Press Release

Mr. Chair, Since this is the first time I am taking the floor, I wish to congratulate you and members of the Bureau on your well- deserved election and to thank you for your leadership in steering the affairs of the Committee. At the outset, The Gambia aligns with the Statement delivered by the distinguished representative of Iraq on behalf of the G77 and China and the Statement delivered by Guinea Bissau on behalf of the Africa Group  and wish to make the following statement in its national capacity: This year’s session came at a time of profound importance as we mark the 80th Anniversary of the UN Charter.  The abiding legacy of the Charter demonstrates the importance of collaboration to tackle the problems of today. I reiterate The Gambia’s commitment to upholding the values upon which the United Nations was founded: maintenance of peace, human rights and collective action, so that we can address in unison the most pressing challenges of our time, for example, lifting millions out of poverty and disease, promoting democracy, protecting children, and building bridges between communities worldwide. We commend the efforts and the dynamism that has delivered real progress but focused on the future that we can advance together and our firm assurance that The Gambia will be central to all major issues affecting the globe. In addressing the issues of immense international importance on the topics placed before this committee for consideration,  The Gambia notes the following: The need to address the root causes of poverty is of significant importance. As we work on identifying ways to weave social cohesion ,The Gambia calls for enhanced role in proactively addressing the underlying causes and drivers of poverty and reiterate the committement espoused in the ideals of the Copenhagan Declaration . The Gambia further believes that only through committed, inclusive national and international ownership that considers the needs of the most marginalized, including women, young people and people with disabilities can poverty eradication strategies work to dismantle intrinsic barriers. Inclusive governance and accountability are central to addressing the economic factors driving the cause of poverty. Essentially, The Gambia calls for the need to help build resilience of communities by restoring social cohesion, facilitating civic participation, distributing resources and safeguarding minority rights to fight the multidimensional nature of poverty and as we look forward to the World Social Summit in Doha, The Gambia encourages Member States to use this  collaborative platform  to showcase efforts, share challenges and  mobilise  commitment to double  efforts to confront the ills of poverty and marginalization. 2030 is around the corner, it is time to look at progress and forge a common path ahead, so that we can collectively address all the challenges that are still abound.   On the issue of migration, The Gambia calls for the full realization and enforcement of the rights and dignity of migrants in countries of origin, transit, destination and international borders.  The Gambia reiterates that the complex phenomenon of migration underscores the need for urgent international cooperation to address the realities  in in a way that emphasis the needs to protect migrants at the center of global governance.   On the issue of of human trafficking,The Gambia notes that although the menace of Human Trafficking or Modern-day slavery has garnered political priority, it is however undisputed that it has become an existential crisis of a large, global, and humanitarian problem that requires joint and concerted efforts from the international community.  While significant policies have been established at the international and regional level, it remains uncertain what  tangible progress has been made if any to curb the illicit activity, particularly on the aspect of child trafficking. In this regard, The Gambia calls for the effective and comprehensive implementation of the United Nations Convention on Transnational Organized Crimes.   My delegation is also of the considered view that the need to combat human trafficking requires reaffirming solid commitments towards addressing social, economic inequalities and underdevelopment which are mutually reinforcing. The Gambia also welcomes the initiative for the 2025 Political Declaration on the Implementation of the United Nations Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons.       Chair on Women, The Gambia fully supports the commitment on the advancement of women. The Gambia believes that despite the fact that significant strides in mainstreaming women  empowerment, gaps still remain in placing women of different social backgrounds and competencies at the centre of development discourse and programmes.  In many societies, the lack of progress from certain norms has forced women on the periphery of national development.  Therefore, greater reflection should be devoted to addressing this unjust state. We need greater investment, more innovation, and strong political will to close the real gaps that remain in women’s empowerment and leadership, in legislation, in services, and in systems that ensure justice, and accountability, and an end to impunity. This requires a whole of international commitment and working through inclusive and practical ways with all communities and stakeholders for social change. As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security. The Gambia remains seriously concerned about the marginalization of women and neglect  including the low or lack of women’s participation in formal mediation processes and at the peace table raises severe concerns. This is a key area that needs to be prioritized in addressing our peace and security challenges. Against this backdrop, The Gambia recommends the active and meaningful engagement  of women in conflict prevention and mediation efforts  . We equally endorse the need to build and provide a platform for strategic advocacy, capacity building and greater networking aimed at enhancing the implementation of the commitments for women’s inclusion in peace-making, decision making and post conflict reconstruction and transitional justice processes .Resolution 1325 continues to be a source of inspiration and optimism in the forward march towards enriching the discourse on the advancement of women’s empowerment agenda.   The protection of the rights of the child remains significant concern,