Ministry Statements & Speeches:
President,
Five years ago, the UN Security Council adopted the resolution 2475. It was the first time the Security Council explicitly recognised the obligations of States to consider and account for persons with disabilities and their rights in the context of international peace and security.
This was a historic moment and it is appropriate today that we take stock, especially as this resolution remains as relevant today as it was five years ago with various complex conflicts taking place around the globe.
In 2023, together with Mexico, New Zealand co-facilitated a third committee resolution on the rights of persons with disabilities in situations of risk and humanitarian emergencies.
New Zealand was proud to play a part in ensuring the intersection of the rights of persons with disabilities, and global peace and security remains on the UN agenda.
The resolution was cosponsored by 92 member states, demonstrating the broad support this work has from the UN membership.
The resolution reinforced the spirit of resolution 2457, by highlighting the importance of protecting and ensuring the safety of persons with disabilities, as well as ensuring their active participation in decision-making processes related to risk reduction, humanitarian action, conflict prevention, reconciliation and reconstruction.
The text also recognised the diversity of the disability community, and called for reducing barriers and addressing the multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination faced by persons with disabilities.
Another critical element of the text was the inclusion of sexual and reproductive health of persons with disabilities. This is a critical element of realising the rights of persons with disabilities, particularly in situations of risk, where health-care services are not always accessible.
Resolutions are only part of the progress that is required. Implementation is key. And the International Disability Alliance’s report on resolution 2457, found that the adoption of resolution 2475 has had limited impact on the peace and security agenda and in operational implementation. For example, reference to language from resolution 2475 is minimally included in UN Security Council resolutions. A majority of those resolutions that do mention disability or persons with disabilities appear to have been the result of other influencing factors, such as advocacy.
We call on states to continue to consider the rights of persons with disabilities in the work of the Security Council, and beyond. For example, further work in the women, peace and security agenda which could inform future security council resolutions on disabilities.
Finally, we wish to thank the Missions of Slovenia, Poland, Guyana and the UK for organising this important meeting. New Zealand stands ready to work with other states and civil society to further this important work.
Thank you.