Global Policy Forum

Permanent Representative of Sweden to the United Nations

Mr President,

In two months time, our Heads of States and Governments are convening for what might well be the most important meeting of the UN for a long time. We must agree on comprehensive, bold and action-oriented reforms to strengthen the UN and adapt it to the world of today. Last weeks despicable attacks in London were the most horrendous reminder of the urgency in finding global solutions to global threats.

We need concrete reform decisions, with timetables as appropriate, in all the four areas under discussion: development, security, human rights and institutional reform. If we can achieve that, the September summit will be a success.

A reformed Security Council is one of the more daunting tasks and also one of the most important. The composition, size and working-methods of the Council need to reflect today's realities in order to be perceived as relevant and legitimate. Therefore a decision is urgent and should be taken before the September meeting. Non-action is not an option.

Mr President,

Since the Charter was adopted 60 years ago, a number of countries, including in Africa, Asia and Latin America, has emerged as key political and economic powers. These countries should be given a role in the work of the Council, reflecting their importance and contributions to the UN. We welcome that African states are forthcoming in expressing their aspirations.

Mr President,

A reform of the Security Council needs the broadest possible support to be considered legitimate. This debate should help us in our efforts to secure such broad support.

Sweden notes the various draft resolutions presented to us. We sympathize with the aspirations of the G4 in expanding their representation on the Council. We have some concerns regarding two aspects of their draft, as we want to see a Security Council that is more legitimate, effective and accountable.

Firstly, we fully support the recommendation of the Secretary-General not to expand the veto power. Our preference is to limit the use of veto and promote a "veto free" culture. Introducing new veto rights, even if circumscribed as in the current G4 draft, would in our view not be a step in the right direction.

Secondly, we welcome a review-clause, but would like to see it further strengthened and made periodic. Such review could take into account criteria relevant to the obligations of Council members to contribute to international peace and security. Fulfilling these criteria would add legitimacy for continued permanent status. Thus, we would prefer to see an explicit mechanism, which makes it possible for other member states to review the performance of the new permanent members and with the support of a 2/3 majority replace them if they fail in their responsibilities. It should not be easy to replace a new permanent member, but it should be possible without going through the full procedure of changing the Charter.

Mr President,

A reform of the Security Council with the broadest possible support among member states is necessary. We should have a Council that is representative, legitimate and accountable.

Thank you.

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