Statement by H.E. Mrs. Francess Piagie Alghali, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Sierra Leone
The Republic of Sierra Leone, represented by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Mrs. Francess Piagie Alghali, extends her gratitude for the opportunity to address the United Nations Security Council on the critical topic of “Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace: Promoting Conflict Prevention – Empowering All Actors Including Women and Youth.”
Sierra Leone commends the United Nations’ efforts in adopting comprehensive resolutions aimed at addressing the root causes of conflicts through inclusive strategies that prioritize human development, economic opportunities, and social cohesion. Emphasizing the importance of women and youth in this dialogue, Sierra Leone underscores their critical roles in society and their potential as catalysts for peace.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the necessity for a comprehensive approach to conflict prevention that transcends traditional military measures. Such an approach should integrate governance improvements, human rights protections, and economic development, among others, to tackle the multifaceted origins of conflict.
Echoing the Secretary-General’s roadmap for a New Agenda for Peace, Sierra Leone supports the call for a peace continuum that includes strengthening the UN’s preventive capacities, fostering partnerships to address conflict roots, and emphasizing conflict prevention to build resilience and address grievances.
Sierra Leone is already embodying these principles through initiatives like the Wan Fambul National Development Framework for inclusive, community-led planning, and the establishment of the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, which plays a pivotal role in facilitating peaceful dialogue and political cohesion within the country.
In conclusion, Sierra Leone believes in a multilateral effort that encompasses the United Nations system, member states, and civil society organizations to not only sustain peace but also to proactively address the underlying causes of conflict. The participation of women and youth is essential in this collective journey toward lasting peace and security.
Sierra Leone remains committed to these ideals and encourages continued collaboration and dialogue among all stakeholders to achieve our shared goal of a peaceful and sustainable future.
