STATEMENT BY
H.E. DR. MICHAEL IMRAN KANU
AMBASSADOR AND PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE
Mr. President,
- Let me at the outset express my profound appreciation for your important briefing today on your priorities for the resumed part of the 79th Session of UNGA, including the mandated High Level meetings on women and youth. We also express our sincere gratitude to you, for your tireless leadership during this 79th session of the UN General Assembly. The successful adoption of the Pact for the Future and the momentum generated during High-Level Week are important milestones that underscore the commitment of this Assembly to advancing global cooperation and addressing the most pressing issues of our time under your leadership.
- Sierra Leone welcomes the successful conclusion of the Main Part of the 79th session of the Assembly, and the pathway that has been set for 2025. As we look ahead, Sierra Leone recognizes the importance of focusing on a few key priorities that will define the effectiveness and relevance of the United Nations in the coming years. In particular, we would like to highlight the following critical areas: institutional reforms, in particular UN Security Council reform, and the revitalization of the General Assembly, as well as the implementation of the Pact for the Future, and increased recognition of the role of youth in shaping a peaceful and prosperous world.
Mr. President,
- The reform of the UN Security Council remains one of the most urgent and pressing issues before us. Sierra Leone, given the high responsibility to Coordinate the African Union Committee of Ten Heads of States and Government on UN Security Council reform, conveys the firm believe that the current structure of the Council no longer reflects the realities of the 21st century. Therefore, the call for greater representation of all regions, particularly Africa, in the Security Council, and redressing the historical injustice against Africa must be given effect to. We acknowledge the broad support of the UN member States for the Common African Position as espouse in the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration. We thank you for your faithful support to the reform process, in the reappointment of the Co-Chairs of the IGN, and we remain hopeful for significant progress this year, including the implementation of the relevant parts of the Pact for the Future.
- On the revitalization of the General Assembly, Sierra Leone notes that the General Assembly is the heart of the United Nations, where all member States have a voice, in keeping with the fundamental Charter principle of sovereign equality of member States. Revitalizing the General Assembly, including the anticipated work on strengthening the accountability, transparency and institutional memory of the OPGA and selection and appointment of the Secretary-General and other executive heads, we believe, must be an important priority for 2025.
- We urge for a more dynamic and action-oriented General Assembly, where decisions are made in a timely and effective manner, and where the Assembly’s resolutions carry appropriate weight in shaping global policy. This requires continuous work on reforming the working methods of the Assembly, enhancing coordination between the Assembly and other UN organs, and ensuring that the voices of the Global South, are heard and acted upon.
Mr. President,
- The Pact for the Future represents a bold vision for the United Nations, and its successful implementation will be crucial in shaping the future of multilateralism. Sierra Leone fully supports the principles outlined in the Pact, which include strengthening the UN’s effectiveness, ensuring peace, advancing sustainable development, and upholding human rights. For the Pact to be truly transformative, it must be implemented in an inclusive, accountable way that is responsive to the needs of all people. We therefore welcome your initiatives on the implementation of the Pact.
- Sierra Leone emphasizes the importance of enhanced cooperation between member States to ensure that the goals of the Pact are not only aspirational but lead to tangible outcomes. This includes providing adequate resources for the UN system to carry out its mandates, supporting conflict prevention and resolution mechanisms, and prioritizing the most vulnerable populations, including women, children, and displaced persons.
- Finally, Sierra Leone wishes to underscore the central role of youth in the future of our world. As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, it is essential that we invest in youth leadership and empower young people to take an active role in shaping the global agenda. Youth are not just beneficiaries of international policies; they are agents of change, innovation, and hope for the future.
- Sierra Leone will not only support the integration of youth perspectives into UN decision-making, particularly in peacebuilding, climate action, and sustainable development, but we will be advancing this priority in 2025. Young people are at the forefront of the global movements for justice, equality, and climate action, and their involvement in the UN must reflect this reality.
- Let me conclude, Mr. President, by expressing Sierra Leone’s commitment to supporting you in advancing your priorities for 2025. We stand ready to work with all Member States to ensure that the UN remains relevant, effective, and responsive to the needs of all people in the years ahead.
I thank you, Mr. President.
