Ambassadorial-level meeting of the PBC on Peace Consolidation in São Tomé and Príncipe

Check Against Delivery

Mr. Chair, Excellencies,

Denmark welcomes this first-of-its kind meeting in the Peacebuilding Commission on São Tomé and Príncipe. Today offers an opportunity to learn from the experiences of the Santomean government, in line with the important role of this Commission as a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences. It also offers a chance to reflect on the intrinsic relationship between sustainable peace and justice, which effectively go hand in hand.  

Denmark is deeply aware of how sea-level rise poses an existential threat to small island states and low-lying coastal communities. That is why we need to forge strong partnerships to address the adverse impact of sea-level rise.

Allow me to congratulate São Tomé and Príncipe on its resumption of the presidency of the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries in 2023. I would also like to acknowledge efforts made by the Santomean government towards forging a just, peaceful and democratic society. Notably, measures to promote gender equality and equity – including by promulgating a gender parity law and establishing a Ministry of Women’s Rights – are commendable.

At the same time, there are opportunities to strengthen resilience and address challenges. The recommendations contained in the joint strategic assessment carried out by the United Nations and the Commission of the Economic Community of Central African States – which is an excellent example of collaboration – can serve as a blueprint for action. Allow me to highlight two areas in particular:

First, there is a need to strengthen the justice system with a view to guaranteeing access to justice, which empowers people to claim their human rights and enables accountability. Denmark would encourage a particular focus on putting in place a structural framework to guarantee access to justice for all Santomeans, including by strengthening the justice system at the local level.

Second, it is imperative to ensure consensus on justice and security sector reforms through the involvement of civil society, including women and youth. While fast-paced reforms may appear attractive, ensuring the meaningful engagement of all relevant stakeholders is essential to sustainable results and a resilient democracy.

I would be interested to hear if the Prime Minister could elaborate on how the international community can assist consolidating peace in São Tomé and Príncipe?

I thank you.