26th February 2014 Sana’a, Yemen
(UNSCR2140) UNITED WE STAND: YEMEN AND THE WORLD
On Wednesday 26 February, the United Nations Security Council in New York adopted a new Resolution on Yemen, UNSCR 2140. In its unanimous adoption of this resolution, the Security Council delivered five clear messages:
Firstly, that the international community continues to focus on Yemen and wants to support the Yemeni people towards a more stable and prosperous future. It acknowledges the great achievements of the National Dialogue in giving voice to many under-represented groups in Yemeni society, including the youth and women. Those achievements now need to be implemented.
Secondly, that the next steps in the transition are clear. These are constitutional and electoral reform, a constitutional referendum and elections.
Thirdly, that those wishing to derail the political transition will face swift and firm consequences through the new sanctions committee. The resolution is clear on the need to turn the page from the old powerbrokers and work towards the future. The UNSCR has established a Panel of Experts, tasked to report to this Sanctions Committee on individuals who may be engaging in activities that undermine the transition.
Fourthly, the UNSCR highlighted the negative impact on this country of acts of violence, attacks on essential infrastructure and acts of terrorism. Although the UNSC wants to see an end to violence and human rights abuses across the country, it highlighted the situation in al Dhale as a specific situation that needs careful and speedy resolution.
Finally, there are also strong messages on the need for greater economic development and humanitarian efforts and the will of the international community to continue to support President Hadi to deliver on these. Delivery, ultimately, can only come through substantive reform and tackling of corruption.
The programme of work that Yemen has set itself is ambitious and needs to be fulfilled to deliver what every Yemeni deserves: a chance of a decent life. This Resolution shows that the international community, including the GCC and the Group of Ambassadors in Sana’a, continues to stand side by side with Yemen, supporting its people in this process.
UN Secruity Council Resolution 2140/2014:
Special thanks to the United Kingdom UN delegation on their excessive efforts to have unanimous vote on the resolution.