of Syrians can breathe a sigh of relief tonight, knowing that vital humanitarian aid will continue to flow into Idlib through the Bab al-Hawa border crossing after tomorrow. And parents can sleep tonight knowing that for the next 12 months their children will be fed. The humanitarian agreement we’ve reached here will literally …

Mr. President, the Horn of Africa is at an inflection point. Decisions in the weeks and months ahead will have significant, long-term implications for the people of the region. The United States is committed to addressing the interlinked regional crises and to supporting a prosperous and stable Horn of Africa. So, we stand ready to …

So, we support UNOWAS and the governments in West Africa and the Sahel working together, in partnership, to develop a civilian-led joint project to address local conflicts. This project will be critical – and hopefully, it will help lead to long-term peace, prosperity, and security in this region.

This morning, I met with the Permanent Representative of Haiti to the United Nations, AmbassadorAntonio Rodrigue. I expressed my condolences on the shocking assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and attack on First Lady Martine Moïse. Those responsible for this heinous act must be brought to justice. The United States echoes calls for calm, and we …

Ultimately, we must take care that our approaches to countering disinformation also do not inadvertently abuse or violate human rights and fundamental freedoms, which undergird our democracies – including freedom of expression, both online and offline.

Looking ahead, we welcome joint efforts by MONUSCO and the Government of the DRC to set benchmarks to guide future transition planning and the transfer of tasks to the UN country team, and what will be eventual government ownership that will allow the peacekeeping to end. Strengthening the capacity of local authorities, supporting community-level mediation, …

To my other colleagues from UN Member States and UN Agencies, I implore you to engage Council members, both in New York and in capitals to urge them to vote for the renewal, and to vote for the expansion. To those of you who are on the front lines of this humanitarian effort, again, I …

We have offered to support expanding cross-line aid, and we will continue to do so in good faith. In fact, we have put forward a serious and credible proposal to expand humanitarian assistance across Syria, – including cross-line and cross-border, including urgent COVID relief – to meet the urgent needs of the Syrian people.

The United States stands ready to assist Ethiopia in solidifying and implementing a ceasefire, providing life-saving humanitarian aid, and resolving this devastating conflict. We’re also standing ready to support the wider, necessary dialogue across Ethiopia, and toward democratic renewal, national unity, and peace. The Security Council should step up to these tasks as well.

Well, the U.S. has already acted. We called for this meeting. This – we’ve had six closed-door meetings, and the situation in Tigray has not significantly improved. And so, we think it’s time to have an open meeting and give the Security Council the opportunity to address this issue in a public way, so that …

As part of the Biden-Harris administration’s “America’s Back Together” tour, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield will visit a mobile vaccination site at Commodore Barry Park in Fort Greene, Brooklyn on Friday, July 2, at 1:00 p.m. EDT. The Ambassador will be joined by NYC’s Commissioner for International Affairs Penny Abeywardena and NYC …

Marginalized groups are at even greater risk. Transgender women, indigenous women, and women and girls of color experience higher rates of gender-based violence. Women in humanitarian crisis areas caused by conflict and climate change face acute risks too. And women and girls with disabilities experience gender-based violence ten times more than their non-disabled counterparts.

One of the United Nations’ founding purposes was the promise of collective measures to prevent and counter threats to international peace and security. For almost 20 years since the September 11 attacks, Member States and UN entities have fulfilled this purpose. The United Nations has created collective mechanisms to identify strategic counterterrorism priorities and strengthen …

As the United States said in 2018, the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy review resolution should guide global efforts to counter terrorism and prevent violent extremism, not be yet another vehicle to unjustly criticize Israel at the UN. The United States cannot accept the divisive reference to foreign occupation in preambular paragraph 43 of the resolution that …

This report underscores what has been apparent for some time: Iran continues to disregard the provision of 2231 that calls upon Iran not to undertake any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches using such ballistic missile technology. We share the concerns stated by the E3 and …

Russia must immediately stop the violence, hold those responsible accountable, and remove mercenaries endangering UN peacekeepers and undermining their crucial work in support of peace and security in the CAR.

As the Peace Implementation Council Steering Board established and many of the Council members before me have affirmed, Bosnia and Herzegovina must meet specific criteria – the 5+2 Agenda – in order to graduate from international supervision. And I note, in that regard, that Russia agreed to this Agenda in 2008. In contradiction to the 5+2 Agenda …

In light of MINUSMA’s immense tasks, my delegation reiterates that a clear line must be maintained between counterterrorism-mandated operations and peacekeeping missions in order to protect the UN’s impartiality, its personnel, and its effectiveness. The G5 Sahel governments – not the Security Council – direct the Joint Force, which is a coalition of domestic forces …

The framework UN Member States have worked so hard to develop now provide the rules of the road. We have all committed to this framework. Now, it is time to put it into practice. We have substantial work to do to ensure that all states that want to act responsibly in cyberspace have both the …

Let me start by thanking in advance the families who will share their stories with us today – the abduction of family members is heartbreaking. And let me also start by being as clear as we can be: The United States absolutely condemns the DPRK government’s involvement in international abductions and forced disappearances. Abducting citizens …

To that end, the United States recently joined the Christchurch Call to Action to Eliminate Terrorist and Violent Extremist Content Online. The goal is to develop new approaches to prevent terrorists and violent extremists from exploiting the Internet while safeguarding human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Around the world, if we want to give the future a fighting chance, we need to act now. The United States is the leading donor to UNICEF. We’re a strong believer in its core mandate. And we urge others to generously contribute. Because this is not some small subset of the population. In many places, …

Millions of Syrians are struggling, and without urgent action, millions more will be cut off from food, clean water, medicine, and COVID-19 vaccines. The situation is devastating, and will only get worse if we don’t act. The Security Council must meet the moment with the robust humanitarian access that people of the region desperately need. …

For millions of Syrians, Bab al-Hawa is a literal lifeline. And we must reauthorize it and reinstate Bab al-Salam and al Yaroubiyah. This dire humanitarian crisis directly informs the political situation. If we cut off cross-border aid, we further destabilize the region – it will encourage more internally displaced people to flee. So, we call …

There’s new leadership in Israel. And we congratulate the new government and hope it can make serious headways on these issues. Israelis and Palestinians deserve equal measures of security, democracy, dignity, and prosperity. Achieving that goal is critical to ensuring peace and stability, and avoiding violence over the long-term. But in the meantime, we look …

My message to the Council was simple: I told them that people will die if we do not renew the mandate. After 10 years of war, Syria is among the world’s worst humanitarian disasters. And COVID has only made the situation worse. Three weeks ago, on the border, I spoke to a humanitarian worker, and …

We need your ideas. Your advocacy. Your fresh perspectives. We’re relying on you to be even smarter than us. Even kinder than us. Even more thoughtful than us. Because one day – hopefully – many of you will go on from being junior ambassadors to ambassadors. And maybe one of you will take my job …

Here’s our choice: Do we ensure our humanitarian aid continues to be monitored from start to finish? Do we follow through with our commitment to end the COVID-19 pandemic? Do we help Syrians in desperate need? Without cross-border access, more Syrians will die – and we know that. Frontline UN workers know it. NGOs know …

As with other Member States, the United States determines its conduct of economic relationships with other countries in accordance with its national interests. Sanctions are a legitimate way to achieve foreign policy, national security, and other national and international objectives, and the United States is not alone in this view or in this practice.

It is essential the ongoing violence in CAR is brought to an end in a peaceful manner, with full implementation of the peace agreement and inclusive political dialogue. In that regard, let me emphasize that it is crucial to take the needs of women and girls into account. Ensuring the full, equal and meaningful participation …

First, as part of our commitment to Afghanistan’s future, the United States is providing more than $266 million in new humanitarian assistance. That brings total U.S. humanitarian aid for Afghanistan to nearly $3.9 billion since 2002 – on top of the $36 billion in civilian development assistance we have also provided since that time. Eighteen …

But the reality is that I have spent 35 years of my life serving the U.S. Government. It’s 35 proud years. And I give speeches all the time to young people that say, “The proudest moment, for me, is seeing the American flag fly outside my window, driving up to a building and seeing that …

So over recent decades, extensive research has shown, for example, that human beings focus on the short-term and we often ignore the long term. Research has shown that people can be unrealistically optimistic. We exaggerate some risks and ignore others altogether, even in circumstances in which we know that making some change in our personal …

The United States remains committed to the people of South Sudan and to working closely with the transitional government, the Security Council, and all stakeholders to enable peace and prosperity for the country and for the region.

As part of our strong support for the people of Myanmar, the United States continues to engage with the full range of civil society and pro-democracy groups from Myanmar that seek to restore democratic governance and protect the human rights of all the people of Myanmar – including the National Unity Government. We encourage other …

We have seen the unfortunate consequences of the continued presence of foreign fighters and mercenaries in Libya. Recent violent instability in Chad underscores the dangers foreign mercenaries pose not just to Libya but to the wider region. Preventing greater instability in the Sahel is a critical priority. All of us here today have agreed on …

The United States is proud to be the largest donor of vital assistance worldwide, having provided more than $10.5 billion in humanitarian aid globally in Fiscal Year 2020, and the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to restoring America’s promise to protect the world’s most vulnerable, including refugees, stateless persons, conflict victims, and other forcibly displaced persons. …

Mr. Secretary-General, you have proven yourself a capable leader in a demanding role, and we look forward to collaborating with you over these next years. You are once again being charged with the gravest of responsibilities: taking on the most important global challenges of our time. These past five years, those challenges have included a …

The United States recognizes the many challenges the Secretary-General will face in the coming years, and we hope that through his continued leadership, the next five years will see more peace, more security, and more prosperity than the last. To achieve these shared goals, it will require hard work, political will, and accountability from all …

President Biden and Vice President Harris have made eliminating racial discrimination and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion one of our core priorities, both at home and abroad. It is the right thing to do, and it is central to our strategy. That is true whether we are discussing how to hire and retain a more …

The United States remains strongly committed to preventing sexual violence in conflict, holding perpetrators accountable, and supporting survivors. We are proud of our longstanding support for the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Sexual Violence in Conflict. We must work diligently to safely identify and provide necessary services for survivors of sexual …

Haiti faces a variety of serious and complex challenges. None of them can be fully addressed without political stability in the country. That stability can only be achieved by free and fair elections that deliver a democratic and fully representative government. The time for action by President Moïse and all key stakeholders is now. The …

On behalf of the Government of the United States and the American people, I am proud to announce nearly $407 million in new humanitarian assistance for the response to the Venezuelan regional crisis, including inside Venezuela. This new funding will provide the Venezuelan people with a wide range of lifesaving and essential assistance, such as …

Today U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield announced nearly $407 million in new humanitarian assistance to respond to the needs of vulnerable Venezuelans in Venezuela, Venezuelan refugees and migrants, and their host communities across the region.

Though the pandemic may have restricted our ability to deliver some capacity building and assistance programs, we have adapted and maintained support for our partners. We must work together to continue to develop new means of delivering assistance, and look forward to opportunities to restart other programming and assistance that was put on hold due …

Nonetheless, the United States is concerned that these virtual discussions have not had the status of actual meetings of the Security Council. And because they are not actual meetings of the Security Council, the Council’s provisional rules of procedure do not apply to them. Thus, due to the objections of one Council Member as the …

To adapt a phrase from President Biden, at the United Nations, we are in a battle for the soul of the world. This is why it is critical for the United States to lead. That means paying our dues in full and on time; aiding humanitarian and pandemic recovery efforts; expanding opportunities for American citizens …

Houthi intransigence is not the only impediment to lasting peace in Yemen. We call on the Yemeni government and the Southern Transitional Council to put the interests of the Yemeni people first and resolve their differences. Time is of the essence – the people of Yemen need a unified government that can provide services and …

So, as we celebrate the power of inclusion and honor refugees on June 20th, let’s remember the millions of Syrians who desperately, desperately need our help. They – and millions of others around the world – are counting on us. They’re counting on us for lifesaving support, they’re counting on our common humanity to extend …

The United States is a committed partner to the G5 Sahel countries. We support the G5 Sahel Joint Force with equipment, training, and advisory support to fill critical capability gaps on a bilateral basis. In the past four years we have committed more than $580 million to provide security assistance and other countering-violent extremism support …

My view is sovereignty does not come into play when you have foreign troops in your country, when your people are crossing borders into other countries, and we’re watching on national TV your people starve to death. And I’ve said and I will say here, as I’ve said in the Security Council, don’t African lives matter?

The United States Mission to the United Nations and the UN Refugee Agency will host a virtual event, “World Refugee Day: The Power of Inclusion,” on Tuesday, June 15, at 9:15 a.m. EDT. Representative of the United States to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield and UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi will each give …

Today, we look to our fellow Member States to work with the United States toward ensuring all people have equal access to quality HIV services, regardless of who they are or who they love. We’ve made tremendous progress together in the 40 years since those first five cases were reported. Let’s build on our gains, …

The U.S.-EU partnership is built on a foundation of shared values. It is built on a common vision that includes a commitment to democracy and the rule of law, a respect for human rights, the promotion of economic opportunity, and the pursuit of transatlantic prosperity and security. The European Union remains an indispensable partner to …

We cannot let Ethiopia starve. We have to act now. And yet, despite the best efforts of many members of the Security Council – and sadly due to the impediments placed in front of us by some Council members – the Council still has not yet held a single – a single – public meeting …

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield will give opening remarks at a virtual high-level roundtable on the humanitarian emergency in the Tigray region of Ethiopia hosted by the United States and the European Union at 8:30 a.m., Thursday, June 10. The event will highlight the enormous humanitarian emergency unfolding in the region, which …

The United States supports the ICC’s efforts to shed light on the abuses and atrocities committed against countless Sudanese who deserve justice for these acts. Such accountability is a powerful deterrent against future abuses and makes clear to those who suffered that their pain will not be left unnoticed and unaddressed. Ending the culture of …

As President Agius and Prosecutor Brammertz note in their report, there is still much work to do to encourage the acknowledgement of historical facts and further justice at the domestic level. Serbia’s decision to grant citizenship to Mirko Vrucinic in June last year, while he faced war crimes charges in a court in Sarajevo, for …

The co-chairs of the United Nations Group of Friends for the Protection of Journalists – Greece, France and Lithuania – and the undersigned Members of the Group of Friends strongly condemn the forced landing of a Ryanair flight in Minsk, Belarus, on May 23, 2021, prompted by Belarusian authorities in order to arrest and detain …

The United States remains deeply committed to ending the HIV epidemic, including ending inequalities for children through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief or PEPFAR. Preventing mother to child transmission, finding undiagnosed children living with HIV, and ensuring all children and adolescents living with HIV receive optimal care and treatment have been key tenants …

Russia’s new amendments target the majority – if not all – of the most sensitive and complex issues that the global HIV response must address full on if we are to meet our 2030 goals and targets. As you rightly point out, distinguished representative of Australia, the new Russian amendments are indeed severe and would …

As Ralph Bunche put it in his Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech, the United Nations is “the greatest peace organization ever dedicated to the salvation of mankind’s future on earth.” But that’s only true if America is leading the way. If instead we walk away from the table, and allow others to fill the void, …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met today with United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Executive Director Natalia Kanem. This meeting marks the first high-level U.S. government engagement with UNFPA since the Obama Administration. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield highlighted the resumption of U.S. funding for UNFPA humanitarian activities, including $2.6 million for the Rohingya refugee crisis, nearly $1.5 million in Afghanistan …

First, the United States would like to express its gratitude to the AU Peace and Security Council for its work in Chad as the country finds a way forward following the death of President Deby. We join the African Union and our international partners in calling for a peaceful, timely, and civilian-led transition of power …

Deputy Prescott will discuss U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield’s recent travel to Turkey and the recently announced more than $239 million in additional humanitarian assistance for the people of Syria. After his opening remarks, he will then take questions from participating journalists. We are pleased to offer simultaneous interpretation for this briefing …

I just concluded a very productive three-day visit to Turkey, including a visit to the border region of Hatay. And yesterday I announced that the United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development, USAID, is providing nearly $240 million in humanitarian funding for the people of Syria and the communities that host them here …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met today with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield reiterated the value of the strategic partnership between the United States and Turkey, our NATO Ally. She discussed her trip to the Turkey-Syria border and announcement of additional U.S. financial assistance for the humanitarian response in Syria and to support Syrian refugees …

The UNGASS against corruption is an opportunity to take stock of our progress while acknowledging the challenges still ahead. And for our part, the United States is committed to continued leadership in the global fight against corruption and turning our talk into action. That is why President Biden will be hosting the Summit for Democracy, …

As we made clear at the Council’s last meeting on this subject, no amount of disinformation – espoused by Syria and its very small number of supporters – can negate or diminish the credibility of the evidence that has been presented to us by the OPCW. The Assad regime must comply with its obligations under …

So today, I’m proud to announce the United States is providing nearly $240 million in additional humanitarian funding for the people of Syria and for the communities that host them.

The UN Convention against Corruption and the UNGASS political declaration underscore our shared commitment to combating corruption. We have seen the debilitating impact that corruption has on the rule of law, economic growth, and security. Kleptocracy, in particular, erodes public trust in governance and siphons away public resources; resources that should be going to improve …

To this end, the United States fully supports the launch of the Group of Friends of Women in the Sahel by Niger, the African Union, and the European Union. The United States is very proud to join this group, and looks forward to working together on efforts to empower women and women’s organizations in this …

We call on Russia to immediately cease its aggression against Ukraine and end its occupation of Crimea and the egregious human rights abuses it inflicts on the Crimean population. We urge Russia to fulfill its Minsk commitments, including implementing an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire and withdrawing its military personnel and materiel from the territory of …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met today with Turkish Presidential Spokesperson Ibrahim Kalin. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield emphasized the value the United States places on its strategic partnership with Turkey, our NATO ally. She and Spokesperson Kalin discussed the ongoing conflict in Syria and related humanitarian and security issues throughout the region. The officials discussed the importance of the …

Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield will travel to Turkey June 2 to 4. We’re going to leave here shortly. She’ll have a series of meetings and engagements with senior Turkish Government officials, some UN – United Nations partners on the ground, with NGOs and humanitarian groups, and some of the millions of refugees that tragically have been displaced …

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield will travel to Turkey June 2-4 to focus on the extensive support provided by the United Nations and its partner agencies to meet the dire humanitarian needs in Syria. The Ambassador will meet with senior Turkish officials to discuss opportunities to strengthen the U.S.-Turkey relationship; work with …

This Pride Month, we reassert our commitment to promoting and protecting human rights, equality, and freedom for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) people in the United States and throughout the world.

We urge South Sudan’s leaders to remain focused on addressing the urgent humanitarian needs of their people, respecting human rights, and ensuring accountability, including for sexual and gender-based violence. Too many people – especially women and children – continue to suffer from ongoing violence. This resolution works to safeguard their rights, as we retain the …

The United States will continue to champion efforts to strengthen and reform UN peacekeeping operations, and we remain committed to ensuring UN peacekeepers have what they need to be safe, secure, and successful in carrying out their missions.

As President Biden has said, Palestinians and Israelis deserve equally to live safely and securely; to enjoy equal measures of freedom, opportunity, and democracy; and to be treated with dignity. So, as we work with the parties and others to address the urgent needs on the ground, let’s also start thinking through how we can …

We fully condemn this as yet another blatant attempt by the Belarusian authorities to silence all opposition voices. We continue to stand firmly with the people of Belarus in their quest for a democratic future and for respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. We stand united against the growing practice of authoritarian leaders reaching …

As today’s event showed, when peacekeeping missions withdraw, and when we’re considering withdrawing them, we need to prioritize the protection of civilians above all else. And that means early, close, and constant contact – as I described we did in the case of Liberia. It means taking a people-centered approach. And it means working together, …

The United States stands with the Syrian people, so we call on the Assad regime to adhere to a ceasefire, deliver on confidence-building measures, and fully engage in the political process. And we call on the Security Council to reauthorize and expand UN cross-border humanitarian assistance. The UN cross-border mechanism in Syria is one of …

The challenges Africa faces are great. But Africa’s promise – thanks to young people like you – is far greater. For our part, the United States is committed to doing what we can to help propel that promise forward. But you’re going to be in the driver’s seat. I’m going to sit in the passenger …

Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield congratulated President Lasso on his inauguration after a transparent, free, and fair election, and praised the Ecuadorian people for participating in the democratic process. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield and President Lasso discussed the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Ecuadorian people and President Biden’s commitment to accelerating the equitable distribution of vaccines globally.

UN peacekeeping is one of the most effective tools the Security Council has for protecting civilians in conflict areas. We will continue to work to ensure that the protection of civilians and the promotion of human rights lie at the core of what UN peacekeeping missions do. That means making sure these missions have the …

I went to Africa for the very first time when I was 26 years old, and I went to Liberia to study, and I fell in love with the continent at that point. I fell in love with Liberia, so clearly Liberia is going to be listed as the country that is my favorite country …

Last month, the United States announced $154 million in additional humanitarian assistance to address the life-threatening challenges that result from chronic food insecurity, violence, desert locusts, and the cycles of drought and flooding. We remain committed to the Somali people, to supporting their aspirations for a peaceful and prosperous future, and addressing their urgent humanitarian …

On Monday evening, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met with Costa Rican Foreign Minister Rodolfo Solano. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield expressed appreciation for Costa Rica’s leadership on many areas of shared importance including democracy, human rights, migration, and climate change. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield and Foreign Minister Solano also discussed the dire impact of COVID on the region. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield also …

On Monday evening, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield met with Venezuelan Interim Government Foreign Affairs Commissioner Julio Borges and Commissioner Leopoldo López. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield underscored U.S. support for a negotiated outcome that leads to free and fair elections in Venezuela. They agreed on the importance of bolstering international consensus in support of …

The United States attaches great importance to our relationships with – and the needs of – our LDC partners and friends. As we all grapple with the short- and long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the United States is committed to supporting our LDC partners as they confront the compounding impact of the climate crisis, …

The United States welcomes this opportunity to discuss this critically important issue as we look ahead to the International Day of UN Peacekeepers later this week. We are deeply grateful – and let me echo Sven here – for the military, police, and civilian personnel who have served in UN peacekeeping operations. And we honor …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met today with Haiti President Jovenel Moïse. She conveyed deep concern regarding Haiti’s ongoing political impasse, a lack of accountability for human rights violations, and deteriorating security conditions. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield noted that to date, preparations for the constitutional referendum scheduled for June 27 have not been sufficiently transparent or inclusive, and reiterated …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met today with Argentina’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Felipe Solá. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield also expressed the United States’ solidarity in the face of surging COVID cases in Argentina and emphasized President Biden’s commitments to accelerating global vaccine distribution and pandemic response. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield also expressed appreciation for Argentina’s work through multilateral systems to …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met today with Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader. They discussed the shared ties between the peoples of the United States and the Dominican Republic, and their partnership in support of common interests at the United Nations. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield emphasized the United States’ commitment to leading an international and coordinated vaccination effort to …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield met today with Chile’s Foreign Minister Andres Allamand. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield thanked FM Allamand for Chile’s leadership in the fight against climate change, and expressed the United States’ hope to work with Chile on renewable energy. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield conveyed the United States’ appreciation to FM Allamand for Chile’s regional leadership in promoting human …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield participated in a roundtable discussion on Venezuelan refugees and migration today in Ecuador with representatives from UNHCR, IOM, WFP, UNICEF, HIAS, the Norwegian Refugee Council, Dialogo Diverso, and Desarrollo y Autogestion.

In these tough times, we also share great challenges – like the need to defeat COVID-19, recover from economic setbacks, and climate change. And we share tremendous opportunities, from economic partnerships and business development, to protecting human rights, to expanding education. This is why President Biden sent his very first Presidential Delegation here to Ecuador. …

Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield will travel to Ecuador May 23-25 to lead the U.S. Presidential Delegation for the inauguration of Ecuador’s President-elect Guillermo Lasso Mendoza and Vice-President-elect Alfredo Borrero Vega. In Quito, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield will meet with senior Ecuadorian officials, regional heads of state, and other dignitaries attending the inauguration on May 24. The Ambassador will also …

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield spoke today with Democratic Republic of the Congo President Felix Tshisekedi. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield shared concerns regarding attacks by armed groups, including ISIS-DRC, and conveyed the United States’ hope that the DRC’s efforts to address these attacks would be fully coordinated with the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission …

Class of 2021: I have hope – I have light in my eyes – because of you. When I think of your promise, your potential, I swell with pride. With your Holy Cross mentors and role models by your side, I believe you will become men and women for others. I trust you will go …

The Council has an obligation to support the construction of sovereign institutions that are transparent, technocratic, and apolitical, and to punish those who engage in corruption. And as these institutions and others develop in Libya, civil society and women leaders must be included. Their inclusion will help foster peace, ensure equity, and advance accountability.

As President Biden said tonight, we will be working with the UN and UN bodies to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the people of the region, and we will be asking for other nations to step up their contributions, as well. And as we have repeatedly said, Israelis and Palestinians deserve safety and security, and …

The United States has had more than 60 diplomatic meetings at the highest levels, including at least five by President Biden. In his most recent call with Prime Minister Netanyahu yesterday, President Biden communicated that we continue to stand by Israel’s right to defend itself, that we believe Israel is now in a position to …

Finally, Mr. President, commitment to the well-being of the Sudanese people, we believe, extends to the turnover of team sites from UN hands to government hands. These spaces were for years investments by the UN, investments in the Sudanese people, aimed at protecting Sudanese and giving them a sense of stability. The failed turnover of …

In response to this current pandemic, the United States has delivered over $570 million in economic support, humanitarian, and health assistance. And on Monday, President Biden announced that we will be donating 80 million COVID-19 vaccines by the end of June. We will work with COVAX and other partners to ensure their delivery and distribution …

I’m here because there are several global crises, like COVID-19 and climate change, which have demonstrated at once how interconnected we are and how important our partnerships are. As the entire world works to chart a path forward from this past year, the Security Council will be discussing the unique challenges facing countries across the …

For Chad, Mali, and the rest of the region – representative, elected governments are the best path forward. Democracy leads to good governance. Good governance leads to stability. And stability will lead to peace and prosperity for all.

The ICC’s work in Libya is a critical element of our international commitment to accountability, peace, and security. To achieve these goals in Libya, the appropriate mechanisms – including international, hybrid, and domestic courts – need to deliver for victims of atrocities. We will continue to support the ICC’s investigations and contributions, which we hope …

Our digital era could hardly have been imagined when the UN was founded 75 years ago. Yet – as we adapt to the benefits and challenges of these emerging technologies – the rules, norms, and principles to which our governments committed must still apply today. The United States will continue to lead and partner with …

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights begins with the word “universal” for a reason. The foundational unit of the United Nations – from the first sentence of the Charter – is not just the nation state. It is also the human being. Along with our fellow members of the UN LGBTI Core Group in New …

So, it’s time to end the cycle of violence. The United States calls on Hamas and other Palestinian groups in Gaza to immediately halt rocket attacks and other provocations. We also are deeply concerned about the ongoing intercommunal violence within mixed communities in Israel. We urge all parties to avoid actions that undermine a peaceful …

What we’ve discussed today is not only an effort to punish those who are responsible, and vindicate the rights of victims. It’s also a commitment to an inclusive, peaceful, and democratic Iraq. So, thank you to everyone for working to hold ISIS accountable for its atrocities, and for your commitment to building a better future …

There is only one way to permanently address the humanitarian crisis in Yemen: a lasting ceasefire and an inclusive political solution. But until that happens, the international community must step up to fund the humanitarian response without delay. And all parties must permit the free flow of both commercial and humanitarian commodities such as fuel, …

We will keep standing up and speaking out until China’s government stops its crimes against humanity and the genocide of Uyghurs and other minorities in Xinjiang. And we will keep working in concert with our allies and our partners until China’s government respects the universal human rights of all its people.

The people of Abyei deserve to live in peace without fear of violence. This resolution to renew UNISFA’s mandate recognizes that the people of Abyei also deserve a functioning security and administrative arrangement that can offer rule of law and stability. The United States welcomes continued cooperation between Sudan and South Sudan to manage bilateral …

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield will deliver remarks at a high-level virtual event on the situation of Uyghurs and other Turkic Muslim minorities in Xinjiang at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 12. This event, co-sponsored by the United States, brings together UN officials, civil society representatives, academics, journalists, and representatives of affected communities in order to exchange …

Ultimately, real economic recovery – like real elections – is about trust. The corruption endemic to so much of Iraq undermines economic progress at every turn. Robust reforms to end corruption are the key to restoring trust in Iraq’s political bodies. So, we commend the government for its efforts to build a foundation of trust …

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 …