UNSC briefing on Peace Building Commission

[Wednesday, 27 July 2022; 1000 hrs/ India time : 1930 hrs]

Approved India Remarks

Mr. President, 

Let me begin by thanking Brazil for organizing this focused briefing on improving and strengthening cooperation between UN Security Council and the Peace Building Commission. I also express my gratitude to the Chair of Peace Building Commission in 2021 and Permanent Representative of Egypt for presenting the annual report of PBC activities for the year 2021. I also thank the Chair of Peace Building Commission and Charge d'Affaires of Bangladesh for his statement. 

2.    The international community has come to better grasp the complex and inter-linked facets of peacebuilding. Our perspective on addressing conflicts has undergone a paradigmatic shift: from resolution, reconciliation and recovery to prevention and reconstruction. A comprehensive approach focusing on sustainable development, inclusive economic growth, and political processes forms an integral part of conflict prevention and peacebuilding efforts today.

3.    India has acknowledged PBC’s (Peacebuilding Commission) significance since its inception; and deeply appreciates its advisory, bridging and convening roles. We believe PBC needs enhanced support and increased focus from the member states in fulfilling its mandate. In this context, let me present the following FIVE observations. 

i)    First, national Governments must steer priorities and strategies for sustaining peace at all stages of conflict. We emphasize that inclusivity is cardinal to advancing national peacebuilding objectives. An exclusively donor-driven approach to peacebuilding may not be the most prudent path to follow.

ii).    Second, forging social cohesion and trust in governance institutions in divided societies is easier said than done. But this is indispensable to ensure that conflict-ravaged societies do not relapse into chaos. Efforts to this end need to factor in complex layers of post-conflict scenarios and the local context. A simplistic approach based on reiteration for thematic and cross-cutting issues may have shortcomings.

iii).    Third, the ongoing discourse on enhanced financial support for peacebuilding activities through sources other than voluntary contributions merits an in-depth and careful study of the ramifications on the UN ecosystem. Any decision to that effect must be consensus-based. We should eschew creative interpretation of the peacebuilding mandate, stipulated in the relevant resolutions (UNGA 60/180 and UNSC 1645). 

iv).    Fourth, the advisory role of the PBC should be exercised judiciously, only when warranted. The PBC should exercise its convening role more effectively. It must involve itself more proactively in the activities of the Peacebuilding Fund to address the financial deficit.

v)    Lastly, it is important to set clear benchmarks and criteria for an exit strategy in the country under consideration. Peacebuilding advocacy by the PBC needs to end when the criteria are met.

Mr. President, 

4.    India, as one of the leading T/PCCs (Troop / Police Contributing Countries) to UN peace-keeping missions, has been an active member of the PBC.India’s fundamental approach to peacebuilding efforts is anchored in respect for national ownership and developmental priorities of member states.

5.    India has always played a constructive and significant role in the context of peacebuilding through its extensive development partnership with countries of the Global South. India continues to assist countries through bilateral and multilateral fora in post-conflict situations by providing substantial grants and soft loans. Our engagement has been wide-ranging, encompassing key sectors such as infrastructure, housing, education, health, connectivity and improving livelihoods. India also provides scholarships for higher education and capacity building, including in large numbers to women.

6.    Going forward, India will continue to be a force multiplier for peacebuilding efforts. We hope that these efforts will continue to be always driven by a “people-centric” approach. I thank you. 

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