The Russian invasion of Ukraine serves as a “stark reminder” of the tests facing multilateralism, he told the Security Council the acting president of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).
Ian Borg briefed ambassadors during their annual meeting on the cooperation of his Organization, made up of 57 States spanning Europe, Central Asia and North America, and representing one billion people, with the UN.
The Maltese foreign minister stated that the OSCE countries and their societies “They face an era of profound uncertainty”given the difficult security situation in the region after more than two years of conflict in Ukraine.
Multilateralism is in danger
“Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine not only echoes in the dark corridors of history, but also serves as a stark reminder of the tests our multilateral system currently faces,” he said.
Borg told the Council that the rules-based international order, designed to save coming generations from the scourge of war, is being rigorously tested in the current unprecedented times. They are being eroded in their efforts to meet the complex demands of today's world.
These 'testing times' should galvanize international community “to go beyond supporting the cause of multilateralism and commit to an effective, tangible and sustainable commitment,” Borg said.
In the meantime, the OSCE must remain anchored in the principles and commitments its members agreed to 50 years ago, in order to restore peace and security throughout the region.
End the war in Ukraine
“Using the organization as a platform for accountability for acts contrary to these principles is why we must and will keep Russia's illegal war of aggression against Ukraine at the top of the agenda,” the president testified in exercise.
Borg visited Ukraine and saw firsthand the devastation caused by the war, which has left thousands dead and forced millions to flee their homes. During his stay in the capital kyiv, he also reaffirmed his organization's unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, in accordance with international law.
“The ongoing attacks must stop. This war must come to an end”he said, while reaffirming his commitment to securing the release of three OSCE officials who have been detained in eastern Ukraine since April 2022.
Avoid escalation of conflicts
During his term, Borg will also prioritize other conflicts in Nagorno-Karabakh, Abkhazia, South Ossetia and Transnistria. “Our goal is to collaborate with all parties to improve the prospects for global resolution of conflicts, preventing their escalation and restoring stability“.
He also reported on his recent visits to Serbia, Kosovo and Moldova, where he underlined the OSCE's readiness to support peace and strengthen democracy and the rule of law.
Women, peace and security
“We will continue to advance our diplomatic initiatives here in the Security Council in relation to the women, peace and security agenda,” he added. “Women's agency, perspectives and capabilities are crucial to fostering meaningful dialogue, shaping more effective policies and improving safety.”
Other areas of focus include strengthening UN partner organization work on cyber challenges, combating transnational threats, bridging the digital divide, fostering greater collaboration on climate action , and ensuring the safety of journalists, both on and offline, with special emphasis on the safety of women journalists.
As foreign minister of Malta, which holds the Security Council presidency this month, Borg said he had accepted the OSCE presidency because “any multilateral organization depends on the work and commitment of all its members, regardless of their size.” “.
