Mr. President,
I have the honor to speak today on behalf of the Nordic countries Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden and my own country, Iceland.
Hunger and armed conflict are deeply interconnected. Conflicts destroy agricultural production, disrupt supply chains, lead to forced displacement, and undermine livelihoods, while food insecurity and competition over scarce resources can feed instability and fuel violence. At the same time, climate change acts as both a catalyst and a threat multiplier, intensifying these pressures and further heightening the risk of conflict.
The global food security implications of armed conflict are clear. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine has disrupted agricultural production and trade from one of the world's key grain-producing regions, contributing to volatility in food and fertilizer markets and affecting vulnerable populations far beyond the conflict zone.
Instability affecting major trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, underscores the fragility of global food systems. Disruptions to energy supplies and maritime transport increase costs throughout the food value chain, placing additional pressure on import-dependent countries and exacerbating food insecurity among civilians, as seen, for instance, in Sudan.
Addressing food insecurity requires both immediate humanitarian action and sustained efforts to prevent and resolve conflicts. The Security Council must live up to its Charter-enshrined duty to uphold international peace and stability. Collectively, we must uphold international humanitarian law, ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, and guarantee safe and unimpeded humanitarian access.
Mr. President
Council resolution 2417 prohibits the use of starvation as a weapon of war and provides a solid basis for addressing conflict-induced hunger. It requires, however, stronger operationalization so that it can better respond to the realities of food insecurity on the ground. We encourage the Council to consider restrictive measures and make active use of its early warning mechanisms, in line with the provisions in 2417, including through clear timeframes for action. If violations occur, the Council must act to ensure accountability.
Mr. President,
Where conflict drives hunger, predictable, flexible and adequate funding to immediate humanitarian efforts is needed, as well as support to resilient and sustainable food systems. We support the implementation of the Humanitarian Reset and efforts to enhance effectiveness, ensure that limited resources reach those most in need, and strengthen local ownership while upholding humanitarian principles and the broader humanitarian mandate.
The impacts of conflict on food security are felt particularly by people in vulnerable situations, including children. In conflict zones, school meals provide many children with their only meal of the day, ensuring access to nutritious food while supporting stability and the continuity of education during conflict.
In closing, breaking the vicious cycle of conflict and hunger must remain a priority for the international community, and high on the agenda of this Council.
I thank you.