Mordica Simpson
Advisor for Economic and Social Affairs
U.S. Mission to the United Nations
New York, New York
November 17, 2020
AS DELIVERED
The United States condemns the grave threat that certain non-state armed groups continue to present to States’ ability to protect human rights and maintain order. However, we continue to draw a sharp contrast between destabilizing mercenary activities and the proper role that private military and security companies can play. The United States has championed consistently innovative and effective approaches to international frameworks and codes of conduct addressing the activities of private military and security companies. We accordingly believe that the UN Working Group on Mercenaries should best focus its attention solely on the issue of mercenaries, in accordance with its mandate.
For these and other reasons, the United States maintains today its long-standing position regarding this resolution. We will vote “no,” and we encourage other delegations to do the same.
Thank you, Chairperson.
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