Security Council Press Statement on Situation in Yemen

 

The following Security Council press statement was issued on 25 January by Council President Baso Sangqu ( South Africa):

On 25 January, the members of the Security Council heard a briefing on the situation in Yemen from the United Nations Special Adviser, Jamal Benomar.

The members of the Security Council welcomed the progress that had been made on implementing the political transition, on the basis of the Gulf Cooperation Council initiative, as well as the implementation mechanism, which is resulting in a peaceful transition of power, as called for in Security Council resolution 2014 (2011).  They welcomed the formation of the Government of National Unity.  They reiterated their call that the Gulf Cooperation Council initiative and implementation mechanism must be fulfilled in a transparent and timely manner, and in a spirit of inclusion and reconciliation.

The members of the Security Council called for credible, non-violent and peaceful elections on 21 February, as scheduled, and welcomed the conclusion of the nomination process.  In this context they recalled the importance of free and constructive political, media, and civil society environments, including the freedom of expression and assembly.  They agreed that Yemen’s early presidential elections mark a new era and an important initial step in the transition process that will lead to national dialogue that will offer greater inclusion for a variety of stakeholders.  They welcomed the announcement by the Yemeni authorities to release political detainees and look forward to the rapid implementation of this decision.

The members of the Security Council expressed concern at the deteriorating security situation and the increasing presence of Al-Qaida.  They reiterated the Council’s unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

The members of the Security Council urged all the parties in Yemen to reject violence, refrain from provocations and cooperate with the Military Affairs Committee to fully implement the implementation mechanism and Security Council resolution 2014 (2011).  The members of the Security Council reiterated that all those responsible for human rights violations and abuses, including acts of violence, must be held accountable.  They reaffirmed their commitment to the territorial integrity, sovereignty and unity of Yemen.  

The members of the Security Council reiterated their support for Yemen in its efforts to reach key milestones in the implementation plan, and expected the parties to continue to honour the timetable set out in the agreement, including the national dialogue, the committee to engage with the youth, the constitutional review leading to parliamentary and presidential elections, and the programme of

reforms to tackle the profound security, humanitarian and economic challenges that Yemen faces.

The members of the Security Council remain gravely concerned by the humanitarian situation in Yemen, including severe food insecurity, alarming levels of malnutrition and increasing numbers of internally displaced persons.  They expressed support for the new 2012 United Nations consolidated appeal, calling for $447 million in humanitarian funding.  The members of the Security Council called upon the National Unity Government to begin to address the humanitarian and economic situation.  They also welcomed the World Bank’s efforts to resume programs in Yemen and urged the international community to demonstrate increased and broad support.  They also reiterated that all parties should ensure unimpeded and safe humanitarian access.

The members of the Security Council welcomed the efforts of the good offices of the Secretary-General and his Special Adviser, Jamal Benomar.  They reaffirmed their intention to continue to actively monitor the security, political and humanitarian situation in Yemen and the implementation of Security Council resolution 2014 (2011).  They looked forward to an update on the situation within 30 days, including on the status of the implementation of the political transition agreements.

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For information media • not an official record