As Millions Continue to Flee War, Success of Northern Ireland, Colombia Offers Hope for Peace through Mediation, Secretary-General Tells Global Conflict Event

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the “Global Conflict | The Human Impact” conference in Belfast, held from 21 to 26 August:

I am happy to greet my dear friend Anne Richard and all of you at this timely conference on the impacts of conflict.

Many millions of people are caught up in wars, disasters and other emergencies.  More people have been forced to flee their homes than at any time since the Second World War.  We are also seeing an alarming erosion in respect for the rules of war.  The costs and consequences are felt everywhere.

While many conflicts have proven difficult to resolve, the examples of Northern Ireland and Colombia offer hope.  Since taking office, I have sought to heighten our focus on prevention, strengthen peacekeeping and increase our use of mediation — including by enhancing the role of women in peace processes.

Our world enjoys remarkable opportunities to advance peace and progress, including through the Sustainable Development Goals.  The United Nations is strongly committed to serving as a platform where all stakeholders can come together.  That includes the global academic community — and I am pleased to note the presence at your gathering of the Pearson and Mitchell Institutes.

I thank you for your engagement and look forward to your contributions.  Please accept my best wishes for fruitful discussions.  Thank you.