Chair, distinguished colleagues,
UN peacekeeping faces rising geopolitical tensions, complex conflicts and severe financial constraints. Norway remains committed to an effective United Nations and to peacekeeping as a credible tool for international peace and security. Reform and modernisation of UN peacekeeping is necessary to be relevant and effective in an ever-changing world.
Chair,
The Secretary-General's Review on the Future of All Forms of United Nations Peace Operations provides an important basis for reform: more agile, tailored responses, clear political objectives, national ownership and respect for the UN Charter and international law.
In this context, mandates must be timely, realistic, prioritised, adequately resourced, and supported by host nation consent and agreements. Each mandate renewal should reassess what missions can achieve and adapt to conditions and the reality on the ground.
Effective mandates also depend on strong, accountable leadership and timely appointments. In addition to Integrated planning that connects peacekeeping, peacemaking, peacebuilding and development, from mission start-up through transition.
At the same time, financial constraints have real operational consequences: fewer patrols, reduced mobility and less engagement with communities. Financial discipline is necessary, but efficiencies must not obscure reductions in operational capacity. Resources must match the mandates we ask missions to implement.
Partnerships are equally important. Norway supports deeper cooperation with regional organisations where their comparative advantages strengthen legitimate and effective responses.
As operational environments become increasingly challenging, the safety and security of peacekeepers and other UN personnel must remain a priority. Necessary resources for evacuation and medical treatment, in addition to counter-threat systems, must be available to UN peacekeepers and personnel. Those who threaten the safety and security of UN personnel must be held accountable.
At the same time, Norway remains firmly committed to the Women, Peace and Security agenda. Women's full, equal, meaningful and safe participation, and gender perspectives across mission activities, are essential to effective operations and sustainable peace. Missions must also continue efforts to prevent and respond to conflict-related sexual violence.
Finally, modernisation must continue. Drones, mis- and disinformation, cyber threats and artificial intelligence are reshaping operational environments. Missions need capabilities and technology to anticipate threats, protect personnel and civilians, and deliver effectively according to their mandates.
Ultimately, peacekeeping must support political solutions and lasting peace. This is not the time to retreat, but to ensure peacekeeping remains relevant, realistic and fit for the future.
Norway pays tribute to the women and men in service with UN peacekeeping operations and honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
I thank you.