Recources Archive - g7plus

Eighty-second session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 08:15:57 +0000

Talking Points

Dr. Helder da Costa,
General Secretary of g7+

Eighty-second session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)
Agenda item 3: “Leaving no one behind: advancing a society for all ages in Asia and the Pacific”

Bangkok, 26 February 2026, 14:00-17:00 hrs

Excellencies,

Distinguished delegates,

It is an honor to speak on behalf of the g7+ at this 82^nd Session of ESCAP. Leaving no one behind” has been a goal that forms the foundation of the g7+ group; whose members have experienced decades of conflict, and instability that reshape the demographics of nations in ways that can last for generations. Our member countries including those in Asia pacific such as Afghanistan, Timor-Leste, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea have lived those impacts and I would like to begin by citing few of them:

First, conflicts drive mass displacement where people are forced to flee their homes, becoming internally displaced or refugees abroad. This empties rural and conflict-affected areas while placing immense pressure on cities and neighboring countries, accelerating unplanned urbanization and deepening inequality. For Example, around 10 million people have been forcibly displaced due to instability and decades of wars in Afghanistan.

Second, conflict produces a severe loss of human capital. Skilled professionals are often among those who leave first, creating a lasting brain drain that weakens institutions and slows recovery long after peace returns.

Third, it creates deep demographic imbalances. Populations often become disproportionately young and unemployed. Timor-Leste is one of the youngest populations demographically, for example.

Fourth, the impact of conflict and instability is not only physical—it is psychological, and this is where the long-term demographic effects deepen. It contributes to mental health crises, and chronic stress that further results in erosion of trust and cohesion. These psychological wounds are often transmitted across generations, shaping the life of children born during or after conflict.

Building a society for all ages demands context-sensitive approach and that is where I would like to conclude by offering 4 policy solutions that are critical for countries such as those in the g7+ group:

First: Sustained Peace and stability remain a cornerstone for the noble cause of leaving no one behind. Therefore, ending conflict through reconciliation, psychological healing and restoration of social trust are essential to ensure wellbeing and development.

Second: In conflict affected countries including those in the g7+, community and extended family networks remain the backbone of support, helping to sustain and distribute wellbeing in the absence of strong formal systems. These networks range from caring for vulnerable individuals to providing financial assistance across households through interest-free loans, remittances, and other informal support mechanisms. These systems should be recognized in national policies and international financial regulations including through measures that facilitate and reduce the cost of remittance flows

Third: Demographic shifts, particularly the growth of youth populations in countries such as those in the g7+, present immense potential that must be fully realized. This requires strategic investment in quality education, strengthened health systems, skills development, and employment creation. Such investments are essential to harness this demographic dividend and should be seen as a form of long-term insurance for inclusive development and for ensuring that no one is left behind.

Fourth and Final:

Self-reliance as a guiding vision should inform policy-making both within the region and beyond. Lessons from across Asia demonstrate that self-reliance—particularly in food production through rural and agricultural development—serves as a precondition for economic diversification, sustainable development, and shared prosperity. Strengthening these foundations is therefore essential for long-term stability and development for all.

I thank you for your attention.

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Statement of Tribute : Peaceful Settlement of Border Dispute

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 01:57:08 +0000

Statement of Tribute

Peaceful Settlement of Border Dispute

The group of Sevel Plus (g7+) The g7+ proudly pays tribute to the Republics of Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea for their remarkable achievement in peacefully resolving their border dispute. This decisive act of diplomacy reflects visionary leadership, courage, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to dialogue — the very principles at the heart of the g7+ mission.

The peoples of these nations share more than borders — they share deep cultural, historical, and social ties. By safeguarding peace and fostering cooperation through the Mano River Union, they have strengthened the foundation for lasting stability, prosperity, and regional development.

This peaceful resolution shines as a beacon of hope — not only for the g7+ community, but for a world too often divided by conflict. It demonstrates that nations that have endured the hardships of war possess a unique capacity for reconciliation, dialogue, and harmonious coexistence.

The g7+ applauds the steadfast commitment of the peoples and leaders of Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea to good neighborliness and collective progress. Their leadership reminds us of all that peace is both a shared responsibility and a shared success.

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Statement of Solidarity : Tragic Loss of Afghan Civilians During Aerial Bombardment

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 07:36:37 +0000

Statement of Solidarity

Tragic Loss of Afghan Civilians During Aerial Bombardment

The group of Seven Plus (g7+) expresses profound sorrow and concern regarding the recent aerial bombings by Pakistan that tragically struck health facility in Kabul, Afghanistan, resulting in the loss of hundreds of innocent lives. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families mourning their loved ones and wish a swift and complete recovery to those who have been injured.

The targeting of civilians and healthcare centers stands in direct violation of international norms and humanitarian principles. We strongly reiterate our urgent call for restraint and an immediate ceasefire, urging all involved parties to resolve differences through peaceful dialogue and negotiation. The continuation of hostilities during the holy month of Ramadan—a period dedicated to peace and patience—adds to the gravity of the situation.

Escalation of violence and conflict only leads to further suffering for innocent civilians and deepens the existing fragility and vulnerability in the region. Afghanistan and Pakistan cannot endure continued conflict; their only viable path forward is peaceful coexistence.

We urge international and regional actors to intensify their efforts toward resolving this crisis, which has already exacted a devastating toll on innocent communities. Now is the time for collective action and unwavering support for peace.

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Statement of Appeal for Peace: Escalating Conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan and the Wider Regional Implications

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 01:55:07 +0000

Statement of Appeal for Peace

Escalating Conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan and the Wider Regional Implications

The group of Seven Plus (g7+) express its grave and urgent concern over the intensifying conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Pakistan’s airstrikes, which have resulted in the tragic loss of innocent citizens highlight the immense human toll of this violence. We offer our heartfelt condolences and steadfast solidarity to the families and communities impacted by these devastating events and the subsequent clashes, especially as they occur during the holy month of Ramadan—a sacred time dedicated to patience, restraint, and peace. Such acts of violence undermine prospects for peace and stability, not only in Afghanistan and Pakistan, but throughout the entire region.

Afghanistan, as a founding member of the g7+, has endured decades of turmoil marked by war, instability, pervasive poverty, and multiple humanitarian crises. The renewed escalation of conflict only exacerbates the suffering and hardship of its people. We emphatically urge all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint and to refrain from any actions that might escalate tensions further. Lasting solutions can only be achieved through sincere dialogue and peaceful negotiation. Afghanistan and Pakistan are not only neighbors but also share a deep-rooted aspiration for peace and stability, especially among the communities living along their shared border. The well-being and future of their citizens depend on a commitment to cooperation, mutual respect, and the cessation of hostilities.

Furthermore, the g7+ is profoundly alarmed by the ongoing and recent escalations of conflict in the Middle East. We collectively call for all involved parties to avoid any further escalation and to prioritize diplomatic engagement over military action. The ripple effects of intensified conflict in the region would have far-reaching consequences—not only for the immediate parties but for global peace and security. The world cannot afford another humanitarian catastrophe. The time to act for de-escalation, constructive dialogue, and reconciliation is now.

As members of the g7+, many of whom have experienced the devastating impacts of conflict firsthand and understand the long-lasting consequences of war, we strongly appeal to the United Nations, regional actors, and international organizations to intensify their efforts in mediating the conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan and addressing the broader regional tensions.

The g7+, founded on a vision for enduring peace, stands ready and willing to contribute in every possible way to advance peace, reconciliation, and stability. We urge all stakeholders to come together in the spirit of solidarity and shared humanity to address these conflicts through dialogue and diplomatic means. Only through collective action and unwavering commitment to peace can we ensure security and prosperity for generations to come.

Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka
Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade of Solomon Islands
Chair of Group of Seven Plus (g7+)

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Déclaration d’appel en faveur de la paix: L’escalade du conflit entre l’Afghanistan et le Pakistan et les implications régionales de cette situation.

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 08:03:59 +0000

Déclaration d’appel en faveur de la paix

L’escalade du conflit entre l’Afghanistan et le Pakistan et les implications régionales de cette situation

Le groupe des Sept Plus (g7+) exprime sa profonde et urgente préoccupation face à l’intensification du conflit entre l’Afghanistan et le Pakistan. Les frappes aériennes pakistanaises, qui ont entraîné la perte tragique de citoyens innocents, soulignent le coût humain considérable de cette violence. Nous exprimons nos sincères condoléances et notre solidarité indéfectible aux familles et aux communautés touchées par ces événements dévastateurs et les affrontements qui ont suivi, d’autant plus qu’ils se produisent pendant le mois sacré du Ramadan, une période consacrée à la patience, à la retenue et à la paix. De tels actes de violence compromettent les perspectives de paix et de stabilité, non seulement en Afghanistan et au Pakistan, mais dans toute la région.

L’Afghanistan, en tant que membre fondateur du g7+, a connu des décennies de troubles marquées par la guerre, l’instabilité, une pauvreté généralisée et de multiples crises humanitaires. La nouvelle escalade du conflit ne fait qu’aggraver les souffrances et les difficultés de sa population. Nous exhortons vivement toutes les parties concernées à faire preuve d’une extrême retenue et à s’abstenir de toute action susceptible d’aggraver encore les tensions. Seuls un dialogue sincère et des négociations pacifiques permettront de trouver des solutions durables. L’Afghanistan et le Pakistan ne sont pas seulement deux pays voisins, ils partagent également une aspiration profonde à la paix et à la stabilité, en particulier parmi les communautés vivant le long de leur frontière commune. Le bien-être et l’avenir de leurs citoyens dépendent de leur engagement en faveur de la coopération, du respect mutuel et de la cessation des hostilités.

Par ailleurs, le g7+ est profondément préoccupé par la récente escalade du conflit au Moyen-Orient. Nous appelons collectivement toutes les parties concernées à éviter toute nouvelle dégradation de la situation et à privilégier la diplomatie plutôt que l’action militaire. Les répercussions d’une intensification du conflit dans la région auraient des conséquences considérables, non seulement pour les pays directement concernés, mais aussi pour la paix et la sécurité mondiales. Le monde ne peut se permettre une nouvelle catastrophe humanitaire. Il est temps d’agir pour apaiser les tensions, instaurer un dialogue constructif et favoriser la réconciliation.

En tant que membres du g7+, dont beaucoup ont subi directement les effets dévastateurs des conflits et comprennent les conséquences durables de la guerre, nous appelons instamment les Nations Unies, les acteurs régionaux et les organisations internationales à intensifier leurs efforts pour servir de médiateurs dans le conflit entre l’Afghanistan et le Pakistan et pour apaiser les tensions régionales dans leur ensemble. Le g7+, fondé sur une vision de paix durable, est prêt et disposé à contribuer de toutes les manières possibles à la promotion de la paix, la réconciliation et la stabilité. Nous exhortons toutes les parties prenantes à s’unir dans un esprit de solidarité et d’humanité commune afin de résoudre ces conflits par le dialogue et les moyens diplomatiques. Seules une action collective et un engagement sans faille en faveur de la paix nous permettront d’assurer la sécurité et la prospérité des générations futures.

Peter Shanel Agovaka
Ministre des Affaires étrangères et du Commerce extérieur des Îles Salomon
Président du Groupe des Sept Plus (g7+)

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Chair of g7+ delivered Briefing Focus on: Sierra Leone’s experience of south-south and triangular cooperation and peacebuilding; the g7+, Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation, the Dili Resolution, and the Freetown Declaration

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 07:43:57 +0000

Recources

Government of Sierra Leone

Ministry of Planning and Economic Development

Virtual Briefing by the Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone Honourable Kenyeh Barlay

Minister’s Briefing to Focus on: Sierra Leone’s experience of south-south and triangular cooperation and peacebuilding; the g7+, Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation, the Dili Resolution, and the Freetown Declaration

29^th July 2025

Honourable Chair, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates,

Opening

1. I am particularly pleased to address this meeting today because I represent a number of constituencies pertinent to this discussion. I am not only the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, I am the Focal Point for (Africa Peer Review Mechanism (APRM)-as well as the Chair of the g7+ group of countries and there is a distinctive convergence between all of these responsibilities.

2. Sierra Leone is a country that has emerged from conflict, yet has turned its past struggles into a foundation for resilient peace and inclusive development. The Sierra Leone journey confirms the fact that peace is not a moment, but a process; a continuum-one that must be continually nurtured through national ownership ,innovation, and solidarity.

The South-South Triangular Cooperation Concept

3. South-South Triangular Cooperation , as we are all aware, provides a platform through which countries in the Global South can learn from each other, share resources, and jointly address common challenges in ways that are more attuned to our realities .In addition to South-South Cooperation, we must recognize the value of triangular cooperation, which brings together countries of the global south and developed countries or international organizations in a collaborative partnership. Triangular cooperation provides a platform for leveraging the expertise, technical knowledge, and resources of developed nations while ensuring that the solutions are designed to meet the needs of countries in the Global South. We therefore welcome SSTC as an opportunity to strengthen the frameworks that support sustainable peace, especially among countries that share common histories of fragility and recovery.

The Freetown SSTrC Forum and Declaration

4. It is within this context that Sierra Leone hosted- the Third High-Level Forum on South-South and Triangular Cooperation which took place in Freetown Sierra Leone from 7-9 May ,2025 under the auspices of H.E , President Dr. Julius Maada Bio. Participants to the Forum ,comprised 700 representatives of international and national organisations, authorities, thinktanks and youth associations. It provided an excellent opportunity for more than 100 youth representatives to engage in dialogue with Member States on the role of youth, thinktanks and civil society in promoting SSTrC and social cohesion across the continent.

5. The Freetown Declaration of the Third High-Level Forum made a call for action through the Freetown Declaration which was endorsed at the closing ceremony of the Forum. The declaration mainly emphasised the following:

i. Partnerships for Strengthening Human Capacity: Building a Skilled Workforce.-Enhancing Education and Skills Development-South-South partnerships that can foster collaboration in education and training; including the development of market-relevant skills to address gaps in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, information technology, and engineering.

ii. Expanding Access to Healthcare Training and Expertise-Leveraging on that are known for their effective health care models.

iii. Partnerships that Foster Leadership, Good Governance and Capacity Building-Countries can learn from countries that have successful governance models. Capacity building for public administrators and civil servants to foster transparency, accountability, and efficient public management through exchange programmes and training within the Global South.

iv. Improving Transparency and Accountability-Learning from successful initiatives in public finance management, transparency, and anti-corruption efforts in other South-South nations.

v. Unlocking Financial Resources – South-South cooperation to facilitate investment flows, particularly in key sectors like energy, agriculture, and infrastructure. Partnerships with international financial institutions in the Global South.PPPs through South-South dialogue to fund infrastructure and development projects, particularly in energy, telecommunications, and transportation.

vi. Technology Transfer and Innovation—South-South partnerships that enable technology transfer that is affordable and adaptable to countries’ needs. This can include technologies for clean energy, water management, agriculture, and healthcare.

vii. Digital Transformation and Connectivity—South-South partnerships that can help Sierra Leone leapfrog into the digital age, using technologies like e-health, e-learning, and mobile banking.

viii. Promoting Renewable Energy Solutions—Partnerships that can help countries adopt and scale renewable energy technologies such as solar, wind, and hydropower.

The g7+ and Dili Declaration

6. The g7+ the inter-governmental group of 20 conflict affected countries that Sierra Leone chairs, has adopted south-south engagement as one of its core pillars of cooperation. Known as the “Fragile-to-Fragile (or F2F) cooperation, this form of SSTC refers to the support that conflict affected countries provide to each other including through peer learning, capacity building, mobilization of international support including financial assistance and knowledge generation. The first of such cooperation took place through cooperation between Guinea-Bissau and Timor-Leste during the former’s election in 2014.

7. Priorities under this initiative have so far been focused on peace, national reconciliation; elections; improving access to justice, public finance management; natural resources; management of UN transitions and humanitarian emergencies, and during crisis such as Ebola.

8. However, meagre it may be, g7+ fragile -to-fragile cooperation has unique features which distinguishes it from traditional cooperation modalities and makes it fit for purpose. These include:

i. Fragile to Fragile cooperation is built on home grown solutions and based on solidarity and takes place irrespective of geographical or political consideration that otherwise determine cooperation among countries.

ii. The central aim of such cooperation is the pursuit of peace and stability and supporting each other through national dialogue and reconciliation. This has therefore contributed to widening the sphere of south-south cooperation. Countries in the global south such as those in g7+ countries have first-hand experience in pursuing peace and stability through national means. Such experiences have the potential to inspire peace and stability and development in the war affected countries. More importantly, this can become an impetus to reform the international cooperation agenda.

9. Through F2F Cooperation and other forms of south-south cooperation, we have learnt that:

Experience sharing is crucial to solving common challenges
South-South and Triangular Cooperation can be leveraged as a means for genuine solidarity, wherein the global south can successfully mobilise resources to help those in urgent need;
South-South and Triangular Cooperation can prove vital in filing skills gaps in critical areas in countries in the global south e.g the ECOWAS Volunteers programme which provides support to critical areas of need including teachers, doctors, consultants and experts in various fields to support member states in achieving the SDGs. ECOWAS also provides mediation to sustain and promote peace in Member States.

10. As Chair of the g7, Sierra Leone has proudly championed the voices and priorities of fragile and conflict-affected states. Under our leadership, the g7+ has institutionalized election observation missions as a tool for peer learning and democratic accountability, demonstrating that fragile countries can support one another in navigating complex transitions.

11. The importance of South and Triangular Cooperation was emphasised in the Dili Declaration which among many committed to solidarity with countries in crisis and Commitment to peace, advancing peer learning and cooperation through the F2F cooperation.

12. The declaration Key Commitments were made in the following areas:

Solidarity with Countries in Crisis and Commitment to Peace
Advancing Peer Learning and Cooperation
Mobilizing Global Support and Securing Debt Relief for Conflict-Affected States
Strengthening the g7+ Through Institutional Consolidation
We commit to the full ratification of the g7+ Charter by all member states, ensuring the group’s legal and institutional consolidation.
Strengthening g7+ Leadership on the Global Stage
Establish the position of 2 Deputy Chairs

Conclusion

Fragile-to-Fragile exchanges, under the framework of the g7+, have enabled us to provide technical assistance and share lessons with countries confronting similar challenges—from elections and justice reform to public sector delivery. Our firm belief is that sustainable peace begins with trust: trust in institutions, in leadership, and in each other. We also believe that South-South Triangular Cooperation solidarity is a powerful engine for innovation, resilience, and sustainable development. Thus the Dili and Freetown Declarations should guide our efforts and resolve for productive south- south and global partnership for a better world that leaves no one behind.

Thank you

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The g7+: From Solidarity to Strategic Influence

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 05 May 2026 02:28:25 +0000

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The Combined Power of The g7+

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 01:52:45 +0000

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The Journey of the g7+: 15 Years of Unity and Resilience

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 02:32:21 +0000

The Journey of the g7+: 15 Years of Unity and Resilience

Reframing the narrative around “fragility”

The contested notion of “fragility” has often been oversimplified within the narratives common in the international development discourse. Policymakers and observers equated fragility with state failure, attributing it to a lack of willingness or capacity on the part of both leaders and citizens. This perspective has reinforced the misconception that only low-income or war-torn countries experience serious challenges in governance, overlooking the complex and context-specific factors that contribute to fragility in a wide range of settings. This view ignored dynamics that can exist even in seemingly stable regions, such as social inequality, weak rule of law and economic vulnerability. When states are labelled “fragile,” national ownership of reform can get side-lined by the enforcement of externally imposed solutions. These often fail to consider national leaderships, community structures and the existing systems of conflict-affected countries. In addition, these countries often endure the stigma of fragility and external perceptions that often undermine their sovereignty, limit investment opportunities, and limit the effectiveness of existing international support.

Over time, however, the lens through which the international community views fragility has been shifting. High-profile governance crises in middle-income regions, natural disasters, and pandemics have all exposed vulnerabilities not limited to low-income or conflict-affected areas. In fact, the condition of fragility encompasses multiple dimensions and factors that have a deep influence in the trust between society and institutions. These factors relate to governance capacities, security and justice mechanisms, economic opportunities, social relations, human capital and environmental conditions. Recognizing the complexity of fragility is essential for designing effective responses. The g7+ has been instrumental in reshaping global understanding of fragility – not as an isolated issue, but as a systemic challenge that requires inclusive, adaptive, and context-specific solutions to foster resilience and sustainable development.

Policymakers now understand that fragility spans governance, security, justice, economic stability and social well-being. States can be fragile in some dimensions yet more solid in others. This broader lens allows for more effective initiatives to strengthen institutions, invest in infrastructure and improve social services. The goal is to address the unique challenges that each nation faces, without stigmatization. This more nuanced perspective acknowledges how issues such as wars, instability, corruption or climate change can undermine public trust in authorities, spark discontent and stall development. Some countries have emerged from conflict yet still struggle with their justice systems or basic service delivery. Other countries face social and political unrest despite having strong financial resources.

Such complexities highlight why “one-size-fits-all” solutions have fallen short in ensuring development for everyone. Global frameworks have gradually evolved, culminating in the new Sustainable Development Goals which claim to “leave no one behind”. Yet, persistent obstacles remain related to fragmentation in aid practices, unpredictable funding, ad-hoc and short-lived support, limited political will, rigid instruments for implementation and risk aversion from aid institutions.

The g7+ has played a key role in urging international actors to embrace this broader perspective on fragility. Formed by a group of conflict-affected countries, this intergovernmental platform challenges the idea that fragility is merely a label for “failed” nations. Instead, member states view fragility as a condition requiring special support along a spectrum towards resilience, as all countries can face temporary moments of crisis, rebuilding or transformation. By doing so, the group has pushed global institutions to provide more suitable, context-specific and long-term support to the so called “fragile states”. The core message is that sustainable development is only possible when there is peace and national ownership. This approach counters traditional donor-driven agendas that disregard local contexts. It demands for tailored, risk-tolerant and long-term policy frameworks, with equal collaboration among diplomatic, development and humanitarian actors to reach more enduring solutions. As a result, institutions such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the Asian and African Development Banks and Inter-American Development Bank have created fragility-oriented units and frameworks, gradually changing their focus from an essentialist view of “fragile countries” to a more dynamic understanding of “fragile and conflict-affected situations”. Through continuous advocacy, the g7+ has helped pave the way for the emerging global consensus that “fragile states” need targeted assistance that respects their own path towards resilience and development.

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La résilience en tant que finalité : une approche à large spectre de la fragilité et de l’appropriation par les pays

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 07:31:14 +0000

La résilience en tant que finalité : une approche à large spectre de la fragilité et de l’appropriation par les pays

En bref

Quand les points de vue sur la fragilité convergent

La fragilité est un phénomène dynamique, qui évolue dans plusieurs dimensions : historique, politique, économique et sociale (le spectre de la fragilité). La résilience est l’objectif à atteindre. Pour y parvenir, il faut de la cohérence et des réformes, ainsi qu’un engagement de la part des acteurs tant locaux qu’extérieurs.
Les réformes qui fonctionnent et produisent des résultats positifs sont pilotées au niveau local, prises en main par les pays et rendues possibles par des financements conçus sur mesure et adaptables.
Une gestion prudente de la paix et une réflexion intégrée sur le développement permettent de progresser, y compris dans les contextes présentant des niveaux élevés de fragilité en matière de sécurité.
Les acteurs de la coopération pour le développement doivent s’adapter pour prendre la mesure de la variation et de l’évolution des besoins des jeunes, en particulier des jeunes femmes et des filles, dans des sociétés de plus en plus numériques.
Les interventions internationales fragmentées qui ne parviennent pas à résoudre les problèmes systémiques perpétuent la fragilité, mais les initiatives visant à lutter contre la fragilité climatique et environnementale laissent entrevoir la possibilité de renforcer la résilience à grande échelle.
Les conflits et la violence perturbent les économies, créent des incitations antagonistes et donnent naissance à de nouveaux centres économiques. Dans plusieurs contextes, des mesures innovantes permettent de trouver des moyens de renforcer la résilience face aux pressions auxquelles ils sont soumis.
Le secteur privé ne peut se développer en vase clos. La mise en place de réformes adaptées ouvre de nouvelles perspectives économiques, permet de mieux comprendre les risques et de s’y adapter, et justifie plus clairement les investissements.
Lorsqu’elle n’est pas traitée, la fragilité locale peut rapidement devenir un problème régional et international en raison de la violence, des déplacements forcés, de la pauvreté et des inégalités entre les genres qu’elle entraîne, alors que différentes sources de risque et de résilience se combinent d’une manière qui influe sur la stabilité et le développement.
Les réformes (comme la création de marges de manœuvre budgétaires) ont besoin de temps pour produire des résultats. La cohérence, l’engagement et la patience sont des caractéristiques essentielles que les acteurs de la coopération internationale doivent posséder pour soutenir le renforcement de la résilience.
Si des approches pragmatiques sont nécessaires, les valeurs constituent une composante centrale de la proposition du Comité d’aide au développement (CAD) de l’OCDE, en particulier en ce qui concerne les femmes et les filles, et ne doivent pas être compromises.

La résilience en tant que finalité : une approche à large spectre de la fragilité et de l’appropriation par les pays

Helder da Costa, Secrétaire général, et Habib Ur Rehman Mayar, Secrétaire général adjoint (g7+)

La prévalence croissante de polycrises – comme conjonction de défis d’envergure mondiale – a des effets disproportionnés sur les pays touchés par un conflit qui étaient déjà en proie à des vulnérabilités importantes. Ces pays, qui sont souvent exposés à une fragilité extrême, sont les plus durement touchés par les crises en cascade, notamment l’extrême pauvreté, la faim et les déplacements de population. Dans ces contextes, les interventions ponctuelles, fragmentées et menées en aval ne sont guère parvenues à favoriser la résilience nécessaire pour faire face à de tels chocs et s’en relever. Le g7+ (Groupe des Sept Plus), qui réunit des gouvernements de nations touchées par un conflit, défend depuis de longues années l’idée que la résilience et la stabilité doivent être les objectifs ultimes des interventions humanitaires, de consolidation de la paix et de développement.

Sa vision prône un changement de paradigme pour considérer la fragilité non pas comme un état figé, mais comme un spectre dynamique. Le spectre de la fragilité offre un prisme nuancé, qui tient compte des défis interdépendants et en constante évolution qui se posent aux pays. En substance, cette conception de la fragilité renforce le principe d’appropriation par les pays, puisqu’elle fait valoir que les solutions durables doivent émaner des nations elles-mêmes.

Le spectre de la fragilité : abandonner les étiquettes

La fragilité est traditionnellement appréhendée à travers un prisme binaire classant les nations en deux catégories : « fragile » ou « stable ». Une telle rigidité simplifie à l’excès la nature complexe et évolutive de la fragilité, qui varie dans le temps et selon les secteurs. Le spectre de la fragilité conceptualisé par le g7+ (2013[1]) offre un cadre plus souple et plus réaliste, qui concorde avec les innovations introduites par l’OCDE dans le présent rapport. Les pays présentent des degrés divers de fragilité, déterminés par des facteurs historiques, politiques, économiques et sociaux. Certaines nations doivent faire face à des conflits qui perdurent et à l’effondrement de leurs institutions, tandis que d’autres sont confrontées à des difficultés localisées sur le plan économique ou de la gouvernance. L’approche fondée sur le spectre de la fragilité permet d’adapter les interventions de manière à s’attaquer à des facteurs de vulnérabilité spécifiques sans compromettre l’appropriation par les pays.

En considérant la fragilité comme un continuum, cette approche favorise également la concrétisation de l’articulation entre action humanitaire, développement et recherche de la paix, qui permet de rapprocher les domaines, souvent cloisonnés, de l’action humanitaire immédiate, du développement à long terme et de la consolidation de la paix. Elle offre un cadre pour intégrer ces efforts en permettant l’adoption de stratégies plurisectorielles adaptées au contexte et qui se concentrent sur les causes profondes de la fragilité tout en renforçant les systèmes au service de la résilience et de l’autonomie. Au lieu de privilégier les solutions imposées de l’extérieur, ce prisme recentre l’attention sur l’autonomisation des pays, de manière à ce qu’ils puissent faire face aux défis uniques auxquels ils sont confrontés. En reconnaissant la fragilité comme un continuum dynamique, les interventions peuvent évoluer parallèlement aux réalités, à mesure que celles-ci changent, et ainsi favoriser la résilience de l’intérieur.

La résilience, objectif ultime

Dans ce cadre, la résilience est l’objectif ultime – un état permettant aux nations de résister aux crises, de s’en relever et de se transformer en conséquence. Les États résilients ne sont pas à l’abri des chocs, mais ils peuvent s’appuyer sur la solidité de leurs institutions, la cohésion sociale et leur capacité d’adaptation en matière économique pour y faire face efficacement. Ainsi, une catastrophe naturelle telle qu’une inondation sera loin d’avoir les mêmes effets dans la province de Baghlan, en Afghanistan, et dans la province espagnole de Valence. Si les deux régions risquent de subir des pertes de vies humaines, la durée et la gravité des conséquences socio-économiques seront très différentes. Ces disparités soulignent l’importance de renforcer la résilience en fonction des contextes. Fort de l’expérience de pays du g7+ qui sont passés d’une situation de conflit à un état de stabilité, le Groupe aspire collectivement à des réformes mondiales des politiques publiques en adéquation avec les piliers suivants de la stabilité et du développement, tels qu’ils apparaissent dans les objectifs de consolidation de la paix et de renforcement de l’État du New Deal pour l’engagement dans les États fragiles (INCAF, 2012[2]):

Cohésion sociale et réconciliation. Les guerres dans les États qui présentent une fragilité élevée laissent souvent de profondes fractures sociales. Ces fractures non résorbées alimentent souvent de nouveaux conflits, y compris des guerres par procuration. Il est essentiel de promouvoir la réconciliation, de favoriser le dialogue et de lutter contre les injustices historiques pour construire une paix durable et bâtir un capital social, prérequis d’un développement durable.
Institutions publiques inclusives et efficaces. La confiance des citoyens dans les institutions publiques est un élément fondamental pour renforcer la résilience. Des décennies de conflit érodent cette confiance, que seule une gouvernance compétente et inclusive peut permettre de rétablir. Le renforcement des institutions légitimes qui fournissent des services essentiels garantit la participation citoyenne aux processus de renforcement de l’État et favorise la stabilité.
Autonomie économique. La fragilité économique accentue la vulnérabilité, et la dépendance à l’égard de l’aide extérieure soumet souvent les États fragiles à une influence géopolitique indue. Les trajectoires de résilience doivent privilégier la réduction de la pauvreté, les moyens de subsistance durables et la diversification de l’économie afin de rompre les cycles de dépendance. Les investissements dans les infrastructures économiques de base sont essentiels pour parvenir à l’autonomie.
Adaptation climatique et environnementale. De nombreux pays touchés par un conflit se caractérisent par une vulnérabilité extrême aux effets du changement climatique. Les chocs induits par le climat exacerbent la fragilité existante, créant des cercles vicieux de vulnérabilité. Pourtant, ces pays reçoivent des niveaux de financement climatique relativement faibles par rapport aux contextes exposés à une fragilité moyenne à faible (Gulati et al., 2024[3]). Conscient de cette lacune, le g7+ a lancé un appel conjoint en faveur d’un accroissement du financement climatique et de l’intégration systématique de processus équitables. Il est essentiel d’intégrer la résilience climatique dans les stratégies nationales pour permettre aux États fragiles de résister aux chocs environnementaux (Dickie et Jessop, 2024[4]).

L’appropriation par les pays, fondement de la résilience

Le principe de l’appropriation par les pays, fondement du renforcement de la résilience, est au cœur de l’approche fondée sur le spectre de la fragilité. La résilience ne peut pas être imposée de l’extérieur ; elle nécessite le plein engagement et l’impulsion des parties prenantes nationales, y compris la population. L’appropriation par les pays permet aux nations d’élaborer des solutions locales adaptées à leur contexte et à leurs priorités, ce qui en garantit la légitimité et la durabilité.

Le g7+ souligne l’importance de nouer des partenariats internationaux qui respectent et renforcent l’appropriation par les pays. Les acteurs extérieurs devraient jouer un rôle de soutien, apportant ressources, expertise technique et solidarité, tout en permettant aux pays de mener leurs propres processus de développement. Cette approche inclusive renforce l’articulation entre action humanitaire, développement et recherche de la paix dans la mesure où elle assure la cohérence et l’adéquation des efforts déployés dans ces domaines avec les priorités nationales.

Conclusion : un nouveau paradigme pour la résilience

L’approche fondée sur le spectre de la fragilité redéfinit la résilience, considérée à la fois comme un processus et comme un objectif final. En reconnaissant la fragilité comme un continuum dynamique et en privilégiant l’appropriation par les pays, elle offre un cadre qui permet d’apporter des réponses sur mesure et adaptées au contexte, donnant aux nations les moyens de surmonter leurs vulnérabilités. En outre, cette approche permet de concrétiser l’articulation entre action humanitaire, développement et recherche de la paix, en favorisant la collaboration entre les secteurs et en créant des stratégies cohérentes qui répondent à la fois aux besoins immédiats et aux aspirations à long terme.

Comme le montre la présente contribution, à l’instar du reste de ce chapitre, la résilience est plus qu’une simple aspiration. Dans certains États exposés à des niveaux élevés de fragilité, il s’agit déjà d’une réalité porteuse de transformations, qui encourage l’espoir, ouvre des perspectives et favorise le développement durable au service des générations futures. Grâce à cette vision, les pays touchés par un conflit, en particulier, peuvent redéfinir leur trajectoire et devenir des nations résilientes capables de résister et de prospérer dans un contexte d’incertitude mondiale.

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RESILIENCE AS AN END: A SPECTRUM APPROACH TO FRAGILITY AND COUNTRY OWNERSHIP

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 03:06:57 +0000

RESILIENCE AS AN END: A SPECTRUM APPROACH TO FRAGILITY AND COUNTRY OWNERSHIP

In Brief

Where perspectives on fragility align

Fragility is dynamic, evolving across historical, political, economic and social dimensions (the spectrum of fragility). Resilience is the target. Achieving resilience requires consistency and reforms, as well as commitment from both local and external actors.
Reforms that work are locally led, country-owned and empowered by tailored and adaptable finance are delivering positive outcomes.
With careful management of peace and integrated thinking on development, progress is possible, including in contexts with high levels of security fragility.
Development co-operation actors must adapt to appreciate the shifting and evolving needs of youth in increasingly digital societies, especially for young women and girls.
Fragmented international interventions that fail to address the systemic issues perpetuate fragility but initiatives to address climate and environmental fragility point to potential for building resilience at scale.
Conflicts and violence distort economies, drive competing incentives, and create new economic centres. Innovative responses in several contexts are findings ways to build resilience under pressure.
Private sector development does not happen in isolation. With tailored reforms come increased economic opportunities, better understanding of and adaptation to risk, and a clearer case for investment.
Local fragility unaddressed can quickly become a regional and international challenge through violence, forced displacement, poverty and gender inequality, as different sources of risk and resilience combine to impact stability and development.
Reforms (such as building fiscal space) require time to produce results. Consistency, commitment and patience are critical features for international co-operation actors to support resilience building.
Pragmatic approaches are necessary but values are an essential part of the offer by the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC), especially for women and girls, and should not be compromised

RESILIENCE AS AN END: A SPECTRUM APPROACH TO FRAGILITY AND COUNTRY OWNERSHIP

Secretary General Helder da Costa and Deputy Secretary General Habib Ur Rehman Mayar (g7+)

The increasing prevalence of polycrises – a confluence of global challenges – disproportionately impacts conflict-
affected countries already grappling with significant vulnerabilities. These states, often exposed to extreme fragility, bear the brunt of cascading crises including extreme poverty, hunger and displacement. Ad hoc,
fragmented and reactionary interventions in these contexts have done little to foster the resilience needed to withstand and recover from such shocks. The g7+ (Group of Seven
Plus), an intergovernmental group of conflict-affected nations, has long championed resilience and stability as the
ultimate goals of humanitarian, peacebuilding and development interventions.

Its vision calls for a paradigm shift, one that perceives fragility not as a fixed condition but as a dynamic spectrum. The fragility spectrum provides a nuanced lens, acknowledging the interconnected and evolving challenges that countries face. At its core, this understanding of fragility empowers the principle of country ownership, emphasising that sustainable solutions must originate from within the affected nations themselves.

THE FRAGILITY SPECTRUM : MOVING BEYOND LABELS

Traditionally, fragility has been viewed through a binary lens that categorises nations as either “fragile” or “stable”. Such rigidity oversimplifies the complex and shifting nature of fragility, which varies over time and across sectors. The fragility spectrum, conceptualised by the g7+ (2013[1]), offers a more flexible and realistic framework that aligns with the innovations introduced by the OECD in this report. Countries experience varying degrees of fragility shaped by historical, political, economic and social factors. Some nations contend with protracted conflicts and institutional collapse, while others face localised governance or economic challenges. The spectrum approach can tailor interventions to address specific vulnerabilities without undermining national ownership.

By viewing fragility as a continuum, this approach also enables the realisation of the humanitarian development- peace (HDP) nexus, which is expected to bridge the often siloed domains of immediate humanitarian response, long-term development and peacebuilding. The spectrum approach provides a framework to integrate these efforts, enabling context-specific, multi-sectoral strategies that concentrate on the root causes of fragility while building systems for resilience and self-reliance. This perspective shifts the focus from externally imposed solutions to empowering countries to address their unique challenges. By recognising fragility as a dynamic continuum, interventions can evolve alongside shifting realities, fostering resilience from within.

RESILIENCE AS THE ULTIMATE GOAL

In this framework, resilience is the ultimate goal – a state where nations can withstand, recover from and transform in the face of crises. Resilient states are not immune to shocks; rather, they possess the institutional strength, societal cohesion and economic adaptability to respond effectively. For instance, a natural disaster such as a flood has vastly different impacts in Afghanistan’s Baghlan Province than in Spain’s Valencia Province. While both regions may suffer loss of life, the longevity and severity of the socio-economic consequences are profoundly different. These disparities underscore the importance of building resilience tailored to specific contexts.

Drawing from the experiences of g7+ countries that have transitioned from conflict to stability, the Group collectively aspires to global policy reforms aligned with the following pillars of stability and development as reflected in the peacebuilding and statebuilding goals of the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States (INCAF, 2012[2]):

Social cohesion and reconciliation. States with high fragility often inherit deep societal divides resulting from wars. These unresolved grievances frequently fuel further conflicts, including proxy wars. Promoting reconciliation, fostering dialogue and addressing historical injustices are essential for building durable peace and social capital, which are prerequisites for sustainable development.
Inclusive and effective state institutions. Citizens’ trust in state institutions is fundamental to resilience. Decades of conflict erode this trust, which can only be restored through capable and inclusive governance. Strengthening legitimate institutions that deliver essential services ensures citizen participation in statebuilding processes and fosters stability.
Economic self-sufficiency. Economic fragility exacerbates vulnerability, and reliance on external aid often subjects fragile states to undue geopolitical influence. Resilience pathways must prioritise poverty reduction, sustainable livelihoods and economic diversification to break cycles of dependency. Investments in foundational economic infrastructure are critical to achieving self-sufficiency.
Climate and environmental adaptation. Many conflict-affected countries are highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Climate-induced shocks exacerbate existing fragility, creating vicious cycles of vulnerability. Despite this, these countries receive disproportionately low levels of climate finance compared to contexts with medium to low fragility (Gulati et al., 2024[3]). Recognising this gap, the g7+ has issued a joint call for increased climate financing and the mainstreaming of equitable processes. Integrating climate resilience into national strategies is essential to enable fragile states to withstand environmental shocks (Dickie and Jessop, 2024[4]).

COUNTRY OWNERSHIP : THE CORNERSTONE OF RESILIENCE.

Central to the spectrum approach is the principle of country ownership, the cornerstone of resilience building. Resilience cannot be externally imposed; it requires the full engagement and leadership of national stakeholders, including citizens. Country ownership empowers nations to develop homegrown solutions that align with their unique contexts and priorities, ensuring legitimacy and sustainability.

The g7+ emphasises the importance of international partnerships that respect and reinforce country ownership. External actors should play a supportive role, providing resources, technical expertise and solidarity while allowing countries to lead their own development processes. This inclusive approach strengthens the HDP nexus, as it ensures that humanitarian, development and peacebuilding efforts are coherent and aligned with national priorities.

CONCLUSION: A NEW PARADIGM FOR RESILIENCE

The spectrum approach to fragility reframes resilience as both a process and an end goal. By recognising fragility as a dynamic continuum and prioritising country ownership, this framework enables tailored, context-specific responses that empower nations to overcome vulnerabilities. Moreover, the spectrum approach operationalises the HDP nexus, fostering collaboration across sectors and creating cohesive strategies that address both immediate needs and long-term aspirations.

As this and other contributions presented in this chapter show, resilience is not just an aspiration. For some states with high fragility, it is already a transformative reality, one that fosters hope, opportunity and sustainable development for future generations. Through this vision, conflict-affected countries in particular can redefine their trajectories, becoming resilient nations capable of enduring and thriving amid global uncertainties

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Tracking Donor Funding Toward the Global COVID-19 Response: An Analysis of Pledges, Commitments and Disbursements

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 09:19:34 +0000

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Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+ delivered remarks at the Peacebuilding Commission Ambassadorial-level meeting on South-South and Triangular Cooperation for building and sustaining peace.

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 04:05:27 +0000

Remarks for Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+

PEACEBUILDING COMMISSION

Ambassadorial-level meeting on South-South and Triangular Cooperation for building and sustaining peace

29 July 2025, 10AM – 1PM, Conference Room 329- July 2025

H.E. Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair of the g7+

H.E. Ms. Antje Leendertse, Permanent Representative of Germany to the United Nations and Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission Excellencies, colleagues,

Warm greetings from the g7+ Headquarters in Dili, Timor-Leste.

At the outset, I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the Chair and Secretariat of the Peacebuilding Commission for convening this timely and important meeting. We are especially grateful for the focus placed on the role of fragile-to-fragile cooperation in the context of peacebuilding and sustaining peace, and for the invitation extended to the g7+ to contribute to this discussion.

The g7+ —is itself a product of South-South and Triangular Cooperation. Over the last 15 years since our establishment, we have shown countries emerging from conflict can not only draw lessons from each other but also offer solidarity and cooperation. Our model of “fragile-to-fragile” (F2F) cooperation is rooted in mutual trust and lived experience, enabling peer learning in areas such as reconciliation, institution-building, and peaceful transitions.

Against this background I have 3 points to share:

First: We believe that peacebuilding cannot be imported. It must be nationally led, context-specific, and reinforced by solidarity among peers who understand the complexity of fragility from within.

Through F2F engagement, countries such as Timor-Leste, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea-Bissau, São Tomé and Príncipe, Solomon Islands, South Sudan, the Central African Republic and etc. have exchanged first-hand lessons and extended technical, financial and moral support to one another in post-conflict recovery. We have expanded such exchange to other non-g7+ countries such as Cambodia and Rwanda. We are keen to engage collectively with Colombia. The lived lessons can be powerful tool for nurturing peacebuilding menu. In addition, These exchanges of lessons have contributed to shaping a powerful counter-narrative—one that challenges the notion that cooperation is driven solely by vested interests. Instead, they have reinforced a spirit of solidarity and offered valuable insights that can inform much-needed reforms in the international system. This approach—if supported by partners from the Global North—can inspire long-term transformation, strengthen national institutions, and build trust and legitimacy in ways that traditional top-down interventions often cannot. We therefore encourage the Peacebuilding Commission to incorporate the perspectives of countries affected by conflict and fragility in its deliberations on peacebuilding. The g7+ stands ready to regularly contribute lessons and insights drawn from our collective experience.

Second: To build on this success and scale our efforts, the g7+ has developed a multi-year program titled Harnessing Collective Wisdom: A Framework for Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation. Launched in our Ministerial meeting in April, this framework aims to institutionalize peer learning among our member countries and deepen the practice of South-South Cooperation in peacebuilding and state-building.

This initiative is a response to the declining financial support for countries in transition. In advocating for effective and efficient development cooperation, we continue to emphasize that such efforts can only succeed when grounded in national ownership and led by the vision for lasting peace and stability

Third: At g7+ Ministerial meeting, the g7+ countries appointed H.E. José Ramos-Horta, President of Timor-Leste, as the g7+ Special Envoy for Mediation. This reflects our belief in a model of peace support that is rooted in solidarity—something too rare in today’s global politics—and which we believe can offer new avenues for mediation, even in geopolitically sensitive contexts.

To fully realize the potential of this model, we call on the United Nations, its esteemed leadership, and the members of this platform—as well as those of the Security Council—to support our efforts in advancing mediation and reconciliation, as emphasized in the Dili Resolution.

Excellencies,

The g7+ remains steadfast in promoting the use of South-South and Triangular Cooperation as a pillar of sustainable peace. We stand ready to share our lessons and to learn from others. And we invite partners to engage with us not simply as recipients of assistance, but as equal contributors in shaping global peace and resilience.

Thank you.

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Mobiliser une sagesse collective: Un modèle de coopération de fragile à fragile

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 06:05:44 +0000

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Harnessing Collective Wisdom: A Framework for Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 01:54:51 +0000

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La chronologie du g7+ (2008 – 2025)

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 13:09:19 +0000

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The g7+ Journey in Brief (2008 -2025)

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 13:08:05 +0000

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SDG 16 Conference 2025 Advancing Peace, Justice and Institution for Sustainable Development

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 13 May 2025 10:19:16 +0000

Talking Points
Dr. Heder da Costa
General Secretary of the g7+ Secretariat

SDG 16 Conference 2025
Advancing Peace, Justice and Institution for Sustainable Development
12 May 2025
UN Headquarters, New York

Q. What lessons can you share from the collec3ve g7+ experience about preven3ng conflict and building peace? (5 minutes)

At the outset, I would like to thank the organizers of this timely and important gathering. It is both a privilege and a responsibility to take part in this crucial dialogue — one that I have had the honour of joining over the years, as we collectively reflect on how to build and sustain peace in today’s increasingly fragile world.
We are now entering the final stretch of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with only five years left to deliver on its promises. Yet, we find ourselves navigating an era of deep uncertainty, marked by war, geopolitical fragmentation, and compounding global crises. Conflict- and fragility affected countries — such as those in the G7+ — are among the most severely impacted.
These countries were already striving to rebuild after war, deliver basic services, and create inclusive institutions.
But they now face a polycrisis — a convergence of challenges that include shrinking aid, rising food insecurity, climate shocks, and economic instability. The global decline in solidarity, and the increasing shift toward unilateralism and zero-sum thinking, have left countries like ours even more exposed. The erosion of multilateral cooperation has had real consequences for nations that have historically depended on such partnerships for recovery and development.
Despite this difficult environment, we in the g7+ believe in the power of hope, self-reliance, and shared learning. As the saying goes, “from crisis comes opportunity.” In our view, countries that have been shaped by conflict must now be empowered to take ownership of their futures — to lead the path to peace on their own terms, with international support that is respectful and responsive, not prescriptive or imposed.
From our collective experience as a group of 20 countries, we have learned some hard but valuable lessons. Chief among them is this: both war and peace are political choices. Conflict often arises from external interference, exclusion, and injustice — but peace can only take root when national actors choose dialogue over division.
The foundation of peacebuilding, we have found, lies in reconciliation.
In several of our member countries, reconciliation has begun with truth-telling, forgiveness, and inclusive dialogue. These are not just symbolic acts — they are essential to healing the wounds of war, rebuilding trust, and preventing future violence. Peace is not simply the absence of war — it is the restoration of social cohesion and trust in state institutions.
Our experience also shows that dialogue, preventive diplomacy, and mediation are the most effective and affordable tools for building sustainable peace.
They are rooted in human dignity and local culture — and they work, especially when supported by genuine international solidarity.
These lessons are not theoretical — they are lived experiences.
In Timor-Leste, Sierra Leone, and other g7+ countries, reconciliation has helped societies move from conflict to stability. But this path is fragile and requires continued support.
We’ve also learned that peace cannot be sustained unless it is anchored in functioning state institutions.
Rebuilding public services and restoring citizens’ trust in their government is essential. This is why the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States, championed by the g7+, introduced five Peacebuilding and Statebuilding Goals (PSGs):
- Inclusive politics
- Security
- Justice
- Economic foundations
- Revenue and service delivery
These pillars continue to serve as a guide for both national planning and international engagement. Without them, peace is short-lived. With them, stability and development can take root.
To advance learning across conflict-affected countries, the g7+ recently adopted a Peer Learning Framework during our 6th Ministerial Meeting in Dili. This framework was developed through in-depth consultations with member countries and identifies critical areas for sustaining peace, including reconciliation, governance, and institutional strengthening. It allows us to share our knowledge and practical experience in a structured way—peer to peer, country to country.
Through this platform, we hope to not only support our own members but also contribute to the global understanding of what works in fragile contexts. And today, I take this opportunity to invite development partners, donors, and multilateral institutions to engage with us in this effort. Your support can help ensure that the lessons learned—often at great cost—are translated into better policies and more effective cooperation.
Thank you.

Q. What is needed to translate the commitment, in the Dili Resolution, to “champion dialogue, reconciliation, and country-led solutions” into concrete actions on the ground? (3 Minutes)

The Dili Resolution, adopted at the 6th Ministerial Meeting of the g7+, reaffirms our collective commitment to dialogue, reconciliation, and country-led solutions—values that are not just aspirational, but essential for sustainable peace in fragile and conflict-affected countries. The resolution includes our collective action of appointing H.E. President Jose Ramos Horta of Timor-Leste as the Special Envoy for Mediation. This reflects our seriousness in realizing the aspiration of our collective call to action.
To translate this commitment into concrete action, we see 3 immediate priorities:
1. National Ownership and Political Space
  First, conflict-affected countries must be trusted to lead their own peace and reconciliation processes. This requires the international community to respect and support nationally owned and context-specific approaches. Too often, external engagement is prescriptive, leaving little room for countries to pursue reconciliation in a way that reflects their own realities. We need support, not substitution. This is also an efficient way to help despite the decline in international cooperation.
2. Inclusive and Localized Dialogue Mechanisms
  We must invest in inclusive national dialogue and reconciliation platforms. These can take many forms—truth commissions, community peace dialogues, traditional dispute resolution mechanisms—but they must be inclusive, credible, and protected. Countries cannot heal without space for truth-telling, forgiveness, and civic dialogue. The United Nations and its various arms can play an indispensable role in this regard. At our Ministerial Meeting in Dili, we also made a clear and formal request to the UN Secretary-General: to support the g7+ countries in facilitating political dialogue and reconciliation, and hence work with the Special Envoy for Mediation.
3. Sustained and Flexible Support from the International Community
  Peace and reconciliation are long-term processes. They require flexible and sustained financial and political support—especially for transitional justice, local peacebuilding, and mediation. These areas are often underfunded but are vital for restoring trust and cohesion.

The Dili Resolution also calls for debt relief, which is crucial for conflict-affected countries that spend considerable amounts of their resources on debt servicing inherited over decades. Debt relief is not just an economic necessity—it is a peacebuilding imperative. In many of our countries, high debt burdens limit the ability to invest in vital services that underpin stability—such as health, education, justice, and jobs. Easing this burden provides governments with the fiscal space needed to rebuild institutions, restore trust, and address the root causes of fragility. Debt relief, in this sense, becomes a practical step toward preventing conflict and sustaining peace.

The Dili Resolution is not merely a declaration. It is a call to action. We in the g7+ are committed to this path—not because it is easy, but because it is the only viable road to lasting peace. With the right partnerships—grounded in trust, humility, and respect for national ownership—we believe these commitments can be turned into real progress on the ground.

Thank you.

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Dr. Helder da Costa delivered a Keynote Speech at the Climate Integrity Summit 2025 in Canberra – 12 FEBRUARY 2025

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 07:32:53 +0000

Keynote speech for Dr. Helder Da Costa
“Redefining Global Security: Climate action, peace, and critical role of g7+ Nations”
Climate Integrity Summit 2025

Wednesday, 12 February 2025
Parliament House, Canberra, Australia

Dr. Richard Denniss, Executive Director, The Australia Institute

Honorable Members of Parliament

Excellencies, Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.

On behalf of the g7+, its members, and leadership, I extend my deepest gratitude to the Australia Institute for the opportunity to share our perspectives on global challenges that disproportionately affect the most vulnerable nations, including those within the g7+ group.

To provide context, the Group of Seven Plus, or g7+, is an intergovernmental organization of 20 countries spanning different regions, united by a shared vision of achieving lasting peace and stability.

This vision is not aspirational but rooted in the lived experiences of nations that have transitioned from multiple crises toward stability and development.

To realize this vision, we advocate for effective national and international policies centered on long-term stability, resilience, and self-reliance. These include principles such as national ownership, inclusive politics, and accountability— 2 fundamental to building sustainable peace and development

These principles were formally embedded in the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States, a framework agreed upon in 2011 with international partners, including Australia and other OECD donors and civil society organizations. This framework was shaped by the real experiences of our member countries, providing a foundation for more effective collaboration in overcoming fragility

When the g7+ was established in 2010, global discourse largely focused on fragility, extreme poverty, and conflict. The world’s major powers were engaged in the so-called Global War on Terrorism. Climate change, while increasingly recognized, was not as central to international discussions as it is today. The Paris Agreement had not yet been signed, and the full impact of escalating geopolitical tensions was yet to unfold.

However, many g7+ countries in the Global South continued to struggle with the legacies of colonialism and Cold War-era interventions, including civil wars, extremism, and economic instability

However, while global headlines painted a picture of relative stability in the world due to any direct confrontation between global powers, many g7+ and other Global South countries continued to struggle with the legacies of colonialism and Cold War interventions. Civil wars, extremism, and economic hardships remained endemic.

Few, if any, of these nations had achieved even a single benchmark under the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). In 2010, Haiti was devastated by a catastrophic earthquake. South Sudanese were still fighting for their right to selfdetermination. Afghanistan was grappling with severe insurgencies, claiming hundreds of innocent lives daily. Timor-Leste, my own country, was still recovering from civil unrest. These, as few examples represent the wider realities 3 that stood in stark contrast to the notion of a peaceful world.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

Today, the world is navigating an era of “polycrises”—a term that encapsulates the interconnected nature of climate change, geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and rapid technological advancements, including artificial intelligence. While global challenges transcend borders, their impact is disproportionately severe in fragile states, which lack the resilience to absorb shocks.

Crucially, these vulnerabilities are not inherent characteristics of our nations but rather the result of explicit and implicit actions of powerful global actors. Colonization, foreign interventions under the guise of the Cold War, resource exploitation, and geopolitical maneuvering have left deep scars on fragile states.

Take climate change as an example. Developed countries—despite making up a small fraction of the world’s population—have historically been the largest contributors to CO₂ emissions since the Industrial Revolution. Their pursuit of unchecked industrialization has driven the world to the brink of environmental entropy. What is even more alarming is that, despite clear scientific evidence, many of these nations continue to deflect responsibility for their disproportionate role in this crisis.

The consequences of climate change caused by such explicit actions of industrialized nations are disproportionately severe for fragile and conflictaffected states. Rising sea levels, prolonged droughts, and extreme weather events are compounding existing vulnerabilities, leading to displacement, food insecurity, and heightened risks of conflict.

Climate-related disasters have displaced millions, exacerbating hunger and 4 poverty in fragile contexts. Due to weak institutions, lack of needed resilience, people in these places are disproportionately affected. Increasingly frequent and severe climate hazards threaten to worsen poverty, hunger and displacement, and can lead to protracted crises which will make it even harder to cope with crises.

The resulting pressures would place an unsustainable burden on an already overstretched global humanitarian system. According to the IMF, under a highemissions scenario, conflict-related deaths as a share of the population in fragile countries could rise by nearly 10% by 2060 if current trends continue. Pacific nations, including some g7+ members, are among the most affected. Some island nations face existential threats due to rising sea levels, and many others struggle with the increasing frequency of climate-induced disasters.

In my own country, the tropical Cyclone Seroja passed close to the coast of Timor-Leste on 4 April 2021 and the slow-moving storm brought heavy rain that caused floods and landslides, leaving a dozen of people killed and approximately 10,000 people were affected.

Countries in Africa such as Somalia and South Sudan are highly exposed to severe climate events, including droughts, floods; tow opposite extremes. These events have precipitated school shutdowns months in 2024 in South Sudan

The inequality in climate change is not just about who contributes the most to the problem—it extends to the way the world responds to it. Climate action, intended to mitigate and reverse the impact of climate change, is itself marked by injustice. Wealthy and stable countries have the resources to shield themselves from the worst consequences of natural disasters.

Meanwhile, vulnerable nations, particularly those in the g7+, lack the means 5 to cope with climate-induced catastrophes. In fragile states, the impact of these crises lingers far longer than in resilient economies. The aftermath of a flood in Spain, for instance, is vastly different from that in South Sudan.

In other words, we were deprived of the opportunity to catch the train of Renaissance, industrialization, modernization, and economic development—and we missed that journey. Now, as the world moves toward climate adaptation, artificial intelligence, and resilience-building, we risk being left behind once again.

If this trajectory continues, Yuval Noah Harari’s prediction—that a large portion of humanity will become irrelevant—will materialize first in us: the 1.5 billion people of fragile and conflict-affected states.

This is not mere rhetoric; it is a harsh reality we are already confronting. Addressing it requires collective global action. Our call is not just about human solidarity; it is about shared prosperity, stability, and the future of all nations.

As a collective, the g7+ plays a crucial role in advocating for climate justice by amplifying the voices of fragile and conflict-affected states in global climate negotiations. The g7+ attempt to ensure that the global climate policies are tailored to address the unique challenges faced by fragile states—such as weak governance, limited infrastructure, and recurring conflicts—which often prevent 6 them from effectively responding to and recovering from climate shocks. Moreover, the group actively pushes for increased and easy and flexible access to climate finance that is both predictable and accessible, emphasizing the need for simplified funding mechanisms that consider the realities of fragile contexts.

By fostering solidarity among its members and engaging with international partners, the g7+ strives to bridge the gap between climate action and peacebuilding, ensuring that climate resilience efforts contribute to long-term stability and sustainable development

As part of our collective advocacy, we recently issued a joint letter calling for increased access to climate finance, streamlining the bureaucracy, and localizing the execution of climate finances. The letter that was sent to UN Secretary General, World Bank President, IMF and presidencies of COPs was featured in more than 90 medial outlets

Against this backdrop, I would like to leave you with four key points as our collective aspiration:

First: While international affairs have long been driven by Realpolitik, leading to geopolitical and geoeconomic competition, contemporary global challenges— especially climate change—demand a paradigm shift. Human solidarity must replace narrow national interests in shaping global discourse and action. The “we first” approach adopted by developed nations will only exacerbate these crises.

In our quest for globalization, the world remains deeply interdependent, making the principle of “no one is safe until everyone is safe” more relevant than ever.

Developed countries bear a disproportionate responsibility for many of the global crises we face today, particularly climate change. Given their historical contribution to environmental degradation, they must lead the way in reversing 7 the damage.

The G20 nations, which collectively account for 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions, hold the power to set ambitious, 1.5°C-aligned climate targets for 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. If these targets are met, global warming could be limited to 1.7°C, offering a critical opportunity to preserve the 1.5°C goal.

However, achieving this must be done with genuine climate integrity. This requires a commitment to transparent, robust action—not through double standards or short-term solutions that undermine trust and slow progress. Only through authentic and sustained efforts can we hope to address the climate crisis and ensure a sustainable future for all.

Second: There is a significant gap in climate adaptation, with least developed countries—particularly those affected by conflict and fragility—falling far behind in the global race to build climate resilience. These nations face a dual challenge: not only do they lack the financial resources and infrastructure needed to adapt, but they are also disproportionately impacted by climate-induced disasters that they had little role in causing

Currently available adaptation finance remains woefully inadequate compared to the actual needs of these vulnerable nations. Recognizing this, the g7+ has made a collective plea for adaptation finance to be doubled by 2026, though even this increase would cover only 60% of what is required. The gap highlights the urgent need for equitable access to climate finance and a fundamental shift in global funding priorities.

Additionally, global efforts to push forward climate adaptation without due consideration for fragile countries—many of which rely heavily on revenues from natural resources such as gas and oil—can be a double-edged sword.

The rapid transition away from fossil fuels, while necessary for global sustainability, is already pushing several resource-dependent economies deeper into economic fragility. Without alternative revenue streams, economic diversification strategies, and tailored support, these countries risk being left behind, further exacerbating instability and poverty.

Therefore, our countries need support in our efforts to diversify economies and build climate resilience.

The need to transform to climate-resilient development – in which climate change mitigation and adaptation are integrated with sustainable development – is particularly urgent in these fragile and conflict-affected situations (FCAS)

Third: The current geopolitical and geoeconomic fragmentation among global powers has severely impacted poorer nations, particularly those that have long relied on the solidarity of the international community. Many conflict-affected and fragile states are once again being used as battlegrounds for competing political and economic interests, caught in the crossfire of a renewed struggle for global influence. Instead of genuine support for their development and stability, these nations are increasingly subjected to transactional engagements, where assistance is driven by strategic calculations rather than long-term partnerships.

This replicates the Cold War era, whose legacy continues to cast long shadows over many fragile states, leaving behind instability, economic stagnation, and deep-rooted divisions. We must not allow history to repeat itself.

We urge the international community to move away from short-term, transactional, interest-driven engagements and instead build genuine partnerships based on mutual respect, trust, and shared prosperity

Fourth and Final: Australia, as a neighbor and a global actor, has an integral role to play in supporting the fragile nations, particularly those in the Pacific. As a developed nation with unique geographic proximity and shared interests in the Pacific, Australia’s support can significantly contribute to building resilience in these countries. This includes financial commitments to climate adaptation, promoting sustainable economic development, and strengthening the capacity of Pacific nations to respond to crises—both natural and man-made.

Australia’s long-standing relationship with the region, coupled with its leadership in international forums, positions it as a key partner in fostering peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific and beyond.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

Peace, stability and shared prosperity in the world rest in peace and stability in conflict affected countries as much as it is contingent in the actions of the mighty powers. The path forward demands us to take responsibility—not only for our own actions but for the collective well-being of humanity.

Recognizing this fact, the g7+ is committed to working with Australia and the global community to forge a future where no nation is left behind, especially those most vulnerable to the twin crises of climate change and geopolitical instability. Through solidarity, partnerships, and shared determination, we can ensure that every nation, regardless of its size or fragility, has the opportunity to thrive.

We must act now, not just for the benefit of the fragile states, but for the stability and security of the entire global community.

Thank you.

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Liberia for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 08:39:24 +0000

Liberia for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

April 11-12, 2025

Excellencies,
Distinguished Delegates,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is an honor to address this distinguished gathering at the 6th Ministerial Meeting of the g7+. I extend my appreciation to the host nation for their warm hospitality and to the g7+ Secretariat for their continued commitment to advancing the cause of peace and stability in fragile and conflict-affected states.

Liberia stands before you today as a testament to the resilience of fragile states. Our history has been marked by a brutal civil war, the challenges of post-war recovery, and more recently, health crises and economic difficulties. However, through a deliberate process of peacebuilding, governance reforms, and regional cooperation, Liberia has emerged as a model of progress within the g7+ community.

The Accra Comprehensive Peace Agreement of 2003 was the foundation for Liberia’s transition from war to peace. With the invaluable support of ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations, Liberia embarked on a journey of rebuilding state institutions and fostering reconciliation. The commitment of the Liberian people to democracy has been demonstrated through successive peaceful elections, culminating in the successive democratic transition of power.

However, we recognize that peace is not merely the absence of war. Sustainable peace requires inclusive governance, economic resilience, and the ability to address emerging threats, such as climate change and transnational organized crime. In this regard, Liberia remains committed to reinforcing governance structures, investing in social cohesion, and strengthening our democratic institutions.

The g7+ has been instrumental in amplifying the voices of fragile states on the global stage. Liberia’s post-war experience aligns closely with the core principles of the g7+, particularly the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States and the promotion of Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) on peace, justice, and strong institutions. Our efforts in peacebuilding and governance reform should serve as a case study for how fragile states can move from conflict to resilience.

As a community, we must advocate for increased international commitment to SDG 16, ensuring that fragile states receive the necessary support to build inclusive institutions and prevent the resurgence of violence. The g7+ should push for a stronger international financing mechanism tailored to the unique needs of fragile contexts, ensuring that peace dividends are translated into tangible development outcomes.

Beyond national efforts, Liberia has championed regional initiatives to address shared security concerns. A notable example is the Joint Chiefs and Elders Council Meeting (JCCEM) between Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire, which has served as an innovative mechanism for preventing cross-border conflicts and promoting stability.

This model, rooted in traditional leadership and community engagement, is a testament to the role of local actors in conflict resolution.

We propose that this approach be examined as a framework for other g7+ member states facing similar transnational challenges. Strengthening such community-led conflict resolution mechanisms can complement formal state-building efforts and enhance regional security.

While we celebrate our collective progress, we must also confront the evolving challenges that fragile states face today. The global economic slowdown, increasing geopolitical tensions, and the adverse effects of climate change disproportionately impact fragile states, exacerbating vulnerabilities and limiting growth prospects.

The g7+ must take proactive steps to reinforce its institutional influence. We must move beyond advocacy and push for concrete policy frameworks that strengthen our bargaining power in multilateral negotiations. To this end, Liberia supports the establishment of a permanent g7+ policy research unit to generate data-driven policy recommendations and enhance our engagement with international financial institutions, including the World Bank, the IMF, and regional development banks.

Thus, in recognition of the importance of fragile states continuing to have a voice in global governance, Liberia is pleased to announce its candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the term 2026–2027, under the theme “Towards a Just and Peaceful World.” This bid is not merely about Liberia; it is about ensuring that the concerns of fragile states are effectively represented at the highest levels of decision-making.

If elected, Liberia would advocate for policies that prioritize conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and post-conflict reconstruction. We call on our fellow g7+ member states to support this candidacy as a strategic opportunity to bring the challenges of fragile states to the center of global security discussions.

Excellencies, the path from fragility to resilience is complex and requires sustained commitment. As members of the g7+, we must continue to share lessons, strengthen our collective voice, and advocate for a more inclusive global governance system.

Liberia remains steadfast in its commitment to the principles of the g7+ and looks forward to deepening our cooperation as we work towards a future of lasting peace and shared prosperity.

Thank you.

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Timor Leste for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:54:06 +0000

Timor Leste for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste Country Statement
H.E. Bendito Freitas
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Timor-Leste
6th Ministerial Meeting of the g7+
Dili, Timor-Leste, 11 April 2025

Excellency Kay-Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and Eminent Person to the g7+ Excellency Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair of g7+
Fellow Ministers, Deputy Ministers and Directors General representing g7+ countries
Dr. Helder da Costa, General Secretary of g7+ and Members of the Secretariat
Dear g7+ Observer Members

Your Excellencies
Let me start by underlining our leaders’ words during our Opening Session this morning regarding the rehabilitation of the Dili Conference Centre, the birthplace of our organisation g7+.
Fifteen years ago, when our national leader, H.E. Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste and Eminent Person of g7+, decided to host the first meeting of fragile states, our country was amidst recovering from conflict.
Dili was, then, home to thousands of internally displaced people. As we lacked proper infrastructure for such an important gathering, the government decided to convert an abandoned bus terminal into what is the current Dili Convention Centre. What began as an improvised venue has since become a symbol of transformation – both for Timor-Leste and for g7+.
Timor-Leste stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, reconciliation and unity. Our long struggle for liberation and our first steps towards building a nation soon showed us that our independence and our future could only be built upon inner and regional peace.
Both the Commission for Reception, Truth and Reconciliation at national level and the Commission of Truth and Friendship between Timor-Leste and Indonesia played a determinant role in our peacebuilding process. We have proven that reconciliation is possible, and we are proud as we can testify that dialogue for peace can prevail.
Timor-Leste has, therefore, the moral duty to share this experience with other nations. It has not been without challenges, and there is still much ahead, but stability is giving us the chance to prepare our future, drafting our plans and working on our goals for sustainable development.

Ladies and gentlemen,
g7+ has achieved tremendous progress in attaining global recognition as an organization that represents the voice of conflict-affected countries.
Recent successes, such as our collective advocacy at COP29 in Baku, are not to be overlooked, as they underscore the impact of our unified voice.
Our organization has evolved into a beacon of solidarity, championing the causes of those who are often left forgotten in their conflict and in their fragility. Our nations have experienced war and instability, but we have also shown resilience. And, at this stage, we know what works and what does not in peacebuilding, and we must use this knowledge not only to support one another – through peer-to-peer cooperation, knowledge-sharing, fostering the Fragile-to-Fragile initiative – but also to inform the collective dialogue, enrich international action, demand mutual respect and ensure that our concerns are no longer overlooked in global discussions – and thus, together, we will overcome all our challenges.

Nevertheless, we all know that the world is still governed by division and conflict. Unfortunately, we see a world crumbling under extremism and intolerance, flooded with divisive oratory aimed at creating tensions and hatred. Every day, we are reminded by rhetoric or algorithms of what makes us different and are led to believe that these differences must offend us.
We overlook the fact that these differences are actually the vehicle for ideological and social development.
Instead, human beings have become mere instruments of greed with the war of economy at its peak in view of the recent American import rate policies, which will affect the living of so many people all over the world as well as global economy as a whole.
We seem, in the end, to forget the very essential, we forget what makes us equal: our humanity and our common wish to live a dignifying, just and fair life.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen.
Allow me to express my deep solidarity with all nations and communities currently suffering from war or aggression. g7+ stands with those suffering due to current or past conflicts. All our member states know how frail conflict leaves us.
Let us, then, use our time and resources to build up our societies, not to divide them or destroy them. Let us build collective will for peace, as only peace can benefit us all. Let us give our people, our young generations, renewed hope for being able to live up to their fullest potential and aspirations.
Timor-Leste reaƯirms its commitment to continue supporting g7+ in its peacebuilding eƯorts, while advocating for mediation and reconciliation as central tools for preventing conflict and fostering national and regional cohesion.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen.
Sadly, it is conflict-affected nations that suffer the most from all types of crises – from geopolitical tensions, economic instability, conflict, climate change to humanitarian emergencies.
We need to stand together with a unified voice in the face of these hardships, calling for customized assistance and cooperation, otherwise we will continue to be mere recipients of fragmented or casual aid and attention.
Our experiences have reinforced our belief in national ownership, in the idea that lasting peace and development can be finer achieved when led and shaped by the people of each country. We do rely on our international partners. It is, in fact, absolutely mandatory that a global network works on long term assistance for conflict-affected and disaster-struck nations.
Nevertheless, g7+ must be at the forefront of those initiatives, fostering support for peace, aid and sustainable development, while advocating for our specific needs and ensuring that development aid and partnerships engage fully with the New Deal principles.
Debt burdens remain a significant obstacle for fragile states seeking economic recovery. We advocate for a comprehensive approach to debt relief and for reforms in debt assessment frameworks accounting for the unique realities faced by crisis-prone economies.
Climate change further exacerbates vulnerabilities in conflict-affected regions. We call, therefore, for increased climate financing, specifically tailored to these countries’ needs. International climate finance mechanisms must be reformed to become more flexible, more accessible, and more responsive.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen
We believe that solidarity is our greatest strength and also the bond that brings hope for a more humane, inclusive and equitable world.
Nevertheless, the time has come for another step forward. The ratification of the g7+ Charter provides the institutional backbone for our continued work and signals the international community that we are serious, united, committed and coordinated. We, therefore, urge our fellow members to accelerate their domestic process to ratify the Charter.

Ladies and gentlemen,
Together we will continue striving towards a world where peace prevails over conflict, resilience triumphs over fragility, and sustainable development uplifts all communities. Our commitment to peacebuilding, state-building, and the promotion of democratic principles is unwavering, as is our dedication to upholding human values and the rule of law.
Let us move forward with resolve and hope!
Ensemble, nous sommes plus forts!
Thank you.

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Chad for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:43:30 +0000

Chad for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

Excellence Béndito dos Santos, Ministre des Affaires Etrangères et de la Coopération du Timor-Leste, hôte de la Conférence ;
Excellence Kenyeh Barlay, Ministre de la Planification et du Développement économique de la Sierra Leone et Président du g7+ ;
Leurs Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs les Ministres des Affaires Etrangères des Etats membres,
Mesdames et Messieurs les Délégués.
Je voudrais au nom du Ministre d’Etat, Ministre des Affaire Etrangères, de l’Intégration Africaine et des Tchadiens de l’Etranger Dr. ABDOULAYE SABRE FADOUL, qui, empêché, m’a fait l’honneur de le représenter et partager avec vous cette déclaration au nom de la République du Tchad, ici à Dili, capital de Timor-Leste.
Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,
Mon pays le Tchad qui a vécu tant de guerre connaît mieux que quiconque ses conséquences. C’est pourquoi, nous avons accueilli avec optimisme, le thème de cette conférence : (quinze ans d’unité : façonner l’avenir de la paix et de la résilience dans les pays du g7+).
En effet, après son indépendance, le 11 août 1960, le Tchad n’a connu que la dictature et la guerre civile. Il a fallu que le Marechal Idriss Deby Itno prend le pouvoir en 1990 pour asseoir une véritable démocratie au Tchad.

Cependant, un tournant décisif s’est produit le 20 avril 2021 avec la disparition tragique du 1^er Maréchal du Tchad Idriss Déby Itno, tué lors d’un affrontement avec un groupe rebelle, plongeant ainsi le Tchad dans une situation de vacance du pouvoir. Face à ce vide juridique du pouvoir, quelques généraux avec à leur tête le Général Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno se sont imposés pour former le Conseil Militaire de Transition (CMT), afin d’assurer la stabilité et l’intégrité de l’État.

La mise en place du Conseil Militaire de Transition a été motivée par le refus du Président de l’Assemblée Nationale, de prendre les rênes du pays pour des raisons de santé.

Les Généraux ont rapidement établi une charte de transition en nommant un Premier Ministre Civil parmi les opposants pour diriger cette période transitoire.
Dans le soucis d’un retour à l’ordre Constitutionnel rapide, les autorités de Transition ont organisé un pré-dialogue à Doha, au Qatar, ce qui a permis d’engager des discussions avec des groupes politico-militaires, tandis qu’un Dialogue National Inclusif et Souverain (DNIS) a réuni à N’Djamena une large représentation de la société tchadienne en 2023. Ces efforts ont conduit à la dissolution du CMT et à la désignation de Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno comme Président de la République.

La deuxième phase de la transition à débuter avec le référendum constitutionnel du 17 décembre 2023, au cours de duquel les citoyens tchadiens ont voté en faveur de OUI avec un score de 86 %. Cette réforme a jeté les bases d’un État modernisé, renforçant les principes démocratiques et l’état de droit.

L’élection présidentielle du 6 mai 2024, a consacré Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno avec 61 % des voix, confirmant la volonté populaire de poursuivre le processus amorcé sous sa direction.

Le cycle électoral s’est achevé avec les élections législatives, provinciales, communales du 29 décembre 2024 et Sénatorial du 27 février 2025. Ces scrutins ont témoigné d’une mobilisation citoyenne significative, réaffirmant l’aspiration du peuple tchadien à tourner la page de l’instabilité politique.

Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs;
L’exemple du Tchad sous la direction de Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, est un modèle de réussite pour les transitions politiques en Afrique et dans le pays en voie de développement. Cette expérience exemplaire pourrait inspirer d’autres nations membre de g7+, confrontées à des situations similaires. Le Tchad est en train de se transformer avec la création des institutions fortes et démocratiques.
Malgré ces avancées institutionnelles, le Tchad reste un pays fragile dus aux catastrophes naturelles exacerbées par le changement climatique, les déplacements de personnes ainsi qu’aux menaces terroristes de Boko Haram dans le Bassin du Lac-Tchad.
En 2024, par exemple des inondations d’une ampleur inédite ont touché 2 millions de personnes au Tchad, causant 576 décès, la destruction de 217 000 maisons, ainsi que 432 000 hectares de cultures ravagés et 72 000 têtes de bétail perdues. Les infrastructures essentielles : l’eau, l’hygiène et l’assainissement ont été gravement endommagées, augmentant les risques de maladies hydriques.
Les afflux massifs de migrants en provenance du Soudan ont aggravé cette crise, avec plus de 900 000 personnes accueillies dans les provinces de l’Est, dont 723 000 réfugiés, portant à plus de 1,1 million le nombre total de réfugiés soudanais au Tchad. Toutefois, le peuple tchadien demeure résilient et fixe le cap sur l’avenir.
Excellences Mesdames et Messieurs,
Le Tchad espère vivement que cette 6^ème Conférence des Ministres des Affaires Etrangères de g7+ marque un tournant en ce qui concerne la coopération et la solidarité entre les Etats membres.
Pour sa part, le Tchad reste solidaire et attaché aux résolutions qui sortirons de nos travaux. Réaffirme-t-i aussi, son engagement envers la Charte du Groupe de sept Plus (g7+) et rappelle que la paix, la justice et la coopération internationale qui sont mis à mal aujourd’hui par certains pays, sont les piliers de notre action collective car ces principes sont fondamentaux.

Je vous remercie.

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Solomon Islands for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:39:43 +0000

Solomon Islands for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

SALUTATION:
E Jose Ramos_Horta, President of the demoicratic republic of Timor Leste and special envoy of the g7plus;
E. kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, OPrime Minister of the democratic Republic of Timor Leste and Eminent Person of g7plus;
E Bendito dos Santos Freitas, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Timor- Leste;
Esteemed Government Ministers;
E Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone- Chair of the Group of Seven Plus (g7plus for short);
Ambassadors;
High Level Officials of Partner countries and International Organizations;
Members of the Diplomatic Corp;
Ladies and Gentlemen.

Good afternoon to you all!!

At the outset, allow me to express my sincere gratitude to the Government and the People of Timor Leste for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to us since our arrival in your beautiful country.

Let me also use this opportunity to acknowledge the g7plus secretariat for all the efforts put into making arrangements for our smooth travels and short stay in Dili for the meeting.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, as a member of this group, the g7plus, I will briefly share with you my country’s commitment to achieving lasting peace and security as well as the aspirations we have for the future of this group.

As a post-conflict country, achieving long- lasting peace is a priority that is highly valued across all levels within Solomon Islands Societies. So much have changed since the ethnic crises which we have encountered years prior to the 21^st century. The law and order situation is still fragile, even after years of progressive efforts put into rebuilding and/ or restoring peace and security in the Country. So far Australia and Papua New Guinea have been the closest neighbors whom we have been relying on in terms of interventions in the security space. The challenge of fragility, had exposed Solomon Islands, not only to the scars of the past but an opportunity to find meaningful cooperation with countries around the world, whom we share similar pasts. Therefore, despite the challenges faced then, now and into the future ahead of us, but having friends within the region is a blessing as far as the security of our citizens is concerned.

Excellencies, addressing the findings and recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report (TRC Report, 2012) was put on hold during the covid-19 pandemic, as our already limited Government resources were diverted towards protecting our country and our people during the pandemic. Thankfully, our efforts have proven successful. Solomon Islands was amongst the last countries in the pacific to have been hit by covid-19.

Excellencies, even with the delays due to factors beyond our control and the slow progress encountered over the years, the commitment by the government of Solomon Islands to achieve long lasting peace still remains a priority. Our National Peace Building Policy is our guide towards achieving the goals outlined in the Solomon Islands National Development Strategy (NDS) 2016-2035.

Solomon Islands aims at obtaining economic empowerment and long-term peace and security. These are two interwoven pillars we believe will help us achieve the 5 goals of the g7plus. Achieving these goals are vital as they provide the foundation of inclusive political settlement and conflict resolution; strengthening security; enhancing access to justice; ensuring employment security; and enhancing governance and effective service delivery.

Furthermore ladies and gentlemen, as a committed member of this group, the g7plus, I am honored to confirm that Solomon Islands is working towards concluding the ratification process of the g7plus charter. Solomon Islands values the engagements with the g7 plus member states as it offers the opportunity to learn from each other’s experiences and lessons in post- conflict resolutions and long- term peace building, the solidarity to amplify and affirm our lessons and experiences as valid empirical evidences, the access to secretarial capacity to analyse and provide research support and promote peace and sustainable development within member countries.

Finally, let me conclude by reiterating the phrase “no man is an Island”. Solomon Islands values its engagements with the g7plus. We believe that member countries and / or Partner organizations enables the g7plus to effectively position itself on the global landscape to amplify and emphasize our country-specific context, which can impact global views on critical issues like state fragility, state building, democracy, aid, and development. Excellencies, Solomon Islands appreciates all the contributions by our development partners, including the experiences shared through this g7plus platform and congratulates all the members of g7plus for the commitment in ensuring that the group still stands today.

Thank you tumas!!
Thank you very much!!

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Somalia for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:34:39 +0000

Somalia for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

Your Excellency Prime Minister; Madam Chair; Delegates and Colleagues,
It is both an honor and a privilege to speak on behalf of the Federal Republic of Somalia. I begin by extending our heartfelt gratitude to the Government and people of Timor‑Leste for their generous hospitality and for hosting this important Ministerial Meeting in Dili—a city where the G7+ was founded and that continues to inspire our collective vision for peace and resilience.
Your Excellency, allow me to share some key recent developments and aspirations of Somalia for the G7+ platform. Somalia has reached several historic milestones that exemplify our recovery journey and stand as a testament not only to our nation’s resilience but also to the positive impact of principled international cooperation and sustained reform efforts.
We successfully reached the Completion Point under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative. This achievement has allowed Somalia to clear arrears, re‑engage with international financial institutions, and embark on a path toward sustainable development.
The United Nations Security Council lifted the arms embargo on Somalia after decades of restrictions, in recognition of our progress in state‑building and security sector reforms. This move restores our sovereign right to manage national defence and marks a significant milestone in enhancing internal security.
Somalia’s formal accession to the East African Community further deepens regional economic integration, boosts trade, and strengthens both cultural and political ties with EAC member countries.
We were elected as a non‑permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2025–2026 term. This election is a clear acknowledgment of Somalia’s stabilizing role in the Horn of Africa and our increasing contributions to global peace and diplomacy.
Under the leadership of H.E. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Somalia has taken meaningful steps to resume our path toward inclusive and democratic governance. We have launched a major initiative to transition from clan‑based indirect elections to a one‑person, one‑vote system, thereby laying the groundwork for universal suffrage and true representation.
Significant progress has been made toward revising and finalising the Somali draft constitution. Our Federal Parliament has played a pivotal role in this process, working toward a permanent constitution that reflects a federal structure, guarantees civil rights, and provides a clear framework for governance, elections, and the rule of law.
These achievements are milestones on a longer journey, one still shaped by complex challenges. Somalia remains at the forefront of the fight against violent extremism. Our government has recorded significant territorial and security gains against Al-Shabaab, achieved through coordinated operations involving the Somali National Army, local communities, and international partners. These hard‑fought victories have paved the way for the return of displaced populations, the resumption of public services, and the strengthening of state presence in areas once held by militants.
We call upon our partners, especially the G7 countries, to maintain coordinated and long‑term support for our security and stabilization efforts. This is not solely a national priority—it is a shared global responsibility.
At the same time, the impacts of climate change continue to compound our vulnerabilities. Somalia is experiencing increasingly frequent and intense droughts and floods that displace communities and undermine livelihoods. We reiterate the urgent need for accessible and tailored climate financing, and we call for fragile states to be recognised as equal partners in the global climate agenda.
Despite these gains, structural barriers to sustainable development remain. Financing constraints continue to limit our ability to consolidate peace and invest in resilience. We fully support the Dili Resolution’s call for global financial reform, including scaled‑up concessional financing, targeted debt relief, and more inclusive decision‑making within international financial institutions.
Excellencies, our aspiration for the G7+ is clear: we seek a stronger platform that not only advocates for the needs of fragile states but actively empowers them to shape the policies that define their futures. Somalia remains committed to contributing to the peer‑learning model of the G7+, particularly in areas such as federalism, reconciliation, and public sector reform.
As we look ahead to the inaugural G7+ Heads of State and Government Summit at the United Nations General Assembly, Somalia stands ready to support and strengthen our collective voice. Together, we can transform shared fragility into shared progress and convert challenges into lasting, meaningful transformation.
Thank you.
Isaak

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Sierra Leone for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:29:45 +0000

Ministry Of Foreign Affairs And International Cooperation, Sierra Leone Statement

BY

H.E. MRS. FRANCESS PIAGIE ALGHALI
DEPUTY MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

AT THE 6TH MINISTERIAL MEETING OF THE GROUP OF SEVEN-PLUS

DILI, TIMOR LESTE
11TH -12TH APRIL 2025

Your Excellency Madam Kenyeh Ballay, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of the Republic of Sierra Leone and Chair of the g7+,
Honourable Ministers of g7+ Countries,Your Excellency Dr. Helder Da Costa, Secretary-General of the g7+,
Excellencies Ambassadors, Delegates,
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

At the outset, allow me to convey, on behalf of the delegation of Sierra Leone, our deep appreciation to the Government and People of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste for the warm hospitality and excellent arrangements in hosting this 6th Ministerial Meeting of the g7+. We are delighted to return to the historic city of Dil, a symbol of resilience and hope, and birthplace of the g7+.

We are also grateful to the g7+ Secretariat for its invaluable efforts in preparing for this important meeting.

This gathering, which marks the 15th anniversary of the g7+, is both a milestone and a moment of reflection. It reminds us of how far we have come as nations that once faced conflict and fragility, and of the possibilities that lie ahead when we act in unity and with resolve.

Sierra Leone remains firmly committed to the founding vision of the g7+, a vision grounded in solidarity, mutual support, and peer learning among countries with shared experiences of fragility, and a shared determination to build peaceful and resilient societies. We therefore welcome the theme of this year’s meeting: “Fifteen Years of Unity: Shaping the Future of Peace and Resilience in the g7+ Countries.” It speaks both to our journey and to the future we are striving to shape together.

Over the past decade as Chair, Sierra Leone has worked diligently, alongside member States and the Secretariat, to ensure that the voice of the g7+ resonates on the global stage. Together, we have achieved notable milestones, including attaining Observer Status at the United Nations General Assembly and participating, for the first time, in a UN Security Council open debate on peacebuilding and conflict prevention, held under Sierra Leone’s presidency in August 2024. These achievements reflect the growing recognition of the g7+, not merely as post-conflict countries, but as proactive contributors to global peace, peacebuilding, and development.

Excellencies,

We meet at a time of converging global crises, from violent conflicts and economic volatility to climate shocks, unsustainable debt burdens, and a weakening of multilateralism. These challenges are felt more profoundly in fragile contexts. Our collective response must therefore be marked by renewed solidarity and resilience, ensuring that no g7+ country is left behind.

We are deeply concerned by the worsening humanitarian and security conditions in countries affected by active conflict. Civilians, particularly women and children, continue to bear the brunt of these crises. Upholding human dignity and protecting fundamental rights must remain central to our common purpose.

The urgency of the current moment must compel us to act with unity and resolve. As we strengthen our collective efforts, I wish to highlight three key areas of focus:

First, we must deepen our strategic presence and engagement across United Nations platforms. Building on our increased visibility during the recent UN Summit of the Future, we must enhance coordination across the General Assembly, Security Council, and ECOSOC. Speaking with one voice and articulating clearly defined positions will ensure that our priorities and national contexts are meaningfully reflected in global decision-making, consistent with the principles of the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States.

We must align our priorities with the Sustainable Development Goals, the Pact for the Future, and the commitments of the New Deal, particularly in areas of peacebuilding, development financing, and digital cooperation. We know that peace is foundational for sustainable development, and sustainable development is essential for lasting peace.

Second, we must prioritize the mobilization of resources for context-specific, country-led initiatives. The multiple crises we face, from conflict and hunger to debt and climate change, demand not only urgent attention but also flexible financing, sustained partnerships, and long-term political support. Our development partners must stand with us in advancing nationally driven solutions, rather than externally imposed models.

Our advocacy must focus on securing concrete commitments from partners to invest in cooperation modalities that are led by and for g7+ countries. Creating an enabling environment for such investment will be critical, including addressing systemic barriers that hinder our access to vital resources.

We commend the g7+ Secretariat for its tireless efforts to amplify our collective voice, foster partnerships, and spotlight both the needs and the capacities of our member states.

Third, as we harness the opportunities of digital transformation, we must ensure it does not deepen existing inequalities. Fragile states must be equipped to benefit from science, technology, and innovation to improve governance, strengthen institutions, and deliver essential services more effectively.

Sierra Leone further underscores the importance of youth engagement in our efforts toward peace and prosperity. Our young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow, they are the innovators and change-makers of today. Their voices and participation must be integrated into all spheres of governance, peacebuilding, and development.

In closing, Sierra Leone reiterates the call for a more inclusive and representative global governance architecture. The g7+ has a vested interest in the ongoing reforms of the United Nations system. Only a truly representative multilateral order can deliver peace, justice, and opportunity for all.

Finally, I call on all g7+ member States and our partners to renew our shared commitment to peace, resilience, and inclusive progress. Let us move forward together, with purpose, unity, and the belief that a better future is not only possible but within our reach.

I thank you.

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São Tomé e Príncipe for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:25:06 +0000

São Tomé e Príncipe for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

Em nome da Ministra de Estado dos Negócios Estrangeiros, Cooperação e Comunidades de São Tomé e Príncipe, pelo Embaixador Esterline Gonçalves Género

Díli, 11.04.2025

Excelentíssimo Senhor Ministro do Plano e Desenvolvimento Económico da Serra Leoa, que preside a esta sessão,
Excelentíssimos Ministros, Chefes de Delegação,
Distintos representantes do g7+,
Minhas Senhoras e Meus Senhores,

É com grande honra e sentido de responsabilidade que tomo a palavra nesta VI Reunião Ministerial do g7+, em representação de Sua Excelência a Ministra de Estado dos Negócios Estrangeiros, Cooperação e Comunidades da República Democrática de São Tomé e Príncipe.
Trago convosco a voz de um pequeno país insular africano, mas igualmente a força de uma nação resiliente, comprometida com a paz, o desenvolvimento sustentável e a cooperação entre os povos. Trago também a solidariedade de um Estado que partilha com os demais membros do g7+ os desafios da fragilidade, mas também a esperança da reconstrução e da transformação.
Permitam-me, antes de mais, agradecer o acolhimento caloroso do povo irmão de Timor-Leste, país símbolo de resistência e autodeterminação, que nos recebe com generosidade e nos inspira pelo seu percurso. Estendo igualmente os sinceros agradecimentos ao secretariado do g7+ pelas disposições tomadas para que estivéssemos aqui com tão boas condições para desenvolver os nossos trabalhos.
O g7+ tem sido uma plataforma fundamental para amplificar as vozes dos Estados em situações de fragilidade, promovendo soluções centradas nas realidades de cada contexto e fortalecendo a cooperação Sul-Sul. São Tomé e Príncipe reafirma o seu firme compromisso com os princípios que orientam este grupo — solidariedade, apropriação nacional, construção da paz e desenvolvimento inclusivo.
Com efeito, para o Estado São-tomense, a paz e a defesa do Estado de Direito Democrático são fatores fundamentais para o progresso económico, social e cultural das nações.
Hoje, mais do que nunca, é imperativo que a nossa voz coletiva continue a influenciar os fóruns globais de decisão. A nossa experiência enquanto países que enfrentam desafios estruturais, conflitos, vulnerabilidades climáticas e instabilidade institucional deve ser valorizada como conhecimento essencial para moldar políticas mais justas, eficazes e sensíveis à diversidade dos contextos.
Senhor Presidente,
Caros Colegas,
O desenvolvimento sustentável não pode ser construído sobre a exclusão nem sobre a indiferença às realidades locais. Precisamos de parcerias que respeitem a soberania, que priorizem a capacitação interna e que estejam verdadeiramente comprometidas com a mudança estrutural.
Neste sentido, São Tomé e Príncipe reafirma a importância de agendas como a de “Nova Visão para o Engajamento em Contextos de Fragilidade” e o reforço da eficácia da ajuda, mas insiste também na necessidade de investir nas pessoas — nos jovens, nas mulheres, nos líderes locais. Sem isso, o desenvolvimento será sempre limitado.
Permitam-me concluir sublinhando que é juntos, solidários e determinados, que construiremos as soluções para os desafios que enfrentamos. O g7+ é, para São Tomé e Príncipe, um espaço de esperança, de convergência e de ação concreta. Continuaremos a trabalhar ativamente para que esta voz coletiva ecoe com força nos espaços regionais e internacionais.
Muito obrigado pela vossa atenção.

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La République Centrafricaine for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:22:40 +0000

La République Centrafricaine for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

DILI, 11 AVRIL 2025

Madame la Présidente,
Excellences,
Mesdames et Messieurs,

Permettez-moi de vous transmettre les salutations chaleureuses de Son Excellence Madame Sylvie NOTEFE née Baïpo-Temon, Ministre des Affaires Étrangères de la République Centrafricaine, qui aurait souhaité être parmi nous aujourd’hui, mais qui a dû faire face à une urgence de dernière minute. Elle m’a instruit de la représenter et d’adresser ses vœux les plus sincères au peuple du Timor-Leste ainsi qu’à l’ensemble des membres du G7+, en réaffirmant son attachement aux valeurs qui nous unissent.

Je voudrais exprimer mes sincères remerciements à la République Démocratique de Timor-Leste pour son accueil les plus chaleureux ainsi que pour l’organisation exemplaire de cette importante réunion ici à Dili.

C’est un véritable privilège de me trouver dans ce pays magnifique, dont la beauté naturelle n’a d’égal que la résilience et la dignité de son peuple. Le Timor-Leste incarne avec force l’esprit de paix et de détermination, ayant su, en dépit des épreuves de son histoire, tracer avec courage et sagesse la voie vers la démocratie, le développement et la solidarité régionale.

Je tiens également à féliciter la Présidence Sierra léonaise et le Secrétariat du G7+ pour leur leadership et le travail remarquable de coordination réalisé. Cette rencontre illustre notre engagement commun à renforcer la solidarité entre nos pays fragiles, à promouvoir la paix, la stabilité et un développement durable.

Madame la Présidente,
Nous vivons une époque de transition, où le monde s’éloigne progressivement d’un système unipolaire pour entrer dans une ère de multipolarité et Nous devons saisir cette transition mondiale comme une opportunité historique d’affirmer un leadership collectif du Sud global, en démontrant que les pays dits fragiles ne sont pas des sujets d’assistance, mais des acteurs de solutions globales, porteurs d’approches innovantes face aux défis mondiaux.

Cette nouvelle dynamique offre à nos pays, une opportunité sans précédent de redéfinir notre place dans l’ordre mondial, en nous appuyant sur nos expériences, nos voix collectives, et notre capacité à proposer des solutions enracinées dans nos réalités.

Il nous appartient, en tant que membres du G7+, de capitaliser sur cette évolution, de renforcer nos partenariats Sud-Sud, et de faire entendre notre vision d’un multilatéralisme inclusif, équitable, et respectueux de la souveraineté de chacun.

C’est dans cet état d’esprit que je m’inscris pour vous partager les évolutions en RCA à l’auré des 15 ans de notre organisation commune.

Madame la Présidente,

Il y a plus de 10 ans, en 2013, la RCA traversait la plus grande crise de son histoire. Dans ces moments très sombres, la solidarité internationale ne nous a jamais fait défaut.

Timor leste et le G7+ n’ont pas fait exception à cette règle. Vos soutiens à nos efforts de consolidation d’un dialogue pour la paix et la préparation du Forum de Bangui en 2015 associé au suivi des progrès de sa mise en œuvre et du succès des élections présidentielles et législatives de 2016 auxquelles, vous avez grandement contribué ont porté leur fruit.

C’est donc avec un réel plaisir que je me tiens devant vous aujourd’hui pour vous dire que la République centrafricaine va mieux, beaucoup mieux même si de nombreux défis subsistent.

Accord de paix
Cette évolution positive est le reflet de la volonté du peuple centrafricain mais surtout, de la détermination sans faille de S.E. Pr Faustin Archange TOUADERA, Président de la République, Chef de l’État et du Gouvernement de tendre la main aux groupes armés mais surtout, de privilégier le dialogue comme seule voie de sortie de crise pouvant mener à une paix durable et un développement harmonieux, soutenu et durable.

C’est dans cette logique que s’inscrit la mise en œuvre du processus conjoint de l’accord politique pour la paix et la réconciliation de février 2019 et la feuille de route de Luanda de 2021 qui nous a permis d’accomplir des progrès considérables dans la quête de la paix et du renforcement de l’autorité de l’État.

Grâce aux efforts conjugués du gouvernement, des partenaires bilatéraux et multilatéraux dont la MINUSCA, neuf (9) des quatorze (14) groupes armés ont solennellement annoncé leur dissolution.

Le défi qui s’ouvre désormais est celui de la réintégration socio-économique durable de ces ex-combattants. La République Centrafricaine développe, à cet effet, des mécanismes innovants d’insertion locale, avec un accent particulier sur les chaînes de valeur agricole, l’artisanat et les infrastructures à haute intensité de main d’œuvre, pour transformer ces trajectoires de violence en trajectoires de développement.

Les opérations de DDRR ont permis de désarmer et démobiliser 7000 combattants et 2000 dissidents de la CPC et récupérer près de 20 000 armes de tous calibres collectées. Tout le monde s’accorde aujourd’hui sur le succès de ce processus qui doit être pérennisé.

Dimension régionale et gestion des frontières
Madame la Présidente,

Ce sont là des avancées historiques qui démontrent que le dialogue, l’engagement collectif et la volonté politique sont les piliers fondamentaux de la pacification du pays. Dans le même ordre d’idée, la RCA met l’accent de plus en plus sur des solutions sous régionales à la résolution du conflit. A cet effet, elle a signé le 15 Juin 2023, un accord quadripartite avec la RDC, le Soudan du Sud et l’Ouganda ayant permis le rapatriement de 140 ex combattants de la LRA et leurs familles dans leur pays d’origine, l’Ouganda. Dans la même dynamique, nous poursuivons le dialogue avec tous nos pays voisins dans le cadre des commissions mixtes.

Cette orientation régionale s’inscrit dans une logique stratégique de sécurité partagée et d’intégration sous-régionale. L’approche par la coopération transfrontalière constitue une réponse endogène et intégrée aux dynamiques de conflits résiduels et de fragilité chronique.

Du 21 au 22 Octobre 2024 s’est tenu à Bangui, les travaux de la 15 èmegrande commission mixte de coopération entre la RCA et le Tchad. Ces travaux se sont conclus par la signature d’accords portant sur les consultations politiques régulières et le règlement des conflits, en matière de sécurité, sur le rapatriement des réfugiés ainsi qu’un accord pour la création d’une force mixte de sécurisation des frontières. La mise en œuvre de cette dernière a permis la réouverture des frontières entre les deux pays restés fermés depuis 2014.

Ces initiatives associées à celle de la mise en œuvre de la politique nationale des gestions des frontières avec l’appui de la MINUSCA sont cruciales, pour nous permettre de juguler à terme les menaces qui pèsent sur nos frontières, favoriser le retour paisible des réfugiés et de promouvoir un commerce transfrontalier durable au bénéfice de la paix et de l’épanouissement de nos populations.

Nous attendons du G7+ de nous aider dans le plaidoyer sur la question des frontières et de la sécurité qui demeurent une préoccupation majeure. Malgré des avancées notables en matière de stabilisation interne, la République Centrafricaine continue de faire face à des défis sécuritaires persistants, notamment dans les zones frontalières avec le Soudan. Ces espaces, souvent faiblement contrôlés et éloignés des centres de décision, restent vulnérables à l’infiltration de groupes armés transnationaux. Ces derniers exploitent les porosités frontalières pour mener des incursions, alimenter les trafics illicites, et saper les efforts de pacification entrepris par l’État.

Restauration de l’autorité de l’Etat
Madame la Présidente,

La restauration de l’autorité de l’Etat sur l’ensemble du territoire national s’est consolidée grâce aux efforts conjugués dans la mise en œuvre de la politique nationale de sécurité et la stratégie nationale de la réforme du secteur de sécurité (RSS). La montée en puissance de nos forces de défense et de sécurité est bien réelle par une augmentation des effectifs des FACA qui est passé de 7000 en 2016 à 23000 en 2024 et les effectifs des forces de sécurités intérieures gendarmes et policiers ont été respectivement doublé et triplé avec un travail de maillage territorial qui se fait en tenant compte des différentes contraintes.

La levée totale de l’embargo sur les armes par le Conseil de sécurité des Nations Unies en Juillet 2024 avec le soutien du Groupe A3 après plusieurs années de restrictions, consacre les efforts de la RCA en matière de la RSS et lui permet d’asseoir sa souveraineté sur son territoire et à exercer pleinement ses responsabilités régaliennes. Nos forces de défense et de sécurité pourront désormais s’équiper de manière adéquate pour protéger les populations et les frontières, dans le respect du droit international.

Election locale

Cette restauration de l’autorité de l’Etat s’est également consolidée par la mise en œuvre de notre politique nationale de décentralisation et de régionalisation. Nous avons procédé à la réorganisation des circonscriptions administratives du pays en plaçant chacune des sept régions sous l’autorité d’un Gouverneur. Les nombres de préfectures et de sous-préfectures ont été augmentés pour affirmer la volonté du Président de la République de rapprocher l’administration des administrés.

Le clou de cette vision sera l’organisation des élections locales et régionales prévues en Août 2025. Elles sont le fruit des recommandations du dialogue à la base de 2015 et de celui de l’APPR dont la décentralisation constitue un des engagements clé. Elles sont une réelle priorité après plus de trois décennies d’absence de représentation locale. Il s’agit d’un jalon fondamental et un levier non seulement pour restaurer l’autorité publique mais aussi, au service de la promotion de l’egalité Homme-femme, au service de l’inclusion et au service de la décentralisation du processus politique et de paix que nous souhaitons.

Ces élections seront une pierre angulaire dans la construction d’un nouveau contrat social fondé sur la participation citoyenne, l’équité territoriale et l’autonomisation des collectivités. Elles constituent un moment fondateur pour refonder la gouvernance sur les principes de proximité, de redevabilité et d’inclusion, en particulier des femmes et des jeunes.]

Le principal défi pour atteindre cet objectif est le gap financier de 7 millions de dollars non encore comblé. La RCA poursuit son plaidoyer auprès de ces différents partenaires pour mobiliser les fonds nécessaires. Elle à elle-même consenti des efforts budgétaires considérables pour financer ce processus. Nous lançons un appel au G7+ afin qu’il nous accompagne dans la réalisation de ce plaidoyer.

C’est le lieu pour moi, de saluer chaleureusement la présence parmi nous de Madame Elisabeth Spehar, Secrétaire générale adjointe chargée du bureau d’appui à la consolidation de la paix, dont l’engagement constant à nos côtés mérite d’être souligné. Son implication personnelle dans le travail considérable de plaidoyer mené à New York en juillet 2024 auprès de certains États membres des Nations Unies pour la mobilisation de ressources pour les élections locales en RCA, témoigne d’un véritable engagement en faveur de la paix et de la solidarité internationale. Nous lui en sommes profondément reconnaissants.

Le Fond de Consolidation de la Paix joue un rôle déterminant dans le soutien aux efforts de stabilisation et de relèvement en République Centrafricaine tant sur le plan de la mise en œuvre de notre plan sectoriel de justice, que sur le plan de la sécurité et du soutien à la résilience des personnes vulnérables parmi lesquelles les femmes, les jeunes et les minorités.

L’impact très positif des actions de ce fonds doit nous mobiliser tous à travailler à sa pérennisation.

Climat et paix
Madame la Présidente,

La RCA subit de plein fouet les conséquences socio-économiques du changement climatique. Les inondations saisonnières ont entraîné des niveaux élevés d’insécurité alimentaire renforçant la vulnérabilité de nos populations dû à la baisse de rendement de nombreuses cultures.
L’accélération de la désertification aggrave les disparitions de pâturages et des terres arables dans le nord et alimente les conflits entre agriculteurs et éleveurs en lien avec la transhumance.

Nous devons œuvrer davantage en faveur de la mise en oeuvre du nexus climat, paix et développement par la création d’une synergie entre adaptation climatique et consolidation de la paix afin d’absorber de manière holistique, les vulnérabilités liées au changement climatique ainsi que la fragilité et les risques de conflit.

Justice
Madame la Présidente,
La paix et la justice sont comme les deux ailes d’un oiseau : l’une ne peut porter l’espoir sans l’autre. Alors que la République Centrafricaine reconstruit patiemment son tissu social et institutionnel, nous avons 7 pleinement conscience que l’enracinement durable de la paix passe nécessairement par l’établissement d’une justice accessible, crédible et efficace. C’est pourquoi notre pays s’est engagé avec détermination dans l’opérationnalisation des palais de justice, le recrutement et la formation de nouveaux magistrats, greffiers et agents pénitentiaires. Trois tribunaux militaires ont été établis marquant une avancée significative dans la restauration de l’autorité judiciaire sur l’ensemble du territoire.

La RCA appelle également à une meilleure synergie entre les juridictions nationales et les mécanismes internationaux de justice, pour garantir que la lutte contre l’impunité s’inscrive dans un cadre normatif cohérent et soutenu par la coopération juridique transnationale.]

Par ailleurs, la lutte contre l’impunité est devenue une priorité nationale, traduite par l’organisation régulière de sessions criminelles par les cours d’appel, ainsi que par la Cour Pénale Spéciale (CPS). Les menaces qui pèsent sur le financement de la CPS sont un sujet de préoccupation qui nécessite notre mobilisation.

Les tribunaux correctionnels et les juridictions militaires tiennent également des audiences de manière constante, renforçant la confiance des citoyens dans l’État de droit. Comme l’arbre qui puise ses racines dans une terre juste pour s’épanouir en paix, notre nation a choisi de faire de la justice un fondement inébranlable de sa reconstruction.

Humanitaire
Madame la Présidente,

Sur le plan humanitaire, la République Centrafricaine a œuvré sans relâche pour faciliter le retour de 241 000 personnes déplacées internes, en leur assurant un accompagnement vers une réinstallation durable et digne.

De plus, nous avons soutenu le retour de 51 406 réfugiés, en partenariat avec les organisations humanitaires. L’ambition de la République Centrafricaine est de poursuivre ces efforts afin de permettre le retour et la réintégration de 300 000 réfugiés d’ici à 2028. Dans cette optique, un Plan de Réponse Humanitaire a été adopté en janvier dernier, visant à répondre aux besoins urgents de 1 800 000 de nos citoyens les plus vulnérables. Sa mise en œuvre nécessitera une mobilisation de 367 millions de dollars.

Cependant, nous plaidons pour un humanitarisme de transition qui ne se limite pas à la réponse d’urgence, mais qui prépare activement le terrain à une reprise économique durable, à travers des programmes de stabilisation à fort impact communautaire.

PND
Madame la Présidente,

Les défis nombreux auxquels notre monde fait face aujourd’hui réduit de jour en jour les ressources internationales disponibles. Consciente des conséquences de ces externalités négatives, la RCA se tourne résolument vers un changement de paradigme dans lequel le développement doit être le moteur de sa résilience. C’est dans cette dynamique qu’en septembre 2024, la RCA a adopté un Plan National de Développement 2024–2028, fruit d’un processus inclusif et souverain.

Ce plan est l’incarnation d’un leadership transformationnel qui replace la République Centrafricaine au centre de son propre développement. Il ne s’agit pas simplement d’un outil de planification, mais d’un manifeste de souveraineté économique et de reconfiguration partenariale.] Il incarne notre volonté d’assumer pleinement la direction du développement national et d’aligner l’aide internationale sur les priorités définies par et pour notre peuple. Structuré autour de cinq axes clés issus d’un dialogue national approfondi, le PND réaffirme notre leadership en matière de planification, de coordination et de mise en œuvre. Nous appelons nos partenaires à s’y inscrire résolument, dans un esprit d’harmonisation et de renforcement des capacités locales. A ce titre la levée totale de restrictions dans le cadre du processus de Kimberley qui pesaient sur nos exportations de diamant est un atout supplémentaire pour l’atteinte de notre objectif.

Madame la Présidente,
Pour finir, Je retiens de notre inspirante session d’ouverture de ce matin, l’importance de l’appropriation et la mise en œuvre des engagements clés.

Avec le pacte du futur et ses annexes, nous avons là, un exemple d’engagements clés, Le G7+ doit désormais se l’approprier et s’ériger en plateforme de diplomatie transformatrice, en influençant l’agenda global sur les normes de financement du développement, la réforme de la gouvernance mondiale et la reconnaissance des vulnérabilités spécifiques aux États en transition. Ensemble, nous devons faire du G7+ une force de proposition et d’innovation géopolitique.

Je vous remercie.

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La République Démocratique du Congo for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:28:09 +0000

La République Démocratique du Congo for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

À la 6ème Réunion Ministérielle du g7+ à Dili, République du Timor-Leste

Excellence Monsieur le premier ministre du Timor-Leste
Excellence Madame la Ministre du plan et du développement économique de sierre leone et presidente de seance
Excellence Monsieur le Ministre des affairs Étrangères et coopération du timor leste
Mesdames et Messieurs les Ministre, les vice ministres et Ambassadeurs,
Distingués invités,
Permettez-moi, avant toute chose, d’exprimer la profonde gratitude du Gouvernement de la République Démocratique du Congo au Gouvernement et au peuple frère de la République du Timor-Leste pour l’accueil chaleureux et l’organisation exemplaire de cette 6ème réunion ministérielle du g7+. Votre hospitalité et votre engagement en faveur du dialogue et de la coopération témoignent de l’esprit de solidarité qui anime notre communauté du g7+.
C’est un honneur, pour la République Démocratique du Congo, de participer à cette rencontre. Elle nous offre une précieuse opportunité de réflexion collective, de partage d’expériences et de renforcement des synergies pour la paix, la résilience et le développement durable de nos nations respectives.

Mesdames et Messieurs,
Je prends la parole aujourd’hui avec gravité et responsabilité, pour porter à votre connaissance une situation préoccupante qui menace non seulement la stabilité de la République Démocratique du Congo, mais également celle de toute la région des Grands Lacs. Il s’agit de la guerre d’agression menée par le Rwanda, à travers ses supplétifs du M23/AFC, contre mon pays.
Cette agression s’inscrit dans un contexte historique complexe, nourri par des ambitions géopolitiques, des convoitises économiques, des tensions identitaires et des manipulations régionales. Depuis près de 3 décennie, le peuple congolais subit les conséquences tragiques de l’activisme de ces groupes armés soutenus par le Rwanda: massacres, déplacements massifs, violences sexuelles, pillages de ressources naturelles, et violations graves des droits humains.
Pendant des années, la République Démocratique du Congo a pris la parole.
Par des livres blancs, des conférences internationales, des romans, des essais, des cris lancés à travers les pages et les tribunes — elle a parlé, elle a supplié, elle a dénoncé.
Mais a-t-elle été entendue ?
A-t-elle seulement été écoutée ?
Depuis plus de trente ans, la RDC lutte, résiste, endure, face à une violence qui nie jusqu’à son droit d’exister avec dignité.

Et dans cette épreuve interminable, une question douloureuse persiste, :
sur qui ose-t-elle compter ?
Quand tant d’autres, hier encore, ont compté sur elle…
À l’Est de notre territoire, ce n’est pas une guerre ordinaire qui se déroule sous nos yeux. C’est un crime massif, organisé, silencieux.
Et j’emploie le mot avec tout le poids qu’il contient : c’est un génocide.
Un génocide mené avec préméditation, avec méthode, avec cynisme.
Un génocide porté par le Rwanda et ses supplétifs du M23/AFC —
une armée sans drapeau mais bien équipée, sans uniforme mais parfaitement coordonnée.
Il ne s’agit pas d’un conflit de communautés.
Il ne s’agit pas d’un choc culturel ou d’un contentieux historique.
C’est une guerre d’avidité.
Une guerre pour arracher, piller, exploiter.
C’est la captation brutale de nos richesses, de ces trésors enfouis dans notre sol qui nourrissent l’économie numérique mondiale et les industries stratégiques :
le coltan, le cobalt, l’or, le cuivre…
Ces minerais qui donnent vie à vos téléphones, vos véhicules électriques, vos satellites, vos armements.

Ce conflit n’est pas local.
Il est mondial dans ses causes. Et il le sera dans ses conséquences.
Mesdames et Messieurs
Il y a des douleurs qu’aucun mot ne peut apaiser. Des plaies si profondes qu’elles finissent par se confondre avec le silence du monde. Ce que vit aujourd’hui la République Démocratique du Congo dépasse l’entendement, dépasse même la compassion. C’est une tragédie à ciel ouvert que beaucoup refusent de voir.
Ce n’est pas une guerre comme les autres. C’est une saignée lente, méthodique, organisée. Ce n’est pas seulement une affaire africaine. C’est une faille dans la conscience collective de l’humanité.
Et pourtant… si peu de regards. Si peu de voix.
Une indifférence pesante. Un silence bien trop confortable pour ceux qui, ailleurs, ont les moyens d’agir.
Ce n’est pas parce que nous sommes loin que notre souffrance doit être minimisée.
Ce n’est pas parce que nos visages sont noirs que nos larmes ont moins de valeur.
Ce n’est pas parce que nos tombes ne sont pas filmées qu’elles n’existent pas.
Pendant que l’on détourne les yeux, un pays est mis à genoux. Des enfants sont arrachés à leurs mères. Des villages sont rasés. Des vies sont piétinées. Pour quoi ?
Pour la convoitise. Pour les entrailles d’une terre riche. Pour nourrir des ambitions sans scrupule.
Et ceux qui orchestrent ce chaos ne se cachent même plus.
Ils avancent masqués d’histoire et de mémoire, en prétendant être les seuls à souffrir.
Mais la mémoire ne peut pas servir de couverture à l’oppression.
Le passé ne peut pas justifier l’horreur du présent.
Ceux qui manipulent, exploitent, ordonnent, ne versent aucune larme.
Ceux qui pillent ne saignent jamais. Ce sont toujours les mêmes qui paient, qui fuient, qui enterrent sans comprendre.
J’ai moi-même connu les conséquences de ma parole. J’ai vu des regards se détourner. J’ai senti la menace, senti la peur.
Mais je suis ici. Non pas parce que je suis forte, mais parce que je n’ai pas le droit de me taire.
Ce que nous vivons, nous ne le méritons pas.
Et ce que nous attendons, ce n’est pas la pitié.

C’est la reconnaissance de notre humanité.
Le Congo n’est pas un terrain vague où l’on vient se servir.
C’est une terre fière, une nation debout, un peuple qui n’a jamais cessé de croire malgré les coups.
Nous n’avons pas besoin de discours bienveillants.
Nous avons besoin d’actes. De courage. De vérité.
Si nous tendons encore la main, ce n’est pas par faiblesse. C’est par foi en la paix.
Mais nul ne doit penser que cette main tendue est éternelle.
Un peuple ne peut tendre la main indéfiniment à ceux qui la laissent dans le vide.
Mesdames et Messieurs
Face à cette menace, la RDC n’a cessé de réaffirmer son attachement au dialogue et aux mécanismes de paix régionaux. Elle a pleinement soutenu les processus de Nairobi et de Luanda, qui constituent des cadres pertinents pour une sortie de crise par la voie diplomatique. Le processus de Nairobi favorise un dialogue inclusif entre le gouvernement et les groupes armés locaux, tandis que celui de Luanda engage les États de la région dans une démarche intergouvernementale visant à désamorcer les tensions et garantir le respect mutuel de la souveraineté.
Dans ce contexte, la RDC appelle la communauté internationale à maintenir et à renforcer son engagement. Plusieurs résolutions du Conseil de sécurité des Nations Unies, notamment les résolutions 2348 (2017), 2625 (2022), 2765 (2024), 2738 (2024) et plus récemment la résolution 2773 du 25 février 2025 – adoptée à l’unanimité – reconnaissent la gravité de la situation. Elles appellent notamment à :

– Un cessez-le-feu immédiat ;
– Le retrait des troupes rwandaises du territoire congolais ;
– La fin du soutien au M23/AFC ;
– L’ouverture de couloirs humanitaires et la réouverture des aéroports de Goma et Kavumu ;
– La transparence sur le transfert d’armes au Rwanda ;
– La révocation du statut du Rwanda comme pays contributeur aux opérations de maintien de la paix des Nations Unies ;
– La mise en place d’un embargo strict sur les minerais exploités illégalement dans les zones de conflit.
La mise en œuvre effective de ces résolutions est aujourd’hui plus urgente que jamais. La République Démocratique du Congo en appelle à une pression internationale ferme, cohérente et responsable pour mettre fin à cette guerre injuste.
Notre peuple a trop souffert.
Mesdames et Messieurs,
Au-delà de cette crise sécuritaire, la République Démocratique du Congo demeure résolument engagée en faveur de la paix, de la stabilité régionale et du développement durable. C’est dans cet esprit que nous abordons notre participation au g7+, en tant que membre porteur d’espoir, d’expérience et de vision.
Notre pays nourrit de grandes aspirations au sein de cette plateforme. Nous croyons profondément en la force du multilatéralisme solidaire et en la capacité de nos États à transformer leurs vulnérabilités en leviers de résilience. En ce sens, la RDC appelle de ses vœux un renforcement du g7+ autour d’une vision commune, centrée sur :
– La consolidation de la paix, à travers un appui accru aux mécanismes de réconciliation, de justice transitionnelle et de reconstruction post-conflit ;

– La construction de l’État, en soutenant les efforts de réforme institutionnelle, de gouvernance inclusive et de lutte contre la corruption ;
– Le développement durable, en mettant l’accent sur la protection de l’environnement, l’investissement dans le capital humain, la valorisation des ressources naturelles et la digitalisation inclusive.
Ce que nous construisons ensemble, ce n’est pas simplement un cadre de concertation entre pays ayant traversé les tempêtes de l’histoire. C’est un véritable voyage collectif de transformation, une marche solidaire qui nous conduit, pas à pas, des cendres de la guerre, de l’instabilité et de la souffrance, vers la lumière de la paix, de la dignité et du progrès partagé.
Chaque pays membre du g7+ porte en lui les cicatrices du passé, mais aussi les germes de la renaissance. Ensemble, nous prouvons au monde que même les nations brisées peuvent se relever. Que la paix est possible. Que la reconstruction est un acte de foi, une œuvre de patience, mais surtout, un engagement de volonté collective.
La République Démocratique du Congo croit profondément que ce chemin, bien que semé d’embûches, est porteur d’espérance. Car l’espoir est plus fort que la peur, et la solidarité plus puissante que la solitude des États isolés face à leurs crises. Nous croyons en un avenir où nos enfants n’entendront plus le bruit des armes, mais les chants d’écoles, de chantiers, et de vies épanouies.
Nous croyons que, de la cendre des conflits, peuvent naître des institutions fortes, une justice équitable, des économies résilientes et des sociétés réconciliées avec elles-mêmes. Nous croyons en la puissance transformatrice de la coopération entre peuples frères. Et c’est cette foi inébranlable qui nous guide dans notre engagement au sein du g7+.

Mesdames et Messieurs,
Je réitère ici l’appel du Président de la République, Son Excellence Monsieur Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, en faveur d’un soutien renforcé de la communauté internationale – en particulier à travers les organisations régionales, sous-régionales et les mécanismes du g7+ – pour une paix durable dans les régions en crise. Nous avons besoin non seulement de solidarité, mais aussi d’actions concrètes et coordonnées. FIN
Je vous remercie pour votre attention bienveillante, et je nous souhaite une réunion fructueuse, porteuse de décisions historiques pour nos peuples et pour les générations futures.

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Cote d’Ivoire for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:16:53 +0000

Cote d’Ivoire for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

A verifier au pronounce
Dili, le 12 avril 2025

Monsieur le President,
C’est avec un grand plaisir que je prends la parole
Honorable guests,

Je voudrais à l’entame de mon propos, vous traduire les chaleureuses salutations de Son Excellency Monsieur Léon KACOU ADOM, Ministre des Affaires Etrangères, de l’Intégration Africaine et des Ivoiriens de l’Extérieur.

Il aurait aprèsir participér à cet événement important et à ses enrichissessants débats. However, des constraints d’ordre professionnel ne lui ont pas permis d’honorer de sa présence cette rencontre. Il me demande donc de vous traduire toute sa recognition d’avoir associé notre pays à cette conférence et vous prie de trouver dans ces mots le témoignage de ses œux de plein succès à nos travaux.

Monsieur le President,
Je voudrais traduire la gratitude de la Côte d’Ivoire au Gouvernement du Timor-Leste pour la logistique mise en place dans le cadre de cette rencontre et pour l’accueil chaleureux qui nous a été réservé.

I particularly want to thank the President of the Group of Seven Plus as well as the Secretariat for the holding of this sixth ministerial meeting, which offers us the opportunity to reflect both retrospectively and prospectively on the activities of our organization.

Monsieur le President,
Au moment où nous célébrons le quinzième anniversaire du G7 Plus, nous pouvons humbly être fiers du chemin parcouru, parsemé d’acquis inesperés.

En effet, le G7 Plus, qui n’était qu’un informal groupe, est devenu une Organization internationale reposant sur un treaty et dont la voix compte sur la scène internationale. En témoigne la participation active de notre Groupe aux grandes rencontres telles que :

La semaine de haut niveau de la 79ème Session de l’Assemblée générale des Nations Unies, dont le G7 Plus est nowreis observateur;
Le Forum Africain sur la Résilience (AFR) organized in 2019 by the Banque Africaine de Développement, à Abidjan, en Côte d’Ivoire;
The Ministerial Conference held on October 15, 2023 in Marrakech by the G7 Plus and the International Monetary Fund (FMI), in the framework of the annual meetings of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund;
La COP 28 tenue du 30 novembre au 12 décembre 2023 à Dubai, aux Emirates Arabes Unis ;
La 51ème session du Comité de la sécurité alimentaire mondiale (CSA), d’octobre 2023;
The 3rd Conférence sur la fragilité d’Etat organized by the Groupe des Seven Plus in partnership with the club de Lisbonne, au Portugal, à la laquelle ont pris part Mme Elizabeth Spehar representing the Secretary General of the United Nations and the Minister of Defense of Timor-Leste.
Ces fora ont été pour le G7 Plus des occasions de faire entendre sa voix, d’exprimer ses positions sur les questions d’importance internationale, de créer des cadres de cooperation, de reinforcement son influence et defendre les intérêts de ses members.

Ces fora ont été pour le G7 Plus des occasions de faire entendre sa voix, d’exprimer ses positions sur les questions d’importance internationale, de créer des cadres de cooperation, de reinforcement son influence et defendre les intérêts de ses members.

This constant presence on the international scene and the relevance of the experiences exchanged between member states have allowed several countries of the Group to see their socio-political, security and economic situation improve progressively.

Ainsi, la crise armée n’est plus qu’un souvenir en Côte d’Ivoire. Le pays est entiere apaisé, suite à de nombreuses réformes institutionalelles et des mesures sociales à l’endroit des populations. La sécurité s’est ameliorée avec un indice de 1,2 en 2024 et l’économie connait une croissance constante.

However, il convient de reconnaitre qu’en quinze (15) ans, les réalités internationales ont subi des mutations et de nouveaux défis se posent aux Etats et aux Organizations internationales, y compris le Groupe G7 Plus.

The majority of these challenges are related to the recrudescence of armed conflicts, to terrorism, to geopolitical tensions, to the dynamic of political powers, to the persistence of climate change and its negative impacts on the development of nations, to the burden of debt, etc.

Le cas spécifique de l’Afrique de l’Ouest est illustrator de cette réalité.

Notre sous-région est menacé par le terrorisme qui sévit dans le sahel depuis des années et creé de l’instabilité politique, économique, sociale et sécurité. En tant que pays frontalier aux Etats sahéliens, la Côte d’Ivoire abrite sur son sol de nombreux réfugiés dont la presence necessaire une prise en charge couteuse.
Par ailleurs, il ne faut pas perdre de vue that several States members of the G7 Plus, including Côte d’Ivoire, are living the drastic impacts of climate warming characterized by seasonal instability and large-scale flooding. Almost every year, Abidjan, the administrative and economic capital of our country, as well as certain large coastal cities, are subject to the negative effects of rising sea levels that cause flooding.

Face à ces phénomènes qui persistent et grèvent les budgets de nos Etats, nous encourageons le Groupe G7 plus à redouble d’effort dans ses activités pour la stabilité de nos pays et le well-être de nos populations.

C’est pourquoi il est d’extrême importance que notre Organization poursuive son pleadoyer en faveur de la lutte contre le changement climatique, en insistant davantage sur le financement des countries en situation de fragilité.

Pour ce qui concerne les conflits armés et le terrorisme, il est nécessaire de réitérer notre engagement pour le dialogue, la méditation, la réconciliation nationale entre les populations des countries concerned et exprimer notre solidarité avec les countries en guerre ou en proie au terrorisme. Notre voix doit aller au-delà de l’Assemblée générale des Nations Unies pour attainder le Conseil de sécurité, principalement en charge de la paix et de la sécurité.

La question crucial de la dette mérite également notre attention. La dette est souvent la source des instabilités. The G7 Plus must show a constant position in favor of debt relief or debt restructuring for countries in a situation of fragility. Dans ce cadre, il est impérieux de saisir toutes les tribunes possibles pour en appeler aux institutions financières internationales et aux partners au développement.

En lien avec les tensions géopolitiques et les tendances à l’unilateralisme, le G7 Plus doit militaire pour un multilateralisme inclusif et pour une paix concertée.

Monsieur le President,

Pour conclure, je voudrais exhorter tous les countries membres du G7 Plus à sutenir fermentement notre Organization commune pour plus d’influence internationale et plus de success dans ses activités au profit de l’ensemble des countries en situation de fragilité.

I thank you for your kind attention.

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Guinea-Bissau for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 08:47:28 +0000

Guinea-Bissau for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

AT THE
g7+ MINISTERIAL MEETING
OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

(Dili – Timor Leste, April 11th 2025)

Your Excellency, Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair of the Group of Seven Plus (g7+);
Your Excellency Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor Leste;
Your Excellency, Bendito dos Santos Freitas, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Timor Leste, Host of g7+;
Your Excellency Dr. Helder Costa, Secretary-General of the g7+,
Thank you and your dedicated team for tirelessly working day and night for the cause of g7+ countries.
Madam Chair,
Excellencies,
All protocols observed.
His Excellency, Carlos Pinto Pereira, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Communities of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau could not attend this meeting, due to prior commitments.
He entrusted me with conveying to you, and through you to all delegations in attendance, his greetings and best wishes for a successful meeting.
My delegation is grateful to the Government and People of Timor Leste and the g7+ secretariat for the warm welcome and hospitality.
Enduring relations of cooperation exist between Guinea-Bissau and Timor Leste, which go back to the crucible times of the two countries struggle for statehood. The relations between the two countries are deeply rooted in shared history, language and culture.

Excellencies,
The meeting and its theme “Fifteen Years of Unity. Shaping the Future of Peace and Resilience in g7+ Countries” are timely.
For we are gathered here at a time of geopolitical tensions, shifting power dynamics that undermine international cooperation and disproportionately affect the g7+ countries.
The international community should not continue business as usual. We should continue joining efforts to achieve the long overdue reforms of global governance.
The Security Council and the International Financial Institutions require a more equitable representation and participation in their decision-making process to be able to effectively face the realities and challenges of today. Especially the realities and needs of conflict-affected countries.
The voice of our Group—representing a population of over 1.5 billion from Africa, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and the Caribbean—must continue to be heard in this regard.
For it carries first-hand experience of 20 conflict-affected countries on national, regional and international engagements regarding peace, development, resilience and human dignity.
In this regard, Guinea-Bissau commends the leadership of Sierra Leone in the Security Council, particularly the pertinence of the debate held under its presidency.

Madam Chair,
Excellencies,
Moving forward, we should seize the momentum of the Pact for the Future as it mutually reinforces with the Sustainable Development Goals, notably goal 16, the establishment of which our group successfully advocated for. “Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions” has become a motto in the global dialogue for peace and development.
Madam Chair,
Experience has taught us that in the increasingly interdependent and interconnected world we live in, solidarity is a necessity. Surely, a moral imperative.
g7+’s approach of we are in this together is the right approach. You are on your own is a losing proposition. A losing proposition at national, regional and international level.
With engagements under the New Deal principles, including country-led and country-owned solutions, the g7+ countries stood together and made progress in sustaining peace over the last 15 years.
But progress can suffer relapses, if not nurtured.
Sustaining gains of national reconciliation, peacebuilding and state building in the context of fragility require sustained leaderships and committed partnerships.
And, of course, ensuring much needed concessional financing, debt restructuring, and increase in climate financing for our conflict-affected countries.
It is against this backdrop, which I think many g7+ countries share, that Guinea-Bissau is working with peace and development partners in the face of national challenges and priorities. I will mention a few:
Inclusive dialogue and reconciliation to ensure political stability, especially in the context of the upcoming general elections scheduled for 23 November this year in the country.
Peacebuilding and state building, with focus on institutional reforms, including the security sector and the judiciary to better face the threats of transnational organized crime and drug trafficking and combat corruption.
Strengthen national cohesion and create opportunities for entrepreneurship and employment, with focus on women and youth. Many government projects are being carried out in this regard, including investment in infrastructure to create a conducive environment for the private sector.
Guinea-Bissau wishes to seize this opportunity to express its gratitude to development partners and g7+ for their cooperation and support.
In this context, Guinea-Bissau welcomes the upcoming Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development and hopes its proceedings and outcome will help to further mobilize political will and pave the way for financing inclusive prosperity in our countries.

Madam Chair,
Excellencies,
Guinea-Bissau remains confident that g7+ countries standing together—as we did over the last 15 years—united in resilience, peer learning and fragile-to fragile cooperation–with support of our partners– we can build peace, with strong state institutions and usher in lasting progress in our conflict-affected countries.
Thank you

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Burundi for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:00:11 +0000

Burundi for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

DILI, 11 – 12 AVRIL 2025

Excellences, Mesdames et Messieurs,
Je voudrais tout d’abord transmettre les fraternelles salutations de Son Excellence Ambassadeur Albert SHINGIRO, Ministre des Affaires Etrangères et de la Coopération au Développement de la République qui, en raison d’un conflit d’agenda n’a pas pu participer personnellement et m’a fait l’honneur de le représenter pour vous transmettre son message.

Excellences Mesdames, Messieurs,
D’emblée, je voudrais remercier le Gouvernement hôte pour l’accueil et l’hospitalité qui ont été réservés à ma délégation depuis notre arrivée à Dili jusqu’aujourd’hui et surtout pour l’organisation parfaite et sans faille de cette session ministérielle. C’est un honneur et un plaisir de nous retrouver dans notre famille du sein du g7+, à l’occasion de cette session importante.
Nous avons une communauté de destin et avons eu une trajectoire quasi – similaire. Sur cette base, nous devrions le plus régulièrement possible nous retrouver en famille pour cogiter sur les défis présents et le futur que nous souhaiterions léguer aux générations futures au moment où tout indique la traversée du désert :
les effets des changements climatiques, les conflits dans plusieurs régions du monde, l’augmentation de la pauvreté, les difficultés de mise en place des réformes de la gouvernance mondiale pour les adapter à la conjoncture actuelle. Bref, le multilatéralisme laisse voir de plus en plus des lacunes que l’on ne saurait répondre individuellement en tant qu’Etat. D’où la pertinence des cadres comme celui-ci au sein du G7+ .

Excellences Mesdames Messieurs,
Nous sommes réunis ici pour échanger nos aspirations et nos attentes pour l’avenir du g7+, en vue de renforcer notre solidarité et notre collaboration pour une paix durable, un renforcement de nos États et un développement soutenable. Ce moment est une occasion précieuse de réfléchir à notre impact commun et de redéfinir notre vision partagée pour l’avenir.

Aspirations pour l’avenir du g7+
Le Burundi, comme beaucoup d’autres pays membres, aspire à voir le g7+ jouer un rôle de plus en plus central dans la promotion de solutions adaptées aux défis uniques que nous rencontrons. Notre aspiration pour l’avenir du g7+ repose sur deux grands principes : la solidarité et l’autonomisation locale. Nous souhaitons que le groupe continue d’évoluer en tant qu’acteur clé dans la révision des politiques mondiales, en veillant à ce que les réalités des pays fragiles soient toujours au cœur des discussions internationales. Notre vision pour l’avenir du g7+ inclut également une intégration plus forte des priorités nationales des pays membres, de manière à s’assurer que nos besoins spécifiques en matière de paix, de stabilité et de développement durable soient véritablement pris en compte.
Nous espérons que le groupe deviendra une plateforme encore plus active pour plaider en faveur de mécanismes de financement flexibles et prévisibles qui répondent aux contextes fragiles et aux besoins de reconstruction.

Impact du g7+ et priorités nationales dans le cadre du groupe
Depuis sa création, le g7+ a démontré l’importance d’une approche collective des défis mondiaux. Le *New Deal* pour l’engagement dans les États fragiles a été un modèle dans la redéfinition des paradigmes de développement, en mettant l’accent sur des solutions locales et inclusives. Au Burundi, nous avons tiré parti de cette approche pour lancer des initiatives telles que la Banque d’Investissement de la Jeunesse et le Programme d’Autonomisation économique des Jeunes, qui visent à renforcer la résilience économique de notre jeunesse et à créer de nouvelles opportunités d’emploi. Nos priorités dans le cadre du g7+ restent la jeunesse, la stabilité politique, l’augmentation de la production agricole, la promotion des échanges et du commerce, l’autonomisation des populations locales, et la lutte contre la pauvreté et l’insécurité alimentaire. Nous croyons fermement que la paix et la stabilité ne peuvent être imposées de l’extérieur mais doivent émerger des sociétés elles-mêmes, par des solutions adaptées à chaque contexte national.

Collaboration pour renforcer la consolidation de la paix, l’État et le développement durable
Pour renforcer la consolidation de la paix et le développement durable, la collaboration entre les membres du g7+ doit se renforcer davantage. En partageant nos expériences, en échangeant des bonnes pratiques et en mettant en place des mécanismes de coopération intergouvernementale solides, nous avons la possibilité de répondre de manière plus cohérente et efficace aux défis mondiaux.
La coopération dans des domaines comme la gestion des ressources naturelles, la résilience face au changement climatique et la promotion de la gouvernance inclusive est essentielle pour nous permettre de consolider nos États et de promouvoir un développement durable. Le g7+ doit continuer à jouer un rôle de leader dans l’intégration des réalités des pays fragiles dans les décisions mondiales, tout en cherchant à maximiser l’impact des actions collectives.

Renforcement des Relations Diplomatiques et des Échanges au Sein du g7+ :
Afin de renforcer notre coopération et de promouvoir des solutions durables à nos défis communs, il est essentiel d’envisager rapidement l’établissement formel des relations diplomatiques entre les pays membres du g7+ là où elles n’existent pas encore. L’établissement de telles relations diplomatiques serait un premier pas crucial vers la consolidation de notre solidarité, facilitant ainsi la collaboration politique, la médiation des conflits et l’échange d’informations stratégiques. De plus, nous devons également envisager d’intensifier les échanges économiques, commerciaux et culturels entre les pays membres du g7+. En favorisant des partenariats économiques et commerciaux plus solides, nous pouvons créer des opportunités d’investissement, promouvoir le commerce intra-g7+ et soutenir des projets de développement locaux qui bénéficient directement à nos populations. Parallèlement, le renforcement des échanges culturels et éducatifs permettra de renforcer la compréhension mutuelle et de construire des ponts durables entre nos sociétés. Une approche proactive et intégrée dans ces domaines favorisera la cohésion au sein du g7+ et contribuera à créer un réseau de solidarité plus solide, capable de relever les défis mondiaux de manière collective.

Conclusion
En conclusion, l’avenir du g7+ repose sur une collaboration renforcée et une solidarité renouvelée entre tous ses membres. Nous devrions réaffirmer nos engagements communs pour forger un avenir où la paix, la stabilité et le développement durable sont des réalités accessibles pour tous, même dans les contextes les plus fragiles. Le Burundi, à travers son implication active et ses initiatives nationales, continue d’être un partenaire engagé dans cette mission collective. Nous avons une vision commune : celle d’un monde plus stable, plus équitable et plus prospère. Et Nous avons un pouvoir, des potentialités immenses pour transformer nos réalités, nos défis en opportunités afin que nous puissions léguer le G7+ que bous voulons aux générations futures.
Je vous remercie

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Afghanistan for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 09:39:26 +0000

Archives: Recources

Ambassador Extraordinary & Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to the Commonwealth of Australia

1.30 PM, Friday, 11 April 2025, Dili, Timor-Leste

Madam Chair, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen.
It is a privilege to address you on behalf of the people of Afghanistan at this 6th Ministerial Meeting of the g7+ and commemorating its 15 Years of Unity: Shaping the Future of Peace and Resilience in g7+ Countries.
Our host for this meeting, the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, stands as an inspiring example of the indomitable character of the human spirit. After the years of conflict, its people courageously stepped forward in 1999 to reclaim their independence, leading to the development of the free and democratic society that we witness today. During the years of conflict, the aspirations of the Timorese people were all too often dismissed in the wider world as fantasy, but those who sought a better future never gave up hope or abandoned their struggle. The fruits of their struggle surround us as we meet.
The people of Afghanistan find themselves in a somewhat similar situation. Yet while suffering the repressive rule of extremist forces nurtured beyond Afghanistan’s borders, they retain their hope that the darkness they now inhabit will be replaced by light. This is especially the case for the women of Afghanistan, who experience daily persecutions and humiliations at the hands of the Taliban. In such circumstances, the solidarity shown by states such as those present at this gathering is a significant contributor to our struggle.

Excellencies,
Since its founding, the g7+ has served as a powerful voice for nations emerging from conflict, advocating for country-led transitions and stronger cooperation among fragile states.
At the time of the 4th Ministerial Meeting in Kabul in 2016, Afghanistan stood as a progressing democracy. Public and private education, economic development, democratic institutions and political representation, human rights, women’s and girls’ empowerment, freedom of speech and the press, as well as the flourishing of arts, culture, music, and sports have now faced unjust impediments and restrictions imposed by the Taliban regime, due to their misinterpretation of Islam and Sharia law.
This interpretation is both unfamiliar and unacceptable to the global community and the wider Muslim world.
As Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão, who visited Kabul in 2016, highlighted in his remarks this morning, despite two decades of war against terrorism—and the immense sacrifices made both nationally and internationally—Afghanistan is now ruled by the very forces it once fought to resist. The Prime Minister concluded that the absence of a peace process that was truly locally owned and locally managed—one that genuinely reflected the aspirations of the Afghan people—ultimately led to this tragic outcome.
Fragility and instability have revealed their true face, undermining the progress Afghans had built with resilience and courage. This moment demands honest reflection, renewed commitment to justice and human rights, and a reminder that peace cannot be imposed—it must be inclusive, locally-led, and deeply rooted in the will of the people. As a result, today, Afghanistan faces one of the most acute crises in its modern history.
The return of the Taliban has led to the systematic exclusion of girls and women, the suppression of civil liberties, the deterioration of democratic institutions, and a collapse in economic and humanitarian conditions. This deliberate and institutionalized exclusion of women from all spheres of public life constitutes a form of ‘gender apartheid’, one of the most egregious violations of human rights in the 21st century. The Afghan people—especially women and youth—continue to resist this regression with remarkable courage and resilience.
The g7+ community understands what fragility means—not just in state institutions, but in the hearts of people who have been betrayed by war, political manipulation, and broken promises. This network is not merely symbolic; it is a platform of shared experience and solidarity. It is within this spirit that Afghanistan urges continued and principled support from the international community.

Madam Chair,
We offer the following key priorities:

Do not normalize oppression. Diplomatic or developmental engagement with the Taliban must be based on strict, verifiable conditions, particularly around human rights, democratic values, and political inclusivity. Restoration of constitution, democracy, and inclusive
Put Afghans First, Not the Taliban Regime. As global power shifts, aid declines, and economic uncertainty grows, in the long term, the focus must shift from supporting a repressive regime to empowering the Afghan people. Afghans need tools, not handouts—to rise from dependency to dignity, and to rebuild a just and functional society. In the short term, all humanitarian and economic support must bypass Taliban-controlled channels and reach communities directly. Assistance should strengthen the people, not legitimize their oppressors. The future of Afghanistan depends on its people not those who silence them.
Elevate Afghan voices. Any future political process must meaningfully include Afghan women, youth, civil society, and democratic opposition groups—those who represent the real aspirations of the country.
Preserve accountability. Afghanistan needs robust international mechanisms to monitor human rights violations, promote justice, and prevent impunity for crimes against civilians. We welcome the ICC’s decision to issue arrest warrants for two Taliban leaders and look forward to the cooperation of the international community in ensuring accountability and justice.
Advance Reconciliation and Protect Sovereignty. We believe that a credible and inclusive process of truth and reconciliation is vital to building lasting peace. In this regard, Timor-Leste offers a powerful example. Their journey speaks to the strength of national healing rooted in justice and inclusivity. Afghanistan, too, has long been affected by external rivalries that have deepened internal divides and limited national self-determination. While Afghans aspire to a sovereign and balanced role in global affairs, they are too often caught in the crosscurrents of broader geopolitical interests. As time is ticking, we call on our international partners, and on the leadership of TimorLeste; to continue championing efforts that support a future for Afghanistan shaped by its own people, grounded in reconciliation, national ownership, and free from external coercion.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
Our region and our world cannot afford to let Afghanistan become a forgotten crisis or a safe haven for extremism and terrorism. We must work together to ensure that peace is not just the absence of war, but the presence of justice, dignity, freedom, and opportunity for all Afghans.
As a founding member of the g7+, Afghanistan takes heart from the support for its people that comes from other members of the organisation, and especially from our host for this important meeting.
Let me conclude by recalling that resilience is not the absence of hardship—it is the choice to rise despite it. The Afghan people have not given up. They still believe in a future free from fear, exclusion, and repression. The g7+ must stand with them in this belief, firmly, loudly, and without compromise.

Thank you.

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The g7+ Joint Letter Calling for Urgent Action on Climate Financing – COP29

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 08:09:11 +0000

The g7+ Joint Letter Calling for Urgent Action on Climate Financing – COP29

07 October 2024

H.E. Mr. Antonio Guterres
Secretary General of the United Nations

H.E. Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber
COP28 President

Mr. Mukhtar Babayev
COP29 President-Designate

Mr. Ajay Banga
President of the World Bank Group

Ms. Kristalina Georgieva
Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund

Excellencies,
As the international community convenes in a series of critical summits to address climate change, I have the honour to inform your esteem offices that, we the Group of Seven Plus (g7 +) representing over 300 million people in conflict and fragility affected states, write to you requesting an urgent call for action on climate financing. Our message is encapsulated in a stark reality of the prevailing circumstances. In 2022, a child born in South Sudan was 38 times more likely to be internally displaced by climate-related disasters than a child born in Europe or North America.

Countries affected by fragility and conflict are among the most vulnerable to climate change in the world. We make up 50 percent of the 25 countries most vulnerable and least ready to adapt to climate risks and that yet, on average, in 2022 they received only one quarter of the finance they need for climate adaptation. This disparity not only threatens our environment but also risks exacerbating conflicts and reversing hard-won development ga.J.ns. At last year’s COP over 90 countries and 45 organizations signed the Climate Relief, Recovery and Peace Declaration, which committed to scaling up finance and action in crisis settings. Major providers of climate finance – development banks, climate funds, and individual donor countries – have made this a priority. Now we must deliver.

We call upon you, as leaders of key international institutions and processes, to champion a transforn1ative approach to climate finance for conflict and fragility affected states. We specifically wish to urge the following:
Double adaptation finance by 2026: We call for a global commitment to increase adaptation finance to countries affected by conflict and fragility to $20 billion per year by 2026. While this represents progress, we must acknowledge it’s still only 60% of what is needed.
Set an ambitious 2030 target: Commit to fully closing the adaptation finance gap for countries in fragile situation by 2030, with clear annual milestones.
Streamline access to funds: Simplify and expedite procedures for conflict and fragility-affected states to access climate finance from
global funds, recognizing our unique challenges.
Enhance capacity building: Significantly increase support for strengthening the capacities of conflict and fragility-affected states to absorb, manage, and equitably disburse climate finance.
Localize implementation: Ensure that at least 25% of adaptation finance reaches local and community-based organizations by 2026. We request each of you to take specific actions within your mandates:

UN Secretary-General : Advocate for a special focus on fragile states in climate negotiations and appoint a Special Envoy for Climate Adaptation in conflict and fragility affected states.
COP Presidents: Ensure that the unique needs of conflict and fragility affected countries are central to COP agendas and outcomes, including dedicated sessions and decision text.
World Bank President: Develop tailored financial instruments for fragility affected countries, including grants and highly concessional loans for climate adaptation. Increase the climate finance allocation for fragility affected countries to at least 35% of your climate portfolio by 2026 .
IMF Managing Director: Include climate vulnerability in debt sustainability analyses and create a new Resilience and Sustainability Trust window specifically for fragility affected countries. We also call for:
A commitment from the private sector to increase climate-resilient investments in fragility affected countries, supported by blended finance and guarantee mechanisms.
Enhanced South – South cooperation among g7+ countries for knowledge sharing and capacity building on climate adaptation. To ensure accountability, we propose an annual high-level dialogue on climate finance for fragility affected countries, coinciding with the UN General Assembly, to review progress and renew commitments.

The climate crisis knows no borders , but its impacts are profoundly unequal. By directing resources and attention to the most vulnerable, we not only address climate risks but also contribute to peace, stability, and sustainable development. The cost of inaction far exceeds the investments we seek. The events you convene are key moments w here states and multilateral institutions can meet the need for urgent action , for every year without meaningful progress means risks increase, losses and damages go up, and the targets we miss in the future get higher, the gap further from reach.

On behalf the g7 + , may I note that as we remain hopeful, we call on you to ensure that leaders hear, and h ee d, this call.

Sincerely,
H.E. DR. JULIUS MMD.A BIO
PRESIDENT OF REPUBLIC OF SIERRA LEONE
(On behalf of the Members States of g7+)

Thank you.

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Dr. Helder da Costa delivered welcoming Remarks for Signing of the MoU with IEP – 17 October

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 05:58:45 +0000

Welcoming Remarks
Dr. Helder da Costa, General Secretary
Signing of Memorandum of Understanding between the g7+ and the Institute of Economic and Peace (IEP)
Date: 17 October 2024

Excellency, Kenyeh Barlay, the Minister of planning and economic development of Sierra Leone and the Chair of g7+

Mr. Mr. Steve Killelea, Founder and Executive Chairman of the Institute for Economics and Peace

Ambassador Pierre Prosper, the president of g7+ foundation

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen

It is my great honor to welcome you all to the g7+ Lisbon hub. Thank you for attending this important occasion, the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the g7+ and the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP).

The g7+ has been among the major consumer of the IEP’s flagship report, the “Global Peace index”. We are inspired by this remarkable work as this demonstrates IEP’s commitment to promote peace. Today’s event marks a significant step forward in our shared commitment to fostering peace, stability, and sustainable development in fragile and conflict-affected countries.

The g7+ has long championed the idea that peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of institutions that are capable to provide justice, pursue dialogue, and inclusivity and deliver on development needs of the people. This belief aligns strongly with IEP’s work, particularly through their research into Positive Peace, which emphasizes the structures, attitudes, and institutions that sustain peaceful societies. Together, we aim to transform these ideals into actionable frameworks that will benefit more than a billion people living in the so called fragile states.

IEP’s expertise in measuring peace and its contributing factors through tools such as the Global Peace Index (GPI) has provided invaluable insights into the state of peace worldwide. For us, this partnership represents an opportunity to bring those insights into the specific contexts of our member countries, which often face challenges that go beyond what global metrics can capture. This MoU will allow us to collaborate on research tailored to the realities of our nations—research that will inform policies designed to build lasting peace and resilience.

But beyond data and research, the real power of this partnership lies in our shared belief in the importance of empowering people through data and analysis. Whether it’s government officials, civil society, or the next generation of youth leaders, we must ensure that the tools and knowledge produced by our collaboration directly benefit those who can create and sustain peace on the ground. By working together, we aim to strengthen our capacities to facilitate peer learning and collective advocacy.

This partnership also provides us with the chance to shift the narrative around fragile and conflict-affected countries. Too often, these nations are defined by their past struggles rather than their potential for future success. Through this collaboration, we will highlight the stories of resilience and recovery that demonstrate how countries can, and have, transitioned from conflict to peace. These stories serve as both inspiration and practical lessons for others who face similar struggles and our Fragile to fragile cooperation is a suitable avenues for the peer learning.

Once again, I thank the IEP for their collaboration, and I thank all of you for your continued support for the cause of peace. Together, we will make peace not just a dream, but a lived reality for those who need it the most.

Thank you.

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Dr. Helder da Costa, General Secretary of g7+ speaking notes on truth, reconciliation and dialogue – Geneva peace week -15 Oct 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 05:54:57 +0000

Speaking Points for Dr. Helder Da Costa
Dialogue, Truth, and Reconciliation as Means to Sustaining Peace: g7+ Experiences
Geneva Peace Week
Date: 15 October 2024, Time: 09h00-10h30
Room: GCSP – 5th floor (pétale 4) – Hybrid

Question:

Could you please share with us how the g7+, as an intergovernmental organization supports countries to promote peace and stability through and

How does your organization facilitate peer learning?

On behalf of the g7+ group, I extend my sincere thanks to the permanent missions of Timor-Leste, Sierra Leone, and Switzerland for their partnership in convening this important panel discussion on the margins of Geneva Peace Week.

As mentioned in the video message of H.E. Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, we at the g7+ are united by a shared vision of peace, stability, and development. Our diverse group, with members from various continents, is a testament to our common aspiration for peace.

To address your question, I must first emphasize how vital peace is for our nations, many of which have lived without it for decades. For years, the world appeared to be relatively peaceful, largely due to the equilibrium among major global powers. Peace was often taken for granted—until the tragic war in Ukraine reminded the world in general otherwise. Of course, the suffering of Palestinians had been a long-standing issue, though it has not garnered the same level of international attention. However, for many countries in the Global South, including our members, peace has never been a given. Even after the Cold War—which was anything but cold for many of us—our countries grappled with the legacies of aggression, proxy wars, and civil conflict. As a result, peace is not just an aspiration for our people—it is a deeply precious and long-desired reality.

The g7+ was founded 14 years ago to turn that aspiration into a reality for over a billion people. We pursue peace through three primary avenues that I will briefly outline to answer your question:

Advocacy for Peaceful Solutions: By drawing on the lived experiences of member countries that have achieved relative peace through dialogue, truth-telling, and reconciliation, we advocate for peaceful conflict resolution, underscored by the principle of national ownership. We collaborate with international organizations and call on global and regional actors to support these peaceful means of resolving conflicts. This advocacy is more critical than ever in today’s era, marked by growing antagonism and warmongering!

Sharing Lessons and peer learning: We actively facilitate the exchange of experiences between conflict-affected countries, fostering a culture of mutual support and learning. By promoting the lessons learned from those who have successfully transitioned from war to peace, we highlight practical strategies that can be adapted in other contexts. Despite the many challenges our countries continue to face, these transitions offer inspiring lessons with the potential to serve as a guiding light for the broader international community. Too often, the global narrative around these nations focuses solely on their troubled pasts, neglecting the remarkable stories of recovery, resilience, and transformation. Through our peer learning initiatives, we seek to not only share these success stories but also document and disseminate them to a wider audience, ensuring that the world recognizes the progress and hope that emerge from even the most difficult circumstances. In doing so, we aim to reshape the narrative, showing that conflict-affected countries are more than their history—they are beacons of possibility for peace and stability

Supporting Peacebuilding Efforts: We actively assist countries in their efforts to build peace, resilience, and stability. For example, we facilitated mediation in the Central African Republic, drawing on Timor-Leste’s experience. Similarly, we have attempted to support peace efforts in Afghanistan and Yemen. We assisted Guinea Bissau to restore democracy. While we recognize that some conflicts have external roots, we believe the solutions ultimately lie with the leaders and citizens of the affected countries. Exogenous factors that lead a country to war often take root in societal and social divisions left by previous conflicts. These divisions can only be healed through dialogue, truth-telling, and reconciliation. By addressing them, we can also prevent future conflicts.

At the heart of our approach lies the principle of solidarity and cooperation. This guiding value fosters a deep sense of unity among our member states, enabling us to work together despite differences in geography or circumstance. It is also a unique strength that we actively leverage through strategic partnerships with international organizations and countries in the Global North. By building these alliances, we not only share knowledge and resources but also amplify the voices of conflict-affected nations on the global stage. This collaborative approach enhances our ability to advocate for lasting peace and stability in the most vulnerable regions

To conclude, let us embrace the profound lessons learned from conflict-affected nations, both within the g7+ and beyond. We hope today’s event helps us identify ways to forge partnerships with like-minded countries and actors, and we would be happy to serve as a platform to nurture such collaboration.

I thank you for your attention.

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Mr. Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary UNSC Open Debate on peacebuilding and sustaining peace – 21 August 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 06:06:50 +0000

By Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary
Security Council Open Debate on Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace:
“The New Agenda for Peace – Addressing Global, Regional and National Aspects of
Conflict Prevention” August 21, 2024

Mr. President, Ambassadors and distinguished delegates,

Thank you for the opportunity to share reflections and recommendations on behalf of the group of seven plus (g7+), the only intergovernmental organization dedicated to representing and supporting countries and people from across the regions that are affected by conflict and facing vulnerabilities. We are united by a vision of pursuing peace, resilience and stability founded on national ownership through collective advocacy and peer learning. The g7+ is currently chaired by Sierra Leone with its headquarters in Dili, Timor-Leste

Allow us to share three reflections based on g7+ collective experiences and the aspirations of our citizens concerning sustaining peace and preventing conflict: First, we recognize—consistent with the UN and World Bank Pathways to Peace report—the profound impact —societal grievances play in sowing seeds of conflict and instability, especially in countries confronted with years of socio-economic challengessuch as inequalities, and injustices. Often unhealed, these grievances are usually inherited from previous conflicts, entrenching inter-generational divisions that have become the bedrock for successive violence.

Therefore, we see a decisive role for reconciliation, national truth-finding and inclusive dialogues for peace. g7+ member countries like Timor-Leste and Sierra Leone and other countries like Rwanda, and South Africa, to a name few, have successfully followed such a trajectory. We are fully aware that such an approach, could be undermined by two factors: One, external support for the pursuit of peacemaking and peacebuilding is often not context specific. To ensure this support is tailored to diverse contexts and avoids one-size fits all approaches we have been in partnership talks with the PBC and PBSO to identify a list of good practices that draw on decades of experience among our member countries. We invite Council members to partner with us to the same ends.

Two, we encourage all member states to unequivocally support national inclusive peacemaking, peacebuilding and reconciliation, and at the same time know when
to show mutual restraint to allow these activities to take place without external interference. Experience from my own country Afghanistan is a vivid example of
how efforts to foster national consensus for peace have often been thwarted by regional and global powers, creating an environment of distrust. In the current climate of intensified geopolitical tensions, the Security Council must remember that its charter-based mandate demands team-mindedness and rejects geopolitical self-interests. It, therefore, must find a way to foster a norm of collective restraint to prevent proxy wars or frozen conflicts.

Our second reflection is that every society and country have institutions, capacities and the potential for conflict prevention to ensure its social and national cohesion as well as its sovereignty. International efforts too often bypass these institutions and local capacities and instead of strengthening existing national and local systems, deliver aid through external processes and piecemeal projects. This approach undercutsthe ability of countries to build cohesion, invest in activities, and deliver inclusive social and economic services for their populations.

However well-intended these efforts might be—they do not always help to overcome the conditions of grievances and instability that fuel future conflict. Lastly, we cannot overstate the importance of international laws and regulations that are meant to protect the basic rights of the people of the UN to obtain peace, dignity, freedom and prosperity. We see no clear pathway to sustainable peace or conflict prevention without respect and consideration for these shared rules and norms. Multilateral cooperation is indispensable to respect these tenets and treaties. Since increasing geopolitical and geoeconomic fragmentation hinders the realization of these norms, we see an urgent need for inclusive multilateralism. This includes making reforms within the UN, especially, the Security Council and the General Assembly, to ensure greater voice and inclusivity for the non-western world and Africa in particular. Reflections and inspiration on the reforms and future of the UN can be sought in new research and publications such as “Liberating the United Nations” by esteemed colleagues such Hans Von Sponeck and Prof.
Richard Falk.

Looking forward, we extend our hand to the Council members that it co-hosts a working retreat with the g7+ to better appreciate the situation of countries on the
frontlines of vulnerability and conflict, and to explore how the Council can constructively engage with these countries to sustain peace and prevent future conflicts. Mr. President, Excellencies, the challenges we face are immense, but so too is our collective potential. Let us commit to a future where peace is not just a possibility but a shared reality, achieved through cooperation, respect for international norms, and the genuine inclusion of all voices

I thank you all.

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Mr. Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+ delivered remarks on 56th UN Human Righs Council side event-15 July 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 05:50:54 +0000

Remarks
Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+
United Nations Human Rights Council 56th Session Side Event

Operationalizing A Culture Of Peace and Human Rights

Date: Friday, July 5th, 2024 13:00-14:00 CEST
Location: UN Geneva Room

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the co-sponsors of this pivotal event. The g7+ group, an intergovernmental organization representing 20 countries committed to the vision of lasting peace, stability, and resilience, is honored to be part of this collective effort to promote a culture of peace. I am deeply humbled to represent our group at this significant gathering.

Human rights and a culture of peace are intrinsically linked, each reinforcing and sustaining the other. Conversely, wars trap societies in a vicious cycle of feuds, leaving behind deep societal and social wounds. These wounds, if left unhealed, become sources of further divisions and conflicts.

Dialogue, truth, and reconciliation are the most effective means to break this cycle of wars and conflicts. This is especially true for countries that have endured decades of war and instability. Inspired by the experiences of countries that achieved lasting peace and stability through non-violent means, the g7+ has embraced dialogue and reconciliation as our core missions.

Decades of wars in countries of the Global South, whether imposed from outside or inherited as civil strife in the post-colonial period, have left behind deep societal and social divisions. These schisms often fuel future wars, even during periods of relative calm. Fragmentation in the form of ethnic, social, or racial divisions is frequently exploited by actors with malicious aims, leading countries back into conflict. The four decades of instability in my own country, Afghanistan, bear witness to this harsh reality.

Conversely, countries that have pursued processes of truth and reconciliation to heal the wounds left by war have achieved relative peace and stability. The experiences of South Africa, Rwanda, Timor-Leste, and Sierra Leone, among others, provide inspiring lessons. Despite enduring brutal periods of conflict for decades, these countries now experience peace and calm. Through the painstaking process of truth and social justice, citizens at the grassroots level who bear the utmost sacrifice of wars felt empowered, soothed, and included. I have personally heard from the victims of wars who lost their loved ones to conflict; how calmly they felt after participating in the process of truth and reconciliation. They found themselves included in the trajectory of the country. At scale, this process lays the foundation of respect for basic human rights, tolerance, dignity, and hence a culture of peace that would guide future generations towards lasting peace. Had the protagonists in these countries chosen antagonism over reconciliation, their citizens would still be haunted by their bitter past.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

Matters of war and peace have increasingly become the prerogative of major powers, whose political agendas often overshadow the devastating human toll. Innocent citizens, who bear no responsibility for the conflicts they endure, are the true victims. The grave violations of human rights resulting from these wars cultivate hatred and antagonism, further dividing humanity along racial, religious, and social lines. The international community continues to fail in protecting the fundamental rights to life of these affected populations.

Global and regional powers, preoccupied with their national intersts and national secuirity, have often failed to give due consideration to the violation of human rights. We hope that global they will eventually find common ground and achieve lasting peace with one another. However, without truth, social justice, and reconciliation, millions will continue to live with the traumas of these conflicts.

This brings me to the last part of my remarks, where I would like to leave you all with three points summarizing the collective perspective of the g7+ on how to promote the culture of peace and respect for human rights:

Raise Our Voice for Dialogue and Reconciliation: We must advocate for dialogue and reconciliation as means to resolving today’s conflicts. We need to activate all tracks of diplomacy to resolve interstate and intrastate conflicts. The g7+ group can be a vocal ally in this cause. Through our Council of Eminent Persons, we would welcome the opportunity to convene champions of peace or dignitaries who could contribute to this cause.
Prioritize National Ownership and Context-Specific Mechanisms: Lasting peace requires national ownership and context-specific solutions. Every country has its own means and mechanisms for resolving conflicts, pursuing social justice, and preventing future conflicts. The g7+ advocates for the principle of national ownership, rejecting a one-size-fits-all approach, and ensuring that local perspectives and the aspirations and needs of the people are at the forefront of peacebuilding and human rights initiatives. Behind-the-door deals should be denounced as they have proven ineffective.
Strengthen International Cooperation and Support for Education: To promote a culture of peace and respect for human rights, it is crucial to enhance international cooperation and provide targeted support to countries recovering from conflict in areas of education for peace. Education is the most powerful tool for fostering a culture of peace.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

There is an Afghan proverb, the English translation of which is “Blood cannot be washed out with blood,” meaning that two wrongs do not make a right. The world has been mired in antagonism and hatred and has been filled with weapons of mass destruction. If we give way to such antagonism, humanity has very little chance to survive. So let us roll up our sleeves to embrace humility, and a culture of tolerance, forgiveness, and peace.

I thank you for your attention.

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Dr. Helder da Costa, General Secretary of g7+ delivered Closing remarks on Second high level conference of the forum on global action for shared development Beijing-13 July 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Sat, 13 Jul 2024 05:39:25 +0000

Speech of Dr. Helder da Costa, General Secretary of the g7+
Closing Ceremony
Second High-Level Conference of the Forum on Global Action for Shared Development Beijing, 13 July 2024

His Excellency Mr. Luo Zhaohui, Chairman of China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA),

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, all protocols observed.

On behalf of the Group of Seven Plus (g7+), which represents 20 countries across various regions (committed to achieving lasting peace, stability, and development), I extend my sincere gratitude to the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) for inviting the g7+ to the Second High Level Conference on Global Action for Shared Development here in Beijing.

In an official visit of the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste and the g7+ Eminent Person, H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, met with H.E. President Xi Jinping in Hangzhou on 23 September 2023, welcomed the Global Development Initiatives proposed by China in 2021, which complemented the SDGs.
This conference provides a valuable platform for countries in the Global South to share their perspectives on sustainable development.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, four key points that I would Like to share with you, from the g7+ perspectives:
Sustainable development thrives on lasting peace, stability, and effective, responsive state institutions. Conversely, sustainable development acts as a guarantor of enduring peace and stability — driven by the principle of national ownership, encompassing respect for local contexts, priorities, and aspirations. This principle reflects our longstanding experience in the g7+ group and is a collective advocacy of ours.
Countries in the Global South possess significant potential for development and resilience, having historically been primary suppliers of raw materials vital to the global economy. However, many of these nations, particularly those affected by conflicts such as those in the g7+, harbor some of the world’s poorest populations. This stark disparity cannot be ignored. The impact of foreign aid and investment has often failed to trickle down sufficiently, hindering our path to self-reliance. To unleash the potential of these countries for sustainable development, it is imperative to elevate their role in the global supply chain. This entails supporting them in capturing greater downstream value from their natural resource.
Shared development and prosperity relies on connectivity, necessitating economic integration facilitated by investments in infrastructure. Connecting developing and least developed countries is crucial for fostering more equitable and inclusive growth. Enhanced connectivity can propel sustainable development and ensure that “no one is left behind”.
The support for development from China to g7+ member countries is increasingly significant. We call on the Chinese government to continue support these nations and their leadership to invest in “soft infrastructure”, such as modernizing education, healthcare systems and agriculture sector to achieve self-reliance and able to reduce hunger and poverty, improve the quality of its human resources and ultimately achieve peace and sustainable development.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen.

Today, we confront unprecedented global challenges such as climate change, conflicts, and inequality, disproportionately impacting countries with the least resilience, such as those in the g7+. These issues are complex and interconnected, transcending national and organizational boundaries. Meaningful progress demands strengthened partnerships and more effective collaboration than ever before.

Our future hinges on our capacity to cooperate and forge robust partnerships. By uniting our strengths and confronting these global challenges together, we can build a better, more sustainable, and equitable world for future generations. Let us seize this moment to cultivate stronger alliances and strive towards a brighter future for all. Thank You

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Mr. Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+ delivered speech on IDLO Side Event-11 July 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 05:31:53 +0000

Habib mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+
Justice as a Means to Preventing and Reducing All Forms of Violence: A g7+ Perspective
Towards advancing the Pact for the Future: security and justice provision as a means to reducing all forms of violence (SDG 16.1)
Location: UNHQ CR#6
Thursday 11 July 2024, 13:15 – 14:30

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

On behalf of the g7+ group, I would like to thank the organizers of this very important event the subject of which is very close to our hearts. The g7+ is an inter-governmental organization of 20 countries that have experienced transition, collectively offering a wide range of lessons on pursuing lasting peace and stability. Access to justice has been an indispensable pillar of a peaceful society and the nation.

We believe that access to equitable justice is not merely a reactive tool to address wrongs but a proactive measure that can prevent violence and build lasting peace. The g7+, therefore, played a central role in advocating for a standalone goal within agenda 2030. Access to justice is a universal aspiration, but its attainment is very peculiar to countries’ unique contexts.

The rule of law is an exceptional societal stabilizer and vital for ensuring effective and equitable justice. However, establishing and maintaining the transparent, accessible legal institutions necessary for upholding the rule of law is lofty. This is true in countries ravaged by decades of conflicts and violence.

Against this backdrop, I have following 5 points that summarizes our challenges and aspiration:

First: Wars leave behind social and societal wounds that become source for of future conflicts. It is these societal and political divisions in which future conflicts of different forms take roots. Not to go very far, the 4 decades of instability and wars in my own country Afghanistan is the reflective of this reality. On the other hand, we have countries within the g7+ and outside that have successfully closed the chapter of decades of wars and bloodshed through process of truth, reconciliation, and dialogue.

Therefore, essential in achieving sustainable peace in justice is that it must go beyond punitive measures, which may discourage illegal behaviors but do so at the cost of societal integrity and cohesion. We need justice that supports lasting peace and healing. Process of truth, reconciliation and restorative justice is the only affordable means to heal societal wounds, addressing victims’ needs and, in close contact with victims, holding perpetrators accountable. This approach has healed rifts and created an environment of peace, trust, and respect for human rights – necessary for any society but uniquely so in conflict affected ones. Moving on from conflict is necessary for enduring peace and stability, and so too are supporting mechanisms.

Second: Conflict is a deeply complex problem with a host of causes, including poverty, inequality, and social exclusion. Only by resolving root problems can we effectively prevent future violence. To resolve these, justice cannot simply be a retaliation for past wrongs but must be integrated with broader efforts to progress society, improving critical social infrastructure like economic opportunity, education, and healthcare. Justice must meet the needs of the people holistically.

Third: Throughout human history, justice systems have evolved to meet the unique needs of diverse societies. National ownership is a core principle we, the g7+, advocate for. Justice systems must be designed to effectively meet local needs and respect local contexts. Inclusivity and responsiveness are key components of national ownership. For a justice system to be truly effective, it should serve the entire population, not just an elite few. Accountability is essential to ensure that justice is fair, equitable, and accessible to all.

Fourth: Access to formal justice is expensive. It requires, capable, well-resourced and conducive environment. Formal criminal and civil courts in many conflicts affected countries are overwhelmed with cases. Those seeking justice cannot afford formal mechanism. The accused become stuck in pre-trial detention and are denied their own justice. Its estimated cost in low-income nations is $13 billion globally per year. This far exceeds current national justice spending and foreign justice aid in FCAS. Perhaps necessarily, the vast majority, an estimated 80-90%, of “legal” disputes go through customary and informal justice systems instead of formal state-based courts. Greater recognition and inclusion of, and collaboration with, customary and informal justice systems, therefore, provides a powerful avenue to relieving overburdened courts and making justice accessible and nationally affordable.

Fifth and final point:
The support of the international community is vital for perusing equitable justice. This includes not only capacity building, financial, and technical assistance but also moral and political support. Too often, global actions driven by narrow national security concerns end up emboldening elite and exclusive regimes that are the very reason for injustice. Atrocities in Gaza are reflective of this harsh reality we are facing. A more nuanced and comprehensive approach is required, one that genuinely supports inclusive and equitable justice systems, rather than reinforcing the status quo.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
Fully understanding opportunities and challenges facing conflict affected countries in access to equitable justice requires humility on part of international community and organization. Our engagement with Pathfinders is aimed at enhancing that understanding of our context and we have greatly benefitted from such engagement. We, therefore, look forward to continuing such engagement.

I thank you all for your attention.

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Security Council Open Debate on Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace: The New Agenda for Peace – Addressing Global, Regional and National Aspects of Conflict Prevention

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 04:54:05 +0000

Security Council Open Debate on Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace: The New Agenda for Peace – Addressing Global, Regional and National Aspects of Conflict Prevention

August 21, 2024

Mr. President, Ambassadors and distinguished delegates,
Thank you for the opportunity to share reflections and recommendations on behalf of the group of seven plus (g7+), the only intergovernmental organization dedicated to representing and supporting countries and people from across the regions that are affected by conflict and facing vulnerabilities. We are united by a vision of pursuing peace, resilience and stability founded on national ownership through collective advocacy and peer learning. The g7+ is currently chaired by Sierra Leone with its headquarters in Dili, Timor-Leste

Allow us to share three reflections based on g7+ collective experiences and the aspirations of our citizens concerning sustaining peace and preventing conflict:
First, we recognize—consistent with the UN and World Bank Pathways to Peace report—the profound impact —societal grievances play in sowing seeds of conflict and instability, especially in countries confronted with years of socio-economic challengessuch as inequalities, and injustices. Often unhealed, these grievances are usually inherited from previous conflicts, entrenching inter-generational divisions that have become the bedrock for successive violence.

Therefore, we see a decisive role for reconciliation, national truth-finding and inclusive dialogues for peace. g7+ member countries like Timor-Leste and Sierra Leone and other countries like Rwanda, and South Africa, to a name few, have successfully followed such a trajectory. We are fully aware that such an approach, could be undermined by two factors:

One, external support for the pursuit of peacemaking and peacebuilding is often not context specific. To ensure this support is tailored to diverse contexts and avoids one-size fits all approaches we have been in partnership talks with the PBC and PBSO to identify a list of good practices that draw on decades of experience among our member countries. We invite Council members to partner with us to the same ends.

Two, we encourage all member states to unequivocally support national inclusive peacemaking, peacebuilding and reconciliation, and at the same time know when to show mutual restraint to allow these activities to take place without external interference. Experience from my own country Afghanistan is a vivid example of how efforts to foster national consensus for peace have often been thwarted by regional and global powers, creating an environment of distrust. In the current climate of intensified geopolitical tensions, the Security Council must remember that its charter-based mandate demands team-mindedness and rejects geopolitical self-interests. It, therefore, must find a way to foster a norm of collective restraint to prevent proxy wars or frozen conflicts.

Our second reflection is that every society and country have institutions, capacities and the potential for conflict prevention to ensure its social and national cohesion as well as its sovereignty. International efforts too often bypass these institutions and local capacities and instead of strengthening existing national and local systems, deliver aid through external processes and piecemeal projects. This approach undercutsthe ability of countries to build cohesion, invest in statebuilding activities, and deliver inclusive social and economic services for their populations. However well-intended these efforts might be—they do not always help to overcome the conditions of grievances and instability that fuel future conflict.

Lastly, we cannot overstate the importance of international laws and regulations that are meant to protect the basic rights of the people of the UN to obtain peace,
dignity, freedom and prosperity. We see no clear pathway to sustainable peace or conflict prevention without respect and consideration for these shared rules and
norms. Multilateral cooperation is indispensable to respect these tenets and treaties. Since increasing geopolitical and geoeconomic fragmentation hinders the realization of these norms, we see an urgent need for inclusive multilateralism. This includes making reforms within the UN, especially, the Security Council and the General Assembly, to ensure greater voice and inclusivity for the non-western world and Africa in particular. Reflections and inspiration on the reforms and
future of the UN can be sought in new research and publications such as “Liberating the United Nations” by esteemed colleagues such Hans Von Sponeck and Prof.
Richard Falk.

Mr. President, Excellencies, the challenges we face are immense, but so too is our collective potential. Let us commit to a future where peace is not just a possibility but a shared reality, achieved through cooperation, respect for international norms, and the genuine inclusion of all voices I thank you all.

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Appel à un arrêt immédiat de la guerre et à un cessez-le-feu inconditionnel dans la bande de Gaza et en Israël

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 06:12:44 +0000

Appel à un arrêt immédiat de la guerre et à un cessez-le-feu inconditionnel dans la bande de Gaza et en Israël

Le groupe des Sept Plus (g7+) lance un appel solennel à toutes les parties concernées par le conflit pour un cessez-le-feu immédiat et inconditionnel à Gaza et en Israël, et pour que les membres permanents du Conseil de sécurité des Nations unies et les acteurs régionaux et internationaux soutiennent sans équivoque ce cessez-le-feu. Afin d’alléger les souffrances des personnes touchées par ce conflit, nous demandons d’urgence la levée du siège de Gaza afin de permettre l’accès humanitaire pour la fourniture d’une assistance vitale et durable à des millions de civils, ainsi que la libération des civils pris en otage et le respect des obligations humanitaires.

La communauté internationale doit reconnaître les profondes conséquences humanitaires de ce nouveau conflit et donner la priorité à la sécurité et au bien-être des personnes innocentes. L’escalade de la violence a entraîné la perte de milliers de vies, des dommages considérables aux infrastructures et le déplacement forcé d’un nombre incalculable de personnes. Il ne s’agit pas de simples chiffres, mais d’âmes humaines avec des projets et des souvenirs.

Au cours des trois dernières semaines, nous avons été les témoins de l’horreur des assauts contre les civils des deux côtés du conflit, dont les meurtres et les tortures ne peuvent jamais être justifiés. Plus de 2,5 millions de civils à Gaza luttent pour survivre au milieu de l’inimaginable catastrophe humanitaire qui leur est infligée. Les enfants et les femmes sont les principales victimes de cette guerre. Les nouvelles des atrocités commises à leur encontre sont déchirantes. L’accès à la nourriture, à l’eau potable et aux fournitures médicales est un droit fondamental qui n’est pas négociable ! Refuser ces nécessités aux populations est une violation inacceptable des droits de l’homme et une violation flagrante du droit international et des résolutions de paix adoptées de longue date.

La peur qui a assailli la vie des personnes touchées par ce conflit au cours des trois dernières semaines est un rappel brutal de la nécessité urgente d’un cessez-le-feu immédiat et inconditionnel pour protéger le bien-être et les droits de toutes les personnes concernées, ainsi que de la nécessité d’affronter enfin les divisions profondément enracinées et les causes profondes de décennies de conflit, de souffrance et de peur qui alimentent la violence et les atrocités.

Nous sommes stupéfaits par l’insensibilité de la communauté internationale, en particulier par l’absence de consensus entre les membres permanents du Conseil de sécurité des Nations unies sur les résolutions qui pourraient contribuer à la recherche d’un cessez-le-feu. Une telle inaction pourrait contribuer à l’escalade de la violence dans la région à une échelle inimaginable.

Après des décennies de conflit persistant dans nos pays, le g7+ réaffirme la nécessité d’une solution durable qui donne la priorité à la sécurité et à la dignité de tous les peuples et mette fin au conflit entre Israël et la Palestine. Cette solution devrait être guidée par le droit international et respecter tous les droits à l’autodétermination.

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Call For An Immediate End To The War And Unconditional Ceasefire In The Gaza Strip And Israel

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 04:08:26 +0000

Call For An Immediate End To The War And Unconditional Ceasefire In The Gaza Strip And Israel

The group of Seven Plus (g7+) makes an earnest appeal to all parties to the conflict for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza and Israel, and for the permanent members of UN Security Council and regional and international actors to unequivocally support this ceasefire. To alleviate the suffering of the people affected by this conflict, we urgently call for lifting the siege against Gaza to allow humanitarian access for the supply of life-saving and sustaining assistance to millions of civilians, and for the release of civilians held hostage and upholding of humanitarian obligations

The international community needs to acknowledge the profound humanitarian consequences of this latest conflict and prioritize the safety and well-being of innocent people. The escalation of violence has led to the loss of thousands of lives, extensive damage to infrastructure, and the forced displacement of countless individuals. These are not just numbers; they are human souls with dreams and memories.

Over the past 3 weeks we have witnessed the epic of horror of onslaught on civilians on both sides of the conflict whose killing, and torture can never be justified. More than 2.5 million civilians in Gaza are struggling to survive amidst the unimaginable humanitarian catastrophe inflicted on them. Children and women are the major victims of this war. News of atrocities carried out against them is heartbreaking. Access to food, clean water, and medical supplies is a fundamental right that is not negotiable! Denying these necessities to people is an unacceptable breach of human rights and a clear violation of international law and long-standing peace resolutions.

The fear that has pervaded the lives of those affected by this for the past three weeks is a stark reminder of the urgent need for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire to protect the well-being and rights of all individuals affected, as well as the need to finally confront the deeply entrenched divisions and root causes of decades of conflict, suffering and fear that fuel violence and atrocities.

We are stunned by the insensitivity of the international community in particular, the lack of consensus by the permanent members of the UN Security council on resolutions that could help in pursuit of ceasefire. Such inaction could contribute to the escalation of violence in the region to an unimaginable scale.

After decades of enduring conflict in our countries, the g7+ reaffirms the necessity for a long-lasting solution that prioritizes the safety and dignity of all people, putting an end to the conflict between Israel and Palestine. This solution should be guided by international law and should respect all rights to self-determination.

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Le g7+ : l’émergence d’un nouvel acteur mondial

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Sat, 21 Sep 2024 14:23:41 +0000

Le g7+ : l’émergence d’un nouvel acteur mondial

Création du g7+

En avril 2010, le g7+ a été créé en tant qu’organisation intergouvernementale composée de 20 pays unis par une vision de paix, de stabilité et de développement dans leurs pays et partout dans le monde. Les États membres du g7+ sont l’Afghanistan, le Burundi, la République centrafricaine, le Tchad, les Comores, la Côte d’Ivoire, la République démocratique du Congo, la Guinée, la Guinée-Bissau, Haïti, le Libéria, la Papouasie-Nouvelle-Guinée, Sao Tomé-etPrincipe, la Sierra Leone, les Îles Salomon, la Somalie, le Soudan du Sud, le Timor-Leste, le Togo et le Yémen. La présidence du g7+ est assurée par rotation biannuelle entre les États membres avec possibilité de renouvellement. Le président actuel est S.E. Kenyeh Barlay, ministre de la Planification et du Développement économique de la Sierra
Leone. Le siège du g7+ est situé au Timor-Leste, avec des bureaux au Portugal et à New York.,

Mission du g7+

Fondé sur la notion de solidarité, de coopération et de volontariat, le g7+ offre une plateforme aux pays touchés par un conflit : pour plaider collectivement en faveur de la paix, de la stabilité et du développement durable ; pour orienter la coopération internationale vers cet objectif ; pour promouvoir le dialogue et la réconciliation face aux conflits ; pour garantir que les voix de ces nations soient représentées dans les discussions politiques mondiales ; pour plaider en faveur d’une coopération au développement efficace fondée sur les principes d’appropriation nationale, de transparence et de responsabilité mutuelle entre le gouvernement et les partenaires de développement ; et pour faciliter le partage d’expériences de première main et de bonnes pratiques en matière de consolidation de la paix, de renforcement de l’État et de développement.

Évolution du g7+

Créé en tant qu’association informelle en 2010, le g7+ est devenu un forum mondial influent, avec un statut d’observateur auprès des Nations Unies accordé en 2019 et sa charte enregistrée au Département des traités de l’ONU en 2021.

Les grandes étapes du G7+

Objectif autonome sur la paix, la justice et des institutions efficaces inclus dans le Programme de développement durable à l'horizon 2030 des Nations Unies

Le g7+ a été une force motrice pour l’inclusion d’un objectif autonome pour la paix, la justice et des institutions efficaces (Objectif de développement durable (ODD) 16) dans le Programme de développement durable à l’horizon 2030 des Nations Unies adopté le 25 septembre 2015. L’ODD 16 appelle les États à « promouvoir des sociétés pacifiques et inclusives pour le développement durable, assurer l’accès à la justice pour tous et mettre en place des institutions efficaces, responsables et inclusives à tous les niveaux ».

Statut d'observateur auprès des Nations Unies

L’Assemblée générale des Nations Unies (AGNU) a accordé au g7+ le statut d’observateur en 2019 par la résolution 74/196 en reconnaissance de la contribution significative de l’organisation aux affaires des Nations Unies. Avec un siège à l’AGNU, le g7+ s’est engagé auprès des États membres de l’ONU et a partagé des points de vue lors des sessions du Conseil de sécurité de l’ONU et de la Commission de consolidation de la paix de l’ONU, du Conseil économique et social (ECOSOC), du Conseil des droits de l’homme pour aborder les questions humanitaires et de développement. Avec le statut d’observateur, le g7+ bénéficie d’un accès au siège de l’ONU, avec la possibilité d’accueillir des réunions et des conférences.

Une voix forte pour les États touchés par les conflits

Le g7+ a amplifié la voix des pays touchés par les conflits dans les forums et institutions mondiaux, tels que les institutions financières internationales (IFI), l’Organisation mondiale du commerce (OMC) et les conférences des parties (COP). En plaidant pour des approches adaptées à la consolidation de la paix, au renforcement de l’État, à la coopération au développement, au commerce et à la résilience, le g7+ a cherché à garantir que les défis uniques de ses États membres soient reconnus et traités. En outre, il a souligné la nécessité d’un soutien ciblé pour faire face aux impacts du changement climatique sur les pays fragiles, en veillant à ce que ces nations ne soient pas laissées pour compte dans le débat politique mondial.

Assistance aux pays membres du g7+ en matière de paix et de stabilité

Le g7+ a joué un rôle crucial en aidant ses États membres à parvenir à la paix et à la stabilité. Cela comprend la facilitation des processus de dialogue et de réconciliation pour résoudre les conflits, ainsi que la promotion de transitions pacifiques. Le g7+ a également favorisé la coopération financière entre les États membres, en fournissant un soutien lors des urgences humanitaires et dans la poursuite de la démocratie. En partageant les leçons apprises en matière de consolidation de la paix et de renforcement de l’État, le G7+ a permis à ses États membres de bénéficier des expériences des autres, contribuant ainsi au développement de nations plus résilientes et plus stables.

Défis pour le G7+

La fragmentation géopolitique actuelle a affecté la paix et la stabilité dans les pays du G7+ en compliquant les efforts de consolidation de la paix. Elle a encore détourné l’attention de la communauté internationale, entraînant une réduction du soutien international et un retard de l’aide humanitaire.
L’aggravation du changement climatique et des crises naturelles a affecté de manière disproportionnée les pays touchés par les conflits, qui sont déjà vulnérables en raison de leur fragilité, et ces nations ont eu du mal à accéder au financement climatique en raison des conditions strictes fixées par les institutions financières internationales

Transition dans certains pays du G7+ nécessitant une aide accrue

Afghanistan

Résultat de décennies d’instabilité, l’Afghanistan est confronté à de multiples crises humanitaires. Environ 70 % de la population a besoin d’aide humanitaire. Plus de 90 % de la population vit dans la pauvreté et l’effondrement économique a entraîné une famine aiguë chez 19 millions de personnes. En outre, les restrictions imposées à l’éducation des filles et aux droits des femmes ont aggravé la crise. L’ONU et les acteurs régionaux et mondiaux peuvent aider en facilitant des négociations de paix inclusives, en rétablissant la gouvernance démocratique et en rép

Central African Republic (CAR)

La RCA est confrontée au grave défi d’un conflit persistant et souvent négligé, alimenté par l’instabilité politique, la violence des groupes armés et de profondes divisions ethniques et religieuses, qui entraîne des déplacements massifs de sa population et un besoin urgent d’aide humanitaire. Malgré une certaine réduction du conflit, de grandes parties du pays connaissent encore des troubles importants, les services publics étant sollicités au point de rupture. L’ONU peut renforcer le maintien de la paix, soutenir les dialogues nationaux et fournir une aide ciblée.

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

La RDC traverse une grave crise humanitaire, avec plus de 5,6 millions de personnes déplacées par des conflits alimentés par plus de 120 groupes armés. Cette violence, ainsi qu’une instabilité politique profonde, ont laissé 27 millions de personnes en insécurité alimentaire et près de 64 % de la population vivant dans l’extrême pauvreté, malgré les vastes ressources naturelles du pays. La RDC doit de toute urgence renforcer la sécurité en s’attaquant aux groupes armés et en rétablissant l’autorité de l’État, en promouvant une gouvernance inclusive pour rétablir la confiance et prévenir les crises politiques, et en améliorant la réponse humanitaire en améliorant l’accès aux services essentiels et aux opportunités économiques pour parvenir à une stabilité à long terme.

Haiti

Le pays est confronté à de graves difficultés en raison de l’instabilité politique et de la violence qui perdurent. Plus de 5 millions de personnes ont besoin d’une aide humanitaire d’urgence et 43 % de la population souffre d’insécurité alimentaire. La situation économique est désastreuse, plus de 60 % de la population vivant sous le seuil de pauvreté, ce qui aggrave la violence des gangs et les déplacements massifs de population. Avec le déploiement d’une mission multinationale de soutien à la sécurité dirigée par le Kenya, le renforcement des forces de sécurité et l’aide économique sont essentiels, en particulier alors qu’Haïti se prépare aux élections.

South Sudan

Le pays est confronté à des difficultés dans ses projets d’organiser des élections tant attendues. Aux termes de l’Accord revitalisé sur la résolution du conflit, le Soudan du Sud est gouverné par un gouvernement de transition d’unité nationale revitalisé. Des élections démocratiques sont essentielles et favoriseront la légitimité de l’État et augmenteront ses chances de stabilité. Cependant, le pays a besoin d’une aide financière pour organiser des élections.

Yemen

Le conflit prolongé a dévasté l’économie, les infrastructures et le tissu social du Yémen, entraînant une grave crise humanitaire. Plus de 24 millions de personnes, soit près de 80 % de la population, ont besoin d’aide humanitaire, et plus de 17 millions souffrent d’insécurité alimentaire. Le conflit a fait plus de 250 000 morts, dont 4 500 enfants, et a provoqué le déplacement de plus de 4 millions de personnes.

Priorités stratégiques du g7+

Recherche de la paix, de la résilience et de la stabilité

À la lumière des crises multidimensionnelles auxquelles le monde est actuellement confronté, le g7+ intensifiera ses efforts pour promouvoir la paix, la stabilité et la résilience. Cet objectif sera atteint grâce à un plaidoyer collectif, à l’apprentissage par les pairs et à la médiation entre ses États membres, garantissant une approche unie pour résoudre les conflits et favoriser la stabilité à long terme.

Coopération efficace pour le développement

Le g7+ continuera de collaborer avec les acteurs internationaux du développement pour poursuivre une coopération au développement efficace et harmonisée. En travaillant en étroite collaboration avec des partenaires mondiaux, le g7+ vise à répondre aux besoins de développement spécifiques de ses pays membres, en veillant à ce que le soutien soit adapté aux défis uniques auxquels sont confrontés les États fragiles.

Consolidation du g7+

Pour réaliser ses aspirations collectives, le g7+ s’attachera à consolider davantage son rôle de plateforme pour les États membres. Cette priorité implique de renforcer sa capacité à réunir ses membres sur la scène mondiale, à amplifier leurs voix et à favoriser un front uni dans les forums internationaux pour défendre les priorités des États fragiles et touchés par des conflits.

Coordonnées

Siège du g7+
Maison Kobe, Rua Palacio do Governador, Dili,
Timor oriental
Numéro de téléphone : +670 3310126
Courriel : g7plus.secretariat@gmail.com
Centre du g7+ à Lisbonne :
Avenue 24 de Julho n° 118 B/C/D – 1200-871
Lisbonne-Portugal
Téléphone : +351 211 322 371
Bureau de g7+ à New York
305 East 47th Street, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10017
Téléphone : +1 646 370 5560
Site Web et réseaux sociaux
Site Web : www.g7plus.org
F: Le g7+
X: @g7plus

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The g7+: Emergence of a New Global Player

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Sat, 21 Sep 2024 13:42:43 +0000

The g7+: Emergence of a New Global Player

Establishment of the g7+

In April 2010, the g7+ was established as an intergovernmental organization comprised of 20 countries united by a vision of peace, stability, and development in their countries and everywhere in the world. The g7+ Member States include Afghanistan, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Haiti, Liberia, Papua New Guinea, Sao Tome e Principe, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Sudan, Timor-Leste, Togo, Yemen.

The Chair of the g7+ rotates bi-annually among the Member States with the possibility of re-appointment. The current Chair is H.E. Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone. The Headquarters of the g7+ is located in Timor-Leste, with offices in Portugal and New York.

Mission of the g7+

Founded on the notion of solidarity, cooperation and volunteerism, the g7+ provides a platform for conflict-affected countries: to collectively advocate for peace, stability, and sustainable development; to drive international cooperation toward that goal; to promote dialogue and reconciliation in the face of conflict; to ensure that the voices of these nations are represented in global policy discussions; to advocate for effective development cooperation founded on the principles of country ownership, transparency and mutual accountability between government and development partners; and to facilitate sharing of first-hand experience and good peace-building, state-building and development practices with one another.

Evolution of the g7+

Established as an informal association in 2010, the g7+ has evolved into an influential global forum, with Observer Status at the United Nations granted in 2019 and its Charter registered at the UN Treaty Department in 2021.

Major Milestones of the g7+

Stand-alone Goal on Peace, Justice and Effective Institutions Included in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

The g7+ was a driving force for the inclusion of a standalone goal for peace, justice and effective institutions (Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16) in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development adopted on September 25, 2015. SDG 16 calls on States to “promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.”

UN Observer Status

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) granted the g7+ Observer Status in 2019 by Resolution 74/196 in recognition of the organization’s meaningful contribution to UN affairs. With a seat at the UNGA, the g7+ has engaged with UN Member States and shared perspectives at sessions of the UN Security Council and the UN Peacebuilding Commission, the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the Human Rights Council to address humanitarian and development issues. With Observer Status, the g7+ enjoys access to UN Headquarters, with the ability to host meetings and conferences.

Strong Voice for Conflict-Affected States

The g7+ has amplified the voices of conflict-affected countries in global forums and institutions, such as International Financial Institutions (IFIs), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and Conferences of the Parties (COPs). By advocating for tailored approaches to peacebuilding, state-building, development cooperation, trade, and resilience, the g7+ has sought to ensure that the unique challenges of its member states are recognized and addressed. Additionally, it has emphasized the need for targeted support in addressing climate change impacts on fragile countries, ensuring these nations are not left behind in global policy discussion

Assistance to g7+ Member Countries on Peace and Stability

The g7+ has played a crucial role in assisting its Member States in achieving peace and stability. This includes facilitating dialogue and reconciliation processes to resolve conflicts, as well as promoting peaceful transitions. The g7+ has also fostered financial cooperation among Member States, providing support during humanitarian emergencies and in the pursuit of democracy. By sharing lessons learned in peace-building and state-building, the g7+ has enabled its Member States to benefit from each other’s experiences, contributing to the development of more resilient and stable nations.

Challenges for the g7+

Current geopolitical fragmentation has affected peace and stability in g7+ countries by complicating peace-building efforts. It has further diverted global attention, leading to reduced international support and delayed humanitarian aid.

Worsening climate change and natural crises have disproportionately affected conflict-affected countries, which are already vulnerable due to their fragility, and these nations have struggled to access climate finance because of stringent conditions set by international financial institutions.

Transition in Selected g7+ Countries Requiring Greater Assistance

Afghanistan

Resulting from decades of instability, Afghanistan faces multiple humanitarian crises. About 70% of the population is in need of humanitarian assistance. More than 90% of the population lives in poverty, and the economic collapse has resulted in 19 million people experiencing acute hunger. Additionally, restrictions on girls’ education and women’s rights have compounded the crisis. The UN and regional and global actors can help by facilitating inclusive peace negotiations, restoring democratic governance, and addressing humanitarian needs.

Central African Republic (CAR)

The CAR faces the severe challenge of persistent and often-neglected conflict driven by political instability, armed group violence, and deep ethnic and religious divisions, leading to widespread displacement of its people and a dire need for humanitarian support. Despite some reduction in conflict, large parts of the country still experience significant unrest, with public services stretched to the breaking point. The UN can enhance peacekeeping, support national dialogues, and provide targeted aid.

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

The DRC is experiencing a severe humanitarian crisis, with over 5.6 million displaced by conflicts driven by over 120 armed groups. This violence, along with deep-seated political instability, has left 27 million people food insecure and nearly 64% of the population living in extreme poverty, despite the country’s vast natural resources. The DRC needs to urgently strengthen security by addressing armed groups and restoring state authority, to promote inclusive governance to rebuild trust and prevent political crises, and to enhance humanitarian response by improving access to essential services and economic opportunities to achieve long-term stability.

Haiti

Severe challenges confront Haiti due to ongoing political instability and violence, with over 5 million people needing urgent humanitarian aid and 43% of the population experiencing food insecurity. Economic conditions are dire, with over 60% living below the poverty line, exacerbating gang violence and mass displacement. With the deployment of a Multinational Security Support Mission led by Kenya, increased security forces and economic aid are crucial, particularly as Haiti prepares for elections.

South Sudan

The country faces challenges to its plans to conduct long-awaited elections. Under the terms of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict, South Sudan is governed by a Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity. Democratically held elections are critical and will promote the legitimacy of the state and increase its chances for stability. However, the country requires financial assistance to conduct elections.

Yemen

The prolonged conflict has devastated Yemen’s economy, infrastructure, and social fabric, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. Over 24 million people—nearly 80% of the population—require humanitarian aid, with over 17 million experiencing food insecurity. The conflict has resulted in more than 250,000 deaths, including 4,500 children, and has left over 4 million people displaced.

Strategic Priorities of the g7+

Pursuit of Peace, Resilience, and Stability

In light of the current multidimensional crises facing the world, the g7+ will intensify efforts to promote peace, stability, and resilience. This goal will be achieved through collective advocacy, peer learning, and mediation among its member states, ensuring a united approach to addressing conflicts and fostering long-term stability.

Effective Cooperation for Development

The g7+ will continue to engage with international development actors to pursue effective and harmonized development cooperation. By working closely with global partners, the g7+ aims to address the specific development needs of its member countries, ensuring that support is tailored to the unique challenges faced by fragile States.

Consolidation of the g7+

To achieve its collective aspirations, the g7+ will focus on further consolidating its role as a platform for Member States. This priority involves strengthening its capacity to convene members on the global stage, amplifying their voices and fostering a united front in international forums to advocate for the priorities of fragile and conflict-affected states.

Contact Information

g7+ Headquarters
Kobe House, Rua Palacio do Governo, Dili,
Timor-Leste
Phone number: +670 3310126
Email: g7plus.secretariat@gmail.com

g7+ Lisbon Hub:
Avenida 24 de Julho n.º 118 B/C/D – 1200-871 Lisbon-Portugal
Phone: +351 211 322 371

g7+ New York Office
305 East 47th Street, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10017
Phone: +1 646 370 5560

Website and social media
Website: www.g7plus.org
F: The g7+
X: @g7plus

Progress in implementing the New Deal

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Preliminary Findings of the Election Observation on the Joint Election in the Solomon Islands

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Sun, 21 Apr 2024 13:47:15 +0000

Preliminary Findings of the Election Observation on the Joint Election in the Solomon Islands

Background of the election observation

Following the g7+ (group of Seven Plus) institutionalized the election observation initiative as part of its peer learning and sharing of experience under its flagship program ‘Fragile to Fragile’ cooperation on 22 March 2023 in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The g7+, as an Inter-Governmental organization of conflict affected countries that helps achieving Peace, and stability through peer learning, is already contributing to good governance, peace, development, and democratic space in member countries, for instance, Timor-Leste’s cooperation in Guinea Bissau and Sao Tome and Principe. Elections are among the most important phases in the trajectory of g7+ countries. They are milestones that determine chances of stability and peace. In line with the vision of the g7+, the members have inspiring lessons to learn from each other. Hence, the key objectives of this initiative amongst others include:
Sharing of experiences in managing elections;
Contributing to enhancing democratic consolidation, strengthening peace and development through election observation amongst g7+ members;
Enhancing to improve Election Management Bodies (EMB) operations through its election observation recommendations;

Introduction

The g7+ Election Observation Mission (EOM) comprising of members accredited by ECSL to observe the general Election in Sierra Leone on 24^th June 2023. The EOM took place during 20-25 June 2023. The members of the mission comprised of:

Habib Urrehman Mayar (Head of Delegation)

Deputy General Secretary of g7+

Domingos Barreto

Vice President of National Election Commission of Timor-Leste

Michael E. Clarke

Deputy Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, National Election Commission of Liberia

Felix Piedade

Chief Operating Officer of g7+

The g7+ EOM observed the process from a standpoint of impartiality, independence, professionalism and objectivity which are in tandem with international best practices of election observation the world over.

It is also important to underscore that the g7+ EOM observed general election within the confines of the electoral legal stipulation of Sierra Leone in reference to “guidelines and code of conduct for observer groups”

Prior to polling, the g7+ EOM also had consultative engagements with the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) to enhance understanding on certain election procedures and to have a comprehensive knowledge on general preparations and effective collaboration of relevant stakeholders in the electoral process. The EOM also met the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC)

The composition of the g7+ EOM on polling day was made up of 2 teams of 2 members each observing a total of 25 polling centers in Rural and Urban Western regions. The methodology adopted for polling day observation was a checklist enabling the teams to observe opening, polling, closure and counting procedures and the general political environment at polling stations.

Pre – Election

The g7+ EOM upon its arrival observed that a rally by Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) was held in Freetown which was peaceful.

Prior to the elections, tension escalated when All Peoples Congress (APC) called on its members and supporters to protest the “refusal of the ECSL to implement its recommendations to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections”.

The EOM joined Peace March was organized by the Political Party Regulatory Commission (PPRC) on 23rd of June that called for non-violent and peaceful election . The Peace March could have been well attended with the participation of Civil society organizations.

The ECSL organized regular press conferences to share updates in regard to preparation for the Election.

The Polling Process

Opening of polls

The polling staff and security personnel at the polling stations visited were very cooperative and helpful with the observers. The Polling Center Managers (PCM) were responsive to questions by observers.

The number of ballot papers received were also shared with the party agents and observers present at the polling stations before the start of the polls.

The g7+ EOM observed in polling stations the presence of national and international observers, media outlets, during the opening of polls at the polling stations visited.

Polling stations that the g7+ EOM visited did not open in time. There were delays that caused frustration among the voters.

The EOM noted that the delay was caused by the late arrival of the voting materials.

Polling

The g7+ EOM observed that most polling officials were knowledgeable on opening procedures. The ballot boxes were sealed in the presence of the party agents and observers who were invited to note the seal numbers. However, there were few who faced challenges in sealing of the boxes.

Queues at polling stations observed were largely peaceful and voters to a greater degree were knowledgeable about the voting process. However, there were some tensions at some stations where voters were struggling to enter the polling stations. This was due to the crowd and long ques. At one polling center that the g7+ EOM visited, the voters had difficulty in entering and even witnessed few female voters who were fainted.

Polling staff deployed at most centers were not uniformed and hence not easily identified. Some of them did not even have display of their ID cards.

It was observed that ballot paper controllers at most polling stations guided the voters in a professional and impartial manner to cast their votes. The g7+ EOM notes that this strategy is an effective tool to minimizing invalid votes and therefore commends ECSL.

Assistant to voters with special need was given whenever necessary at polling stations observed.

Polling station layouts were generally conducive with the exception of some with poor lighting conditions, ventilation and access especially for persons with disabilities. In some polling stations, the g7+ EOM observed that the voting booths were organized in a way that that voters could see and notice each other.

During the polling at some stations visited, some party agents were domineering and overbearing tried to put aside the center manager and presiding officers.

Few voters at few stations visited could not be verified due to the lack of their details in the voting register.

Closure and Counting

The period of delay in the opening of the polls was not allotted to extend the closing period at some polling stations.

Votes were counted in full view of party agents, observers, and security personnel.

Counting procedures were largely followed except for some challenges in few stations where the presiding officers had to be corrected by either party agents and/or center manager.

It was observed that the counting at the stations visited was done without major incidents.

Provisional results at polling stations observed were recorded on polling station forms, verified and signed by party agents and copies issued to them.

The Political Environment

The g7+ EOM of observed that the overall political environment around all polling stations was serene friendly and free from political violence, intimidation and influence.

Recommendations

A primary objective of the g7+ EOM is to help improve election management through its recommendations and it is encouraged that the responsible institutions consider the following recommendations:

Pre-Election

Considering the fragility of the country and the nature of elections, a contest for a prize, political parties should exercise restraints in making pronouncements which maybe interrupted by supporters but rather continue to take advantage of the space created for dialogue. Despite what ensued, the g7+ is grateful that both the opposition and ruling parties quickly took measures to restore peace and the voters’ confidence in peaceful elections. In particular, the signing of the “The Sierra Leone Election Pledge” by all political parties is encouraging.

The g7+ EOM appreciated the initiative of the PPRC to have a peace march but was concerned of the absence of stakeholders such as civil society organizations (CSOs) particularly. CSOs represents the interest of the ordinary citizens and as such since should have mobilized its members and the citizenry to join the march. This in our view would have been the united voice of ordinary Sierra Leoneans demanding the political parties adhere to the peace pledge.

The regular updates by ECSL on the preparation for election through press conferences is worth commending.

Elections Day

The lack of dress code of poll workers not being uniformed made it difficult to easily be identified. Voters did not know whom to quickly get to for assistance. The g7+ EOM strongly recommend that a dress code be strictly followed by the polling officials.

Logisticians of the ECSL need to be more meticulous in the deployment of elections materials by referencing their check lists or a final check to ensure all the materials required are sent to the polling centers in time. Also, polling staff should arrange the centers at least 24 hours before polling begins and so to start the opening procedures on time as per the law. The timely opening of the polling centers will not only help in increasing the voters’ turnout but will also enhance the confidence of voters.

Considering the challenges faced in finding ideal locations for polling centers, there is a need to begin conversations on how to manage these challenges of queue management or engage with other EMBs to see how this issue is handled.

The delayed in opening of the polls after the official opening time should be compensated for by extending the time of closing and not be discretionary.

Party agents must abide by the guidelines and not act outside of it. In particular, they should be strictly guided not to touch the sensitive materials.

Polling staff, particularly POs should follow the laid out procedures which are intended to improve efficiency and enhance transparency. The g7+ EOM further recommends for an improvement in polling official training.

Conclusion

The g7+ EOM reiterates that this is an initial assessment of the electoral process for the June 24th June General Election and therefore solicit the continuous cooperation of all political parties and state actors in Sierra Leone.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

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Women’s access to economic and financial resources in fragile countries

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 14:51:08 +0000

Women’s access to economic and financial resources in fragile countries

Background of the election observation

Following the g7+ (group of Seven Plus) institutionalized the election observation initiative as part of its peer learning and sharing of experience under its flagship program ‘Fragile to Fragile’ cooperation on 22 March 2023 in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The g7+, as an Inter-Governmental organization of conflict affected countries that helps achieving Peace, and stability through peer learning, is already contributing to good governance, peace, development, and democratic space in member countries, for instance, Timor-Leste’s cooperation in Guinea Bissau and Sao Tome and Principe. Elections are among the most important phases in the trajectory of g7+ countries. They are milestones that determine chances of stability and peace. In line with the vision of the g7+, the members have inspiring lessons to learn from each other. Hence, the key objectives of this initiative amongst others include:
Sharing of experiences in managing elections;
Contributing to enhancing democratic consolidation, strengthening peace and development through election observation amongst g7+ members;
Enhancing to improve Election Management Bodies (EMB) operations through its election observation recommendations;

Introduction

The g7+ Election Observation Mission (EOM) comprising of members accredited by ECSL to observe the general Election in Sierra Leone on 24^th June 2023. The EOM took place during 20-25 June 2023. The members of the mission comprised of:

Habib Urrehman Mayar (Head of Delegation)

Deputy General Secretary of g7+

Domingos Barreto

Vice President of National Election Commission of Timor-Leste

Michael E. Clarke

Deputy Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, National Election Commission of Liberia

Felix Piedade

Chief Operating Officer of g7+

The g7+ EOM observed the process from a standpoint of impartiality, independence, professionalism and objectivity which are in tandem with international best practices of election observation the world over.

It is also important to underscore that the g7+ EOM observed general election within the confines of the electoral legal stipulation of Sierra Leone in reference to “guidelines and code of conduct for observer groups”

Prior to polling, the g7+ EOM also had consultative engagements with the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) to enhance understanding on certain election procedures and to have a comprehensive knowledge on general preparations and effective collaboration of relevant stakeholders in the electoral process. The EOM also met the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC)

The composition of the g7+ EOM on polling day was made up of 2 teams of 2 members each observing a total of 25 polling centers in Rural and Urban Western regions. The methodology adopted for polling day observation was a checklist enabling the teams to observe opening, polling, closure and counting procedures and the general political environment at polling stations.

Pre – Election

The g7+ EOM upon its arrival observed that a rally by Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) was held in Freetown which was peaceful.

Prior to the elections, tension escalated when All Peoples Congress (APC) called on its members and supporters to protest the “refusal of the ECSL to implement its recommendations to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections”.

The EOM joined Peace March was organized by the Political Party Regulatory Commission (PPRC) on 23rd of June that called for non-violent and peaceful election . The Peace March could have been well attended with the participation of Civil society organizations.

The ECSL organized regular press conferences to share updates in regard to preparation for the Election.

The Polling Process

Opening of polls

The polling staff and security personnel at the polling stations visited were very cooperative and helpful with the observers. The Polling Center Managers (PCM) were responsive to questions by observers.

The number of ballot papers received were also shared with the party agents and observers present at the polling stations before the start of the polls.

The g7+ EOM observed in polling stations the presence of national and international observers, media outlets, during the opening of polls at the polling stations visited.

Polling stations that the g7+ EOM visited did not open in time. There were delays that caused frustration among the voters.

The EOM noted that the delay was caused by the late arrival of the voting materials.

Polling

The g7+ EOM observed that most polling officials were knowledgeable on opening procedures. The ballot boxes were sealed in the presence of the party agents and observers who were invited to note the seal numbers. However, there were few who faced challenges in sealing of the boxes.

Queues at polling stations observed were largely peaceful and voters to a greater degree were knowledgeable about the voting process. However, there were some tensions at some stations where voters were struggling to enter the polling stations. This was due to the crowd and long ques. At one polling center that the g7+ EOM visited, the voters had difficulty in entering and even witnessed few female voters who were fainted.

Polling staff deployed at most centers were not uniformed and hence not easily identified. Some of them did not even have display of their ID cards.

It was observed that ballot paper controllers at most polling stations guided the voters in a professional and impartial manner to cast their votes. The g7+ EOM notes that this strategy is an effective tool to minimizing invalid votes and therefore commends ECSL.

Assistant to voters with special need was given whenever necessary at polling stations observed.

Polling station layouts were generally conducive with the exception of some with poor lighting conditions, ventilation and access especially for persons with disabilities. In some polling stations, the g7+ EOM observed that the voting booths were organized in a way that that voters could see and notice each other.

During the polling at some stations visited, some party agents were domineering and overbearing tried to put aside the center manager and presiding officers.

Few voters at few stations visited could not be verified due to the lack of their details in the voting register.

Closure and Counting

The period of delay in the opening of the polls was not allotted to extend the closing period at some polling stations.

Votes were counted in full view of party agents, observers, and security personnel.

Counting procedures were largely followed except for some challenges in few stations where the presiding officers had to be corrected by either party agents and/or center manager.

It was observed that the counting at the stations visited was done without major incidents.

Provisional results at polling stations observed were recorded on polling station forms, verified and signed by party agents and copies issued to them.

The Political Environment

The g7+ EOM of observed that the overall political environment around all polling stations was serene friendly and free from political violence, intimidation and influence.

Recommendations

A primary objective of the g7+ EOM is to help improve election management through its recommendations and it is encouraged that the responsible institutions consider the following recommendations:

Pre-Election

Considering the fragility of the country and the nature of elections, a contest for a prize, political parties should exercise restraints in making pronouncements which maybe interrupted by supporters but rather continue to take advantage of the space created for dialogue. Despite what ensued, the g7+ is grateful that both the opposition and ruling parties quickly took measures to restore peace and the voters’ confidence in peaceful elections. In particular, the signing of the “The Sierra Leone Election Pledge” by all political parties is encouraging.

The g7+ EOM appreciated the initiative of the PPRC to have a peace march but was concerned of the absence of stakeholders such as civil society organizations (CSOs) particularly. CSOs represents the interest of the ordinary citizens and as such since should have mobilized its members and the citizenry to join the march. This in our view would have been the united voice of ordinary Sierra Leoneans demanding the political parties adhere to the peace pledge.

The regular updates by ECSL on the preparation for election through press conferences is worth commending.

Elections Day

The lack of dress code of poll workers not being uniformed made it difficult to easily be identified. Voters did not know whom to quickly get to for assistance. The g7+ EOM strongly recommend that a dress code be strictly followed by the polling officials.

Logisticians of the ECSL need to be more meticulous in the deployment of elections materials by referencing their check lists or a final check to ensure all the materials required are sent to the polling centers in time. Also, polling staff should arrange the centers at least 24 hours before polling begins and so to start the opening procedures on time as per the law. The timely opening of the polling centers will not only help in increasing the voters’ turnout but will also enhance the confidence of voters.

Considering the challenges faced in finding ideal locations for polling centers, there is a need to begin conversations on how to manage these challenges of queue management or engage with other EMBs to see how this issue is handled.

The delayed in opening of the polls after the official opening time should be compensated for by extending the time of closing and not be discretionary.

Party agents must abide by the guidelines and not act outside of it. In particular, they should be strictly guided not to touch the sensitive materials.

Polling staff, particularly POs should follow the laid out procedures which are intended to improve efficiency and enhance transparency. The g7+ EOM further recommends for an improvement in polling official training.

Conclusion

The g7+ EOM reiterates that this is an initial assessment of the electoral process for the June 24th June General Election and therefore solicit the continuous cooperation of all political parties and state actors in Sierra Leone.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

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The post Women’s access to economic and financial resources in fragile countries appeared first on g7plus.

Preliminary Findings of the Election Observation on the General Election in Liberia on 10 October 2023

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 05:05:16 +0000

Preliminary Findings of the Election Observation on the General Election in Liberia on 10 October 2023

Background of the election observation

Following the g7+ (group of Seven Plus) institutionalized the election observation initiative as part of its peer learning and sharing of experience under its flagship program ‘Fragile to Fragile’ cooperation on 22 March 2023 in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The g7+, as an Inter-Governmental organization of conflict affected countries that helps achieving Peace, and stability through peer learning, is already contributing to good governance, peace, development, and democratic space in member countries, for instance, Timor-Leste’s cooperation in Guinea Bissau and Sao Tome and Principe. Elections are among the most important phases in the trajectory of g7+ countries. They are milestones that determine chances of stability and peace. In line with the vision of the g7+, the members have inspiring lessons to learn from each other. Hence, the key objectives of this initiative amongst others include:
Sharing of experiences in managing elections;
Contributing to enhancing democratic consolidation, strengthening peace and development through election observation amongst g7+ members;
Enhancing to improve Election Management Bodies (EMB) operations through its election observation recommendations;

Introduction

The g7+ Election Observation Mission (EOM) comprising of members accredited by ECSL to observe the general Election in Sierra Leone on 24^th June 2023. The EOM took place during 20-25 June 2023. The members of the mission comprised of:

Habib Urrehman Mayar (Head of Delegation)

Deputy General Secretary of g7+

Domingos Barreto

Vice President of National Election Commission of Timor-Leste

Michael E. Clarke

Deputy Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, National Election Commission of Liberia

Felix Piedade

Chief Operating Officer of g7+

The g7+ EOM observed the process from a standpoint of impartiality, independence, professionalism and objectivity which are in tandem with international best practices of election observation the world over.

It is also important to underscore that the g7+ EOM observed general election within the confines of the electoral legal stipulation of Sierra Leone in reference to “guidelines and code of conduct for observer groups”

Prior to polling, the g7+ EOM also had consultative engagements with the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) to enhance understanding on certain election procedures and to have a comprehensive knowledge on general preparations and effective collaboration of relevant stakeholders in the electoral process. The EOM also met the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC)

The composition of the g7+ EOM on polling day was made up of 2 teams of 2 members each observing a total of 25 polling centers in Rural and Urban Western regions. The methodology adopted for polling day observation was a checklist enabling the teams to observe opening, polling, closure and counting procedures and the general political environment at polling stations.

Pre – Election

The g7+ EOM upon its arrival observed that a rally by Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) was held in Freetown which was peaceful.

Prior to the elections, tension escalated when All Peoples Congress (APC) called on its members and supporters to protest the “refusal of the ECSL to implement its recommendations to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections”.

The EOM joined Peace March was organized by the Political Party Regulatory Commission (PPRC) on 23rd of June that called for non-violent and peaceful election . The Peace March could have been well attended with the participation of Civil society organizations.

The ECSL organized regular press conferences to share updates in regard to preparation for the Election.

The Polling Process

Opening of polls

The polling staff and security personnel at the polling stations visited were very cooperative and helpful with the observers. The Polling Center Managers (PCM) were responsive to questions by observers.

The number of ballot papers received were also shared with the party agents and observers present at the polling stations before the start of the polls.

The g7+ EOM observed in polling stations the presence of national and international observers, media outlets, during the opening of polls at the polling stations visited.

Polling stations that the g7+ EOM visited did not open in time. There were delays that caused frustration among the voters.

The EOM noted that the delay was caused by the late arrival of the voting materials.

Polling

The g7+ EOM observed that most polling officials were knowledgeable on opening procedures. The ballot boxes were sealed in the presence of the party agents and observers who were invited to note the seal numbers. However, there were few who faced challenges in sealing of the boxes.

Queues at polling stations observed were largely peaceful and voters to a greater degree were knowledgeable about the voting process. However, there were some tensions at some stations where voters were struggling to enter the polling stations. This was due to the crowd and long ques. At one polling center that the g7+ EOM visited, the voters had difficulty in entering and even witnessed few female voters who were fainted.

Polling staff deployed at most centers were not uniformed and hence not easily identified. Some of them did not even have display of their ID cards.

It was observed that ballot paper controllers at most polling stations guided the voters in a professional and impartial manner to cast their votes. The g7+ EOM notes that this strategy is an effective tool to minimizing invalid votes and therefore commends ECSL.

Assistant to voters with special need was given whenever necessary at polling stations observed.

Polling station layouts were generally conducive with the exception of some with poor lighting conditions, ventilation and access especially for persons with disabilities. In some polling stations, the g7+ EOM observed that the voting booths were organized in a way that that voters could see and notice each other.

During the polling at some stations visited, some party agents were domineering and overbearing tried to put aside the center manager and presiding officers.

Few voters at few stations visited could not be verified due to the lack of their details in the voting register.

Closure and Counting

The period of delay in the opening of the polls was not allotted to extend the closing period at some polling stations.

Votes were counted in full view of party agents, observers, and security personnel.

Counting procedures were largely followed except for some challenges in few stations where the presiding officers had to be corrected by either party agents and/or center manager.

It was observed that the counting at the stations visited was done without major incidents.

Provisional results at polling stations observed were recorded on polling station forms, verified and signed by party agents and copies issued to them.

The Political Environment

The g7+ EOM of observed that the overall political environment around all polling stations was serene friendly and free from political violence, intimidation and influence.

Recommendations

A primary objective of the g7+ EOM is to help improve election management through its recommendations and it is encouraged that the responsible institutions consider the following recommendations:

Pre-Election

Considering the fragility of the country and the nature of elections, a contest for a prize, political parties should exercise restraints in making pronouncements which maybe interrupted by supporters but rather continue to take advantage of the space created for dialogue. Despite what ensued, the g7+ is grateful that both the opposition and ruling parties quickly took measures to restore peace and the voters’ confidence in peaceful elections. In particular, the signing of the “The Sierra Leone Election Pledge” by all political parties is encouraging.

The g7+ EOM appreciated the initiative of the PPRC to have a peace march but was concerned of the absence of stakeholders such as civil society organizations (CSOs) particularly. CSOs represents the interest of the ordinary citizens and as such since should have mobilized its members and the citizenry to join the march. This in our view would have been the united voice of ordinary Sierra Leoneans demanding the political parties adhere to the peace pledge.

The regular updates by ECSL on the preparation for election through press conferences is worth commending.

Elections Day

The lack of dress code of poll workers not being uniformed made it difficult to easily be identified. Voters did not know whom to quickly get to for assistance. The g7+ EOM strongly recommend that a dress code be strictly followed by the polling officials.

Logisticians of the ECSL need to be more meticulous in the deployment of elections materials by referencing their check lists or a final check to ensure all the materials required are sent to the polling centers in time. Also, polling staff should arrange the centers at least 24 hours before polling begins and so to start the opening procedures on time as per the law. The timely opening of the polling centers will not only help in increasing the voters’ turnout but will also enhance the confidence of voters.

Considering the challenges faced in finding ideal locations for polling centers, there is a need to begin conversations on how to manage these challenges of queue management or engage with other EMBs to see how this issue is handled.

The delayed in opening of the polls after the official opening time should be compensated for by extending the time of closing and not be discretionary.

Party agents must abide by the guidelines and not act outside of it. In particular, they should be strictly guided not to touch the sensitive materials.

Polling staff, particularly POs should follow the laid out procedures which are intended to improve efficiency and enhance transparency. The g7+ EOM further recommends for an improvement in polling official training.

Conclusion

The g7+ EOM reiterates that this is an initial assessment of the electoral process for the June 24th June General Election and therefore solicit the continuous cooperation of all political parties and state actors in Sierra Leone.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Download Resource

Download File

The post Preliminary Findings of the Election Observation on the General Election in Liberia on 10 October 2023 appeared first on g7plus.

Women in Peace and Reconciliation Processes

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 05:02:56 +0000

Women in Peace and Reconciliation Processes

Background of the election observation

Following the g7+ (group of Seven Plus) institutionalized the election observation initiative as part of its peer learning and sharing of experience under its flagship program ‘Fragile to Fragile’ cooperation on 22 March 2023 in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The g7+, as an Inter-Governmental organization of conflict affected countries that helps achieving Peace, and stability through peer learning, is already contributing to good governance, peace, development, and democratic space in member countries, for instance, Timor-Leste’s cooperation in Guinea Bissau and Sao Tome and Principe. Elections are among the most important phases in the trajectory of g7+ countries. They are milestones that determine chances of stability and peace. In line with the vision of the g7+, the members have inspiring lessons to learn from each other. Hence, the key objectives of this initiative amongst others include:
Sharing of experiences in managing elections;
Contributing to enhancing democratic consolidation, strengthening peace and development through election observation amongst g7+ members;
Enhancing to improve Election Management Bodies (EMB) operations through its election observation recommendations;

Introduction

The g7+ Election Observation Mission (EOM) comprising of members accredited by ECSL to observe the general Election in Sierra Leone on 24^th June 2023. The EOM took place during 20-25 June 2023. The members of the mission comprised of:

Habib Urrehman Mayar (Head of Delegation)

Deputy General Secretary of g7+

Domingos Barreto

Vice President of National Election Commission of Timor-Leste

Michael E. Clarke

Deputy Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, National Election Commission of Liberia

Felix Piedade

Chief Operating Officer of g7+

The g7+ EOM observed the process from a standpoint of impartiality, independence, professionalism and objectivity which are in tandem with international best practices of election observation the world over.

It is also important to underscore that the g7+ EOM observed general election within the confines of the electoral legal stipulation of Sierra Leone in reference to “guidelines and code of conduct for observer groups”

Prior to polling, the g7+ EOM also had consultative engagements with the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) to enhance understanding on certain election procedures and to have a comprehensive knowledge on general preparations and effective collaboration of relevant stakeholders in the electoral process. The EOM also met the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC)

The composition of the g7+ EOM on polling day was made up of 2 teams of 2 members each observing a total of 25 polling centers in Rural and Urban Western regions. The methodology adopted for polling day observation was a checklist enabling the teams to observe opening, polling, closure and counting procedures and the general political environment at polling stations.

Pre – Election

The g7+ EOM upon its arrival observed that a rally by Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) was held in Freetown which was peaceful.

Prior to the elections, tension escalated when All Peoples Congress (APC) called on its members and supporters to protest the “refusal of the ECSL to implement its recommendations to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections”.

The EOM joined Peace March was organized by the Political Party Regulatory Commission (PPRC) on 23rd of June that called for non-violent and peaceful election . The Peace March could have been well attended with the participation of Civil society organizations.

The ECSL organized regular press conferences to share updates in regard to preparation for the Election.

The Polling Process

Opening of polls

The polling staff and security personnel at the polling stations visited were very cooperative and helpful with the observers. The Polling Center Managers (PCM) were responsive to questions by observers.

The number of ballot papers received were also shared with the party agents and observers present at the polling stations before the start of the polls.

The g7+ EOM observed in polling stations the presence of national and international observers, media outlets, during the opening of polls at the polling stations visited.

Polling stations that the g7+ EOM visited did not open in time. There were delays that caused frustration among the voters.

The EOM noted that the delay was caused by the late arrival of the voting materials.

Polling

The g7+ EOM observed that most polling officials were knowledgeable on opening procedures. The ballot boxes were sealed in the presence of the party agents and observers who were invited to note the seal numbers. However, there were few who faced challenges in sealing of the boxes.

Queues at polling stations observed were largely peaceful and voters to a greater degree were knowledgeable about the voting process. However, there were some tensions at some stations where voters were struggling to enter the polling stations. This was due to the crowd and long ques. At one polling center that the g7+ EOM visited, the voters had difficulty in entering and even witnessed few female voters who were fainted.

Polling staff deployed at most centers were not uniformed and hence not easily identified. Some of them did not even have display of their ID cards.

It was observed that ballot paper controllers at most polling stations guided the voters in a professional and impartial manner to cast their votes. The g7+ EOM notes that this strategy is an effective tool to minimizing invalid votes and therefore commends ECSL.

Assistant to voters with special need was given whenever necessary at polling stations observed.

Polling station layouts were generally conducive with the exception of some with poor lighting conditions, ventilation and access especially for persons with disabilities. In some polling stations, the g7+ EOM observed that the voting booths were organized in a way that that voters could see and notice each other.

During the polling at some stations visited, some party agents were domineering and overbearing tried to put aside the center manager and presiding officers.

Few voters at few stations visited could not be verified due to the lack of their details in the voting register.

Closure and Counting

The period of delay in the opening of the polls was not allotted to extend the closing period at some polling stations.

Votes were counted in full view of party agents, observers, and security personnel.

Counting procedures were largely followed except for some challenges in few stations where the presiding officers had to be corrected by either party agents and/or center manager.

It was observed that the counting at the stations visited was done without major incidents.

Provisional results at polling stations observed were recorded on polling station forms, verified and signed by party agents and copies issued to them.

The Political Environment

The g7+ EOM of observed that the overall political environment around all polling stations was serene friendly and free from political violence, intimidation and influence.

Recommendations

A primary objective of the g7+ EOM is to help improve election management through its recommendations and it is encouraged that the responsible institutions consider the following recommendations:

Pre-Election

Considering the fragility of the country and the nature of elections, a contest for a prize, political parties should exercise restraints in making pronouncements which maybe interrupted by supporters but rather continue to take advantage of the space created for dialogue. Despite what ensued, the g7+ is grateful that both the opposition and ruling parties quickly took measures to restore peace and the voters’ confidence in peaceful elections. In particular, the signing of the “The Sierra Leone Election Pledge” by all political parties is encouraging.

The g7+ EOM appreciated the initiative of the PPRC to have a peace march but was concerned of the absence of stakeholders such as civil society organizations (CSOs) particularly. CSOs represents the interest of the ordinary citizens and as such since should have mobilized its members and the citizenry to join the march. This in our view would have been the united voice of ordinary Sierra Leoneans demanding the political parties adhere to the peace pledge.

The regular updates by ECSL on the preparation for election through press conferences is worth commending.

Elections Day

The lack of dress code of poll workers not being uniformed made it difficult to easily be identified. Voters did not know whom to quickly get to for assistance. The g7+ EOM strongly recommend that a dress code be strictly followed by the polling officials.

Logisticians of the ECSL need to be more meticulous in the deployment of elections materials by referencing their check lists or a final check to ensure all the materials required are sent to the polling centers in time. Also, polling staff should arrange the centers at least 24 hours before polling begins and so to start the opening procedures on time as per the law. The timely opening of the polling centers will not only help in increasing the voters’ turnout but will also enhance the confidence of voters.

Considering the challenges faced in finding ideal locations for polling centers, there is a need to begin conversations on how to manage these challenges of queue management or engage with other EMBs to see how this issue is handled.

The delayed in opening of the polls after the official opening time should be compensated for by extending the time of closing and not be discretionary.

Party agents must abide by the guidelines and not act outside of it. In particular, they should be strictly guided not to touch the sensitive materials.

Polling staff, particularly POs should follow the laid out procedures which are intended to improve efficiency and enhance transparency. The g7+ EOM further recommends for an improvement in polling official training.

Conclusion

The g7+ EOM reiterates that this is an initial assessment of the electoral process for the June 24th June General Election and therefore solicit the continuous cooperation of all political parties and state actors in Sierra Leone.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Download Resource

Download File

The post Women in Peace and Reconciliation Processes appeared first on g7plus.

Preliminary Election Observation Report on the Sierra Leone General Election that was held on Saturday 24th June 2023

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 09:05:52 +0000

Preliminary Election Observation Report on the Sierra Leone General Election that was held on Saturday 24th June 2023

Background of the election observation

Following the g7+ (group of Seven Plus) institutionalized the election observation initiative as part of its peer learning and sharing of experience under its flagship program ‘Fragile to Fragile’ cooperation on 22 March 2023 in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The g7+, as an Inter-Governmental organization of conflict affected countries that helps achieving Peace, and stability through peer learning, is already contributing to good governance, peace, development, and democratic space in member countries, for instance, Timor-Leste’s cooperation in Guinea Bissau and Sao Tome and Principe. Elections are among the most important phases in the trajectory of g7+ countries. They are milestones that determine chances of stability and peace. In line with the vision of the g7+, the members have inspiring lessons to learn from each other. Hence, the key objectives of this initiative amongst others include:
Sharing of experiences in managing elections;
Contributing to enhancing democratic consolidation, strengthening peace and development through election observation amongst g7+ members;
Enhancing to improve Election Management Bodies (EMB) operations through its election observation recommendations;

Introduction

The g7+ Election Observation Mission (EOM) comprising of members accredited by ECSL to observe the general Election in Sierra Leone on 24^th June 2023. The EOM took place during 20-25 June 2023. The members of the mission comprised of:

Habib Urrehman Mayar (Head of Delegation)

Deputy General Secretary of g7+

Domingos Barreto

Vice President of National Election Commission of Timor-Leste

Michael E. Clarke

Deputy Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, National Election Commission of Liberia

Felix Piedade

Chief Operating Officer of g7+

The g7+ EOM observed the process from a standpoint of impartiality, independence, professionalism and objectivity which are in tandem with international best practices of election observation the world over.

It is also important to underscore that the g7+ EOM observed general election within the confines of the electoral legal stipulation of Sierra Leone in reference to “guidelines and code of conduct for observer groups”

Prior to polling, the g7+ EOM also had consultative engagements with the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) to enhance understanding on certain election procedures and to have a comprehensive knowledge on general preparations and effective collaboration of relevant stakeholders in the electoral process. The EOM also met the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC)

The composition of the g7+ EOM on polling day was made up of 2 teams of 2 members each observing a total of 25 polling centers in Rural and Urban Western regions. The methodology adopted for polling day observation was a checklist enabling the teams to observe opening, polling, closure and counting procedures and the general political environment at polling stations.

Pre – Election

The g7+ EOM upon its arrival observed that a rally by Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) was held in Freetown which was peaceful.

Prior to the elections, tension escalated when All Peoples Congress (APC) called on its members and supporters to protest the “refusal of the ECSL to implement its recommendations to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections”.

The EOM joined Peace March was organized by the Political Party Regulatory Commission (PPRC) on 23rd of June that called for non-violent and peaceful election . The Peace March could have been well attended with the participation of Civil society organizations.

The ECSL organized regular press conferences to share updates in regard to preparation for the Election.

The Polling Process

Opening of polls

The polling staff and security personnel at the polling stations visited were very cooperative and helpful with the observers. The Polling Center Managers (PCM) were responsive to questions by observers.

The number of ballot papers received were also shared with the party agents and observers present at the polling stations before the start of the polls.

The g7+ EOM observed in polling stations the presence of national and international observers, media outlets, during the opening of polls at the polling stations visited.

Polling stations that the g7+ EOM visited did not open in time. There were delays that caused frustration among the voters.

The EOM noted that the delay was caused by the late arrival of the voting materials.

Polling

The g7+ EOM observed that most polling officials were knowledgeable on opening procedures. The ballot boxes were sealed in the presence of the party agents and observers who were invited to note the seal numbers. However, there were few who faced challenges in sealing of the boxes.

Queues at polling stations observed were largely peaceful and voters to a greater degree were knowledgeable about the voting process. However, there were some tensions at some stations where voters were struggling to enter the polling stations. This was due to the crowd and long ques. At one polling center that the g7+ EOM visited, the voters had difficulty in entering and even witnessed few female voters who were fainted.

Polling staff deployed at most centers were not uniformed and hence not easily identified. Some of them did not even have display of their ID cards.

It was observed that ballot paper controllers at most polling stations guided the voters in a professional and impartial manner to cast their votes. The g7+ EOM notes that this strategy is an effective tool to minimizing invalid votes and therefore commends ECSL.

Assistant to voters with special need was given whenever necessary at polling stations observed.

Polling station layouts were generally conducive with the exception of some with poor lighting conditions, ventilation and access especially for persons with disabilities. In some polling stations, the g7+ EOM observed that the voting booths were organized in a way that that voters could see and notice each other.

During the polling at some stations visited, some party agents were domineering and overbearing tried to put aside the center manager and presiding officers.

Few voters at few stations visited could not be verified due to the lack of their details in the voting register.

Closure and Counting

The period of delay in the opening of the polls was not allotted to extend the closing period at some polling stations.

Votes were counted in full view of party agents, observers, and security personnel.

Counting procedures were largely followed except for some challenges in few stations where the presiding officers had to be corrected by either party agents and/or center manager.

It was observed that the counting at the stations visited was done without major incidents.

Provisional results at polling stations observed were recorded on polling station forms, verified and signed by party agents and copies issued to them.

The Political Environment

The g7+ EOM of observed that the overall political environment around all polling stations was serene friendly and free from political violence, intimidation and influence.

Recommendations

A primary objective of the g7+ EOM is to help improve election management through its recommendations and it is encouraged that the responsible institutions consider the following recommendations:

Pre-Election

Considering the fragility of the country and the nature of elections, a contest for a prize, political parties should exercise restraints in making pronouncements which maybe interrupted by supporters but rather continue to take advantage of the space created for dialogue. Despite what ensued, the g7+ is grateful that both the opposition and ruling parties quickly took measures to restore peace and the voters’ confidence in peaceful elections. In particular, the signing of the “The Sierra Leone Election Pledge” by all political parties is encouraging.

The g7+ EOM appreciated the initiative of the PPRC to have a peace march but was concerned of the absence of stakeholders such as civil society organizations (CSOs) particularly. CSOs represents the interest of the ordinary citizens and as such since should have mobilized its members and the citizenry to join the march. This in our view would have been the united voice of ordinary Sierra Leoneans demanding the political parties adhere to the peace pledge.

The regular updates by ECSL on the preparation for election through press conferences is worth commending.

Elections Day

The lack of dress code of poll workers not being uniformed made it difficult to easily be identified. Voters did not know whom to quickly get to for assistance. The g7+ EOM strongly recommend that a dress code be strictly followed by the polling officials.

Logisticians of the ECSL need to be more meticulous in the deployment of elections materials by referencing their check lists or a final check to ensure all the materials required are sent to the polling centers in time. Also, polling staff should arrange the centers at least 24 hours before polling begins and so to start the opening procedures on time as per the law. The timely opening of the polling centers will not only help in increasing the voters’ turnout but will also enhance the confidence of voters.

Considering the challenges faced in finding ideal locations for polling centers, there is a need to begin conversations on how to manage these challenges of queue management or engage with other EMBs to see how this issue is handled.

The delayed in opening of the polls after the official opening time should be compensated for by extending the time of closing and not be discretionary.

Party agents must abide by the guidelines and not act outside of it. In particular, they should be strictly guided not to touch the sensitive materials.

Polling staff, particularly POs should follow the laid out procedures which are intended to improve efficiency and enhance transparency. The g7+ EOM further recommends for an improvement in polling official training.

Conclusion

The g7+ EOM reiterates that this is an initial assessment of the electoral process for the June 24th June General Election and therefore solicit the continuous cooperation of all political parties and state actors in Sierra Leone.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Download Resource

Download File

The post Preliminary Election Observation Report on the Sierra Leone General Election that was held on Saturday 24th June 2023 appeared first on g7plus.

Report of the g7+ Election Observation Mission (EOM) on the Legislative Elections in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau that was held on June 4, 2023

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 09:55:02 +0000

Report of the g7+ Election Observation Mission (EOM) on the Legislative Elections in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau that was held on June 4, 2023

Context Of Election Observation

In the background of the experience in election observation that the g7+ accompanied in the elections in Timor-Leste (2017,2022) and Sierra Leone (2018), the group has institutionalized the g7+ Election Observation Mission initiative on 22nd of March 2023 at the premises of the Ministry of Planning and Development of the Republic of Sierra Leone.

As an intergovernmental organization of conflict-affected countries, the g7+ promotes peace and stability and observes the democratization process through the holding of free, fair, transparent, credible, and acceptable elections in member states.

Based on one of the g7+’s Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation programs, the g7+ Election Observation Mission will not only help member states observe elections, but also provide an opportunity for learning and sharing of electoral experiences among member states.

The main objectives of this initiative include:
To share experiences in election management.
To contribute to strengthening democratic consolidation, peace and development by sharing experiences in the effective conduct of elections in g7+ member states.
Improving the operations of Electoral Management Bodies (EMBs) through election observation recommendations.

Introduction

Through a presidential Decree issued on Friday, 16th December 2022, His Excellency General Umaro Sissoco Embalo, President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, called the electorate to the legislative elections to be held on Sunday, 4th June 2023.

In this election, 22 political parties and coalitions of political parties (Annex I) were authorized to run in the process, in a country where there are more than 50 legalized parties. This diversity of parties and coalitions reflected the political plurality present in Guinea-Bissau’s electoral scenario.

The Electoral National Commission (CNE) of Guinea-Bissau reported that a total of 893,618 voters (434,009 men and 459,609 women, including 35,816 (22,181 men and 13,635 women) from the diaspora were registered to participate in the elections. These voters are divided into 3,516 polling stations across the country.

Although there are more women voters registered than men voters, however, in terms of women’s participation, only 25.98% were registered as candidates on the political parties’ lists. This percentage is lower than the 36% provided in Law 48/2018, is Guinea-Bissau’s parity law that establishes a minimum quota of 36% women in candidate lists for legislative elections.

Following the invitation letter N.Ref: 098/GP/CNE/2023 from the President of the National Elections Commission (CNE) of Guinea-Bissau (annex ii) to the g7+ to participate as an International Observer, alongside other international organizations such as; ECOWAS, African Union, CPLP, International Organization of Francophonie, European Union, as well as the Representatives of the Russian Federation, Venezuela Republic, Brazil and also has more than 200 monitors of the Civil Society in the Legislative Elections of the country.

The main objective of the Mission is to observe the stages of the electoral process, to assist and share lessons with the institutions and other parties involved in the elections to work towards free, transparent, and peaceful elections.

The g7+ Election Observation Mission (EOM) consists of 7 observers including CNE representatives from some g7+ member states and technical teams from the g7+ Secretariat.

The members of the g7+ EOM delegation were the following:
Helder da Costa, General Secretary of g7+ (Head of Mission).
Carlito Martins, Representative of the CNE of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste.
Nito de Sousa Viegas de Abreu, Representative of the CNE of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe.
Philips Fara Kargbo, Representative of the National Electoral Commission of the Republic of Sierra Leone
Ezequel de Rosa das Neves, TV Education Journalist from Timor-Leste.
Elísio Francisco Monteiro Valadares, Protocol and partnership Liaison Officer of g7+.
Reliquia Mendes Gonçalves, Executive Assistant for GS and DGS of g7+.

The mission was also joined by Mr. Fernando Borja Araújo Monteiro, Representative of the CNE of Guinea-Bissau, and Mr. Francisco Zacarias Costa Pereira, g7+ Focal Point in Guinea-Bissau, who actively accompanied and collaborated in all stages of the process.

Pre – Election

The g7+ MOE delegation began its mission in Guinea-Bissau on the 1^st of June 2023, and observed the last day of campaigning by political parties in the city of Bissau. It was surprising to see several opposition parties and the current ruling party campaigning in the city of Bissau without any reports of inappropriate behavior or disturbances. The security agents were also sociable. This is a clear demonstration of the political maturity of the people of Guinea-Bissau with respect to political opponents and political tolerance. This lesson will certainly be shared with other g7+ member states.

During its mission, the delegation paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency the Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Integration, who is the g7+ focal point in the country. The g7+ General Secretary who is also Head of Mission of the g7+ EOM outlined the work that the g7+ has been developing and involved in over the last few years.

In addition, the delegation paid a courtesy visit to the interim president of the CNE, to thank him for the invitation made to g7+ to participate as an International Observer in this election and to thank the president for having sent a representative of the CNE of Guinea-Bissau to the Parliamentary Elections in Timor-Leste last 21^st of May 2023. g7+ also expressed its cooperation to include a representative of the CNE to the elections in the next months in the member States of the organization. This meeting also provided the interim president of CNE with a broad understanding of the electoral procedures, the ongoing preparations, and the perspectives of the different political actors, thus contributing to a comprehensive and informed analysis of the electoral situation.

The delegation had the opportunity to visit the Cellule de Monitor Election, the Electoral Monitoring Cell works directly with Guinea-Bissau’s civil society with the support of UNDP and provided statistical data on Guinea-Bissau’s elections (annex iii).

The Chief of Mission also had a meeting with the Chief of Mission of the CPLP and representatives of the International Organization of the Francophonie (OIF).

The delegation also held meetings with the leaders of the PAIGC (African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde) parties. The head of the EOM presented the objective of the Mission and made available the cooperation to give continuity to the work developed with Guinea-Bissau to date. For his part, the party leader clarified the main objectives of the party in leading Guinea-Bissau to a better future. However, the PAIGC deplored the interference of the President of the Republic in the electoral campaign. It also reported the refusal of airport authorities to allow the party’s-chartered plane carrying all campaign material to land at Bissau airport. But this incident luckily did not hinder the smooth running of the process. (Doc. In annex iv).

The EOM also had a meeting with the leaders of PRS (Partido Renovação Social). The party leader explained the objectives of the party and outlined these objectives in the campaigns and rallies. the PRS also raised the same complaint to the CNE regarding the use of the image of the President of the Republic in the political campaign by one of the parties. And expressed the party’s indignation at some unhappy statements made by the Head of State.

After the election, by invitation of His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and Public Order the EOM delegation had a courtesy visit to his office. The General Secretary of the g7+ (Head of Mission of the g7+ EOM), presented his congratulations for the way the government and authorities of Guinea-Bissau conducted the election successfully and peacefully. The Chief of Mission also submitted a copy of the statement of the g7+ EOM released for the joint session of observers.

Observations Of The Polling Day

On voting day, the g7+ EOM delegation was divided into three teams with 2 members in each team. Each observer was equipped with observation worksheet with questionnaires to guide them (in appendix v). The teams were able to observe 68 polling stations, covering 7 constituencies (Círculo Eleitoral) in 2 regions (Bissau and Biombo).

The Polling Process

Opening of the polls

It was observed that in all polling stations visited, voting started on time, as polling station staff were already in the various polling stations before 7:00 am. There was adequate voting material in all polling stations visited and most of the layout of the polling stations was in accordance with CNE procedures.

Voting Process

During the voting process, the team observed that most polling stations were well organized and orderly. Polling station members were easily identified with their vests and ID cards. However, political party agents could not be easily identified with any kind of identification. Nevertheless, what caught the observers’ attention was the grouping of some polling stations in a certain area and the fact that some polling booths were exposed, which did not fully guarantee the secrecy of the vote.

Electoral cards were requested by polling station staff at all polling stations to prevent any individual from being allowed to vote without an electoral card. However, there were several complaints concerning people with electoral cards but whose names were not on the electoral roll. This prevented them from exercising their civic rights.

In most cases assistance was provided to voters with special needs. Nevertheless, in some polling stations this procedure was not followed accordingly. Most voters were familiar with the voting process. This helped in processing voters in a timely manner.

The participation of other international observers on the ground during the g7+ EOM team’s visit to polling stations was remarkable. This helped to provide confidence to both voters and polling staff during the voting process.

Closing and counting

Polling stations closed on time as there were no voters in the queue. Polling station members observed all closing procedures. The ballot boxes were opened in the presence of political party agents and observers present.

Reconciliation was carried out accordingly, with the consent of the political party agents. Counting was conducted in accordance with CNE procedures. However, the counting process could be improved in the future. Political Party agents signed the results and unused ballots. Copies of the results were delivered to party agents and copies were posted accordingly.

In all polling stations where the team observed the counting process, only two invalid votes were recorded. This demonstrates voters’ level of understanding of the process.

Recommendations

Given the observation, the g7+ EOM leaves the following recommendations:

Pre-Election

The CNE should make a conscious effort to update the voter registers before any election is held. This will help avoid the anomaly and guarantee the right of citizens to vote in the next elections.

The need for the CNE to provide accreditation of political party agents to allow their identification and avoid any form of identity usurpation.

In order to make the electoral process more effective and efficient, it is necessary to strengthen and invest in adequate capacity building for polling station staff;

The counting process needs to be more standardized at the national level and simplified to speed up the tabulation of results.

Post-Election

In the post-election period, the g7+ EOM recorded a relatively high turnout and noted that the situation was peaceful and orderly and that procedures were well controlled.

Joint Session for the Preliminary Results Declaration

The g7+ EOM was invited to participate in the joint session of the Heads of Mission in the presentation of the preliminary results of the legislative elections in Guinea-Bissau. The joint session took place in the auditorium of the Hala Hotel in Bissau on June 06, 2023, at 15:00 hours, with the participation of ECOWAS, African Union, CPLP and International Organization of Francophonie (IOF). In the presence of national and international press as well as the presence of high international entities accredited in Guinea-Bissau, (Statement in annex vi).

Conclusion

Despite the restricted circulation of vehicles on voting day, the electors turned out in large numbers to vote for the political party of their choice.

The elections took place in a peaceful environment with no evidence of intimidation, campaigning or vote buying inside the polling stations.

The experiences of Timor-Leste (May 21, 2023) and Guinea-Bissau (June 4, 2023) will be replicated in the upcoming months in some of the g7+ member states that will hold elections in their respective countries, such as the Republic of Sierra Leone, Liberia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

On behalf of the g7+ Election Observation Mission, we would like to congratulate the government and people of Guinea-Bissau for holding their legislative elections in a very peaceful environment. We would also like to thank the President of the CNE of Guinea-Bissau for inviting us to witness the conduct of the legislative elections in Guinea-Bissau. We must state that we admire the behavior of all political parties and supporters during the campaigns and on election day.

We commend the people of Guinea-Bissau for having shown political maturity and tolerance in choosing the direction of their country’s destiny. As representatives of post-conflict countries such as Sierra Leone, Timor-Leste, Sao Tome and Principe, we were able to learn many lessons during the conduct of these elections that are worth sharing. The civilian nature of security during the campaigns and on election day is commendable.

Finally, the g7+ EOM calls on all stakeholders in the electoral process to respect the regulatory channels for publishing the results of signed agreements and refrain from any proclamation of results outside the official channels. The Mission also encourages the parties involved to resort exclusively to legal means in case of dispute.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

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Preliminary Election Observation Report on the Timor-Leste Parliamentary Election that was held on Sunday 21st May 2023

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Sun, 21 May 2023 10:30:21 +0000

Preliminary Election Observation Report on the Timor-Leste Parliamentary Election that was held on Sunday 21st May 2023

Background of the election observation.

Following the g7+ (group of Seven Plus) observation of elections in Timor-Leste (2017, 2022) and Sierra Leone (2018), the group institutionalized the election observation initiative as part of its peer learning and ‘Fragile to Fragile’ cooperation program on 22 March, 2023 in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The g7+, as an Inter-Governmental organization of conflict affected countries that helps achieving Peace, and stability through peer learning, is already contributing to good governance, peace, development and democratic space in member countries; for instance, Timor–Leste cooperation in Guinea Bissau and Sao Tome and Principe.

The key objectives of this initiative amongst others include:
Sharing of experiences in managing elections;
Contributing to enhancing democratic consolidation, strengthening peace and development through election observation amongst g7+ members;
Enhancing to improve Election Management Bodies (EMB) operations through its election observation recommendations

Introduction

The g7+ Election Observation Mission (EOM) comprising of 15 members (4 internationals and 11 nationals) accredited by STAE observed the Parliamentary Election of Timor-Leste held on 21^st May 2023. The EOM took place during 15 – 27 May 2023.

The g7+ EOM observed pre polling activities: parliamentary debates by political parties and political party campaigns; polling day activities from a stand point of impartiality, independence, professionalism and objectivity which are in tandem with international best practices of election observation the world over.

It is also important to underscore that the g7+ EOM observed the parliamentary election within the confines of the electoral legal stipulation of Timor-Leste in reference to “Government Decree No. 17/202017 of 12^th May 2017 (Regulations for the oversight, observation and media coverage activities for the election of Deputies to the National Parliament) which spells out the rights and observations of observers in detail”

Prior to polling, the g7+ EOM also had consultative engagements with the Election Management Bodies (STAE and CNE) of Timor-Leste in a bid to foster clarity and understanding on certain election procedures and to have a comprehensive knowledge on general preparations and effective collaboration of relevant stakeholders in the electoral process. Furthermore, the g7+ EOM participated in an international workshop organized by the CNE to share experiences from CPLP and ASEAN countries

The composition of the g7+ EOM on polling day was made up of 5 teams of 3 members each observing a total of 83 polling centres in 3 municipalities (Dili, Manatuto and Liquica). The methodology adopted for polling day observation was a checklist enabling the teams to observe opening, polling, closure and counting procedures and the general political environment at polling stations.

Pre – Election

Political Party Debates

The g7+ EOM observed that the political party debates were well organized and moderated, and fully participated by all 17 political parties which the g7+ EOM considered important for a healthy political society.

The g7+ EOM also noted that there was wider media coverage on radio, television and other social media platforms of these debates which gave opportunity to the public to follow the program live.

The Polling Process

Opening of polls

Opening procedures were generally intact at polling stations observed by the g7+ EOM wherein all materials, polling staff and party agents were present.

The g7+ EOM observed that polling officials were knowledgeable on opening procedures and were easily identifiable in their unique dress code and identification cards which is important for easy identification and distinction between polling staff, agents, voters and other officials.

The g7+ EOM also observed at few polling stations, officials taking of service oath which is consider a good practice bolstering polling staff commitment, dedication and transparency whilst on duty.

The g7+ EOM observed in polling stations the presence of national and international observers, media outlets, during the opening of polls at some polling stations.

Voting started on time at polling stations that were observed by the g7+ EOM

Polling

Queues at polling stations observed were largely peaceful and voters to a greater degree were knowledgeable about the voting process.

It was also observed for most of the polling stations that mobile phones and other belongings of voters were not allowed inside the polling stations which is a reinforcement to guaranteeing vote secrecy.

The g7+ EOM observed that ballot paper controllers at most polling stations guided the voters in a professional and impartial manner to cast their votes. The g7+ EOM notes that this strategy is an effective tool to minimizing invalid votes and therefore commends STAE on this.

Assistant to voters with special need was given whenever necessary at polling stations observed.

Polling station layouts were generally conducive with the exception of very few with poor lighting conditions, access especially for persons with disabilities. In few polling stations, the g7+ EMO observed that ballot boxes and voting screens were isolated in small rooms or compartments creating a barrier for agent to effectively observe the process.

Closure and Counting

The g7+ EOM observed that polling ended at 3 pm according to voting procedure.

Votes were counted in full view of party agents, observers, and voters.

Counting procedures were largely followed except for inconsistencies in some polling stations.

It was further observed that vote tallying by polling officials at times did not resonate with the parallel tallying of agents which in few cases warranted recounts, this is considered as time consuming.

Provisional results at polling stations observed were recorded on polling station forms, verified and signed by party agents and copies issued to them.

The g7+ EOM, however, observed that some polling centre results were not posted at the vicinity of polling centres for public consumption as stated by the STAE procedure.

At most counting stations, counting lasted till 9 pm or later at night particularly for centres with more voter rolls. It was, however, comparatively faster than the 2022 Presidential Election.

The Political Environment

The g7+ EOM of observed that the overall political environment around all polling stations was serene friendly and free from political violence, intimidation and influence.

Recommendations

A primary objective of the g7+ EOM is to help improve EMB operations through its election observation recommendations and it is encouraged that the responsible institutions to consider the following recommendations:

Political parties to encourage women to participate as representatives in political party activities as a way of broadening the political space for inclusivity and participation.

The g7+ EOM recommends for an improvement in polling official training.

It is recommended that counting be done at polling stations instead of polling centres.

The g7+ EOM recommends that there should be separate voter registers in each of the polling centres to prevent multiple voting.

Conclusion

The g7+ EOM reiterates that this is an initial assessment of the electoral process for the May 21st Parliamentary Election and therefore solicit the continuous cooperation of all political parties and state actors in Timor-Leste.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

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Report of the III g7+ Women Forum Relatório do III Fórum Mulheres g7+

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 03:44:32 +0000

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II g7+ WOMEN FORUM: Equal Pay for Equal Work

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 03:40:07 +0000

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European Conference For Support And Solidarity With The Saharawi People

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 03:16:53 +0000

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Mr. Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+ delivered remarks Accelerating Progress Towards Zero Hunger (SDG2) in Fragile and Least Developed Countries in a Polycrisis World- 9 Jul 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 05:19:28 +0000

Mr. Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+
High-Level Political Forum: Accelerating Progress Towards Zero Hunger (SDG2)
in Fragile and Least Developed Countries in a Polycrisis World

Excellencies, ladies, and gentlemen

On behalf of the g7+ group, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and the Republic of Chile for their leadership in helping address food insecurity and malnutrition in conflict-affected countries through social protection initiatives.

Least developed countries, particularly those plagued by conflict, face unique and multifaceted challenges in achieving Zero Hunger. These challenges are exacerbated by the convergence of multiple crises, including conflict, climate change, economic instability, and health emergencies. Hunger and malnutrition are among the devastating legacies of decades of war and conflict in g7+ countries. Conflicts destroy food systems, weaken social and economic foundations, and undermine our resilience. Global crises further stress these countries, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations and increasing inequality.

Building resilient food systems is crucial for achieving Zero Hunger. This involves enhancing agricultural productivity, constructing necessary infrastructure, and improving market access for smallholder farmers. However, it is equally important to protect vulnerable populations and reduce inequality through social protection measures and ensures that no one is left behind. As Professor Devereux has highlighted, social protection plays a critical role in enhancing food availability, access, nutrition and stability through various policy instruments.

Excellencies, ladies, and gentlemen

Global reports consistently show that conflict is a major driver of hunger. Wars disrupt supply chains, restrict access to food sources, and trigger economic shocks. Moreover, Food insecurity and malnutrition are also catalysts for conflict and instability which in turn, create and worsen conditions of hunger and malnutrition, perpetuating a vicious cycle. g7+ cuntries understand this reality all too well.

Conflicts create societal schisms that persist over time. Addressing these divisions is a major challenge post-conflict, and if left unaddressed, they can lead to further conflicts. Without pursuing lasting peace through reconciliation, development efforts have limited impact. Social protection programs aimed at addressing food insecurity can promote national and social cohesion, contributing to nationwide resilience and stability. Moreover, government-led social protection initiatives can redefine and strengthen the social contract between the state and its citizens when no one has to go to bed, school or work hungry. By doing so, they uphold the promise of equal opportunity and shared prosperity for all, investing in the wellbeing and capabilities of all without distinction.

By prioritizing the well-being of the most vulnerable and marginalized, social protection strengthens the social fabric of our society, recognizing that “society is as strong as its weakest link.” By promoting social cohesion and breaking the intergenerational transmission of poverty and vulnerability, these social and public programs contribute to addressing the underlying causes of conflict and social instability.

They also foster trust in government and public institutions that serve the interests of the broader population, not just a privileged few
In this context, I offer three key points from our perspective:
Social protection towards achieving zero hunger and malnutrition should be integral to the pursuit of lasting peace and stability. These efforts enhance the responsiveness and legitimacy of state institutions, bridging societal divisions that are both the immediate impacts and root causes of wars. National ownership is crucial to the effectiveness of this approach. Including citizens and communities in the design and implementation of social protection is essential.
Political Commitment: High-level political commitment is essential for accelerating progress towards Zero Hunger. Providing social protection is the ultimate responsibility of states. Governments, therefore, must prioritize food security in their national agendas, allocate sufficient resources, and implement policies that address the structural causes of hunger. Accountability mechanisms should be in place to monitor progress and ensure that commitments are translated into action. The taskforce on social protection is a step in the right direction, offering a platform for sharing lessons and inspiring political will.
Achieving Zero Hunger in a polycrisis world requires robust international cooperation and partnerships. The global community must unite to provide financial support, technical assistance, and capacity-building initiatives crucial for conflict-affected and least developed countries. Multilateral institutions, donor agencies, the private sector, and civil society organizations must collaborate to create a cohesive and coordinated response. In addition, iniatives such as the global network against food crises, Humaniterial Dvelopment Peace nexus Coalition, and the Global Task Force on Social Protection for Nutrition, Human Capital, and Local Economic Development are meaningful forums that can convene experites and reosurces to address the inter-related challenges and puruse stability and resilience.

Excellencies ladies and gentlemen, Social protection stands not only as a shield against adversity but also as a cornerstone of sustainable development and peace-building efforts. It is an investment in a future where every individual can thrive, contributing to a more resilient and equitable society where the unavoidable essential need of nutritious foods can be meet everyday, several times a day from everyone’s first to last breath.

In a world beset by multiple crises, achieving Zero Hunger in least developed and conflict-affected countries is a formidable challenge. However, with concerted efforts, innovative solutions, and strong international cooperation, significant strides can be made towards this goal. The g7+ reiterates its commitment to being part of this initiative. Let us reaffirm our dedication to ending hunger and work together to create a future where no one goes to bed hungry.

Thank you.

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Mr. Habib Mayar talking points on Rebuilding Hope- Advancing Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development in Africa – 03 July 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 05:09:18 +0000

Talking Points for Habib Mayar
Rebuilding Hope: Advancing Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development in Africa
Wednesday 3 July 2024 at 9:00 – 10:15 (GMT +3)

Question:
In light of the g7+ engagements and interventions, what are the successful examples of implemented programmatic approaches/interventions and partnership that can inform and support the implementation of the AU PCRD Policy and contribute to resilience-building efforts across the continent?

Suggested Answers:
1. In the outset, I would like to emphasize that the very principles of the AU’s PCRD policy are assurance for its success given these principles are realized. They include African leadership, national and local ownership, inclusiveness, equity and non-discrimination, cooperation and cohesion, and capacity building for sustainability.

2. These are principles that the g7+ have always advocated for and indeed stands for these principles in our global discourse.

3. In addition, experiences from the g7+ countries and around the world have shown that post conflict-reconstruction and development take firmer roots on the process of national truth, reconciliation and dialogue. While I am not sure what has been the explicit policies of the AU, dialogue and reconciliation pursue national cohesion and unity which guarantees prevention of conflict that many conflict affected countries are prone to.
Successful Examples of Programmatic Approaches/Interventions and Partnerships by the g7+
Country-Led Fragility Assessments embedded in the principles of New Deal for engagement in fragile states have been effective tool to identify the root causes of fragility, involving local communities, government institutions, and international partners. It Provided a clear understanding of the country’s vulnerabilities and informed the development of targeted interventions, aligning national priorities with international support.

Economic Empowerment and Job Creation Initiatives such as Afghanistan National Solidarity Program focused on the community-driven development projects to create jobs and build local infrastructures. This helps in empowering local communities, provided economic opportunities, and reduced the appeal of insurgent groups by addressing economic grievances.
Partnerships envisioned on farsighted goals of self-reliance, lasting peace and sustainable development. The New Deal compacts were partnership frameworks (such as that in Somalia) were supposed to coordinate development efforts and strengthen the country leadership. It has helped in aligning and international support to the national priorities.
Facilitating regional dialogues and cooperation among African countries to address cross-border issues and share best practices will help in regional stability and security. The continent of Africa is bestowed with natural potential that can spur regional growth and development.
In the current geo-political and geo economic fragmentation, mobilizing international support and resources through partnerships with international organizations, donors, and the private sector are key factors to pursue resilience.
Integrating Peacebuilding into National Development Plans. AU needs to encourage countries to incorporate peacebuilding goals into their national development strategies and plans. The HDP nexus….!
Finally National ownership and leadership are critical for the success of peacebuilding and development initiatives. Ensuring that local actors are at the forefront of planning and implementation enhances the sustainability and effectiveness of interventions.

By leveraging these successful approaches and lessons learned, the g7+ can significantly contribute to the implementation of the AU PCRD Policy and resilience-building efforts across the African continent.

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Dr. Helder da Costa, General Secretary of g7+ delivered Opening remarks on g7+ Senior official meeting-30th April-01 May 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 04:56:33 +0000

Statement – overview of agenda
for Dr. Helder Da Costa
The g7+ senior Officials Meeting
Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel, Sierra Leone, 30 April – 01 May 2024

Honorable Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone,

Excellency Madam Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of Planning and Economic

Development of Sierra Leone and Chair of g7+,

Distinguished senior officials from the g7+ member countries,

Excellencies, ladies, and gentlemen,

A very good morning to all of you.

I am deeply honored to extend a warm welcome to each of you as we gather here in Freetown, Sierra Leone, for the g7+ Senior Official Meeting. Hosted by the Ministry of Planning and Development Cooperation of the Republic of Sierra Leone, this two-day gathering holds immense significance as the first in-person meeting of our esteemed group since 2019, when the COVID-19 pandemic altered the course of our lives.

I also have the privilege of conveying the greetings of His Excellency Xanana Gusmão, the Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and the eminent person of the g7+, who has always championed the values and aspirations of our group with unwavering dedication.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

As we convene today we commemorate the 14th anniversary of the g7+.What began as an informal association of countries has blossomed into a global actor. I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and appreciation for each and every member of our esteemed group. It is through your unwavering support and tireless efforts that the g7+ has emerged as a powerful advocate for peace, stability, and development in conflict-affected and fragile contexts.

I would also like to thank Sierra Leone for its exemplary leadership in chairing the group since 2014. Under different ministers who have assumed this role, Sierra Leone has played a pivotal role in guiding the g7+ and steering its agenda towards greater impact and relevance.

Furthermore, I must express our profound gratitude to the government and people of Timor-Leste for their invaluable support in hosting the secretariat and funding its operations. Without their generosity and unwavering commitment, the g7+ would not have been able to sustain its existence and grow into the influential force that it is today.

Distinguished colleagues,
As we convene today, we find ourselves amidst a world that has been irrevocably transformed by unprecedented challenges. The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has not ushered in the anticipated return to normalcy but rather unveiled a new reality fraught with wars, conflicts, and natural crises. As one crisis subsides, another emerges, leaving us grappling with uncertainty and upheaval.

It is not only global and geopolitical events such as the devastating conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine that cast a shadow over our member countries but also the unforeseen changes within our own borders, including regime transitions, natural disasters, and economic shocks. Peace and stability, once within reach, now seem like distant aspirations as we navigate the complexities of fragility.

In light of these recent global events and the increasing fragmentation in the international community, the g7+ finds itself at a crossroads, faced with both renewed challenges and opportunities. Our meeting today represents a critical juncture for reaffirming our unwavering commitment to promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in conflict-affected and fragile contexts.

In this turbulent world, the g7+ has steadfastly ensured that our voices are heard and our priorities are acknowledged. We have been vocal advocates for peace, reconciliation, and dialogue as essential tools for conflict resolution. As the pressure on available aid resources mounts, we have actively advocated on global platforms to safeguard the rights and interests of conflict-affected countries.

Therefore, this meeting serves as an important opportunity for us to update one another, solicit your invaluable insights, and collectively chart a course forward over the next two days.

Allow me to briefly outline the objectives and expected outcomes of our deliberations:

Our first objective is to evaluate the progress made by the g7+ in recent years and collectively discern the most effective strategies to position our group within the dynamic global landscape. Amidst profound shifts in international politics and the enduring impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative that we critically assess our achievements and chart a course forward that reflects our shared vision and aspirations.

A central focus of our discussions will be to agree upon a strategic direction that will guide our actions and initiatives in the coming years. By enhancing the collective impact of the g7+ through greater consolidation, we aim to amplify our capacity to advocate for the interests of conflict-affected and fragile countries on the global stage.

Sierra Leone stands as a testament to resilience and determination in the pursuit of peace and state-building efforts. As we gather in this beautiful city, we have the invaluable opportunity to exchange experiences and glean insights from Sierra Leone’s remarkable journey. These lessons, rooted in the lived experiences of our fellow member country, can inform and inspire our collective efforts towards promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development.

In closing, I am confident that through constructive dialogue, collaborative engagement, and unwavering dedication, we will emerge from this meeting with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to realize our strategic priorties that we agreed last time we met virtually; namely, promoting peace and stability, pursuing collective advocacy for better engagement and strengthening g7+ as a group. Let us embark on this journey with optimism and resolve, mindful of the profound impact our collective efforts can have on the lives of millions around the world.

With that, I wish us all a productive and fruitful deliberation and have the honor to invite Honorable Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, Vice President of Republic of Sierra Leone for a keynote statement.
Thank you.

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Mr. Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+ delivered Opening Remarks video messages-IDPS Dialogue on Coastal West Africa-25-26 March 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 03:42:30 +0000

OPENING REMARKS
Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+
IDPS Dialogue on Coastal West Africa, Accra, 25 – 26 March 2024

Distinguished representatives of IDPS, good morning. Greetings from the g7+ secretariat. While I regret not being able to join you in person, I’m grateful for our colleagues, Ms. Helche Silvester and Mr. Elísio Valadares, representing us.

I extend my gratitude to the IDPS Secretariat for organizing this regional dialogue and for inviting us to participate.

Sixteen years ago, in 2008, the Third High-Level Forum on Aid Effectiveness in Accra resulted in the Accra Agenda for Action (AAA). It was there that some of the current g7+ members called for the establishment of the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and Statebuilding. The AAA mobilized commitments from both aid recipient and donor countries to coordinate better, be accountable, and prioritize peacebuilding and statebuilding efforts in fragile contexts.

Furthermore, the Accra Agenda for Action made targeted commitments to countries grappling with conflict and fragility. These commitments encompassed conducting joint assessments to comprehend the root causes of conflict, establishing attainable objectives for peacebuilding and state-building, offering customized capacity development assistance, striving for the sustainability of institutions, and bridging the transition from humanitarian to development phases through adaptable support mechanisms.

The tripartite platform of IDPS was established to facilitate dialogue on how to achive these objectives and reforms related to peacebuilding and statebuilding in fragile countries. Its purpose was to promote effectiveness and accountability through open and honest discussions among g7+ member states, peacekeeping and humanitarian organizations, development partners, and civil society. By fostering such dialogue, the platform seeks to ensure that fragile and conflict-affected countries, which have historically borne the brunt of regional and global crises, are not overlooked or marginalized in international efforts for peace and development.

Since then, the political and development landscapes have shifted dramatically. The escalation of crises has disproportionately affected fragile countries, exacerbating poverty, hunger, democratic setbacks, and conflicts. With only six years remaining to achieve Agenda 2030 milestones, the principles outlined in the AAA and the New Deal have become more relevant than ever.

However, despite these principles, the IDPS community has yet to fully deliver on its mandate. Therefore, I hope this meeting can address three key objectives:

1. Based on the trajectory of our countries, it has become evident that addressing fragility and conflicts necessitates not only technical skills but also political will to translate strategies into action effectively. Dialogue and reconciliation are indispensable tools for conflict resolution and fostering cohesion. Given the potential for exploitation of unresolved divisions by current geopolitical and geoeconomic fragmentation, I wish to reaffirm the g7+’s commitment to pursuing dialogue and reconciliation. I call upon regional organizations and the UN to collaborate with us in these efforts. Our pursuit of cross-regional endeavors underscores our unity based on solidarity rather than regional proximity.

2. The International Dialogue for Peacebuilding and Statebuilding (IDPS) serves as a distinct forum representing the collective interests of conflict-affected countries on a global scale. Its purpose is to garner international support for addressing the needs and priorities of such nations. This is particularly crucial in today’s context, where fragile countries risk being overshadowed by emerging crises on the international stage. We sincerely hope that IDPS will leverage its political capital to promote the agenda of peace and stability in countries that have borne the brunt of every global crisis.

3. The g7+ is dedicated to an ambitious agenda of ensuring that fragile countries are not left behind in the global discourse. We have actively engaged in discussions on critical issues such as climate change, international security, and peacebuilding. However, we recognize that realizing this journey requires the support of our international partners, particularly the other two constituencies of IDPS. We call upon them to join forces with us, united in our commitment to advancing the interests of fragile nations and fostering inclusive global development.

Thank you for your attention, and I wish you all fruitful deliberations.

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Dr. Helder da Costa, General Secretary of g7+ delivered welcoming remarks-virtual senior official meeting-05 Feb 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 03:34:50 +0000

Welcoming Remarks
Dr. Helder do Costa
General Secretary of g7+
Senior Official Meeting, 05 February 2024 (Zoom)

Her Excellency, Madam Kenyeh Barlay, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair of g7+

Colleagues Focal Point and Secretariat staff. Thank you for taking your time to attend this Senior Official Meeting.

On behalf of the g7+ secretariat team, I extend our profound gratitude to members for their active engagement and, the government of Timor-Leste for its continuous support.

At the outset, I would like to introduce you all to the New Chair of g7+, H.E. Kenyeh Barlay who has assumed the position as the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, following a successful General Election that was held in Sierra Leone in June 2024. I had the pleasure of briefing Chair in persons in Sierra Leone in September before the UN General Assembly. We thank the Government of Sierra Leone for the continued support and leadership in chairing the g7+.

I also would like to welcome the new Focal Point of Burundi, Somalia and Timor-Leste to this group. I look forward to further strengthening our collaboration.

Since we met February Last year, we have made several milestones that my deputy, Mr. Habib Mayar will share with you in a while. Despite the current geopolitical dynamics shaping international cooperation, the g7+ pursued its mission with even more compassion. I thank our leadership, the chair, eminent person, special envoy and very importantly everny member country for contrinuting to this collective progress.

However, given the scale of challenges we are facing and our own success, we are bound by the responsibility to do even more. We need to set up even higher ambition to achieve the cause of pursuing peace and stability in our member countries. We are expected to play an even more proactive and effective role in addressing the crises we are facing.

It is in this context that the g7+ secretariat took the deliberation to propose the strategic priorities that are responsive to the contemporary challenges we are facing.

Today’s meeting aims at mobilizing our consensus on the strategic priorities for the year 2024. I hope that we will benefit from your insight and feedback.

We hope that the discussion culminates in further strengthening our conviction that together we can help in pursuing stability in this turbulent time.

I thank you for your attention.

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Dr. Helder da Costa, General Secretary delivered interventions at the Peacebuilding Commission ambassadorial meeting, 26 September 2022

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 29 Sep 2022 10:29:44 +0000

FOURTH MINISTERIAL MEETING
KABUL, AFGHANISTAN
23 – 24 March 2016

Communiqué de Kabul

Nous, les Ministres et les Délégués des pays du g7+, nous sommes rencontrés lors de la Quatrième Réunion Ministérielle à Kabul, en Afghanistan, les 23 et 24 mars 2016.

Nous applaudissons le progrès fait tous les pays vers les Objectifs de Construction de la Paix et du Renforcement de l’État. Nous félicitons les peuples et les gouvernements de la République Démocratique du Congo (RDC), de la Guinée, du Liberia et de la Sierra Leone d’avoir triomphé de la crise d‘Ébolaen 2015. Nous félicitons la République Centre africaine (RCA), et le Togo pour leurs électionsréussies et nous attendons avec impatience le processus électoral à venir en Somalie.

Malgré le progrès, de nombreuxdéfis font face ànos pays membres. Nous nous tenons solidaires avec le peuple du Burundi et nous réaffirmons notre engagement d’y voir le rétablissement de la stabilité. Nous nous tenons solidaires du peuple yéménite et nous soutenons les processus de paix en cours. Nous reconnaissons la signature d’un accord de paix au Soudan du Sud et nous encourageons son implémentation. En outre, nous soutenons l’appel de l’Afghanistan pour une coopérationrégionaleorientée vers des résultats pour assurer le succès du processus de paix en Afghanistan et nous soutenons la requête par le Timor Oriental de la reconnaissance de ses droits légitimes sur la délimitation de ses frontières, selon la loi internationale.

Nous réitérons notre résolution envers la paix et la réconciliation comme pierres de soutènement pour larésilience et nous soutenons le dialogue politique à cet égard. Nous nous engageons à mobiliser des personnalités influentes venues du g7+pour aider à la promotion de la construction de la paix et du renforcement de l’état. Nous souhaitons collaborer avec les Nations Unieset autres acteurs sur la prévention des conflits dans nos pays. Nous pensons que la Société Civile est un acteur important dans la restauration de la confiance entre les états et les citoyens et dans la promotion de la paix et de la réconciliation. Nous faisons appel à laSociété Civile pour s’engager de façon constructive avec les gouvernements et autres acteurs nationaux dans son aide envers la réalisation d’ententes politiques inclusives.

Comme nous demeurons persuadés que des fondations économiques solides avec une emphase particulière sur la création d’emplois, la responsabilisation des femmes et de la jeunesse et le développement du secteur privé restent essentiels pour soutenir la paix et la résilience, nous faisons appel aux partenaires de développement pour aider les pays du g7+ à soutenir ces fondations. Cela demande plus d’investissements dans le développement de l’infrastructure et des capacités en tant que facilitateurs critiques au développementéconomique. Nous faisons appel aux multilatérales et en particulier au Groupe de la Banque Mondialepour augmenter leur soutien envers le développement du secteur privé dans les pays du g7+, par l’intermédiaire de reformes nationales spécifiques et l’implémentation efficace des politiques déjà en place.

En ligne avec les principes du New Deal, l’aide audéveloppement a besoin de débrider le potentieléconomique de nos pays et de promouvoir l’autonomie. L’aide audéveloppement doit êtreallouée par les pays récipients et dépensée par des systèmes nationaux. Cela assurera la possession du développementà l’échelon national. Nous reconnaissons les résultats et les recommandations de la Revue indépendante du New Deal pour l’Engagement dans les Pays Fragiles et nous nous engageons de nouveau envers l’implémentation du New Deal et ré affirmons notre partenariat envers le dialogue International sur la Construction de la Paix et la Construction de l’État.

Nous souhaitons la bienvenue au lancementdu Programme 2030 et nous nous engageons à l’implémentation contextuelle des Objectifs de DéveloppementDurable (ODDs), dans nos pays membres. En particulier, nous nous engageons à donner priorité et à rapporter ensemble les Progrèsachevés par rapport à la liste entendue des indicateurs ODDs (liste à confirmer d’ici mai) par l’intermédiaire du portal établi au Secrétariat du g7+ et qui utilise les principes du New Deal pour réaliser les ODDs. Nous continuerons àpartager nos expériences par le biais de la Coopération FragileFragile dans la construction de la Paix et le Renforcement de l’État selon un esprit de volontariat et de solidarité.

Nous demandons avec insistance aux Nations Unies, et en particulier au PNUD, de mobiliser son soutien envers le g7+ et de tenir une session de hautcalibre au sujet des ODDs a new York.

Nous entérinons le Rapport Annuel 2014-15et le plan de Travail 2016-17et confions la facilitation de son implémentation au Secrétariat du g7+.
Nous concluons nos réunions à Kabul, Afghanistan, avec notre profonde appréciationenvers le gouvernement d’Afghanistan d’avoir été l’hôtegénéreux pour cette Quatrième réunion ministérielle du g7+.
Nous attendons avec impatience la prochaine Réunion Ministérielle en 2017.

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H.E. Xanana Gusmao, Eminent Person of g7+ delivered a Keynote Speech at the g7+ High Level Summit

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 02:57:45 +0000

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H.E. Kenyeh Barla Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair of g7+ High Level Summit – 25 September 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 09:44:35 +0000

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Welcome Remarks
H.E. Kenyeh Barla
Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair of g7+
g7+ High Level Summit – 25 September 2024

His Excellency, Julius Maada Wonie Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, the chairing country of g7+
His Excellency, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and Eminent Person of g7+
Excellencies heads of states and governments from the member countries.
Colleague Ministers
Ambassadors
And distinguished delegates

In my capacity as the Chair of g7+ and on behalf of Sierra Leone, and the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, co-hosts of today’s meeting I am happy to welcome you all to this High-Level Summit “Peace in the World and Peace in the g7+ countries; Shared Challenges and Solutions” and to thank you all for your presence this afternoon.

We are meeting here today, to address the urgency of the most pressing questions of our time facing our countries; And that is how to ensure lasting peace, stability and development at a time where global instability is on rise. Since our last High-level Summit at the UNGA in 2023, the number of conflicts and climate change related incidents have still been on the rise. Food insecurity, extreme poverty and instability keep on endangering lasting peace and development, especially in the g7+ countries. At the same time, the international community is getting increasingly divided by geopolitical disputes and cooperative multilateralism is declining.

With this meeting, we aim to set a strong counterweight to the challenges we face. Now, more than ever, it is our responsibility to demonstrate the unique strength of the g7+ by standing together in unity and solidarity.

Today’s gathering represents the power of dialogue and collective cooperation—pillars that are essential for shaping global policies and addressing the specific challenges that confront our nations.

It is my sincere hope that we agree on how the experiences of some of our members, who have successfully managed to consolidate peace and stability, can guide and support others in our group.

How can we use these valuable lessons not only to inspire but to help each other pursue sustainable peace and development?

Let us also remind ourselves that the g7+ was established 14 years ago in response to the inadequacies of international cooperation in peacebuilding and statebuilding. Our collective resolve to help ourselves, by sharing and applying the lessons we’ve learned from one another, is central to the mission of the g7+. With that in mind, I would like to open this meeting by proposing that countries in our group who have achieved relative peace and stability come together soon to further discuss how their experiences can benefit the rest of our members. This can serve as the foundation for a wider dialogue with all members who are striving for stability and seeking to learn from these shared experiences.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

I am now happy to outline the program of today. First, his Excellency President of Sierra Leone and his Excellency Prime Minister from Timor-Leste will give us the honour by giving their opening remarks as co-hosts. This will follow statements by distinguished heads of delegations from our respective member countries. We will close this meeting with the adaptation of the outcome statement that outlines our common aspiration.

We have simultaneous translation among English and French, Arabic and Portuguese
Without further due, I now have the honour to invite His Excellency Julius Maada Wonie Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, to give his opening remarks

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Climate action in crisis context: opportunities for development and private sector finance

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 09:39:45 +0000

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Closing remarks
H.E. Kenyeh Laura Barlay
Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair of g7+
High-level roundtable – 25 September 2024
“Climate action in crisis context: opportunities for development and private sector finance”

Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

As the Chair of the g7+ and a co-organizer of this event, I extend my sincere gratitude for your participation and valuable input today. While I won’t attempt to summarize our rich discussion, I want to emphasize some critical points for us as a group.

To set the stage: When we discuss climate change and climate action, we are addressing issues of global imbalance.

Firstly, there’s an imbalance between the countries causing climate change and those facing its dire consequences. This imbalance directly affects our discourse on responsibility for climate action.

Secondly, we observe a reversed imbalance when considering the burden bearers. Fragile countries, including many in the g7+, are disproportionately impacted by climate change. Heatwaves, floods, and crop losses are shaping our realities, compounding pre-existing crises and escalating violence, poverty, and instability. Over 50% of the countries most affected by climate change are also grappling with conflict.

This leads to my third point: the imbalance of resource allocation. While wealthier nations possess the resources to adapt to and prepare for climate change, conflict-affected countries like those in the g7+ lack the necessary means to build resilience. Currently, only one-eighth of climate financing is directed toward the most vulnerable countries, despite their pressing needs. Access to these resources is hindered by conditionality restrictions and risk assessments.

We urgently need effective solutions based on international solidarity and climate justice. This means providing low-income and conflict-affected countries with better access to resources. Both international financial institutions and private sector actors have the opportunity to be catalysts for change by overcoming existing barriers and focusing on the potential impact of climate investments.

Let us remember that investing in climate resilience can significantly reduce the costs of humanitarian responses to climate-induced incidents. The developmental potential in many fragile countries offers a considerable return on investment. By channelling funds into sectors like agriculture and infrastructure, the positive impact and benefits can far outweigh the risks involved.

A strategic approach is crucial. Investors can mitigate risks through public-private partnerships, collaborations with international climate funds, and leveraging risk-sharing instruments like guarantees and insurance. Engaging with local communities and aligning investments with national climate priorities can further enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of these initiatives.

Unlocking climate finance in conflict-affected countries is not merely about managing risks—it’s an opportunity to drive substantial returns while promoting resilience, sustainable development, and global climate action.

In this context, the g7+ remains committed to realizing the ambitions outlined in the Recovery, Relief, and Peace Declaration adopted at COP28.

Thank you for your attention.

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Investing in Prevention: Scaling up Peace – A Call to Action for DFIs Official side event at the Summit of the Future

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Sat, 21 Sep 2024 09:33:17 +0000

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Statement by Madam Kenyeh Barlay
Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair of g7+
At the UNGA Side Event
On
Investing in Prevention: Scaling up Peace – A Call to Action for DFIs
Official side event at the Summit of the Future
Saturday, September 21, 16:00-17:15
UNHQ Room CR5

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I am honored to speak at this very important event, the theme of which speaks to the aspiration of people living in fragile situations globally, and in the g7+ countries, including my own country Sierra Leone.

At the outset, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge this joint event’s multi-stakeholder coalition which is reflective of the peculiarity of prevention efforts. Prevention is indeed a multi-pronged approach requiring long term vision and engagement. This event shows our shared commitment to showcasing innovative partnerships and financing mechanisms that integrate peacebuilding and development, specifically leveraging public and private resources for sustainable peace-positive investments.

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen.

Conflicts have been the most pressing challenge that we all face. Countries such as those in the g7+ have faced and are still facing conflicts for decades now. My country, Sierra Leone is no exception, with more than a decade of devastating conflict. Stemming from the consequences of colonization to civil wars, these conflicts have fragmented social and political fabrics. Often unhealed, these fragmentations become the breeding seeds for future conflicts. For Example, 20 plus years of escalating conflict has resulted in Africa’s immense challenges: geopolitical tensions, environmental challenges, food insecurity, a breakdown of multilateral cooperation, and shrinking civic space. These poly-crisis have had a detrimental impact on a regional level, with half the continent living in extreme poverty, having the effect that illicit markets, youth radicalization, and population displacement span across borders.

The sheer cost of halting conflicts, relief and recovery following conflicts is nothing compared to preventing such conflicts. Learning from these experiences, our countries put premium on sustaining peace in countries that have emerged from conflict. These require certain imperatives, a few of which I will highlight here.

Firstly, we must address existing conflicts and pursue dialogue to heal the societal and political wounds caused by conflicts. The process of truth, reconciliation to pursue cohesion, and unity in these countries is the only way out to put the countries on the path of prosperity and stability. My own country, Sierra Leone together with other g7+ countries such as Timor-Leste and others have proven records of such experiences.

Second, we call for financing and investments that are peace-positive and sustainable. conflict affected countries such as those in the g7+ are disproportionately exposed to climate change and environmental risks even though they are among the least contributors to global emissions. Having received minimal climate finance per capita in adaptation financing, regions like the Sahel, the Great Lakes, and the Horn of Africa, the Middle East, Pacific and Caribbean, are struggling with intensifying environmental pressures. Therefore, we are on a much-needed call to long-term resilience-building solutions, such as investment in infrastructure, agriculture and climate resilient development.

As it has been ascertained that preventing a crisis is far preferable to solving one, we call for emphasis to be put on prevention. The DFIs have a critical role to play here. DFIs are generally best placed to help catalyze private investment in FCS, and leverage aid to support peace-promoting investments in these countries. They need to scale up their resources in fragile states. In this regard, it is encouraging that the African Development Bank’s strategy (2022-2026) prioritize prevention over crisis response and puts emphasis on addressing fragility and building resilience. Effective prevention including comprehensive approaches, political courage, effective partnerships, sustainable resources, and national ownership are encouraged for the New Agenda for Peace to succeed.

Partnerships and coalitions such as this around this event today will be critical for the success of the New Agenda for Peace. It will require investing in social development such as education, employment, livelihood, and socio-economic development, all of which are essential for preventing conflict from eruption and for long-term peacebuilding results.

As Governments of fragile states, we must on our part implement effective policy and regulatory changes to create more conducive business and investment environments to facilitate investments from DFIs and private sector.

Thank you once again for gathering here! Let’s work together to put the new agenda for peace into action.

Distinguished guests, ladies, and gentlemen,

In closing, I want to emphasize that our efforts here today are a testament to our shared commitment to creating a future where peace is not only sustained but where the root causes of conflict are addressed before they erupt. The journey towards lasting peace requires collective action, innovative partnerships, and sustained investments in both people and institutions. It also demands political courage, resilience-building, and the empowerment of communities most affected by conflict.

As we’ve discussed, conflict-affected nations like those in the g7+ have shown that peace is achievable with the right combination of reconciliation, dialogue, and peace-positive investments. But we cannot overlook the urgency of addressing the environmental, social, and economic challenges that often compounds conflict. As we move forward, let us focus on long-term solutions that include sustainable development, climate resilience, and investments in our youth and communities.
The new agenda for peace will only be realized through a multifaceted approach that bridges peacebuilding with sustainable development. Let us continue to work together to make this vision a reality, not just for ourselves, but for future generations. I encourage you all to continue engaging with determination, collaboration, and innovation.

Thank you for your time and commitment. Together, we can turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities for peace and prosperity.”

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g7+ Ministerial Meeting ON THE MARGINS OF the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference MONDAY, 26 february 2024, 16h30 to 18h00 (GMT+4)

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 09:18:59 +0000

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Remarks for the Chair of g7+
g7+ Ministerial Meeting
ON THE MARGINS OF the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference
MONDAY, 26 february 2024, 16h30 to 18h00 (GMT+4)
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), Hall 4 Room C

Excellencies (The presence of Presidents of RDTL and Comoros will be recognized union their confirmation)

As we gather here today, I am honored to address in my capacity as the Chair of the group of seven plus or the g7+ as we call it. At the outset, I would like to extend our congratulations to the people and governments of Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and Union of Comoros, two of our esteemed members for completing the accession process to the WTO. This is an important milestone that we believe will prove instrumental in economic development and stability.

Using this opportunity, I also would like to register our appreciation to the esteemed missions of Liberia and Timor-Leste for their role as the co-coordinators of the g7+ WTO accession group. We are equally aware and appreciative of the efforts of Afghanistan who led this group upon its establishment. The g7+ WTO accession group is an important forum that amplifies the voice of countries in transition to peace and stability in the multi-lateral trade system and policies.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen.

We have gathered in this forum on the premise of acknowledging the profound impact that conflict and fragility have on societies and economies. The scourge of conflict not only inflicts immeasurable human suffering but also undermines economic stability and stifles development prospects. Decades of wars and conflict leave behind vulnerable institutions and precarious socio-economic conditions. Despite their inherited potential for prosperity, they face obstacles in benefiting from the benefits of multilateral trade that could otherwise lift them out of poverty and the vicious circle of crises.

In this context, a fair and inclusive multilateral trade system emerges as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change. By facilitating the exchange of goods, services, and ideas across borders, such a system empowers countries such as those in the g7+ to tap into global markets and unlock new opportunities for economic advancement. Trade becomes a pathway to prosperity, offering a lifeline for communities ravaged by conflict and fragility.

The principles of fairness and inclusivity lie at the heart of a robust multilateral trade system that we seek to promote on the forum of the g7+ WTO accession group. Fair trade practices ensure that all countries, irrespective of their size or level of development, have equal access to global markets and can compete on a level playing field. With the inherited potential that includes the natural resources and youthful population in conflict affected countries, these countries can contribute to the shared prosperity.

Crucially, the benefits of a fair and inclusive multilateral trade system extend far beyond economic realms. Trade can serve as a powerful instrument for pursuing peace and stability. It creates numerous opportunities for the youthful populations in these countries to harness their potential. It is a very well-known reality that by generating income, creating jobs, and enhancing livelihoods, trade can uplift communities and empower them to build resilient societies. It becomes a driver of social progress, offering a pathway out of poverty and despair.

However, it is essential to recognize that reaping the full benefits of multilateral trade requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders. Policymakers, international organizations, and the private sector must collaborate to address systemic barriers and inequalities that hinder the participation of conflict-affected and fragile countries in global trade. This includes investing in infrastructure, capacity-building, and institutional reforms to strengthen the trade readiness of these nations and ensure that they can fully benefit from the opportunities offered by the global economy.

It is in this context that the g7+ WTO accession group plays a vital role in amplifying the voice of countries that are in transition. This group provides a forum for the members to share experiences in the spirit of cooperation and solidarity; the 2 vital principles of the g7+.

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize on the power of our collective efforts to facilitate accession of countries to the WTO and our concerted advocacy for peace-centered multilateral trade system; a much needed aspiration in today’s era. Recognizing the increasing geoeconomic and geopolitical fragmentation among the world’s powerful nations, countries in the global south and in particular those represented in this very forum need to join forces to safeguard the wellbeing of nearly 1.5 billion people living in context of fragility. Given that solidarity and cooperation lie at the core of the g7+ group, we reiterate our commitment to facility sharing lessons that can inspire reforms.

I thank you for your attention.

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H.E. Kenyeh Barlay Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair g7+ Building Resilience through scaling up climate action in fragile and conflict-affected settings

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 09:09:38 +0000

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Opening Remarks for
H.E. Kenyeh Barlay
Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair g7+
Building Resilience through scaling up climate action in fragile and conflict-affected settings
Sunday, December 3rd, 2023, 15:30 – 17:00 ¦ Lab 2 Al Jeer

Colleague Ministers
Ambassadors
Distinguished delegates

At the outset, let me express on behalf of the g7+ group our profound gratitude to the COP28 presidency, the government and people of United Arab Emirates for hosting us at this auspicious event. I also thank the presidency for co-hosting this high-level side meeting on Building Resilience through scaling up climate action in fragile and conflict-affected settings.
We commend the leadership of the presidency in launching a day dedicated to Relief, Recovery and Peace. This initiative is close to the hearts people in g7+ group who live in contexts of conflict, fragility and vulnerability.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen.

As the world is facing concurrent crises, few of them are as existential and intractable for the world as climate change. Decades of international negotiations on climate change have yielded little action that would slow climate change. In addition to economic interest that hold developed countries back from reaching consensus on targets to controlling carbon emission, their resilience against climate shocks have made them less sensitive to the severity of climate change. On the other end of the development quantum is the countries in fragile situation that are least responsible for climate change; yet they are rapidly becoming warmer and are feeling the brunt of climate related shocks such as droughts, floods and extreme weather changes.

Extreme hunger, poverty, displacement and environmental degradation are among the most frequent headlines in conflict affected countries. Every report on the impact of climate change confirms that conflict affected courtiers are on the top of the list of most affected countries whereas they account least for emission. According to the global hunger index, out of 44 countries that face alarming levels of hunger, 40 are classified as fragile. An IMF study finds that climate change inflicts more lasting macroeconomic costs in fragile countries. Their inability and lack of sufficient resources to cope with the consequences causes displacement, loss of livelihoods and poverty that persist over time.

The impacts of climate change further put pressure on limited resources that are at the disposal of the state and communities. As a result, and due to increased competition for water, land and agriculture, the threat of conflict increases among the communities that further disrupt the already fragile peace and stability. This complicated interplay of climate change, poverty, conflict and fragility push countries into a vicious circle of vulnerability.

It is against this context that we believe that the declaration on climate, relief, recovery and peace launched a while ago is crucial for the survival of conflict affected countries and their people.

However, the realization of commitments made in the declaration will require political will and paradigm shift in our policies to build resilience. Therefore, we are hopeful that today’s discussion results in menu of solutions that can help us all identify ways to realize the ambition we have set in the declaration.

Therefore, I would like to conclude my remarks by sharing our collective aspiration of the g7+ in 2 points:

First:

The declaration launched today should constitute policy inputs in the global discourse on building resilience in conflict affected countries through accelerated actions and finances. We hope that the ambition demonstrated in endorsing the declaration by number of countries and states is maintained in its retaliation. The g7+ group commits to maintain this partnership in realizing the declaration together with the COP28 presidency and other partners.

Second:

Building resilience requires in conflict affected countries require a nexus approach that includes consideration for building peace, stability and institutions through an integrated approach. By now the nexus approach has become a normative phenomenon in theory. However, we need to realize this in approach in action.

Third and last:

Building resilience and coping capacity in fragile countries require increased financial resources.   According to the recent reports fragile countries face severe financing gap they only receive 1/80th of per capita of climate financing in comparison to non-fragile contexts. This also relates to the structural challenges of the global financial system. We hope that climate finances reach those people who are most in need and policies in accessing them are relaxed for conflict affected countries that need special attention.

With that, I thank you and wish you a productive deliberation.

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Opening Remarks (Video Recorded Message) of H.E. Kenyah Barley, Chair of g7+ at the Occasion of The 3rd Conference on State Fragility in Lisbon, Portugal 20 October 2023

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 08:46:57 +0000

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Opening Remarks (Video Recorded Message) of H.E. Kenyah Barley, Chair of g7+
at the Occasion of
The 3rd Conference on State Fragility in Lisbon, Portugal
20 October 2023

Excellency Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste and Eminent person of g7+
Excellency João Gomes Cravinho, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Portugal
Excellency Ambassador Francisco Seixas da Costa, President of Club of Lisbon
Excellency Elizabeth Sephar, UN Assistant Secretary General for Peacebuilding Support
Fellow Ministers of g7+ Member States and Panelists
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen

A very good morning from Freetown, Sierra Leone.

At the outset, I would like to express how honored and humble I am to assume the role of g7+ chair from my predecessor, Dr. Francis Kai-Kai, the former Minister of Planning and economic development of Sierra Leone. In my capacity the Chair of g7+, this is my second meeting with the esteemed members of international partners.

I would like to welcome you all to the 3^rd Conference on State Fragility; “Global Challenges and their Impact on Conflict Affected States” in Lisbon. I thank the g7+ Secretariat and Club of Lisbon for organizing this conference, the theme of which speaks to the heart of overcoming the crises the world is going through. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen

This Conference is happening at a time where the world is going through unprecedented challenges whose impact has been disproportionately affected conflict affected countries such as those in the g7+.

The group of Seven Plus (g7+) that is made up of countries which continue to experience some of the most extreme levels of conflict and fragility, was among the major advocates for SDG 16. As a group of countries, we have collectively learned through our experiences that lasting peace, effective state institutions and access to justice are key pillars to stability, development and resilience.

Today’s global crises (polycrisis) like rising conflict, hunger, epidemics, inflation, economic shocks, the aftermath of the pandemic and worsening disasters fueled by a changing climate—have had the worst impacts on countries affected by conflict and fragility. Even before the pandemic, analysis from the Brookings Institution showed that 31 countries dealing with fragility were the most severely off track to meet the SDGs.   This dilemma has only worsened after COVID 19 pandemic. The OECD now estimates that a staggering 86% of the world’s extreme poor will live in fragile contexts by 2030. This is a 6% rise from pre-covid estimates.

To confront these challenges, we need collective actions. With the deepening division and multipolarity in international conduct, space for humane solidarity has been shrinking. Our countries are being particularly affected by this waning cooperation underpinned by humanity as its pillars.

However, the very composition of the g7+ group demonstrates that solidarity, humanism and empathy can still determine international relation.

And this is exactly why we are convening today. We aim at developing consensus among our international partners and member states on how best to promote peace and stability, cooperation among ourselves. We would like to hear the perspective of members and our partners on how best to galvanize resources to mitigate the impact of the compounding risks of conflicts, climate change, hunger and poverty our people are facing.

Against this background, I would like to leave you with few points as “food for thoughts” in this conference:

First, make Peace and stability a central focus of the Global Goals agenda in this last decade of action so that we can “leave no one behind” in countries that remain severely off track to meet the SDGs.

Second, multilateralism is the only vehicle that can help in overcoming any shared challenge and its long-lasting impacts. We call upon the United Nations to take the lead in the global response to the ongoing crisis.

Third, resilience founded on the inherent potential of every country should be the guiding agenda for the SDGs. In this age of complex crises, we must embrace resilience as a new framework and language for dealing with increasingly severe risks, compounding crises and their political and economic root causes.

Lastly, we call for a joint commitment by partners in the spirit of partnership to work through and support government-led country platforms in conflict and fragility-affected countries.

I thank you for your attention and wish you fruitful deliberation.

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H.E. Kenyeh Barla Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair g7+ g7+ High Level Side Event – 22 September 2023

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 08:38:45 +0000

Recources

Welcome Remarks
H.E. Kenyeh Barla
Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair g7+
g7+ High Level Side Event – 22 September 2023

His Excellency, Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone
His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, President of Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and the Special Envoy of g7+.
Other dignitaries (TBC)
Colleague Ministers
Ambassadors
Distinguished delegates

I warmly welcome you all to this High Level Summit “Increasing global solidarity, sustaining Peace and building resilience in countries affected by conflict and fragility.

On behalf of Sierra Leone, the Chairing Country of the g7+, and the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, host of the g7+ Secretariat, I thank you all for presence this morning with us.

At the outset, I would like to express how honored and humble I am to assume the role of g7+ chair from my predecessor, Mr. Francic Kai-Kai, the former Minister of Planning and economic development of Sierra Leone. In my capacity the Chair of g7+, this is my first meeting with the esteemed members of the g7+.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

This summit is happening at a time where the world is going through unprecedented challenges whose impact has been disproportionately harsh on conflict affected countries such as those in the g7+. To confront these challenges, we need collective actions. With the deepening division and multipolarity in international conduct, space for humane solidarity has been shrinking. Our countries are being particularly affected by this waning cooperation underpinned by humanity as its pillars.

However, the very composition of the g7+ group demonstrates that solidarity, humanism and empathy can still determine international relation.

And this is exactly why we are convening today.

Today we aim at developing consensus among our membership on how best to promote our peace and stability the UN. We would like to hear the perspective of members and our partners on how best to galvanize resources to mitigate the impact of the compounding risks of conflicts, climate change, hunger and poverty our people are facing.

Without further due, I would like to outline the program. We will have the honor to hear the opening remarks from Excellency Presidents of Sierra Leone and Timor-Leste. Then we will hear from the g7+ secretariat to update us on the progress we have made since the last time we the group convened during the UNGA. Then we will hear statements from our member countries and Partners present today. At the end of the summit, we will adapt the outcome of the summit, a draft of which is circulated.

We have simultaneous translation between English and French.

Now I have the honor to Invite…..

*****The annotated agenda will follow******

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H.E. Francis Mustafa Kai-Kai, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair of g7+ delivered Welcome remarks at the g7+ High-Level Summit 2022, 23 September 2022

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 06:49:32 +0000

Recources

Welcome Remarks
H.E. Francis Mustapha Kai-Kai, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair g7+
g7+ High-Level Summit, 23 September 2022

Honorable Jose Ramos Horta, President of Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, and the Special Envoy of g7+.
H. E. Abdelbaggi Ayii Akol, Vice President of South Sudan.
H.E. Xanana Gusmão, Eminent Person of g7+

Fellow Ministers
Ambassadors
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen

I warmly welcome you all to this High-Level Summit: “Conflict Prevention in a Multipolar World: Perspective from g7+ countries” holding on the margins of the 77^th session of the UN General Assembly.

Let me at the outset thank the permanent mission of Principality of Monaco for graciously hosting here. We are indeed grateful.

Excellencies, on behalf of Sierra Leone, the Chairing Country of the g7+, and the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, host of the g7+ Secretariat, let me express our appreciation for your eminence presence here this afternoon. Your perspective will contribute to the important discourse on what is needed for g7+ and other countries in fragile situations, who face the heaviest burden of the negative impact of the COVID 19 Pandemic and the current geopolitical turmoil marked by War on Ukraine to pursue lasting peace in the face of extreme poverty, rising food prices and climate induced disasters.

This is the first high level gathering of the members of g7+ that is happening in person in the aftermath of Covid-19 pandemic. It is also the first in-person high level meeting of the g7+ since the group was granted an observer status at the United Nations in December 2019.

This High-Level Summit emanates from the g7+ Ministers of Foreign Affairs Meeting held in September 2020 that decided to meet regularly at the highest possible level on the margins of the High-Level week of the UNGA to galvanize the highest political support in advancing the work of the Group following the attainment of Observer Status at the United Nations.

It is therefore our hope that today’s discussion will provide some insights on:
Scaling up efforts at pursuing peaceful means to conflict resolution in g7+ countries and agreeing on a collective way forward on mitigating impact of the global crises in conflict affected countries such as those in the g7+.
Solidify the g7+ as a platform to raise our voice on specific issues that are of relevance to our member states.
Agree on a coordination and steps to optimize the use of the Observer Status at the United Nations.

Therefore, today’s meeting has significance in our big mission of pursuing peace and stability in g7+, accelerate the implementation of the SGDs in these countries and continuing to play a key role in shaping the global agenda for peace.
We have simultaneous translation between English and French.

We therefore would welcome your perspectives and high-level political support on these and other issues that will advance the work of the g7+ Group.

Before I invite Hon. President of Timor-Leste, H.E. José Ramos-Horta. Honorable President is also the Special Envoy of the g7+ and we thank H.E. for his political and moral support

See the annotated agenda.

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RAPORT ANNUEL 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 02:49:15 +0000

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ANNUAL REPORT 2024

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 03:17:29 +0000

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ANNUAL REPORT 2023

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 03:12:13 +0000

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ANNUAL REPORT 2022 (French)

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 06:31:24 +0000

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ANNUAL REPORT 2022

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 10:21:25 +0000

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ANNUAL REPORT 2021

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 03:47:22 +0000

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PRESENTATION BY AMBASSADOR ALHAJI FANDAY TURAY FOR THE SOUTH-SOUTH DEVELOPMENT EXPO 2022 SIDE EVENT ON 13TH SEPTEMBER 2022, 9AM NEW YORK TIME

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 03:18:24 +0000

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Elizabeth Spehar, Assistant Secretary-General for Peacebuilding Support g7+ High Level Summit on Conflict Prevention in a Multipolar World

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 02:55:04 +0000

Elizabeth Spehar, Assistant Secretary-General for Peacebuilding Support
g7+ High Level Summit on Conflict Prevention in a Multipolar World

23 September 2022

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

It is a such an honour to join you this afternoon on behalf of the Secretary-General, who I know would very much have liked to join you also in person. I am fortunate to be here in his stead.

As the Secretary-General articulated at the outset of this week – and as many of you know all too well – in our world today, “divides are growing deeper, inequalities are growing wider, and challenges are spreading farther.”

Violent conflicts are increasing protracted and complex. Risks are converging rapidly in the most vulnerable and conflict-affected countries, including those in the Group of Seven Plus, increasing isolation and fragility.

We have seen how COVID-19 interacted strongly with existing inequalities, grievances, and capacity gaps, resulting in even more peacebuilding needs.

The war in the Ukraine is devastating the lives of millions of Ukrainians. But the war goes far beyond Ukraine. It is inflaming a three-dimensional crisis – food, energy and finance — pummeling some of the world’s most vulnerable people and countries.

All this is making our collective work on conflict prevention and peacebuilding both more necessary and more challenging.
That is why it is so important that the UN Secretary-General has put prevention and peacebuilding at the very heart of the New Agenda Peace.

Of course we are not starting from scratch.

The g7+ has provided a platform member states to collectively engage in dialogue with peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development actors to enhance the effectiveness of cooperation.

The concept of national ownership and the critical and evident nexus between peace and development remain more relevant than ever, and these fundamental principles are ripe to be built upon further.

From a peacebuilding perspective, the 2016 and 2020 twin resolutions on peacebuilding and sustaining peace also evidenced a growing consensus that prevention and peacebuilding should be a priority.

The landmark UN-World Bank joint study “Pathways for Peace” – which has its five-year anniversary this year – also helped to map the ‘how’ of prevention.

Regarding this question, today’s Summit is an opportune moment to reflect on how can the G-Seven-Plus countries seize the opportunity to help realise – programmatically, operationally and financially – this sorely needed global pivot to prevention, so promisingly at the heart of the New Agenda for Peace?

I see many opportunities, but will highlight two.

First and foremost, let us look to expand the space and opportunity for platforms such as the g7+, which as we have heard only quite recently attained observer status at the UN, to facilitate peer-to-peer learning and support between fragile states on the how-tos of building preventive capacity and sustaining peace based on their own national experiences. This is also speaks to reducing isolation and maximizing the benefits of a more interconnected peacebuilding community, including greater connections between states with similar experiences.

I am of the firm belief that the full potential of south-south and triangular cooperation for peacebuilding remains unrealized. The support of regional organizations can also open up valuable avenues.

Through the g7+, we are learning what peace investments are needed and when; and how the call of the Secretary-General for the prioritization of peacebuilding and prevention can be translated into action.

As many of you know the UN Peacebuilding Commission is another unique intergovernmental advisory body, specialized in peacebuilding, which has been supporting member countries of G-Seven-Plus since its inception.

The dynamism and diverse membership of the Commission has provided a platform for national governments, regional entities, civil society, the private sector and others to seek opportunities for cooperation, encourage innovation, and contribute to peacebuilding strategies and resource mobilization, all in support of conflict-affected countries.

One of the successful cases of the Commission’s engagement is with Sierra Leone. The Commission accompanied Sierra Leone in its peacebuilding journey in 2006 leading up to the signing of a Cooperation Framework in December 2007. Most impressively, the country harnessed the potential of South-South and triangular cooperation and subsequently put its own experience at the service of other countries.

The Peacebuilding Commission could be further utilized as a platform to facilitate such sharing of experiences and good practices, especially among conflict-affected countries.

Next Monday, Timor-Leste will be coming to the Commission for the first time, with the participation of His Excellency President Ramos-Horta as well as the General Secretary of the G-Seven-Plus (Mr. Helder da Costa).

The meeting will focus precisely on sharing Timor-Leste’s lessons learned from its national peacebuilding efforts. It will be an excellent opportunity to further encourage the Commission to play a more robust role in this regard.

The recently relaunched International Dialogue for Peacebuilding and Statebuilding is another useful political dialogue platform to convene countries affected by conflict and fragility, development partners and civil society, with the G7+ at its core. This new phase of the IDPS whose Secretariat is now housed at the UN, could open up new opportunities for stronger horizontal dialogue among the three key constituencies, for example, for understanding and addressing the specific needs and challenges of conflict-affected states in their pursuit of the SDGs, whose fulfillment is critical to sustaining peace.

Second, as the Secretary-General has underscored, increased investment in prevention and peacebuilding is an absolute priority. Your continued support to the financing required will be invaluable.
Today’s mounting challenges require more than ever the right financing, at the right time, predictably and flexibly.

The OECD 2022 States of Fragility report, launched this week, contained some striking statistics: DAC members’ aid dedicated to peace in fragile contexts declined by 19% in the past ten years; only 12% of aid to fragile contexts goes to peace activities; of which only 4% to prevention.

But there is also positive news. This month’s General Assembly resolution on financing for peacebuilding showed a clear consensus among the UN membership for turning the tide and strengthening commitments to prevention and peacebuilding, both financial and political.

The resolution give important and helpful recognition to South-South and triangular cooperation for peacebuilding, and also encourages strengthened South-South cooperation with the Peacebuilding Fund in mobilizing resources for the joint implementation of peacebuilding activities. The resolution reaffirms that such cooperation is an important element of multilateral cooperation.

The next steps towards implementation of the resolution – including discussions on how to finance the Secretary General’s Peacebuilding Fund – will be of critical importance to help us ringfence resources that directly target root causes and drivers of fragility and conflict, while ensuring inclusion at local and national levels, at a time when Official Development Assistance risks stagnation and even significant drops.

To conclude,

To have our pivot to prevention succeed we need the overall context to urgently shift.

We are facing the highest number of violent conflicts since 1945 in many parts of the globe, with serious consequences for people within and beyond borders of conflict-affected countries and across the world. This includes the war in Ukraine which must stop now. The sooner the peace is established, in line with the UN Charter and international law, the better for the people of Ukraine and the world.

We also need to make sure that our peacebuilding efforts address all dimensions of inequality, marginalization and exclusion – political, social and economic.

That will also mean increasing investments in inclusive approaches to peacebuilding itself, in particular through a stronger engagement with women’s rights organizations and more and better implemented Action Plans on Youth, Peace and Security.

As I heard many of you recognize in other meetings this week, the challenges and opportunities of a growing, youthful population must be fully factored into all of our peacebuilding efforts, with youth engaged as key, pro-peace protagonists.

Countries like yours – supported by partners present here – can be among the strongest advocates to make the case for these and other lessons, including in your declaration following today’s Summit.

We will continue to rely on you and we look forward to building a stronger UN- G-Seven-Plus partnership to achieve our prevention and peacebuilding goals. Thank you.

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Ms Claire Améyo Quenum, Coordinator Floraison, Focal Point CSPPS Togo delivered statements at the g7+ High-Level Summit

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 10:27:45 +0000

Conflict Prevention in a multipolar world: Perspective from g7+ countries
Group of Seven Plus (g7+) High-Level Summit

Friday 23 September 2022 Remarks by Ms Claire Améyo Quenum, Coordinator Floraison, Focal Point CSPPS Togo

Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen,

Distinguished guests, all protocol observed My name is Claire Quenum, I coordinate a civil society network in Togo, one of the g7+
countries. I am speaking to you as a representative of the Civil Society Platform for Peacebuilding and Statebuilding (CSPPS).

Ladies and gentlemen,

The world today is facing multiple severe challenges which are threatening human life
everywhere.
When we look at the poor and fragile countries particularly in Africa, the burden of debts, inappropriate development policies, the failure of the education and training system to offer women and the youth to acquire skills, the failure to deliver services to allow people and communities specially women and the youth to meet basic human needs in order to lead a decent life are some of the causes of the vulnerabilities which nourish fragility and conflicts.

Prevention of conflicts, peacebuilding and statebuilding are most needed and must be integrated in the development programs in order to reach the sustainable goals.

There have been programs on peace and conflict resolution throughout the years but, presently, the new and compounding challenges such as climate emergency, COVID pandemic, Ukraine war, food insecurity, require from the decision makers to consider new paradigms and indicators based on other actors who have been insufficiently taken on board in the previous programs. These are mainly women, youth, local communities, civil society.

Decision makers need to open up to the people they intend to plan and work for. They must go beyond the theory of program documents and shift to concrete action plans that directly benefit the people and the communities.

Civil society is an experienced and reliable partner whose contribution and participation in peacebuilding and statebuilding are key to realise a sustainable development. Civil society is often a first responder that offer tools and ways for conflict prevention, mitigation and
resolution in communities at the local level.

The approach to find the solutions to face the present challenges must be one of multi-actor engagement, a holistic and multi-sectorial approach, where the protection and the respect of human rights and citizens participation are key anchor points to embark on a path towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

We, as civil society, stand ready to partner with the member countries of the g7+ to support a drive towards a locally-led inclusive development process. Restoring and revitalising a social contact between the state and non-state stakeholders is crucial therein, though which the recognition of the contributing role of civil society as development partner is recognized.

Finally, human life is sacred and human dignity must be in the centre of the development we
all want.

Thanks for your attention
Claire Améyo Quenum
Civil Society Platform for Peacebuilding and Statebuilding
Togo

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Honourable Jeremiah Manele, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Solomon Islands delivered Statement t at the g7+ High-Level Summit

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 10:25:57 +0000

FOURTH MINISTERIAL MEETING
KABUL, AFGHANISTAN
23 – 24 March 2016

Communiqué de Kabul

Nous, les Ministres et les Délégués des pays du g7+, nous sommes rencontrés lors de la Quatrième Réunion Ministérielle à Kabul, en Afghanistan, les 23 et 24 mars 2016.

Nous applaudissons le progrès fait tous les pays vers les Objectifs de Construction de la Paix et du Renforcement de l’État. Nous félicitons les peuples et les gouvernements de la République Démocratique du Congo (RDC), de la Guinée, du Liberia et de la Sierra Leone d’avoir triomphé de la crise d‘Ébolaen 2015. Nous félicitons la République Centre africaine (RCA), et le Togo pour leurs électionsréussies et nous attendons avec impatience le processus électoral à venir en Somalie.

Malgré le progrès, de nombreuxdéfis font face ànos pays membres. Nous nous tenons solidaires avec le peuple du Burundi et nous réaffirmons notre engagement d’y voir le rétablissement de la stabilité. Nous nous tenons solidaires du peuple yéménite et nous soutenons les processus de paix en cours. Nous reconnaissons la signature d’un accord de paix au Soudan du Sud et nous encourageons son implémentation. En outre, nous soutenons l’appel de l’Afghanistan pour une coopérationrégionaleorientée vers des résultats pour assurer le succès du processus de paix en Afghanistan et nous soutenons la requête par le Timor Oriental de la reconnaissance de ses droits légitimes sur la délimitation de ses frontières, selon la loi internationale.

Nous réitérons notre résolution envers la paix et la réconciliation comme pierres de soutènement pour larésilience et nous soutenons le dialogue politique à cet égard. Nous nous engageons à mobiliser des personnalités influentes venues du g7+pour aider à la promotion de la construction de la paix et du renforcement de l’état. Nous souhaitons collaborer avec les Nations Unieset autres acteurs sur la prévention des conflits dans nos pays. Nous pensons que la Société Civile est un acteur important dans la restauration de la confiance entre les états et les citoyens et dans la promotion de la paix et de la réconciliation. Nous faisons appel à laSociété Civile pour s’engager de façon constructive avec les gouvernements et autres acteurs nationaux dans son aide envers la réalisation d’ententes politiques inclusives.

Comme nous demeurons persuadés que des fondations économiques solides avec une emphase particulière sur la création d’emplois, la responsabilisation des femmes et de la jeunesse et le développement du secteur privé restent essentiels pour soutenir la paix et la résilience, nous faisons appel aux partenaires de développement pour aider les pays du g7+ à soutenir ces fondations. Cela demande plus d’investissements dans le développement de l’infrastructure et des capacités en tant que facilitateurs critiques au développementéconomique. Nous faisons appel aux multilatérales et en particulier au Groupe de la Banque Mondialepour augmenter leur soutien envers le développement du secteur privé dans les pays du g7+, par l’intermédiaire de reformes nationales spécifiques et l’implémentation efficace des politiques déjà en place.

En ligne avec les principes du New Deal, l’aide audéveloppement a besoin de débrider le potentieléconomique de nos pays et de promouvoir l’autonomie. L’aide audéveloppement doit êtreallouée par les pays récipients et dépensée par des systèmes nationaux. Cela assurera la possession du développementà l’échelon national. Nous reconnaissons les résultats et les recommandations de la Revue indépendante du New Deal pour l’Engagement dans les Pays Fragiles et nous nous engageons de nouveau envers l’implémentation du New Deal et ré affirmons notre partenariat envers le dialogue International sur la Construction de la Paix et la Construction de l’État.

Nous souhaitons la bienvenue au lancementdu Programme 2030 et nous nous engageons à l’implémentation contextuelle des Objectifs de DéveloppementDurable (ODDs), dans nos pays membres. En particulier, nous nous engageons à donner priorité et à rapporter ensemble les Progrèsachevés par rapport à la liste entendue des indicateurs ODDs (liste à confirmer d’ici mai) par l’intermédiaire du portal établi au Secrétariat du g7+ et qui utilise les principes du New Deal pour réaliser les ODDs. Nous continuerons àpartager nos expériences par le biais de la Coopération FragileFragile dans la construction de la Paix et le Renforcement de l’État selon un esprit de volontariat et de solidarité.

Nous demandons avec insistance aux Nations Unies, et en particulier au PNUD, de mobiliser son soutien envers le g7+ et de tenir une session de hautcalibre au sujet des ODDs a new York.

Nous entérinons le Rapport Annuel 2014-15et le plan de Travail 2016-17et confions la facilitation de son implémentation au Secrétariat du g7+.
Nous concluons nos réunions à Kabul, Afghanistan, avec notre profonde appréciationenvers le gouvernement d’Afghanistan d’avoir été l’hôtegénéreux pour cette Quatrième réunion ministérielle du g7+.
Nous attendons avec impatience la prochaine Réunion Ministérielle en 2017.

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H.E. Niale Kaba, Minister of Planning and Development of Cote d’Ivoire delivered Statements at the g7+ High-Level Summit, 23 September 2022

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 10:23:53 +0000

FOURTH MINISTERIAL MEETING
KABUL, AFGHANISTAN
23 – 24 March 2016

Communiqué de Kabul

Nous, les Ministres et les Délégués des pays du g7+, nous sommes rencontrés lors de la Quatrième Réunion Ministérielle à Kabul, en Afghanistan, les 23 et 24 mars 2016.

Nous applaudissons le progrès fait tous les pays vers les Objectifs de Construction de la Paix et du Renforcement de l’État. Nous félicitons les peuples et les gouvernements de la République Démocratique du Congo (RDC), de la Guinée, du Liberia et de la Sierra Leone d’avoir triomphé de la crise d‘Ébolaen 2015. Nous félicitons la République Centre africaine (RCA), et le Togo pour leurs électionsréussies et nous attendons avec impatience le processus électoral à venir en Somalie.

Malgré le progrès, de nombreuxdéfis font face ànos pays membres. Nous nous tenons solidaires avec le peuple du Burundi et nous réaffirmons notre engagement d’y voir le rétablissement de la stabilité. Nous nous tenons solidaires du peuple yéménite et nous soutenons les processus de paix en cours. Nous reconnaissons la signature d’un accord de paix au Soudan du Sud et nous encourageons son implémentation. En outre, nous soutenons l’appel de l’Afghanistan pour une coopérationrégionaleorientée vers des résultats pour assurer le succès du processus de paix en Afghanistan et nous soutenons la requête par le Timor Oriental de la reconnaissance de ses droits légitimes sur la délimitation de ses frontières, selon la loi internationale.

Nous réitérons notre résolution envers la paix et la réconciliation comme pierres de soutènement pour larésilience et nous soutenons le dialogue politique à cet égard. Nous nous engageons à mobiliser des personnalités influentes venues du g7+pour aider à la promotion de la construction de la paix et du renforcement de l’état. Nous souhaitons collaborer avec les Nations Unieset autres acteurs sur la prévention des conflits dans nos pays. Nous pensons que la Société Civile est un acteur important dans la restauration de la confiance entre les états et les citoyens et dans la promotion de la paix et de la réconciliation. Nous faisons appel à laSociété Civile pour s’engager de façon constructive avec les gouvernements et autres acteurs nationaux dans son aide envers la réalisation d’ententes politiques inclusives.

Comme nous demeurons persuadés que des fondations économiques solides avec une emphase particulière sur la création d’emplois, la responsabilisation des femmes et de la jeunesse et le développement du secteur privé restent essentiels pour soutenir la paix et la résilience, nous faisons appel aux partenaires de développement pour aider les pays du g7+ à soutenir ces fondations. Cela demande plus d’investissements dans le développement de l’infrastructure et des capacités en tant que facilitateurs critiques au développementéconomique. Nous faisons appel aux multilatérales et en particulier au Groupe de la Banque Mondialepour augmenter leur soutien envers le développement du secteur privé dans les pays du g7+, par l’intermédiaire de reformes nationales spécifiques et l’implémentation efficace des politiques déjà en place.

En ligne avec les principes du New Deal, l’aide audéveloppement a besoin de débrider le potentieléconomique de nos pays et de promouvoir l’autonomie. L’aide audéveloppement doit êtreallouée par les pays récipients et dépensée par des systèmes nationaux. Cela assurera la possession du développementà l’échelon national. Nous reconnaissons les résultats et les recommandations de la Revue indépendante du New Deal pour l’Engagement dans les Pays Fragiles et nous nous engageons de nouveau envers l’implémentation du New Deal et ré affirmons notre partenariat envers le dialogue International sur la Construction de la Paix et la Construction de l’État.

Nous souhaitons la bienvenue au lancementdu Programme 2030 et nous nous engageons à l’implémentation contextuelle des Objectifs de DéveloppementDurable (ODDs), dans nos pays membres. En particulier, nous nous engageons à donner priorité et à rapporter ensemble les Progrèsachevés par rapport à la liste entendue des indicateurs ODDs (liste à confirmer d’ici mai) par l’intermédiaire du portal établi au Secrétariat du g7+ et qui utilise les principes du New Deal pour réaliser les ODDs. Nous continuerons àpartager nos expériences par le biais de la Coopération FragileFragile dans la construction de la Paix et le Renforcement de l’État selon un esprit de volontariat et de solidarité.

Nous demandons avec insistance aux Nations Unies, et en particulier au PNUD, de mobiliser son soutien envers le g7+ et de tenir une session de hautcalibre au sujet des ODDs a new York.

Nous entérinons le Rapport Annuel 2014-15et le plan de Travail 2016-17et confions la facilitation de son implémentation au Secrétariat du g7+.
Nous concluons nos réunions à Kabul, Afghanistan, avec notre profonde appréciationenvers le gouvernement d’Afghanistan d’avoir été l’hôtegénéreux pour cette Quatrième réunion ministérielle du g7+.
Nous attendons avec impatience la prochaine Réunion Ministérielle en 2017.

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H.E. Ms. Awatif Altidjani Ahmed Koiboro, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, African Integration and Chadians Abroad delivered statements at the g7+ High-Level Summit

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 10:21:36 +0000

FOURTH MINISTERIAL MEETING
KABUL, AFGHANISTAN
23 – 24 March 2016

Communiqué de Kabul

Nous, les Ministres et les Délégués des pays du g7+, nous sommes rencontrés lors de la Quatrième Réunion Ministérielle à Kabul, en Afghanistan, les 23 et 24 mars 2016.

Nous applaudissons le progrès fait tous les pays vers les Objectifs de Construction de la Paix et du Renforcement de l’État. Nous félicitons les peuples et les gouvernements de la République Démocratique du Congo (RDC), de la Guinée, du Liberia et de la Sierra Leone d’avoir triomphé de la crise d‘Ébolaen 2015. Nous félicitons la République Centre africaine (RCA), et le Togo pour leurs électionsréussies et nous attendons avec impatience le processus électoral à venir en Somalie.

Malgré le progrès, de nombreuxdéfis font face ànos pays membres. Nous nous tenons solidaires avec le peuple du Burundi et nous réaffirmons notre engagement d’y voir le rétablissement de la stabilité. Nous nous tenons solidaires du peuple yéménite et nous soutenons les processus de paix en cours. Nous reconnaissons la signature d’un accord de paix au Soudan du Sud et nous encourageons son implémentation. En outre, nous soutenons l’appel de l’Afghanistan pour une coopérationrégionaleorientée vers des résultats pour assurer le succès du processus de paix en Afghanistan et nous soutenons la requête par le Timor Oriental de la reconnaissance de ses droits légitimes sur la délimitation de ses frontières, selon la loi internationale.

Nous réitérons notre résolution envers la paix et la réconciliation comme pierres de soutènement pour larésilience et nous soutenons le dialogue politique à cet égard. Nous nous engageons à mobiliser des personnalités influentes venues du g7+pour aider à la promotion de la construction de la paix et du renforcement de l’état. Nous souhaitons collaborer avec les Nations Unieset autres acteurs sur la prévention des conflits dans nos pays. Nous pensons que la Société Civile est un acteur important dans la restauration de la confiance entre les états et les citoyens et dans la promotion de la paix et de la réconciliation. Nous faisons appel à laSociété Civile pour s’engager de façon constructive avec les gouvernements et autres acteurs nationaux dans son aide envers la réalisation d’ententes politiques inclusives.

Comme nous demeurons persuadés que des fondations économiques solides avec une emphase particulière sur la création d’emplois, la responsabilisation des femmes et de la jeunesse et le développement du secteur privé restent essentiels pour soutenir la paix et la résilience, nous faisons appel aux partenaires de développement pour aider les pays du g7+ à soutenir ces fondations. Cela demande plus d’investissements dans le développement de l’infrastructure et des capacités en tant que facilitateurs critiques au développementéconomique. Nous faisons appel aux multilatérales et en particulier au Groupe de la Banque Mondialepour augmenter leur soutien envers le développement du secteur privé dans les pays du g7+, par l’intermédiaire de reformes nationales spécifiques et l’implémentation efficace des politiques déjà en place.

En ligne avec les principes du New Deal, l’aide audéveloppement a besoin de débrider le potentieléconomique de nos pays et de promouvoir l’autonomie. L’aide audéveloppement doit êtreallouée par les pays récipients et dépensée par des systèmes nationaux. Cela assurera la possession du développementà l’échelon national. Nous reconnaissons les résultats et les recommandations de la Revue indépendante du New Deal pour l’Engagement dans les Pays Fragiles et nous nous engageons de nouveau envers l’implémentation du New Deal et ré affirmons notre partenariat envers le dialogue International sur la Construction de la Paix et la Construction de l’État.

Nous souhaitons la bienvenue au lancementdu Programme 2030 et nous nous engageons à l’implémentation contextuelle des Objectifs de DéveloppementDurable (ODDs), dans nos pays membres. En particulier, nous nous engageons à donner priorité et à rapporter ensemble les Progrèsachevés par rapport à la liste entendue des indicateurs ODDs (liste à confirmer d’ici mai) par l’intermédiaire du portal établi au Secrétariat du g7+ et qui utilise les principes du New Deal pour réaliser les ODDs. Nous continuerons àpartager nos expériences par le biais de la Coopération FragileFragile dans la construction de la Paix et le Renforcement de l’État selon un esprit de volontariat et de solidarité.

Nous demandons avec insistance aux Nations Unies, et en particulier au PNUD, de mobiliser son soutien envers le g7+ et de tenir une session de hautcalibre au sujet des ODDs a new York.

Nous entérinons le Rapport Annuel 2014-15et le plan de Travail 2016-17et confions la facilitation de son implémentation au Secrétariat du g7+.
Nous concluons nos réunions à Kabul, Afghanistan, avec notre profonde appréciationenvers le gouvernement d’Afghanistan d’avoir été l’hôtegénéreux pour cette Quatrième réunion ministérielle du g7+.
Nous attendons avec impatience la prochaine Réunion Ministérielle en 2017.

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H.E. Abdelbaggi Ayii Akol, Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan delivered statements at the g7+ High-Level Summit

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 10:19:35 +0000

FOURTH MINISTERIAL MEETING
KABUL, AFGHANISTAN
23 – 24 March 2016

Communiqué de Kabul

Nous, les Ministres et les Délégués des pays du g7+, nous sommes rencontrés lors de la Quatrième Réunion Ministérielle à Kabul, en Afghanistan, les 23 et 24 mars 2016.

Nous applaudissons le progrès fait tous les pays vers les Objectifs de Construction de la Paix et du Renforcement de l’État. Nous félicitons les peuples et les gouvernements de la République Démocratique du Congo (RDC), de la Guinée, du Liberia et de la Sierra Leone d’avoir triomphé de la crise d‘Ébolaen 2015. Nous félicitons la République Centre africaine (RCA), et le Togo pour leurs électionsréussies et nous attendons avec impatience le processus électoral à venir en Somalie.

Malgré le progrès, de nombreuxdéfis font face ànos pays membres. Nous nous tenons solidaires avec le peuple du Burundi et nous réaffirmons notre engagement d’y voir le rétablissement de la stabilité. Nous nous tenons solidaires du peuple yéménite et nous soutenons les processus de paix en cours. Nous reconnaissons la signature d’un accord de paix au Soudan du Sud et nous encourageons son implémentation. En outre, nous soutenons l’appel de l’Afghanistan pour une coopérationrégionaleorientée vers des résultats pour assurer le succès du processus de paix en Afghanistan et nous soutenons la requête par le Timor Oriental de la reconnaissance de ses droits légitimes sur la délimitation de ses frontières, selon la loi internationale.

Nous réitérons notre résolution envers la paix et la réconciliation comme pierres de soutènement pour larésilience et nous soutenons le dialogue politique à cet égard. Nous nous engageons à mobiliser des personnalités influentes venues du g7+pour aider à la promotion de la construction de la paix et du renforcement de l’état. Nous souhaitons collaborer avec les Nations Unieset autres acteurs sur la prévention des conflits dans nos pays. Nous pensons que la Société Civile est un acteur important dans la restauration de la confiance entre les états et les citoyens et dans la promotion de la paix et de la réconciliation. Nous faisons appel à laSociété Civile pour s’engager de façon constructive avec les gouvernements et autres acteurs nationaux dans son aide envers la réalisation d’ententes politiques inclusives.

Comme nous demeurons persuadés que des fondations économiques solides avec une emphase particulière sur la création d’emplois, la responsabilisation des femmes et de la jeunesse et le développement du secteur privé restent essentiels pour soutenir la paix et la résilience, nous faisons appel aux partenaires de développement pour aider les pays du g7+ à soutenir ces fondations. Cela demande plus d’investissements dans le développement de l’infrastructure et des capacités en tant que facilitateurs critiques au développementéconomique. Nous faisons appel aux multilatérales et en particulier au Groupe de la Banque Mondialepour augmenter leur soutien envers le développement du secteur privé dans les pays du g7+, par l’intermédiaire de reformes nationales spécifiques et l’implémentation efficace des politiques déjà en place.

En ligne avec les principes du New Deal, l’aide audéveloppement a besoin de débrider le potentieléconomique de nos pays et de promouvoir l’autonomie. L’aide audéveloppement doit êtreallouée par les pays récipients et dépensée par des systèmes nationaux. Cela assurera la possession du développementà l’échelon national. Nous reconnaissons les résultats et les recommandations de la Revue indépendante du New Deal pour l’Engagement dans les Pays Fragiles et nous nous engageons de nouveau envers l’implémentation du New Deal et ré affirmons notre partenariat envers le dialogue International sur la Construction de la Paix et la Construction de l’État.

Nous souhaitons la bienvenue au lancementdu Programme 2030 et nous nous engageons à l’implémentation contextuelle des Objectifs de DéveloppementDurable (ODDs), dans nos pays membres. En particulier, nous nous engageons à donner priorité et à rapporter ensemble les Progrèsachevés par rapport à la liste entendue des indicateurs ODDs (liste à confirmer d’ici mai) par l’intermédiaire du portal établi au Secrétariat du g7+ et qui utilise les principes du New Deal pour réaliser les ODDs. Nous continuerons àpartager nos expériences par le biais de la Coopération FragileFragile dans la construction de la Paix et le Renforcement de l’État selon un esprit de volontariat et de solidarité.

Nous demandons avec insistance aux Nations Unies, et en particulier au PNUD, de mobiliser son soutien envers le g7+ et de tenir une session de hautcalibre au sujet des ODDs a new York.

Nous entérinons le Rapport Annuel 2014-15et le plan de Travail 2016-17et confions la facilitation de son implémentation au Secrétariat du g7+.
Nous concluons nos réunions à Kabul, Afghanistan, avec notre profonde appréciationenvers le gouvernement d’Afghanistan d’avoir été l’hôtegénéreux pour cette Quatrième réunion ministérielle du g7+.
Nous attendons avec impatience la prochaine Réunion Ministérielle en 2017.

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Prof. David J. Francis, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Sierra Leone delivered opening remarks at the g7+ High-Level Summit

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 10:05:41 +0000

FOURTH MINISTERIAL MEETING
KABUL, AFGHANISTAN
23 – 24 March 2016

Communiqué de Kabul

Nous, les Ministres et les Délégués des pays du g7+, nous sommes rencontrés lors de la Quatrième Réunion Ministérielle à Kabul, en Afghanistan, les 23 et 24 mars 2016.

Nous applaudissons le progrès fait tous les pays vers les Objectifs de Construction de la Paix et du Renforcement de l’État. Nous félicitons les peuples et les gouvernements de la République Démocratique du Congo (RDC), de la Guinée, du Liberia et de la Sierra Leone d’avoir triomphé de la crise d‘Ébolaen 2015. Nous félicitons la République Centre africaine (RCA), et le Togo pour leurs électionsréussies et nous attendons avec impatience le processus électoral à venir en Somalie.

Malgré le progrès, de nombreuxdéfis font face ànos pays membres. Nous nous tenons solidaires avec le peuple du Burundi et nous réaffirmons notre engagement d’y voir le rétablissement de la stabilité. Nous nous tenons solidaires du peuple yéménite et nous soutenons les processus de paix en cours. Nous reconnaissons la signature d’un accord de paix au Soudan du Sud et nous encourageons son implémentation. En outre, nous soutenons l’appel de l’Afghanistan pour une coopérationrégionaleorientée vers des résultats pour assurer le succès du processus de paix en Afghanistan et nous soutenons la requête par le Timor Oriental de la reconnaissance de ses droits légitimes sur la délimitation de ses frontières, selon la loi internationale.

Nous réitérons notre résolution envers la paix et la réconciliation comme pierres de soutènement pour larésilience et nous soutenons le dialogue politique à cet égard. Nous nous engageons à mobiliser des personnalités influentes venues du g7+pour aider à la promotion de la construction de la paix et du renforcement de l’état. Nous souhaitons collaborer avec les Nations Unieset autres acteurs sur la prévention des conflits dans nos pays. Nous pensons que la Société Civile est un acteur important dans la restauration de la confiance entre les états et les citoyens et dans la promotion de la paix et de la réconciliation. Nous faisons appel à laSociété Civile pour s’engager de façon constructive avec les gouvernements et autres acteurs nationaux dans son aide envers la réalisation d’ententes politiques inclusives.

Comme nous demeurons persuadés que des fondations économiques solides avec une emphase particulière sur la création d’emplois, la responsabilisation des femmes et de la jeunesse et le développement du secteur privé restent essentiels pour soutenir la paix et la résilience, nous faisons appel aux partenaires de développement pour aider les pays du g7+ à soutenir ces fondations. Cela demande plus d’investissements dans le développement de l’infrastructure et des capacités en tant que facilitateurs critiques au développementéconomique. Nous faisons appel aux multilatérales et en particulier au Groupe de la Banque Mondialepour augmenter leur soutien envers le développement du secteur privé dans les pays du g7+, par l’intermédiaire de reformes nationales spécifiques et l’implémentation efficace des politiques déjà en place.

En ligne avec les principes du New Deal, l’aide audéveloppement a besoin de débrider le potentieléconomique de nos pays et de promouvoir l’autonomie. L’aide audéveloppement doit êtreallouée par les pays récipients et dépensée par des systèmes nationaux. Cela assurera la possession du développementà l’échelon national. Nous reconnaissons les résultats et les recommandations de la Revue indépendante du New Deal pour l’Engagement dans les Pays Fragiles et nous nous engageons de nouveau envers l’implémentation du New Deal et ré affirmons notre partenariat envers le dialogue International sur la Construction de la Paix et la Construction de l’État.

Nous souhaitons la bienvenue au lancementdu Programme 2030 et nous nous engageons à l’implémentation contextuelle des Objectifs de DéveloppementDurable (ODDs), dans nos pays membres. En particulier, nous nous engageons à donner priorité et à rapporter ensemble les Progrèsachevés par rapport à la liste entendue des indicateurs ODDs (liste à confirmer d’ici mai) par l’intermédiaire du portal établi au Secrétariat du g7+ et qui utilise les principes du New Deal pour réaliser les ODDs. Nous continuerons àpartager nos expériences par le biais de la Coopération FragileFragile dans la construction de la Paix et le Renforcement de l’État selon un esprit de volontariat et de solidarité.

Nous demandons avec insistance aux Nations Unies, et en particulier au PNUD, de mobiliser son soutien envers le g7+ et de tenir une session de hautcalibre au sujet des ODDs a new York.

Nous entérinons le Rapport Annuel 2014-15et le plan de Travail 2016-17et confions la facilitation de son implémentation au Secrétariat du g7+.
Nous concluons nos réunions à Kabul, Afghanistan, avec notre profonde appréciationenvers le gouvernement d’Afghanistan d’avoir été l’hôtegénéreux pour cette Quatrième réunion ministérielle du g7+.
Nous attendons avec impatience la prochaine Réunion Ministérielle en 2017.

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H.E. Francis Mustapha Kai-Kai, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone and Chair of g7+ delivered welcome remarks at the IDPS Ministerial Luncheon

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 06:39:48 +0000

Recources

IDPS High Level Ministerial Luncheon
HE Minister Francis Kaikai, Minister of Planning and Economic Development and chair of g7+

Tuesday 20^th September 2022, Time: 12:00 – 1:30 Venue: UNDP Building

Excellencies, colleague co-chair, the UNDP Administrator, distinguished representatives of the various Permanent Missions to United Nations, colleague Ministers, members of the IDPS constituencies, ladies and gentlemen, let me begin by warmly welcoming you all – those in the room and other joining us virtually – for being here this afternoon, despite the very busy schedules during this high-level week of UNGA and different time zones for the online participants. As its co-chair, I am pleased that the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and Statebuilding (the IDPS) is convening at such level; this reflects our commitment to reinvigorate our collective efforts to address raise and pursue peace. Many thanks to the IDPS Secretariat for organising such a high-level event.

I register our appreciation to the OECD for hosting the IDPS Secretariat for over ten years. We are equally very pleased that the UNDP Bureau of Crisis has taken up hosting the Secretariat of the IDPS. This will present even more avenues to elevate the profile of the IDPS, especially in the discourse on the UN Peace Agenda.

Excellencies, distinguished participants, it is pleasing to note that three constituencies of the IDPS have worked together and identified Check if it is 3 as you have listed more for work of the IDPS Vision 2022-2024. These include: 1 conflict prevention, development, and future of peace building; 2. operationalising state building, women, peace, and security (WPS); 3. humanitarian development and peace nexus (HDPN) Sustaining peace agenda; and resourcing for peace. These 3 areas are very critical for addressing fragility in g7+ countries as well as other countries in fragile situations. The Vision will be finalised and launched publicly on Wednesday 21^st September 2022.

The OECD States of Fragility 2022 report launched yesterday, concludes that 1.9billion or 24% of the world’s live in fragile situations in 2022. 11 of 15 extremely fragile countries identified are members of g7+. The report further highlights that over 3 quarters of the world’s poorest will live in conflict affected countries.

This is a wakeup call for us. We cannot be complacent with this. This report and many others inform that the international engagement in conflict affected countries has been fragmented. There exists division among peacebuilding, development, and humanitarian actions. This division featured by ad hoc projects has undermined the effectiveness of the international cooperation.

The international dialogue on peacebuilding and statebuilding is a unique platform to address the divide and enhance the effectiveness of international engagement. The New Deal for engagement in fragile states which resulted for the very same forum is the most relevant framework to guide our work to that end. However, we are yet to realize its potential and give the New Deal principles the chance to take roots. It requires political will which we need to mobilize on this forum. This is my vision for the `IDPS. This is the vision for the g7+ countries that I chair.

Therefore, it is our hope that this Ministerial Luncheon provide stir the moment and redirect our collective efforts to achieve our vision.

Discussions here today should provide us a new impetus for addressing fragility and provide overall policy guidance for the successful implementation of the New Deal and the vision we are launching. We should not be under any illusion that we have an easy task at hand but with renewed partnership and commitment from members’ states as well as the goodwill of our partners, we shall surmount the hurdles along the way.

Let me conclude by appreciating my colleague co-chair, Minister Sajjan, Minister of International Development of Canada for facilitating the smooth relocation of the Secretariat from Paris to New York and for providing the resources that has kept the work of the IDPS going including the convening of this high-level event on the margins of UNGA 77.

Thank you all and a very warm welcome once again!

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H.E. Xanana Gusmão, Eminent Person of g7+ Signing Ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding between g7+ Secretariat and FPCD

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 06:10:42 +0000

The post H.E. Xanana Gusmão, Eminent Person of g7+ Signing Ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding between g7+ Secretariat and FPCD appeared first on g7plus.

Statement Delivered By H.e. Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President Of The Republic Of Sierra Leone, In His Capacity As Chair Of The Group Of Seven Plus (g7+) At The High-level Political Forum On Sustainable Development Held On 18th September 2023

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 26 Jul 2022 21:29:50 +0000

Statement Delivered By H.e. Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President Of The Republic Of Sierra Leone, In His Capacity As Chair Of The Group Of Seven Plus (g7+) At The High-level Political Forum On Sustainable Development Held On 18th September 2023

Mr. President
Mr. Secretary General
Your Excellencies
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen

I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the g7+ Member States at this High-Level Summit convened at the mid-point in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals, a critical juncture characterized by recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing geopolitical tensions, and environmental threats.

The 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals, the agreed global plan, adopted in 2015 was conceived with the objective of leaving no one behind in countries around the world and supporting global public goods as it relates to peace, environment and an inclusive economy.

The g7+, made up of countries affected by or recovering from conflict, were among the major advocates of the SDGs, with specific reference to SDG16. As a group of countries, we have collectively learned through our experiences that lasting peace, effective state institutions and access to justice are key pillars to stability, development and resilience.

However, since the start of the implementation of this global blueprint, fragile and conflict-affected states are the furthest behind in meeting the SDGs and this dilemma only worsened with the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global crisis.

Against this backdrop, the Member States of the g7+ hereby recommend the undermentioned as the possible pathway toward the realization of transforming our world and leaving no one behind in this decade of action:

1.Firstly, the promotion of peace and stability should continue to be at the center of implementing the SDGs, as violence and insecurity undermine development gains. In advancing the development agenda, we must seek to promote and support peace efforts that address the root causes of conflicts and tackle economic and social inequalities and exclusion; especially in countries contending with high levels of threat and fragility that require heightened attention.

2.Also, resilience founded as an inherent potential of every country should be one of the guiding principles to achieving the SDGs. In this age of complex crises, we must deliberately embrace resilience as it helps to ensure progress is not totally derailed or reversed in times of adversity. For instance, ending extreme poverty, and thriving in complex and adverse environments requires building capacities, mechanisms, and institutions that will promote a sustainable future for all. That’s why we will continue to advocate for debt financing and relief, and technology transfer, for the Least Developed and Conflict-affected countries. The debt financing and relief of these countries would unleash the resources that could be used to realize the ambition of Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development.

3.Lastly, we call for a joint commitment by partners to work through and support government-led country platforms in conflict-affected and fragile countries with the view to enhance development cooperation by addressing complex political, social and economic realities. While we acknowledge the trend of support for country platforms over the last five years, it is imperative to raise awareness for governments and partners to embrace this mechanism that is collaborative, risk-informed and flexible. It ensures development agendas are localized.

Let me conclude by stating that, meeting the SDGs in this decade of action could be challenging, but with sustained multilateral support to a holistic national ownership of the 17 SDGs, distinct global leadership, resource mobilization, capacity building and mutual accountability, certain progress is envisaged, no matter the scale.

I thank you.

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Statement of Solidarity with the People of Papua New Guinea

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 05:30:22 +0000

Statement of Solidarity with the People of Papua New Guinea

The g7+ is gravely concerned with the recent escalation of violence across Papua New Guinea over the national election process. We call upon the actors to conflict and the government to put an immediate end to the violence. We stand in solidarity with the Government and people of Papua New Guinea in this difficult moment. We stand ready to support any assistance requested by the Government of Papua New Guinea to restore peaceful transfer of power and uphold the rule of law and the democracy.

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The g7+ European Hub: Deepening Partnership in Europe and the World

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 02:42:11 +0000

The g7+ European Hub: Deepening Partnership in Europe and the World

The g7+ hub in Lisbon: Expanding our impact and visibility in Europe

Since the g7+ was created, in 2010, it has become a platform for sharing experiences and advocating for country-owned transition from fragility to resilience. It has achieved tremendous progress in attaining global recognition as an organization that represents the voice of conflict-affected countries. As an example, without collective efforts of the g7+, it would have been extremely difficult if not impossible to have a stand-alone global goal on Peace, Justice and Effective Institutions in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Since 2019, the g7+ was granted the United Nations Observer Status, which will allow for greater visibility and impact of all the work being carried out in supporting the g7+ countries. In 2016, as the g7+ was recognized as an increasingly influential constituency on the global stage, there was a natural need of strengthening its action, advocacy and partnerships in Europe and beyond. The main objective of creating a g7+ European Delegation was therefore to further consolidate the group as the platform for countries affected by conflict and fragility, and to contribute to the g7+ mission of giving a collective voice to these states.

The creation of a g7+ European Delegation was a political decision by the g7+ member states and benefited from the political, institutional and moral support of the Portuguese authorities, particularly the Government of Portugal and the Lisbon City Council.

In 2017, the choice of Lisbon for hosting the only g7+ hub in Europe was based both on strategic and operational reasons. With the geographical diversity of the g7+ member countries – from Africa to Asia and Pacific, and the Caribbean – and the headquarters in Dili, Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, the hub in Portugal facilitates the coordination and collaboration among member countries, particularly with those located in Africa.

Lisbon is also a gateway between continents and therefore a privileged location for networking, meetings, and engaging in the peer learning initiatives called Fragile to Fragile Cooperation (F2F), which have been contributing to a better understanding of the g7+ collective perspective that has further helped in shaping reforms in the way Peacebuilding, Statebuilding and Development cooperation in conflict-affected countries is pursued.

Considering that the g7+ promotes country-led planning mech- anisms and recommends changes in the way international partners engage in fragile contexts, the European Hub was also considered important to act as a gateway for engaging with European donors and international organizations, as well as to promote new partnerships in Portugal and the rest of Europe and the world.

The Lisbon hub is both the European Delegation of the g7+ Secretariat and the g7+ Permanent Representation in Portugal. It also hosts the g7+ Foundation, created in 2021 to support g7+ work and objectives. The g7+ Delegation follows good management practices and meets all Portuguese accounting requirements and rules, with an adequate application of resources and being audited by Deloitte.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

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g7+ Forum on Women: Promoting Leadership and Political Participation of Women

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 01:41:39 +0000

g7+ Forum on Women: Promoting Leadership and Political Participation of Women

The g7+ Women Forum: Promoting Leadership and Political Participation of Women –

The launching of the Bi-Annual g7+ Forum on Women, Resilience and Development was held on 30th November 2021 at the Lisbon Hub of the Permanent Delegation of the g7+ and online. This report summarizes the main issues presented and debated in the first forum, dedicated to “Promoting Leadership and Political Participation of Women”.

The speakers highlighted that gender equality and the empowerment of women are primarily a matter of human rights and social justice for all. It is also a prerequisite for equitable, fair and inclusive development processes, without which the fulfilment of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda is impossible. In fact, beyond the Sustainable Development Goal dedicated to women and girls (SDG 5), most SDGs include targets specifically relating to women and girls. It is therefore reasonable to conclude that none of the 17 SDGs will be achieved without robust and solid improvements in gender equality.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

In general, challenges to gender equality are common to most countries in the world, even some of the most developed ones, as many aspects of gender equality have not been attained and are still in progress globally.

Abie Kamara, Satu Suikkari-Kleven and Monica Ferro mentioned that these challenges range from equal participation in decision-making to labour rights and equal pay, from gender-based violence to sexual and reproductive health and rights, from access to quality education to balanced legal frameworks that ensure women’s rights. Fragile, conflict-affected and most vulnerable countries lag behind in many of these issues and face specific challenges that require tailored approaches.

Increased communication between members

Participants in the Forum stressed that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges, as it is causing setbacks and having disproportionate impacts on women, particularly on women in fragile and conflict-affected countries.

With the global pandemic, many more women have lost their jobs with service sector jobs most affected; healthcare access for women and girls has been badly compromised; lockdowns have shockingly increased gender-based violence; caring responsibilities of women have dramatically increased with children at home and family members becoming sick; and girls have been marginalized across the world. The world also witnessed with perplexity and sadness the setback in women’s and girls’ rights in Afghanistan – a reminder of the security-development interlinkages and of the non-linearity of state-building processes. And yet, women are at the forefront of the pandemic response, making up about 70% of health professionals. Furthermore, while we see a growing number of displaced persons and refugees seeking asylum and protection, women and girls are the ones who suffer the most in refugee camps but are also the driving force for defending human rights and refugees’ rights.

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THE NEXUS BETWEEN COVID-19 AND CONFLICT: Assessing the impacts of the pandemic on peace and development

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 00:00:21 +0000

THE NEXUS BETWEEN COVID-19 AND CONFLICT: Assessing the impacts of the pandemic on peace and development

Progress in implementing the New Deal

DISCUSSION PAPER: THE NEXUS BETWEEN COVID-19 AND CONFLICT: Assessing the impacts of the pandemic on peace and development –

As the global death toll from the ongoing COVID-19 passes two and a half million one year after the World Health Organization declared a pandemic, countries are being affected by the virus far beyond human mortality. The secondary impacts of the pandemic are acute in conflict-affected contexts, where they are impeding pathways to peace and development. Data gathered by UNDP through its on-the-ground assessments beginning in mid-March 2020 and data insight conducted jointly by the g7+ and UNDP indicate emerging trends related to the pandemic’s impacts on peace and development across the spectrum of conflict.

The importance of the Leave No One Behind agenda has never been clearer. The pandemic has reinforced the need for collaboration across the humanitarian-development-peace nexus founded on a common vision of pursuing lasting peace and sustainable development.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

The highest rates of COVID-19 infections are found in contexts that—in most cases—also have the highest burden of violence. Insurgency has not declined to the extent as would be expected. Gender-based violence is on the rise. Social cohesion is being stretched thin as riots, protests and mob violence increase. Non-state armed groups have used the diversion of security forces to the pandemic to recruit and step up attacks and undermine the legitimacy of the state. Attacks against health and aid workers, both of which already set records in 2019, continue to rise alongside the pandemic.

COVID-19 has impacted conflict dynamics, too. Globally, violent conflict has declined since the start of the pandemic. In fragile states overall, violence has similarly declined, with 30,000 fewer violence-related fatalities than the same period in 2019 (a decrease of 30 percent).

Increased communication between members

This decrease has been reported by organizations operating in-country as well. The UN Mission to Afghanistan reported that violence against civilians in Afghanistan has declined by 30 percent during the pandemic. Nevertheless, COVID-19’s impact appears to be influencing conflict dynamics. Although the incidence of violent conflict between states has decreased over the past ten years, intrastate violence between armed groups and the state reached its highest point last year. State oppression has increased globally by approximately 30 percent during the pandemic and in some fragile settings, such as the Sahel region, armed violence against civilians by state actors is on the rise. Although some armed groups initially agreed to the Secretary-General’s call for a ceasefire, the International Crisis Group has noted overall that the call has not led to a reduction in violence.

The importance of the Leave No One Behind agenda has never been clearer. The pandemic has underscored the need for strengthening state institutions and fostering stability. It has reinforced the need for collaboration across the humanitarian- development-peace nexus founded on a common vision of pursuing lasting peace and sustainable development. It has also reinforced the need to integrate multidimensional crisis analysis, including on emerging risks and vulnerability, such as this paper, into our way of working, future-proofing our development interventions to build resilient societies and durable development.

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Independent Review of the g7+ Existence in a Decade

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 21 Jul 2022 12:00:13 +0000

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Independent Review of the g7+ Existence in a Decade

After nine years of its foundation, the g7+ faces a development agenda that is much different from before. If in 2010 the language was that of development effectiveness, now the group seems to have extrapolated that. The g7+ has grown to have 20 member countries and has consistently advocated for a different engagement with fragile states. The way we understand it, the most distinctive aspect of this engagement has been its crucially principled stance towards the way people think and do peace and development. Specific tools such as the New Deal, the PSGs, FOCUS and TRUST seem to be most valuable when they are advanced with the aim to foster new and more inclusive dialogues, redefine the terms of engagement and find space for fragile states in the international scenario. Meanwhile, the key challenges lie precisely in how these tools can be operationalized without losing sight of such important principles or turning them into templates. This has not always been done successfully and on that depends the g7+’s very possibilities of advocating for fragile states: if the group cannot showcase local successes, they will always risk losing attention in a world where attention span is most certainly decreasing. Cases of successes also help maintain the group’s internal cohesion, offering member countries precisely the kind of hope and confidence the g7+ has been valued for from the beginning. However, with limited resources, it will always be a challenge for the g7+ to stretch itself between advocacy and action on the ground. The key lies in this balance.

This review, commissioned by the g7+ Secretariat as an independent study, maps out past and present g7+’s achievements and the challenges the group faces in terms of the core current events in the international scenario: there are more countries experiencing conflict than at any time in the past 30 years;1 by 2030, it is estimated up to 80% of the world’s poorest may be living in fragile and conflict- affected states2 and that by 2050, as many as 143 million people could become climate migrants in just three regions (Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Latin America).

Progress in implementing the New Deal

The key recent achievements of the g7+ show the group still counts with its mains assets: an articulate and effective secretariat; passionate people on the ground; an extremely relevant and consistent agenda; and some solidly supportive ears outside. However, even achievements need to be rooted in engaging narratives, accounted for and communicated. The g7+’s contributions for the approval of SDG16, for instance, are well acknowledged, yet the group has not taken advantage of that momentum and symbolic capital. Contributions to changes in resource flows and allocation, such as seen in the World Bank’s IDA17 and, to some extent, IDA18 and new Strategy for Fragile States, in turn, are largely known outside the group, but not well known among members. On the other hand, F2F and the impetus created by the New Deal and Fragility Assessments are highly valued among members even in countries that have not quite put these into practice, while externals find these either not well implemented, or even currently irrelevant ‘out of fashion’. This is perhaps much related to the difficulties the group has historically faced to find a place among other developing countries. Both for internal support to outbound strategies and external knowledge of inbound processes, we make recommendations that range from fostering skills for political analyses to rebranding ‘fragility’ internationally.

Indeed, the way the group will choose to address the issue of the very term ‘fragility’ might be key for its capacity to face internal and external problems. Internally, the term still finds rebuke, especially among African countries; internal debates and whole-of-government approaches can help foster a consensus. These would, in addition, address the need to invest in diversifying the image of the leadership that is convened, inviting more active participation on the part of all members. Timor-Leste has offered remarkable leadership but clearly now needs others to step up; moreover, the group would benefit from actively showing their agenda is common and shared. Externally, ‘fragility’ faces difficulties dialoguing with the universality and indivisibility encouraged by the 2030 Agenda. The g7+ might want to address this challenge in a more direct way, positioning itself in terms of what being fragile means in this scenario; indeed, valuing their own expertise would be smart now that ‘peace’ is everywhere. However, at the same time, the group needs to seek quality partnerships where they can be found; this expertise, therefore, should not isolate the g7+ but, on the contrary, serve to foment complementarity.

We also suggest the ‘leave no one behind’ agenda is a perfect entry point for the g7+’s agenda on solidarity, one that is naturally connected to all that the group has been defending, especially in the figure of the much-advocated SDG16. Nevertheless, as the study indicates, there might be pitfalls in this international inclusiveness discourse, as much as inclusiveness itself is extremely welcome and part of the g7+’s own advocacy.

Changes in the way resources will be allocated, for instance, are complex and need perhaps to be constantly scrutinized before the group takes firm stances regarding subjects like terrorism and preventing violent extremism, to make sure such positions will actually benefit its members, and not stigmatize, nor indirectly take away resources from other important areas. The subjects are extremely relevant for fragile states, but a cautious approach is recommended. Overall, the balance has been very positive. The group delivered much, even if not nearly all that it promised. The review showed there is great support still. In fact, the g7+ seems to be a special case in which the amount of support is not necessarily attached to a capacity to completely fulfil promises made. While all the time there are certainly new trends in development politics that constantly defy one’s focus, the g7+ has shown an incredible capacity to follow up on partnerships and consolidate a network of optimist supporters. The group’s way of doing things has certainly found resonance and should be nurtured, which should not, however, steal away from the motivation to make changes to adapt to this new and challenging development scenario.

Dr. Isabel Rocha de Siqueira
BRICS Policy Center, Brazil
International Relations Institute (IRI), PUC-Rio

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South-South in Action: Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation –

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 16:00:14 +0000

South-South in Action: Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation –

Fragile-to-Fragile (or F2F) cooperation is the support that countries experiencing conflict or emerging from crisis provide to each other, including through peer learning, capacity building, mobilization of third-party support, financial assistance or knowledge generation. A flagship program of the g7+ group of countries, F2F cooperation emerged from the sharing of experiences between and among its member countries. The members of the g7+ realized that despite their differences, they shared important commonalities that made it possible to learn from each other’s experiences and trajectories. Having faced similar challenges, they understood each other’s difficulties better. The key driving principles of F2F cooperation are voluntarism, cooperation and solidarity. It is non- conditional and free from vested interests, whether political or economic. It also refrains from advancing or promoting any specific ideology or approach to development, or one-size-fits-all solutions. Rather, it emphasizes context specificity and country ownership, and believes in supporting the organic evolution of local responses in order to meet local challenges. The primary aim of F2F cooperation is to help countries make progress towards peacefulness, resilience and development through the provision of mutual support. At the same time, it serves to promote a shared vision amongst the g7+ group of countries of a better and safer world for all, and it informs the global lobbying and advocacy work of the g7+ in the areas of development assistance, peacebuilding and State-building.

Since its inception as a concept and programme in 2013, F2F cooperation has expanded to include many forms and modalities. Experts and officials from across the g7+ have travelled to other member countries to assist the process of the implementation of the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States (the New Deal). Round tables and cross-country knowledge-generation exercises have been organized on such issues as the management of natural resources or the challenges of the justice sector in conflict-affected countries. Goodwill missions aimed at facilitating reconciliation for peace have been organized to countries like the Central African Republic and South Sudan. Critical support was provided to the presidential election in Guinea-Bissau in 2014 and in the Central African Republic in 2015. Financial assistance, delivered through the beneficiary countries’ systems, was committed to Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone to help address the Ebola crisis, as well as to the Central African Republic to help resettle thousands of internally displaced persons.

Having been inspired by South-South cooperation, F2F cooperation is closely aligned with it. This means that F2F cooperation can learn from the experience of South- South cooperation. At the same time, F2F cooperation has its own lessons to share with the world of global development cooperation, especially concerning the importance of country-owned and country-led approaches to peacebuilding and State-building. It is only by nurturing the State and each country’s institutions – not by bypassing or replacing them – that resilience and development can be sustainably pursued.
The significance of F2F cooperation goes beyond its immediate impacts, and is also about the values and principles that it affirms, and how they relate to the global development agenda. The global development landscape has seen important developments over the last few years, including the adoption of the overarching 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Sustaining Peace Agenda and the New Way of Working.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

F2F cooperation is not only consistent with these developments, to a certain extent it has anticipated and contributed to them.

At the same time, F2F cooperation has its own lessons to share with the world of global development cooperation, especially concerning the importance of country-owned and country-led approaches to peacebuilding and State-building. It is only by nurturing the State and each country’s institutions – not by bypassing or replacing them – that resilience and development can be sustainably pursued. The significance of F2F cooperation goes beyond its immediate impacts, and is also about the values and principles that it affirms, and how they relate to the global development agenda. The global development landscape has seen important developments over the last few years, including the adoption of the overarching 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Sustaining Peace Agenda and the New Way of Working. F2F cooperation is not only consistent with these developments, to a certain extent it has anticipated and contributed to them.

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Mission To Suport The Electoral Process In Guinea Bissau 2013-2014

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 11:10:35 +0000

Mission To Suport The Electoral Process In Guinea Bissau 2013-2014

The g7+ hub in Lisbon: Expanding our impact and visibility in Europe

Since the g7+ was created, in 2010, it has become a platform for sharing experiences and advocating for country-owned transition from fragility to resilience. It has achieved tremendous progress in attaining global recognition as an organization that represents the voice of conflict-affected countries. As an example, without collective efforts of the g7+, it would have been extremely difficult if not impossible to have a stand-alone global goal on Peace, Justice and Effective Institutions in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Since 2019, the g7+ was granted the United Nations Observer Status, which will allow for greater visibility and impact of all the work being carried out in supporting the g7+ countries. In 2016, as the g7+ was recognized as an increasingly influential constituency on the global stage, there was a natural need of strengthening its action, advocacy and partnerships in Europe and beyond. The main objective of creating a g7+ European Delegation was therefore to further consolidate the group as the platform for countries affected by conflict and fragility, and to contribute to the g7+ mission of giving a collective voice to these states.

The creation of a g7+ European Delegation was a political decision by the g7+ member states and benefited from the political, institutional and moral support of the Portuguese authorities, particularly the Government of Portugal and the Lisbon City Council.

In 2017, the choice of Lisbon for hosting the only g7+ hub in Europe was based both on strategic and operational reasons. With the geographical diversity of the g7+ member countries – from Africa to Asia and Pacific, and the Caribbean – and the headquarters in Dili, Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, the hub in Portugal facilitates the coordination and collaboration among member countries, particularly with those located in Africa.

Lisbon is also a gateway between continents and therefore a privileged location for networking, meetings, and engaging in the peer learning initiatives called Fragile to Fragile Cooperation (F2F), which have been contributing to a better understanding of the g7+ collective perspective that has further helped in shaping reforms in the way Peacebuilding, Statebuilding and Development cooperation in conflict-affected countries is pursued.

Considering that the g7+ promotes country-led planning mech- anisms and recommends changes in the way international partners engage in fragile contexts, the European Hub was also considered important to act as a gateway for engaging with European donors and international organizations, as well as to promote new partnerships in Portugal and the rest of Europe and the world.

The Lisbon hub is both the European Delegation of the g7+ Secretariat and the g7+ Permanent Representation in Portugal. It also hosts the g7+ Foundation, created in 2021 to support g7+ work and objectives. The g7+ Delegation follows good management practices and meets all Portuguese accounting requirements and rules, with an adequate application of resources and being audited by Deloitte.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

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A forward looking model of reconciliation

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 05:55:32 +0000

A forward looking model of reconciliation

A Forward Looking Model of Reconciliation -

The story of reconciliation between Timor-Leste and Indonesia is remarkable for the process and its success. After gaining independence in 2002, the leadership of Timor-Leste prioritized forgiveness in order to forge a new relationship with its closest neighbor, and to heal the battle scars amongst its own divided community. The process was supported by the Indonesian government, which was bedding in the democratizion of politics and reforming its security institutions. With an international focus on prosecuting individual perpetrators of violence, the leaders of Timor-Leste and Indonesia insteadsought a model of reconciliation that was anchored in both peace building and st at e building.

This case study highlights the complex interplay of external and domestic pressures that surround the pursuit of peace and reconciliation. The approach pursued by the leaders of Timor-Leste and Indonesia prioritied ‘restorative justice’ ahead of ‘retributive justice’ in the search for a sensitive and pragmatic way forward.

At the time, democracy in both countries was in its infancy, necessitating a means of reconciliation that not only addressed the horrors of the past that would bring about better bilateral relations, but also contributed to the fledgling process of peace building and statebuildingineachcountry.

The process of reconciliation is not static, nor does it come to an end with the publication of a report. Careful consideration needs to be given to the staging and pace of events, which will likely continue for decades depending on the history of conflict and development context of the countries involved.

It was most evident from this case study that the reconciliation process benefited greatly from the deep personal commitments of the key leaders, together with their good standing on the international stage and amongst their own populations.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

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Missao apoio eleitoral guinea bissau em 2018

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 11:29:45 +0000

Missao apoio eleitoral guinea bissau em 2018

A Forward Looking Model of Reconciliation -

The story of reconciliation between Timor-Leste and Indonesia is remarkable for the process and its success. After gaining independence in 2002, the leadership of Timor-Leste prioritized forgiveness in order to forge a new relationship with its closest neighbor, and to heal the battle scars amongst its own divided community. The process was supported by the Indonesian government, which was bedding in the democratizion of politics and reforming its security institutions. With an international focus on prosecuting individual perpetrators of violence, the leaders of Timor-Leste and Indonesia insteadsought a model of reconciliation that was anchored in both peace building and st at e building.

This case study highlights the complex interplay of external and domestic pressures that surround the pursuit of peace and reconciliation. The approach pursued by the leaders of Timor-Leste and Indonesia prioritied ‘restorative justice’ ahead of ‘retributive justice’ in the search for a sensitive and pragmatic way forward.

At the time, democracy in both countries was in its infancy, necessitating a means of reconciliation that not only addressed the horrors of the past that would bring about better bilateral relations, but also contributed to the fledgling process of peace building and statebuildingineachcountry.

The process of reconciliation is not static, nor does it come to an end with the publication of a report. Careful consideration needs to be given to the staging and pace of events, which will likely continue for decades depending on the history of conflict and development context of the countries involved.

It was most evident from this case study that the reconciliation process benefited greatly from the deep personal commitments of the key leaders, together with their good standing on the international stage and amongst their own populations.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

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Host Nations Views on UN Peace and Security Reform Proposals

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 09:23:02 +0000

Host Nations Views on UN Peace and Security Reform Proposals

The Secretary-General has put forward his initial ideas for UN peace and security architecture reform, based on the reviews of peace operations, peacebuilding and women, peace and security. The proposals include two key dimensions: (i) restructuring peace and security departments and offices at headquarters to avoid competition, duplication or lack of functional linkages; and (ii) management reform measures to increase delegation to leadership in the field and speed up processes. The purpose of this note is to input experiences and views from the host nations of peace operations, in particular but not only members of the g7+ group of countries. The points raised fall in two main areas:

Support for the proposals put forward by the Secretary-General, and examples of country experiences that illustrate why these changes are important both from a host nation perspective and in support of national ownership;

Additional ideas on changes to the way the UN operates that could increase the impact and effectiveness of peace operations.

Experiences that illustrate the need for the proposals put forward by the Secretary General:

1. Merging the regional desks of DPA and DPKO, with PBSO moving to the new D(P)PA.

Practical problems encountered which this reform could help resolve centered around mission transitions. Examples included: (i) the problematic transition from UNAMET to UNTAET in Timor-Leste; (ii) despite good forward planning by the missions, lack of continuity in peacebuilding initiatives started by the peacekeeping contingents in Sierra Leone; (iii) lack of articulation with external economic shocks (Ebola/commodity prices and aid patterns) in Liberia; and (iv) lack of adequate engagement and support from the UN’s counterterrorism entities, in particular in feld coordination in Afghanistan.

2. Delegating authority to the feld and speed of response.

Practical examples included the inability:
(i) of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) in Timor-Leste to provide for the basic needs of Timorese resistance fighters in cantonment areas, and to retain high-performing staff who were assisting the local authorities; (ii) of the SRSG in Liberia to assist government in transporting payments to civil servants in outlying areas; (iii) of the mission in Guinea Bissau to use locally warehoused street lighting poles for the benefit of safety in the capital city; and (iv) to provide for the transport of delegations from Sierra Leone and Liberia to assist in mediation processes Issues raised that are not in the Secretary- General’s current proposal included the need for:

Progress in implementing the New Deal

More robust and more neutral processes of recruitment of SRSGs. On that note, Guatemala noted that the selection process for SRSGs needs to be revisited as should also be the provision of guidance from HQ departments, as well as ensuring that Chapter VI missions stay within their mandate of assisting governments rather than imposing solutions.

Two-step mandating processes, where an initial mission mandate in a crisis situation is understood by the Security Council and the Fifth Committee to be truly initial, and to be not only refined but possibly significantly adjusted in subsequent mandating processes where the views of national authorities can be taken into account. An exit strategy should be considered from the beginning of this second mandate stage.

More attention to collaboration across the pillars of development, peace and security and human rights; as well as focus on thematic issues like gender and reconciliation.

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Statebuilding in Conflict Affected and Fragile States: Comparative Study:

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 09:24:42 +0000

Statebuilding in Conflict Affected and Fragile States: Comparative Study:

Statebuilding in Conflict Affected & Fragile States: A comparative Study -

Public Finance and National Accountability in Timor-Leste and Afghanistan In conflict-affected or fragile states there is often a significant gap between what the state is able to deliver and what the citizens of that state, as well as international partners, expect the state to deliver. This problem stems in part from international partners focusing heavily on what should be delivered and not enough on how best to deliver it in that particular context. To examine this idea further, the g7+ Foundation has commissioned two initial case studies to try and bridge the gap in understanding and to enable governments to see what has and has not worked in comparable countries. These case studies are intended to give governments and their international partners a clearer understanding of how best to achieve meaningful reform in such countries.

This paper, using the two case studies of Timor-Leste and Afghanistan, looks at the experience of state building in the area of public financial management (PFM).

Progress in implementing the New Deal

The case studies demonstrate how the evolution of the Ministry of Finance (MoF) in both countries has led ministers to similar conclusions about the real challenges they face and about what works in building sustainable and robust national systems of accountability. The experience over the last decade or more is that state building as an explicit goal has largely been side-lined in practice by both governments and donors. The goal of using the national budget as the primary tool of development policy has fallen out of favor in many development circles. Establishing systems for PFM in conflict-affected or post-conflict fragile states is challenging, to say the very least. There might be on-going conflict, but even if not, the shadows of conflict – mistrust, trauma, and chaos – are almost certainly present. The result of bypassing country systems and the annual budget process is usually large- scale fragmentation. Both a “projectization” of the national development effort and an unintentional undermining of state legitimacy in the eyes of the citizenry occur. Ignoring the importance of building legitimacy of the state means that newly elected governments are often saddled with a fragmented budget that is already locked into the donor project cycle and priorities, which are often not responsive to the government’s national priorities.

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Strength in Fragility: We are writing our own History

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Sun, 17 Jul 2022 09:25:54 +0000

Strength in Fragility: We are writing our own History

Strength in Fragility “We are writing our own history –

Since its official formation in April 2010, the g7+ Group of countries in fragile situation has gained global attention, particularly as the acuteness of the challenges and issues in making development work in countries affected by conflict and fragillity have become more apparent.This uncludes, for instance,the fact that few of these countries have met the targets set by the millennium Development Goals and that, in future, poverty will be concentrated in fargile settings(OECD 2013). Effective aid in fragile situations depends on donors delivering aid, it is recognized that delivering aid in this context can not be business as usual nor one-size-fits-all approach.

Given growing attention to countries in fragile situation, the g7+ Secretariat was keen to document the story of the emergence of the g7+ Group in its early years- capturing the challenges “we saw facing our countries and how we sought to come together to address them” and its achievements. This presentation, therefore sets out our own account of the emergence and formalization of the g7+ as the global forum for countries affected by conflict and fragility. IT has been more than five years since our group was formally established in April 2010 in Dili, Timor-Leste. Establishing and sustaining a credible grouping of conflict-affected and post-conflict countries which however are rich in extractive and there resources is a momentous achievement in its own right.

“Nothing about us without us”
Former Minister of Finance from South Sudan, H.E. Kosti Manibe

Progress in implementing the New Deal

First, Development Partners remain largely of-track in delivering on the TRUST principles. While there are some islands of good practice, there have not yet been tremendous changes in donor behavior. But we must remember this is a long-term endeavor. We are talking about changing narratives and mind-sets that have been in place within the development industry for decades. Changing these will require time, and it will also require greater political commitment on the part of donors.

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Aid Instrument for peace and statebuilding: Putting the New Deal into Practices

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Sat, 16 Jul 2022 09:26:51 +0000

Aid Instrument for peace and statebuilding: Putting the New Deal into Practices

The New Deal and its implementation

In November 2011, at the 4th High Level Forum on Aid Effectiveness in Busan South Korea, the international community endorsed “A New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States”, an agreement advocated for by the g7+ group of conflicted affected countries and developed through the forum of the International Dialogue for Peacebuilding and State building. The New Deal aims to provide a framework to guide international cooperation to support countries affected by conflict and fragility. It does so by identifying principles and related commitments for action across three pillars, as detailed below:

The New Deal Creates Change By

Use the PEACEBUILING & STATEBUILING COALS(PSGs) as the foundation for progress toward the Millennium Development Goals & as a guide for work in fragile and conflict-affected states

LEGITIMATE POLITICS- Foster inclisive political settlements & conflict resolution

SECURITY- Establish & strengthen people’s security

JUSTICE- Address injustices & increase people’s access to justice

ECONOMIC FOUNDATIONS- Generate employment & improve livelihoods

REVENUES AND SERVICES- Manage revenue & build capacity for accountable & fair service delivery

FOCUS on new ways of engaging by supporting inclusive, country-led transitions out of fragility, based on five elements:

FRAGILITY ASSESSMENT of the causes & features of fragility, which is country led, as the basis for one vision one plan

ONE VISION & ONE PLAN which is country-owned & led to address the PSGs & to transition out of fragility

COMPAT to implement the one vision one plan & to guide partnership between all parties to achieve the PSGs

USE the PSGs to monitor progress

SUPPORT POLITCAL DIALOGUE & LEADERSHIP for effective peacebuilding & state building

Building mutual trusts & strong partnerships. TRUST in a new set of commitments to provide aid & manage reforms for better results

TRANSPARENCY in the use of domestic resources, enhanced & at every level

RISK that is jointly assessed & managed for better & greater investment in fragile sates

USE OF COUNTRY SYSTEMS building & delivering through them

STRENGTHEN CAPACITIES of local Institutions & actors to build peaceful states

TIMLY & PREDICTABLE AID through simplified, faster & better tailored mechanisms

Progress in implementing the New Deal

The purpose and focus of the New Deal case studies

The case studies presented in this Report aim to contribute to efforts to address some of these challenges that have emerged in relation to pursuing implementation of the New Deal. They focus on a range of innovative aid programmes and instruments which are in line with the New Deal principles and commitments. Five of the case studies focus on programmes in individual countries, with an additional case study focussing on an aid instrument being implemented by one donor in a range of countries affected by conflict and fragility.

Each of these case studies presents an overview of the background and operations of the programme/ instrument being featured, the factors that facilitated its emergence, its impacts and the lessons learnt from its implementation. In presenting this analysis it is hoped that these case studies will help to strengthen confidence in the New Deal as a vehicle for change and provide practical illustration for how its implementation can be taken forward by both development partners and g7+ member countries. This will in turn hopefully inspire development partners and g7+ members to work together more effectively to address the constraints relating to implementation of the New Deal.

Overall, these case studies show that – from both a government and a development partner perspective – with political will and committed cooperation it is possible to develop innovative support modalities and programmes to support the New Deal principles, even in some of the most challenging development contexts. Furthermore, they illustrate that it is worth investing time and effort to take such initiatives forward as they can lead to more effective, country-owned and sustainable results.

The table overleaf provides a brief overview of the programmes and instruments covered by these case studies. The rest of this overview chapter presents 10 lessons which emerge out of these case studies, which can help to inform the efforts of development partners and g7+ members to take forward the New Deal and pursue more effective cooperation in fragile contexts:

key lessons for development partners

Lesson 1:

Respond rapidly and flexibly to crises

Lesson 2:

Align support with Government programmes and use dialogue to strengthen collaboration on systems

lesson 3:

Develop long term partnerships and avoid stop and go approaches

lesson 4:

Purse risk-sharing approaches which recognise the risk of inaction

lesson 5:

Recognises the role of multilateral organisations

lesson 6:

Make a particular effort, to harmonies with others

key lessons for g7+ members

Lesson 7:

Develop a clear set of strategic priorates to guide donors

Lesson 8:

Progressively strengthen systems, so as to leverage their use by donors

lesson 9:

Understand and respond to donor political constraints with innovative solutions

lesson 10:

Make the New Deal principles more visible in dialogue with donors

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Independent Review of the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 09:27:38 +0000

Independent Review of the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States

The New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States rests upon the mutual commitment of national and international partners to country-owned and country-led exits from fragility.

Externally-imposed solutions do not work. In 2011, at the Busan Fourth High Level Forum on Aid Effectiveness, the New Deal was launched with a powerful message: 1.5 billion of the world’s poorest people lived in fragile situations. Without partnerships for first building peace, resilience and institutions, the eradication of poverty was not possible. The Millennium Development Goals failed to address this.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) now recognize in SDG 16 that achieving peaceful and inclusive societies, access to justice and effective, accountable and inclusive institutions is fundamental for leaving no-one behind in any country. The SDGs agenda will, however, fail the world’s poorest people by 2030 without concerted action to apply the partnership principles of the New Deal. Ending conflict, building institutions and resilience, and delivering basic services and growth could reduce the number of people in absolute poverty from 1.5 billion now to 350 million by 2030. It could also help societies manage new risks. Retreat from the New Deal principles should be inconceivable. As an alliance, the g7+ group of countries has the opportunity to make a unique contribution to the sustainable development agenda as a leading coalition for leaving no-one behind. National leadership and ownership of policies and plans must be respected. Implementation of the New Deal so far has not been easy, reflecting a need for political leaders to recommit to the principles of the New Deal. This is especially true for political processes that bind all relevant actors into a shared vision for “what” needs to be achieved and “how.”

International partners could do much more to deliver their side of the New Deal bargain.

As an alliance, the g7+ group of countries has the opportunity to make a unique contribution to the sustainable development agenda as a leading coalition for leaving no-one behind.

The g7+ needs coherent, predictable and timely assistance to develop national capacities and fill finance gaps. Yet, the fragmentation of aid and development partners across the SDGs, and growing pressures on humanitarian aid, could make matters worse in the SDGs era. All international governmental and private sector partners need to rally to the institutional development priorities of the g7+. This is why partners should commit to a New Deal for the New Deal. There must be a Ministerial Compact that recognizes the urgency of re-engaging on the New Deal principles for achieving the SDGs. The Compact should provide the basis for a new SDGs generation of strategy, planning, programming and monitoring, as well as global and regional partnerships and advocacy. The International Dialogue on Peacebulding and Statebuilding could re-position itself as a multi-stakeholder and country-focused partnership for leaving no-one behind under the UN pledge of SDG 17 to “Partnerships for the SDGs.”

WHAT IS THE NEW DEAL?

The New Deal was negotiated by the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and Statebuilding (IDPS). The IDPS is composed of the g7+ group of self-identified countries in fragile, conflict-affected and transitional situations; the OECD’s International Network on Conflict and Fragility (INCAF); and now includes the Civil Society Platform for Peacebuilding and Statebuilding (CSPPS). The IDPS is unique because it is the only international multi-constituency platform for peacebuilding and statebuilding, and it is country- focused. The New Deal principles rest on three pillars: (1) Peacebuilding and Statebuilding Goals (PSGs) recognize that politics, security, justice, institutions and economics are the foundations for development; (2) FOCUS principles are about politics: identify the causes of fragility; support nationally-owned and nationally-led plans; achieve mutual accountability for results through compacts; (3) TRUST principles commit to aid effectiveness and national capacity development. NINE MAIN FINDINGS OF THE INDEPENDENT REVIEW The review assesses the ways that the New Deal has contributed to behavior change in partnerships. It also identifies opportunities for strengthening the New Deal. The review is not an in-depth evaluation of policy and programmatic efforts or of peacebuilding and statebuilding.

AT THE GLOBAL LEVEL:

The g7+ has become an increasingly influential constituency on the world stage.

Supported by the IDPS, members of the g7+ have advocated for their needs in UN negotiations on Financing for Development (FfD) and the new SDGs. The g7+ also informed UN panel reviews on Peace Operations and Peacebuilding in 2015. The g7+ are building partnerships through the G20, international financial institutions (IFIs), southern actors and regional organizations, have agreed a Fragile-to-Fragile cooperation framework, and are developing tools to support national actors.

Increasing global influence will require widening the dialogue about international coherence and approaches.

Civil society has engaged with the concepts on the global and national levels, and contributed analysis and lessons to New Deal implementation. The New Deal principles have also contributed to informing multilateral and donor countries’ national security and aid strategies. However, the New Deal has not appealed to actors in crisis situations outside the IDPS membership. Many influential regional actors and middle-income countries have yet to be engaged in dialogue with the g7+. The New Deal is often seen as too technical, bureaucratic, inflexible and donor-dominated.

AT THE COUNTRY LEVEL:
Applying the New Deal principles has proven to be complex. Eight g7+ pilot countries have officially started implementation. Twenty countries are members of the g7+, many of whom are taking forward aspects of the New Deal. Actors are learning by doing, but it is too early to judge the impact on fragility. Expectations have been partially met:

Significant resources have not been directed to the PSGs as a result of the New Deal.

The PSGs have enjoyed some uptake in national plans and programs and monitoring frameworks. But only in the case of Somalia have the PSGs been used to define national priorities and align budgets. There is no evidence that international actors have increased their aid allocations towards the PSGs.

g7+ Ministries of Finance and Planning are the major champions of the New Deal, thus progress is most evident in their areas.

Many countries had pre-existing development and peace strategies and aid agreements and the New Deal has been understood as one of multiple frameworks. Actors have drawn on the New Deal as it seems most relevant to: inform national plans (Liberia); conduct assessment and monitoring (Democratic Republic of the Congo [DRC]); and empower government and improve aid effectiveness (Afghanistan, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Timor-Leste).

Center and whole of government ownership of the New Deal by g7+ countries and international partners can quickly change partners’ business methods.

Somalia’s experience in aligning national and international priorities and budgets through a New Deal Compact suggests that the New Deal may have strong resonance where it is the “only game in town.”

Political processes have been missing to identify “what” needs to happen and “how.”

The New Deal’s implementation has been dominated by technical responses. Normative commitments to inclusivity are proving difficult to translate into practice. The New Deal could become more overtly political and inclusive over time. Opportunities include drawing on the g7+ Fragility Spectrum to empower national actors to conduct fragility assessments; convening national dialogue to agree on priorities in the SDGs era; building synergies with relevant political and gender-sensitive initiatives such as national action plans for women, peace and security and the African Peer Review Mechanism; and using compacts to define a discrete set of priority results and mutual accountability between all partners.

The New Deal principles are not surrogates for preventive diplomacy and political dialogue in crisis situations.

Failure to involve all necessary national and international political, security, development, humanitarian and social actors in dialogue and prioritization can contribute to crisis. This was demonstrated in South Sudan. The g7+ Fragile-to-Fragile and preventive diplomacy initiatives offer new opportunities in this regard.

The 2008 financial crisis precipitated reduced commitment to aid effectiveness. Humanitarian resources are being directed to growing crises in the Middle East.

Many g7+ countries are vulnerable to low commodity prices, constraining growth and revenues. But aid to the g7+ does not appear to be counter-cyclical when they face shocks and crisis. Building self-reliance and preventing crisis requires more aid for fragile situations and urgent efforts to make better use of peacebuilding, development and humanitarian resources to build self-reliance and resilience in the long-term. Actors must introduce smarter aid modalities that build national capacities.

The core challenge for the IDPS is to expand its traction and results within its own membership and beyond.

The complexity of both the IDPS membership and the New Deal principles makes attribution of achievements difficult. This in turn fuels skepticism. Actors outside the IDPS reported low levels of awareness of it. The absence of regional actors, middle-income countries and the private sector, and low levels of participation of political, justice, security, humanitarian and development actors constrains IDPS impact.

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Natural Resources Management in g7+ Countries

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 09:28:37 +0000

Natural Resources Management in g7+ Countries

One of the biggest challenges that fragile states face is in mobilising the resources required to adequately invest in their development. The natural resource sector in fragile states is critical to such resource mobilisation efforts, as if properly managed such natural resources can provide an important long-term stream of independent finance. This booklet is the result of a request made at the 2nd Ministerial Meeting of the g7+, which took place in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, in November 2012. At that meeting, Professor Paul Collier delivered a paper on natural resources in fragile states, entitled ‘Small Countries, Big Resources’. g7+ ministers requested that the g7+ secretariat facilitate greater peer learning between g7+ countries on the subject of Natural Resource Management, and a technical team was formed to deliver this report.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

The ongoing work has subsequently been discussed at g7+ technical meetings in Addis Ababa (July 2013) and Kinshasa (November 2013), where further direction was provided to the technical team. The final report was presented to the Third g7+ Ministerial Meeting in May 2014, in Lome, Togo. This booklet offers an overview of natural resource management in all g7+ countries. It provides key information on the known natural resources in each country, the main extractive industries, the legal and fiscal frameworks in place for managing natural resources and issues related to governance and transparency. The booklet forms part of an emerging g7+ research program. It is designed to be a practical source of knowledge-sharing on extractives, and will be continuously updated and developed over time.

The booklet is structured as follows: ‘Fast facts’ presents some of the most noteworthy facts and figures about natural resources in fragile states. ‘Key country data’ pulls together in one table information on natural resources and revenues from each of the 18 g7+ countries. ‘Emerging lessons, shared challenges and opportunities’ draws together some of the emerging themes from the country profiles, linking natural resources to the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States and the New Deal’s five Peacebuilding and Statebuilding Goals. The chapter then uses the ‘Natural Resource Charter’ to structure an exploration of common challenges, opportunities and useful examples from the country profiles. The rest of the booklet then presents the 18 individual country profiles in alphabetical order.

A note on methodology:

The country profiles have been generated through a combination of desk research to survey publically available secondary sources, information provided by Government sources, as well as conversations with civil society organisations, World Bank offices and other in- country experts. Research was conducted throughout 2013, and consequently certain information may be somewhat outdated. Data was often unavailable or of poor quality, and some g7+ countries have smaller extractives industries than others. As a result some of the profiles are relatively brief. In instances where figures were found to be conflicting the authors have either reconciled them or indicated the inconsistency.

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Official visit of Hon Kay Rala Xanana REPORT Gusmão, Eminent Person of the Advisory Council of g7+,to the Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R.C) and Central African Republic (C.A.R)

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 05:15:37 +0000

Official visit of Hon Kay Rala Xanana REPORT Gusmão, Eminent Person of the Advisory Council of g7+,to the Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R.C) and Central African Republic (C.A.R)

Background of the election observation

Following the g7+ (group of Seven Plus) institutionalized the election observation initiative as part of its peer learning and sharing of experience under its flagship program ‘Fragile to Fragile’ cooperation on 22 March 2023 in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The g7+, as an Inter-Governmental organization of conflict affected countries that helps achieving Peace, and stability through peer learning, is already contributing to good governance, peace, development, and democratic space in member countries, for instance, Timor-Leste’s cooperation in Guinea Bissau and Sao Tome and Principe. Elections are among the most important phases in the trajectory of g7+ countries. They are milestones that determine chances of stability and peace. In line with the vision of the g7+, the members have inspiring lessons to learn from each other. Hence, the key objectives of this initiative amongst others include:
Sharing of experiences in managing elections;
Contributing to enhancing democratic consolidation, strengthening peace and development through election observation amongst g7+ members;
Enhancing to improve Election Management Bodies (EMB) operations through its election observation recommendations;

Introduction

The g7+ Election Observation Mission (EOM) comprising of members accredited by ECSL to observe the general Election in Sierra Leone on 24^th June 2023. The EOM took place during 20-25 June 2023. The members of the mission comprised of:

Habib Urrehman Mayar (Head of Delegation)

Deputy General Secretary of g7+

Domingos Barreto

Vice President of National Election Commission of Timor-Leste

Michael E. Clarke

Deputy Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, National Election Commission of Liberia

Felix Piedade

Chief Operating Officer of g7+

The g7+ EOM observed the process from a standpoint of impartiality, independence, professionalism and objectivity which are in tandem with international best practices of election observation the world over.

It is also important to underscore that the g7+ EOM observed general election within the confines of the electoral legal stipulation of Sierra Leone in reference to “guidelines and code of conduct for observer groups”

Prior to polling, the g7+ EOM also had consultative engagements with the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) to enhance understanding on certain election procedures and to have a comprehensive knowledge on general preparations and effective collaboration of relevant stakeholders in the electoral process. The EOM also met the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC)

The composition of the g7+ EOM on polling day was made up of 2 teams of 2 members each observing a total of 25 polling centers in Rural and Urban Western regions. The methodology adopted for polling day observation was a checklist enabling the teams to observe opening, polling, closure and counting procedures and the general political environment at polling stations.

Pre – Election

The g7+ EOM upon its arrival observed that a rally by Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) was held in Freetown which was peaceful.

Prior to the elections, tension escalated when All Peoples Congress (APC) called on its members and supporters to protest the “refusal of the ECSL to implement its recommendations to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections”.

The EOM joined Peace March was organized by the Political Party Regulatory Commission (PPRC) on 23rd of June that called for non-violent and peaceful election . The Peace March could have been well attended with the participation of Civil society organizations.

The ECSL organized regular press conferences to share updates in regard to preparation for the Election.

The Polling Process

Opening of polls

The polling staff and security personnel at the polling stations visited were very cooperative and helpful with the observers. The Polling Center Managers (PCM) were responsive to questions by observers.

The number of ballot papers received were also shared with the party agents and observers present at the polling stations before the start of the polls.

The g7+ EOM observed in polling stations the presence of national and international observers, media outlets, during the opening of polls at the polling stations visited.

Polling stations that the g7+ EOM visited did not open in time. There were delays that caused frustration among the voters.

The EOM noted that the delay was caused by the late arrival of the voting materials.

Polling

The g7+ EOM observed that most polling officials were knowledgeable on opening procedures. The ballot boxes were sealed in the presence of the party agents and observers who were invited to note the seal numbers. However, there were few who faced challenges in sealing of the boxes.

Queues at polling stations observed were largely peaceful and voters to a greater degree were knowledgeable about the voting process. However, there were some tensions at some stations where voters were struggling to enter the polling stations. This was due to the crowd and long ques. At one polling center that the g7+ EOM visited, the voters had difficulty in entering and even witnessed few female voters who were fainted.

Polling staff deployed at most centers were not uniformed and hence not easily identified. Some of them did not even have display of their ID cards.

It was observed that ballot paper controllers at most polling stations guided the voters in a professional and impartial manner to cast their votes. The g7+ EOM notes that this strategy is an effective tool to minimizing invalid votes and therefore commends ECSL.

Assistant to voters with special need was given whenever necessary at polling stations observed.

Polling station layouts were generally conducive with the exception of some with poor lighting conditions, ventilation and access especially for persons with disabilities. In some polling stations, the g7+ EOM observed that the voting booths were organized in a way that that voters could see and notice each other.

During the polling at some stations visited, some party agents were domineering and overbearing tried to put aside the center manager and presiding officers.

Few voters at few stations visited could not be verified due to the lack of their details in the voting register.

Closure and Counting

The period of delay in the opening of the polls was not allotted to extend the closing period at some polling stations.

Votes were counted in full view of party agents, observers, and security personnel.

Counting procedures were largely followed except for some challenges in few stations where the presiding officers had to be corrected by either party agents and/or center manager.

It was observed that the counting at the stations visited was done without major incidents.

Provisional results at polling stations observed were recorded on polling station forms, verified and signed by party agents and copies issued to them.

The Political Environment

The g7+ EOM of observed that the overall political environment around all polling stations was serene friendly and free from political violence, intimidation and influence.

Recommendations

A primary objective of the g7+ EOM is to help improve election management through its recommendations and it is encouraged that the responsible institutions consider the following recommendations:

Pre-Election

Considering the fragility of the country and the nature of elections, a contest for a prize, political parties should exercise restraints in making pronouncements which maybe interrupted by supporters but rather continue to take advantage of the space created for dialogue. Despite what ensued, the g7+ is grateful that both the opposition and ruling parties quickly took measures to restore peace and the voters’ confidence in peaceful elections. In particular, the signing of the “The Sierra Leone Election Pledge” by all political parties is encouraging.

The g7+ EOM appreciated the initiative of the PPRC to have a peace march but was concerned of the absence of stakeholders such as civil society organizations (CSOs) particularly. CSOs represents the interest of the ordinary citizens and as such since should have mobilized its members and the citizenry to join the march. This in our view would have been the united voice of ordinary Sierra Leoneans demanding the political parties adhere to the peace pledge.

The regular updates by ECSL on the preparation for election through press conferences is worth commending.

Elections Day

The lack of dress code of poll workers not being uniformed made it difficult to easily be identified. Voters did not know whom to quickly get to for assistance. The g7+ EOM strongly recommend that a dress code be strictly followed by the polling officials.

Logisticians of the ECSL need to be more meticulous in the deployment of elections materials by referencing their check lists or a final check to ensure all the materials required are sent to the polling centers in time. Also, polling staff should arrange the centers at least 24 hours before polling begins and so to start the opening procedures on time as per the law. The timely opening of the polling centers will not only help in increasing the voters’ turnout but will also enhance the confidence of voters.

Considering the challenges faced in finding ideal locations for polling centers, there is a need to begin conversations on how to manage these challenges of queue management or engage with other EMBs to see how this issue is handled.

The delayed in opening of the polls after the official opening time should be compensated for by extending the time of closing and not be discretionary.

Party agents must abide by the guidelines and not act outside of it. In particular, they should be strictly guided not to touch the sensitive materials.

Polling staff, particularly POs should follow the laid out procedures which are intended to improve efficiency and enhance transparency. The g7+ EOM further recommends for an improvement in polling official training.

Conclusion

The g7+ EOM reiterates that this is an initial assessment of the electoral process for the June 24th June General Election and therefore solicit the continuous cooperation of all political parties and state actors in Sierra Leone.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

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Visite officielle de l’hon Kay Rala Xanana REPORT Gusmão, personnalité éminente du Conseil consultatif du g7 +, à la République démocratique du Congo (RDC) et en République centrafricaine (RCA)

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 05:20:04 +0000

Visite officielle de l’hon Kay Rala Xanana REPORT Gusmão, personnalité éminente du Conseil consultatif du g7 +, à la République démocratique du Congo (RDC) et en République centrafricaine (RCA)

Background of the election observation

Following the g7+ (group of Seven Plus) institutionalized the election observation initiative as part of its peer learning and sharing of experience under its flagship program ‘Fragile to Fragile’ cooperation on 22 March 2023 in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The g7+, as an Inter-Governmental organization of conflict affected countries that helps achieving Peace, and stability through peer learning, is already contributing to good governance, peace, development, and democratic space in member countries, for instance, Timor-Leste’s cooperation in Guinea Bissau and Sao Tome and Principe. Elections are among the most important phases in the trajectory of g7+ countries. They are milestones that determine chances of stability and peace. In line with the vision of the g7+, the members have inspiring lessons to learn from each other. Hence, the key objectives of this initiative amongst others include:
Sharing of experiences in managing elections;
Contributing to enhancing democratic consolidation, strengthening peace and development through election observation amongst g7+ members;
Enhancing to improve Election Management Bodies (EMB) operations through its election observation recommendations;

Introduction

The g7+ Election Observation Mission (EOM) comprising of members accredited by ECSL to observe the general Election in Sierra Leone on 24^th June 2023. The EOM took place during 20-25 June 2023. The members of the mission comprised of:

Habib Urrehman Mayar (Head of Delegation)

Deputy General Secretary of g7+

Domingos Barreto

Vice President of National Election Commission of Timor-Leste

Michael E. Clarke

Deputy Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, National Election Commission of Liberia

Felix Piedade

Chief Operating Officer of g7+

The g7+ EOM observed the process from a standpoint of impartiality, independence, professionalism and objectivity which are in tandem with international best practices of election observation the world over.

It is also important to underscore that the g7+ EOM observed general election within the confines of the electoral legal stipulation of Sierra Leone in reference to “guidelines and code of conduct for observer groups”

Prior to polling, the g7+ EOM also had consultative engagements with the Electoral Commission of Sierra Leone (ECSL) to enhance understanding on certain election procedures and to have a comprehensive knowledge on general preparations and effective collaboration of relevant stakeholders in the electoral process. The EOM also met the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC)

The composition of the g7+ EOM on polling day was made up of 2 teams of 2 members each observing a total of 25 polling centers in Rural and Urban Western regions. The methodology adopted for polling day observation was a checklist enabling the teams to observe opening, polling, closure and counting procedures and the general political environment at polling stations.

Pre – Election

The g7+ EOM upon its arrival observed that a rally by Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) was held in Freetown which was peaceful.

Prior to the elections, tension escalated when All Peoples Congress (APC) called on its members and supporters to protest the “refusal of the ECSL to implement its recommendations to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections”.

The EOM joined Peace March was organized by the Political Party Regulatory Commission (PPRC) on 23rd of June that called for non-violent and peaceful election . The Peace March could have been well attended with the participation of Civil society organizations.

The ECSL organized regular press conferences to share updates in regard to preparation for the Election.

The Polling Process

Opening of polls

The polling staff and security personnel at the polling stations visited were very cooperative and helpful with the observers. The Polling Center Managers (PCM) were responsive to questions by observers.

The number of ballot papers received were also shared with the party agents and observers present at the polling stations before the start of the polls.

The g7+ EOM observed in polling stations the presence of national and international observers, media outlets, during the opening of polls at the polling stations visited.

Polling stations that the g7+ EOM visited did not open in time. There were delays that caused frustration among the voters.

The EOM noted that the delay was caused by the late arrival of the voting materials.

Polling

The g7+ EOM observed that most polling officials were knowledgeable on opening procedures. The ballot boxes were sealed in the presence of the party agents and observers who were invited to note the seal numbers. However, there were few who faced challenges in sealing of the boxes.

Queues at polling stations observed were largely peaceful and voters to a greater degree were knowledgeable about the voting process. However, there were some tensions at some stations where voters were struggling to enter the polling stations. This was due to the crowd and long ques. At one polling center that the g7+ EOM visited, the voters had difficulty in entering and even witnessed few female voters who were fainted.

Polling staff deployed at most centers were not uniformed and hence not easily identified. Some of them did not even have display of their ID cards.

It was observed that ballot paper controllers at most polling stations guided the voters in a professional and impartial manner to cast their votes. The g7+ EOM notes that this strategy is an effective tool to minimizing invalid votes and therefore commends ECSL.

Assistant to voters with special need was given whenever necessary at polling stations observed.

Polling station layouts were generally conducive with the exception of some with poor lighting conditions, ventilation and access especially for persons with disabilities. In some polling stations, the g7+ EOM observed that the voting booths were organized in a way that that voters could see and notice each other.

During the polling at some stations visited, some party agents were domineering and overbearing tried to put aside the center manager and presiding officers.

Few voters at few stations visited could not be verified due to the lack of their details in the voting register.

Closure and Counting

The period of delay in the opening of the polls was not allotted to extend the closing period at some polling stations.

Votes were counted in full view of party agents, observers, and security personnel.

Counting procedures were largely followed except for some challenges in few stations where the presiding officers had to be corrected by either party agents and/or center manager.

It was observed that the counting at the stations visited was done without major incidents.

Provisional results at polling stations observed were recorded on polling station forms, verified and signed by party agents and copies issued to them.

The Political Environment

The g7+ EOM of observed that the overall political environment around all polling stations was serene friendly and free from political violence, intimidation and influence.

Recommendations

A primary objective of the g7+ EOM is to help improve election management through its recommendations and it is encouraged that the responsible institutions consider the following recommendations:

Pre-Election

Considering the fragility of the country and the nature of elections, a contest for a prize, political parties should exercise restraints in making pronouncements which maybe interrupted by supporters but rather continue to take advantage of the space created for dialogue. Despite what ensued, the g7+ is grateful that both the opposition and ruling parties quickly took measures to restore peace and the voters’ confidence in peaceful elections. In particular, the signing of the “The Sierra Leone Election Pledge” by all political parties is encouraging.

The g7+ EOM appreciated the initiative of the PPRC to have a peace march but was concerned of the absence of stakeholders such as civil society organizations (CSOs) particularly. CSOs represents the interest of the ordinary citizens and as such since should have mobilized its members and the citizenry to join the march. This in our view would have been the united voice of ordinary Sierra Leoneans demanding the political parties adhere to the peace pledge.

The regular updates by ECSL on the preparation for election through press conferences is worth commending.

Elections Day

The lack of dress code of poll workers not being uniformed made it difficult to easily be identified. Voters did not know whom to quickly get to for assistance. The g7+ EOM strongly recommend that a dress code be strictly followed by the polling officials.

Logisticians of the ECSL need to be more meticulous in the deployment of elections materials by referencing their check lists or a final check to ensure all the materials required are sent to the polling centers in time. Also, polling staff should arrange the centers at least 24 hours before polling begins and so to start the opening procedures on time as per the law. The timely opening of the polling centers will not only help in increasing the voters’ turnout but will also enhance the confidence of voters.

Considering the challenges faced in finding ideal locations for polling centers, there is a need to begin conversations on how to manage these challenges of queue management or engage with other EMBs to see how this issue is handled.

The delayed in opening of the polls after the official opening time should be compensated for by extending the time of closing and not be discretionary.

Party agents must abide by the guidelines and not act outside of it. In particular, they should be strictly guided not to touch the sensitive materials.

Polling staff, particularly POs should follow the laid out procedures which are intended to improve efficiency and enhance transparency. The g7+ EOM further recommends for an improvement in polling official training.

Conclusion

The g7+ EOM reiterates that this is an initial assessment of the electoral process for the June 24th June General Election and therefore solicit the continuous cooperation of all political parties and state actors in Sierra Leone.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

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Fragility Spectrum

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 08:09:53 +0000

Fragility Spectrum

The g7+ has at the core of its mission the desire to support countries suffering from conflict or crises on their way towards resilience. The g7+ is determined to stand in solidarity with its brothers and sisters in fellow countries to help them on the pathway towards resilience. Fragile contexts, although distinctly different in each country, do have similar features. Countries in transitions from conflict or weak institutions to increased resilience can understand better what it takes and how difficult it can be. g7+ Countries are therefore particularly well placed to support each other in fostering a country-led trajectory towards peace and resilience. In supporting each other, the g7+ can draw on its strong sense of solidarity between its members, which is based not on geopolitical interest, but on the common desire for all countries to move out of fragility; the experience of some g7+ countries in building effective, legitimate and resilient institutions, against all odds; its network of influential and inspiring figures who have steered their own societies through such difficult periods; its expertise in specific frameworks, processes and tools that can support sustainable peacebuilding and statebuilding, as laid out in the New Deal for Engagement with Fragile States; and its strong relations with the international community through the International Dialogue for Peacebuilding and Statebuilding (IDPS).

To this end, the g7+ has launched the initiative of Fragile-to-Fragile cooperation (F2F cooperation). The purpose of this document is to frame and explain the concept of Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation. The concept will serve as an umbrella under which the g7+ will undertake a number of activities. This framing will guide the planning of specific activities by the g7+, and will also serve as an invitation to development partners to support the g7+ in the operationalization of the concept. 2. The concept of Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation F2F cooperation is the support g7+ can provide to each other, including through peer learning, capacity building, experience sharing and knowledge generation. It provides a framework through which the g7+ can make optimal use of its own resources, as well as channel support from external parties to its priorities for learning and expressing solidarity. F2F cooperation thus refers to support between g7+ member states, as graphically shown below. It will operate in parallel to the continued engagement of the g7+ with the International Dialogue on Peacebuiding and Statebuilding.

Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation consists of three main pillars:

Supporting g7+ member countries in implementation of the New Deal
Peer learning, knowledge generation and capacity development around peacebuilding and statebuilding
Supporting g7+ member countries in dealing with acute and emerging crises

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g7+ Policy Note on Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 13 Jul 2022 05:47:57 +0000

g7+ Policy Note on Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation

The g7+ has at the core of its mission the desire to support countries suffering from conflict or crises on their way towards resilience. The g7+ is determined to stand in solidarity with its brothers and sisters in fellow countries to help them on the pathway towards resilience. Fragile contexts, although distinctly different in each country, do have similar features. Countries in transitions from conflict or weak institutions to increased resilience can understand better what it takes and how difficult it can be. g7+ Countries are therefore particularly well placed to support each other in fostering a country-led trajectory towards peace and resilience. In supporting each other, the g7+ can draw on its strong sense of solidarity between its members, which is based not on geopolitical interest, but on the common desire for all countries to move out of fragility; the experience of some g7+ countries in building effective, legitimate and resilient institutions, against all odds; its network of influential and inspiring figures who have steered their own societies through such difficult periods; its expertise in specific frameworks, processes and tools that can support sustainable peacebuilding and statebuilding, as laid out in the New Deal for Engagement with Fragile States; and its strong relations with the international community through the International Dialogue for Peacebuilding and Statebuilding (IDPS).

To this end, the g7+ has launched the initiative of Fragile-to-Fragile cooperation (F2F cooperation). The purpose of this document is to frame and explain the concept of Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation. The concept will serve as an umbrella under which the g7+ will undertake a number of activities. This framing will guide the planning of specific activities by the g7+, and will also serve as an invitation to development partners to support the g7+ in the operationalization of the concept. 2. The concept of Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation F2F cooperation is the support g7+ can provide to each other, including through peer learning, capacity building, experience sharing and knowledge generation. It provides a framework through which the g7+ can make optimal use of its own resources, as well as channel support from external parties to its priorities for learning and expressing solidarity. F2F cooperation thus refers to support between g7+ member states, as graphically shown below. It will operate in parallel to the continued engagement of the g7+ with the International Dialogue on Peacebuiding and Statebuilding.

Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation consists of three main pillars:

Supporting g7+ member countries in implementation of the New Deal
Peer learning, knowledge generation and capacity development around peacebuilding and statebuilding
Supporting g7+ member countries in dealing with acute and emerging crises

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HIPPO REPORT: Uniting our strengths for peace, politics, partnership and people

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 12 Jul 2022 11:19:14 +0000

HIPPO REPORT: Uniting our strengths for peace, politics, partnership and people

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: UN Peace Operations in a changed and changing landscape

In 1948, the first peacekeeping mission and the first high-profile mediator were deployed as innovative solutions by a young United Nations. Nearly seventy years later, United Nations (UN) peace operations – which span peacekeeping operations to special political missions, good offices and mediation initiatives – are a central part of the Organization’s efforts to improve the lives of people around the world. More than 128,000 women and men serve under the blue flag in almost 40 missions across four continents working to prevent conflicts, help mediate peace processes, protect civilians and sustain fragile peace processes.

UN peace operations have proven highly adaptable and contributed significantly to the successful resolution of conflicts and to a declining number of conflicts over two decades. Today, however, there is evidence of a worrisome reversal of some of this trend and a widely shared concern that changes in conflict may be outpacing the ability of UN peace operations to respond. The spread of violent extremism, overlaid onto long- simmering local or regional conflicts and the growing aspirations of populations for change, is placing pressure on governments and the international system to respond. As UN peace operations struggle to achieve their objectives, change is required to adapt them to new circumstances and to ensure their increased effectiveness and appropriate use in future.
A number of peace operations today are deployed in an environment where there is little or no peace to keep. In many settings today, the strain on their operational capabilities and support systems is showing, and political support is often stretched thin. There is a clear sense of a widening gap between what is being asked of UN peace operations today and what they are able to deliver. This gap can be – must be – narrowed to ensure that the Organization’s peace operations are able to respond effectively and appropriately to the challenges to come. With a current generation of conflicts proving difficult to resolve and with new ones emerging, it is essential that UN peace operations, along with regional and other partners, combine their respective comparative advantages and unite their strengths in the service of peace and security.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

A call for change

In many ways, UN peace operations have become more professional and capable over the past decade but significant chronic challenges remain. Resources for prevention and mediation work have been scarce and the United Nations is often too slow to engage with emerging crises. Too often, mandates and missions are produced on the basis of templates instead of tailored to support situation-specific political strategies, and technical and military approaches come at the expense of strengthened political efforts. In the face of a surge in demand over the past decade, the Organization has not been able to deploy sufficient peacekeeping forces quickly and often relies on under-resourced military and vii

police capacities. Rapidly deployable specialist capabilities are difficult to mobilize and UN forces have little or no interoperability. Secretariat departments and UN agencies, funds and programmes struggle to integrate their efforts in the face of competing pressures, at times, contradictory messages and different funding sources. UN bureaucratic systems configured for a headquarters environment limit the speed, mobility and agility of response in the field. These chronic challenges are significant but they can, and should, be addressed.

Four essential shifts

Four essential shifts must be embraced in the future design and delivery of UN peace operations if real progress is to be made and if UN peace operations are to realize their potential for better results in the field.

First, politics must drive the design and implementation of peace operations.
Lasting peace is achieved not through military and technical engagements, but through political solutions. Political solutions should always guide the design and deployment of UN peace operations. When the momentum behind peace falters, the United Nations, and particularly Member States, must help to mobilize renewed political efforts to keep peace processes on track.

Second, the full spectrum of UN peace operations must be used more flexibly to respond to changing needs on the ground. The United Nations has a uniquely broad spectrum of peace operations that it can draw upon to deliver situation-specific responses. And yet, it often struggles to generate and rapidly deploy missions that are well-tailored to the context. The sharp distinctions between peacekeeping operations and special political missions should give way to a continuum of response and smoother transitions between different phases of missions. The United Nations should embrace the term “peace operations” to denote the full spectrum of responses required and invest in strengthening the underlying analysis, strategy and planning that leads to more successful design of missions. Sequenced and prioritized mandates will allow missions to develop over time rather than trying to do everything at once, and failing.

Third, a stronger, more inclusive peace and security partnership is needed for the future. A stronger global-regional peace and security partnership is needed to respond to the more challenging crises of tomorrow. Common purpose and resolve must be established from the outset of a new operation and must be maintained throughout through enhanced collaboration and consultation. The UN System too must pull together in a more integrated manner in the service of conflict prevention and peace. All of these partnerships must be underpinned by mutual respect and mutual responsibilities.

Fourth, the UN Secretariat must become more field-focused and UN peace operations must be more people-centered. There must be an awakening of UN Headquarters to the distinct and important needs of field missions, and a renewed resolve on the part of UN peace operations personnel to engage with, serve and protect the people they have been mandated to assist.

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New Models of Development Cooperation: The g7+ and Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 11:23:56 +0000

New Models of Development Cooperation: The g7+ and Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation

New Models of Development Cooperation: The g7+ and Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation

Trends in conflict and fragility are changing. New regions and an increasing number of middle-in- come countries are experiencing instability.1 But many of the problems in conflict-affected and fragile situations remain, including in the g7+ group of fragile states. Several of these countries are still low-income and aid dependent, and a majority of them are not expected to reach the goal of halving poverty by the end of 2015, nor to reach several other Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).2 Most continue to experience the same shortfalls of international engagement year after year. Fragility has proven to be resilient, with several countries experiencing recurrent and protracted crises.

Traditional North-South development cooperation, with its formal, highly regulated, risk averse, and high-transaction systems,3 has delivered limited results in conflict-affected and fragile situations. This is despite the volume of aid – which ac- cording to the OECD amounts to over 38 per cent of Official Development Assistance (ODA) – and efforts to make it more effective.4 The practice of South-South Cooperation (SSC) has increased in recent years, partly in response to the limitations of the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC)-led approach to aid; that is, one dominated by the global North. In its dominant form, however, SSC is largely practiced by middle-income and emerging economies, which also may not be well placed to represent the poorest and most fragile of contexts.
The g7+ has emerged in the past few years as a group of conflict-affected countries that aim to support each other in addressing their own fragili- ty, including through the idea of Fragile to Fragile (F2F) cooperation. F2F cooperation has emerged partly in response to the perceived deficiencies of existing forms of cooperation. While it remains to be seen whether the g7+ and F2F cooperation can provide a robust and meaningful solution to these issues in practice, it is nonetheless an important evolution within the global development context.
This paper examines the emergence of the g7+ and the F2F approach, and discusses the extent to which, at this early stage, it might provide a different and necessary form of support from the established models of the DAC, SSC and triangular cooperation. It also situates the g7+ and F2F within the context of the post-2015 development agenda, notably in relation to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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Liberia 2nd Fragility Assessment

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 19 May 2022 04:10:26 +0000

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Eminent Person of g7+, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão statement on the situation in Ukraine.

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 06:05:50 +0000

Eminent Person of g7+, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão statement on the situation in Ukraine.

STATEMENT ON UKRAINE

The fragile, in conflict and post conflict countries, under the g7+, regret what is happening in Ukraine.
We have been following the development of this tragic event. We see that the international community and the World Leaders, instead of doing everything to pursue constructive dialogue, showed military preparedness for the war.

We condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This invasion reminds us of the invasions of Afghanistan in 2001 and Iraq in 2003. We have witnessed the West selling weapons to developing countries that result in killing of innocent children in places like Yemen and elsewhere. We always stated that the millions of refugees in Europe are the result of the conflicts promoted by the West in developing countries.

Having attained permanent Observer status at the United Nations, we support the call from UN Secretary General to immediate ceasefire in Ukraine.
For us the 20, fragile, conflict affected and post conflict countries from g7+, we are watching with sadness but also with hope that World Leaders can take these lessons in order to change their policies in regard to developing countries. We appeal for the open and constructive dialogue to put an end to the suffering of Ukrainian people.

The World Leaders must put aside their strategic and hegemonic interest and give the PEACE a chance and raise the interest of the people who are suffering.

The g7+ wants to be the voice for the voiceless people. That is why we make this statement with the full confidence that our voice will be heard.

Dili, 28 February 2022
H.E Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão
Eminent Person of g7+

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Statement of Solidarity with the People of Guinea-Bissau

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 06:03:44 +0000

Statement of Solidarity with the People of Guinea-Bissau

The news of coup attempt in Guinea-Bissau on 1 February 2022, a member of the g7+, has concerned the group of g7+. We stand in solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau as the country is facing difficult times.

We appeal to all parties and the military to restrain from violence and conflict. The people of Guinea-Bissau deserve to live in Peace and democracy needs to prevail in the country.

The g7+ Eminent Person H.E. Xanana Gusmão has communicated with the leaders in Guinea-Bissau, calling for restrain and calm. We at the g7+ secretariat are closely monitoring the situation there.

We stand ready to help in maintaining peace and stability, the best way we can.

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Statement of Solidarity and Cooperation – A call for concerted support in our efforts to curb COVID19

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 05:46:48 +0000

Statement of Solidarity and Cooperation – A call for concerted support in our efforts to curb COVID19

COVID-19 is a global threat to humanity which can only be addressed through global solidarity, cooperation and coordination.
We the members of g7+ group join our partners to express our profound solidarity with nations affected by COVID-19 and sympathy for the victims of this pandemic. The g7+ group is committed to curb the pandemic and contribute to international efforts to strengthen social and economic resilience globally, including through a range of partnerships and solidarity with affected countries and populations.

We express our gratitude to the healthcare professionals for their relentless services and sacrifices in treating and taking care of patients under extremely difficult conditions. We commend the efforts of the World Health Organziation (WHO) and other national and international organizations for their robust efforts to tackle the pandemic.

g7+ countries have experienced adverse social, political and economic impacts of decades-long conflicts, terrorism, disasters and extreme poverty. These countries are the most vulnerable to the pandemic as they have some of the weakest institutions, finances and human capital to cope with this crisis and its social and economic aftermath. At the same time, some of the g7+ member states have practical experiences in managing multidimensional crises, which could be brought to bear in the fight against COVID-19.

Together with our partners, we call for the following immediate steps to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on children, families and societies in the most vulnerable communities.

1. Support the UN Secretary General’s Call for Global Ceasefire:

COVID-19 is a challenge that tests our care for humanity, and we support the UN Secretary General’s call for a global ceasefire. This is a time to fight the common enemy, the pandemic, and save precious lives. We call upon all warring factions and parties to lay down their arms and
work with governments, communities, civil society organisations and healthcare organizations to tackle the rapid spread of the disease.

2. Invest in Public Healthcare and Strengthen Institutions:

COVID-19 is putting strain on public health systems worldwide. The Public Health Systems in fragile and conflict-affected countries are already constrained due to lack of basic equipment and inadequate personnel to address their current situation. The COVID-19 pandemic will overwhelm public health systems in g7+ countries, if the pandemic reaches a tipping point in these countries. Support from international humanitarian and development organizations to strengthen health systems in poor countries will help to save millions of lives. Noting current support, we call upon donor countries and organizations to scale up their assistance in line with the principles of New Deal For engagement in fragile countries to help these countries with more resilient health systems and responses to prevent, contain and recover from the pandemic.

Sharing of experiences, knowledge, good practices and cooperation in scientific innovations, social mobilization and adaptive leadership are critical to addressing this pandemic in a diverse range of crisis-affected contexts. Therefore, we commit to serving as a platform for governments, partners, civil society and the private sector to share experiences, including through “Fragile-to- Fragile cooperation” among fragile and conflict affected countries, and as part of broader efforts for South-South and Triangular cooperation to curb the pandemic and strengthen institutions. We reiterate our commitment to Agenda 2030 and its implementation, especially for Goals 3 and 16.

3. Care for Displaced People stranded due to Border Closures:

We commend the hospitality of societies and countries hosting displaced people and migrants who are forced to embark on difficult journeys due to wars and natural disasters. The COVID-19 induced border closures are affecting the lives and safety of countless refugees and displaced
people. We call upon governments and international organizations to care for their needs and safety, as they would for their own citizens, as a gesture of human solidarity and consistent with international obligations.

4. Support for Economic Recovery, Self-reliance and the Sustaining Peace Agenda:

Fragile and conflict-affected countries are increasingly home to the world’s poorest and are in critical stages of their political and development transition. These countries are already being hit the hardest by the economic downturn resulting from the COVID-19 outbreak. This has adversely affected the prospects for revenue generation in these countries, which will have a significant impact on their self-reliance. The trade and private sector are likely to be badly affected by this pandemic as experienced by the three g7+ countries during the 2014 Ebola outbreak. We welcome the announcement by the World Bank of a $12 billion response package and by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to activate $50 billion through its rapid-disbursing emergency financing facilities. We also commend similar support by other regional Development Banks and other donors.

We call on development partners to provide sufficient resources to support the most fragile countries in their effort to contain the virus and recover from its impact.

We support the call for debt relief through waiving interest payments and using the Heavily Indebted Poor Country (HIPC) mechanisms for these countries as sustained peace and stability in conflict affected countries remain the insurance for global peace and prosperity.

Social distancing and lockdowns will be very difficult to sustain due to the lack of viable economic safety nets, underdeveloped infrastructure, and the need for citizens to sustain themselves, especially in conflict zones. Landlocked Least Developed Countries (LDCs) that depend on the uninterrupted transit of goods will be particularly affected by the closure of borders. Therefore, we urge donors and nations in those regions to address the needs of these countries through targeted investments in food security, regional cooperation, technological innovation and alternative sources of financing.

We the members of g7+ will regularly follow up and review progress on the above statement.

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Déclaration de solidarité et de coopération Un appel à un soutien concerté dans nos efforts pour freiner le COVID19

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 05:34:12 +0000

Déclaration de solidarité et de coopération Un appel à un soutien concerté dans nos efforts pour freiner le COVID19

Le COVID-19 est une menace mondiale pour l’humanité qui ne peut être traitée que par la solidarité, la coopération et la coordination mondiales.

Nous, membres du groupe g7+, nous nous joignons à nos partenaires pour exprimer notre profonde solidarité avec les nations touchées par le COVID-19 et notre sympathie pour les victimes de cette pandémie. Le groupe g7+ s’est engagé à freiner la pandémie et à contribuer aux efforts internationaux visant à renforcer la résilience socio-économique au niveau mondial, notamment par le biais d’une série de partenariats et de solidarité avec les pays et les populations touchés.

Nous exprimons notre gratitude aux professionnels de la santé pour leurs services et sacrifices inlassables dans le traitement et la prise en charge des patients dans des conditions extrêmement difficiles. Nous saluons les efforts de l’Organisation mondiale de la santé (OMS) et d’autres organisations nationales et internationales dans leurs efforts énergiques pour lutter contre la pandémie.

Les pays du g7+ ont subi des conséquences sociales, politiques et économiques issues de conflits qui ont duré des décennies, mais également du terrorisme, des catastrophes et de l’extrême pauvreté. Ces pays sont les plus vulnérables à la pandémie, car disposant des institutions, des finances et un capital humain parmi les plus faibles pour faire face à cette crise et à ses conséquences sociales et économiques. En même temps, certains des États membres du g7+ disposent d’expériences pratiques en matière de gestion des crises multidimensionnelles, qui pourraient être mises à profit dans la lutte contre le COVID-19.

Avec nos partenaires, nous demandons que les mesures immédiates suivantes soient prises pour atténuer l’impact de la pandémie sur les enfants, les familles et les sociétés dans les communautés les plus vulnérables.

1. Soutenir l’appel du Secrétaire général des Nations unies en faveur d’un cessez-le-feu mondial : Le COVID-19 est un défi qui met à l’épreuve notre souci de l’humanité et nous soutenons l’appel du Secrétaire général des Nations unies en faveur d’un cessez-le-feu mondial. Il est temps de combattre l’ennemi commun, la pandémie, et de sauver des vies précieuses. Nous appelons toutes les factions et parties belligérantes à déposer les armes et à travailler avec les gouvernements, les communautés, les organisations de la société civile et les organismes de santé pour faire face à la propagation rapide de la maladie.

2. Investir dans les soins de santé publics et renforcer les institutions : Le COVID-19 met à rude épreuve les systèmes de santé publique du monde entier. Les systèmes de santé publique des pays fragiles et touchés par des conflits sont déjà limités par le manque d’équipements de base et de personnel pour faire face à leur situation actuelle. La pandémie COVID-19 submergera les systèmes de santé publique des pays du g7+, si la pandémie y atteint un point de basculement.

Le soutien des organisations internationales humanitaires et de développement pour renforcer les systèmes de santé dans les pays pauvres permettra de sauver des millions de vies. Prenant acte du soutien actuel, nous appelons les pays et organisations donateurs à accroître leur aide conformément aux principes du New Deal pour l’engagement dans les pays fragiles, afin de doter ces pays de systèmes de santé plus résistants et de réponses appropriées pour prévenir, contenir et se remettre de la pandémie.

Le partage des expériences, des connaissances, des bonnes pratiques et la coopération en matière d’innovations scientifiques, de mobilisation sociale et de leadership adaptatif sont essentiels pour faire face à cette pandémie dans un large éventail de contextes de crise. Par conséquent, nous nous engageons à servir de plateforme pour les gouvernements, les partenaires, la société civile et le secteur privé afin de partager les expériences, notamment par le biais d’une “coopération de fragile à fragile” entre les pays fragiles et touchés par un conflit, et dans le cadre d’efforts plus larges de coopération Sud-Sud et triangulaire pour freiner la pandémie et renforcer les institutions.

Nous réaffirmons notre engagement en faveur de l’Agenda 2030 et de sa mise en œuvre, en particulier pour les objectifs 3 et 16.

3. Soins aux personnes déplacées bloquées en raison de la fermeture des frontières : Nous saluons l’hospitalité des communautés et des pays qui accueillent des personnes déplacées et des migrants, obligés d’entreprendre des voyages difficiles en raison de guerres et de catastrophes naturelles. Les fermetures de frontières occasionnées par le COVID-19 affectent la vie et la sécurité d’innombrables réfugiés et personnes déplacées. Nous appelons les gouvernements et les organisations internationales à prendre en charge leurs besoins et leur sécurité, comme ils le feraient pour leurs propres citoyens et ce, dans un geste de solidarité humaine et conformément aux obligations internationales.

4. Soutien à la reprise économique et au programme de paix durable : Les pays fragiles et touchés par des conflits abritent de plus en plus les plus pauvres du monde, et se trouvent à des stades critiques de leur transition politique et de leur développement. Ces pays, sont déjà les plus durement touchés par le ralentissement économique résultant de l’épidémie de COVID-19. Cela a affecté négativement les perspectives de génération de revenus dans ces pays, impactant ainsi de manière importante leur autonomie. Le commerce et le secteur privé risquent d’être gravement touchés par cette pandémie, comme l’ont vécu les trois pays du g7+ lors de l’épidémie d’Ebola de 2014. Nous nous félicitons de l’annonce faite par la Banque mondiale d’un plan d’intervention de 12 milliards de dollars, et par le Fonds monétaire international (FMI) de l’activation de 50 milliards de dollars grâce à ses facilités de financement d’urgence à déboursement rapide. Nous saluons également le soutien similaire apporté par d’autres banques régionales de développement et d’autres donateurs.

Nous appelons les partenaires du développement à fournir des ressources suffisantes pour soutenir les pays les plus fragiles dans leurs efforts pour contenir le virus et se remettre de son impact.

Nous soutenons l’appel à l’allégement de la dette pour ces pays par l’exonération du paiement des intérêts et le recours aux mécanismes des pays pauvres très endettés (PPTE), car la paix durable et la stabilité dans les pays touchés par les conflits, demeurent le gage de la paix et de la prospérité au niveau mondial.

La distanciation sociale et le confinement seront très difficiles à maintenir en raison de l’absence de filets de sécurité économique viables, d’infrastructures sous-développées et de la nécessité pour les citoyens de subvenir à leurs besoins, en particulier dans les zones de conflit. Les pays les moins avancés (PMA) enclavés qui dépendent du transit ininterrompu de marchandises seront particulièrement touchés par la fermeture des frontières. Par conséquent, nous invitons instamment les donateurs et les nations de ces régions à répondre aux besoins de ces pays par des investissements ciblés dans la sécurité alimentaire, la coopération régionale, l’innovation technologique et les sources alternatives de financement.

Nous, les membres du g7+, assurerons régulièrement un suivi et un examen des progrès réalisés en ce qui concerne la déclaration ci-dessus.

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High-Level Plenary Opening of the Geneva Trade Week focus on Trade for Peace

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 09:45:21 +0000

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Statement by General Secretary of g7+ Helder da Costa at the PBC Ambassadorial Meeting on 17 May 2021

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 17 May 2021 02:06:04 +0000

Ambassadorial-Level Meeting on Institution-Building
of the Peacebuilding Commission
“Building and Sustaining Peace through Institutions’’
New York, 17 May 2021

Your Excellency the Chairperson of Peacebuilding Commission
Your Excellencies Members of the PBC
Ladies and Gentlemen

I would like express my appreciation for inviting me, on behalf of the g7+ Secretariat, to this important meeting.

I begin by emphasizing the importance of perspectives from countries that have hosted peacekeeping, political and humanitarian missions. We hope that the g7+ and its members become part of such consultations in the future.

Having recently attained Observer Status at the UN, the g7+ is keen to share our experiences with member countries and partners like the UN. In the near past, the g7+ secretariat in partnership with Center on International Cooperation, NYU, member countries and UNDP conducted study on Host Country’s Perspectives on Peacekeeping Operations. We summarized the views of leaders, and people in regards to their experience in managing peacekeeping missions.

Mr Chairperson,

Like every other crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic has had grim impact on conflict affected countries. It has once again manifested that capable state institutions are indispensable for stability and sustaining peace. Our experience shows that capable institutions is a pre-requisite to sustaining peace and stability. The role of international partners has been crucial in countries that have relatively become more stable.

Against this background, I would like to share 3 recommendations in the interest of the themes of today’s meeting:

First: However fragile state institutions in our countries are, they bear the ultimate responsibility of service delivery. Therefore, assistance to conflict affected countries should be guided with the aim of strengthening state institutions rather than assuming their role. It further requires contextualizing peacebuilding and development intervention to each country. The peacebuilding and statebuilding goals of the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States underpin this principle.

Second: National ownership of the transition is a tested principle for effective assistance. To make this principle work, we need predictable, and flexible support at the disposal of the state institutions and their leaders and people. A framework of mutual accountability with agreed benchmarks can be used to monitor progress and ensure accountablity.

And last but not least, institution building is a long process and they evolve overtime. Therefore, assistance to statebuilding and strengthening institutions should continue beyond the timeframe of peacemaking and political missions. Such assistance ensures the protection of hard-won gains made, with the help of our partners.

Mr. Chairperson,

I conclude my intervention with assurance that the g7+ stand ready to support the reform process, to make intervention contextually sensitive, and effective with the aim of building resilience and stability in conflict affected countries
I thank you for your attention.

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OPENING SESSION: TRADE FOR PEACE: LEVERAGING CROSS-CUTTING COOPERATION AND PARTNERSHIPS

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 09:45:16 +0000

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H.E. Francis M. Kai-Kai, Minister of Planning and Economic of Sierra Leone & chair of g7+

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 07:54:47 +0000

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Second Ministerial Meeting of the g7+ WTO Accession group
During 12th Ministerial conference of WTO

Honorable Mawine G. Diggs, Minister of Commerce and Industry of Liberia
Excellency Joaquim Amaral, Coordinating Minister of Economic
Affairs of Timor-Leste
Excellency Xiangchen Zhang, Deputy Director of WTO
Excellencies, Colleague Ministers
Excellencies, Ambassadors
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen.

Greetings from (Freetown), Sierra Leone.
In my capacity as the Chair of the g7+, I would like to thank Liberia and Timor-Leste, the co-coordinators of the g7+ WTO accession group and the WTO accession division for organizing this meeting. We commend their efforts in supporting and convening the g7+ WTO accession group.
Since the establishment of the g7+ WTO accession group, the platform has played an important role in facilitating the sharing of lessons and hence supporting accession of member countries. This platform has the potential to voice the priorities and perspective of conflict affected countries in relation to multilateral trade system. This can further enhance the collective impact of our advocacy for better policies conducive to the situation of countries in conflict affected fragile situations.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen!

Conflict affected countries such as those in the g7+ have huge potential for contribution to regional stability and development which has not yet been fully exploited for the welfare of their citizenry. Many are bestowed with natural resources that can contribute to national and regional prosperity. They are home to young population with the socalled demographic dividend, an important factor for development, if the potential is harnessed.

However, decades of wars, and the resulting fragility or ongoing lowlevel conflicts with serious political, economic and social governance challenges, have undermined the prospects for lasting peace, growth and development in g7+ Group of countries. Man-made and natural crises have made them vulnerable to external shocks such as the Covid-19 pandemic that have disproportionately hurt them.

Today, we are grappling with the fall-out from the Russia-Ukraine war, which has unleashed devastating consequences well beyond their geopolitical borders. Global supply chains of essential commodities (particularly fuel and grains) have been disrupted, resulting in higher than normal prices which have been directly transmitted to the local markets in many countries, both low and high income. This is bound to increase inequality and poverty in the g7+ countries.

The prolonged conflicts and poverty have cost 10s of billions of dollars every year in the form of humanitarian, peacekeeping and development aid. Most of this assistance has focussed on consequences of conflicts and fragility, thereby failing to address the root causes of poverty and to harness the potential that these countries have

Moreover, international policies and norms of aid, global trade and cooperation have not been conducive to the context of these countries. In other words, multilateralism has not been “multilateral” and inclusive enough to accommodate the needs and priorities of the poorest countries. They have more often been the victims of hegemonic policies and norms of regional and global powers. The global south in general and the conflict affected countries in particular have historically fuelled development and welfare of most of the developed nations. They have provided raw materials to fuel the machinery of development and welfare of the developed and most prosperous nations. In return, these countries have perpetually suffered poverty and lasting fragility.

Against this preamble I would like to share 3 points as my contribution as the Chair of the g7+ that I hope will be help in our way forward for the g7+ WTO accession group.

First: The Russian occupation of Ukraine and its negative social, economic and political consequences have affected us all. We have felt its economic brunt all over the world. The shortage of food items caused by export restrictions due to war and hence the spike in prices has hurt poorest countries the hardest. Many of these countries such as those in the g7+ have already been home to humanitarian crisis. Globalization has increased inter-dependence and thus, the impact of this war has spilled over even widely. This crisis highlights the peace-trade nexus. It manifests the fact that wars have been the root cause of poverty everywhere. herefore, our trade-for-peace cause is even more relevant and we need to be even more assertive in our call.

Second: Developed nations have dominated the world trade and hence the multilateral trade system and policies. This has resulted in augmenting the inequality among nations. Contrary to the promises of free trade, most of LDCs are “least developed” because they have not had equitable share in the world trade. They have been elbowed away by the mightier nations. It is imperative for the shared peace, stability and prosperity that least developed countries be given fair access to global trade and economic opportunities. Their unique context needs to be recognized and appreciated. The g7+ WTO accession group is best placed to broaden its coalition and collectively share this perspective in related policy discourse.

Third and Final: Lessons from countries in the global south have often inspired reforms in development. This is very true for countries within the g7+ group. Therefore, the g7+ WTO accession group is a useful platform to facilitate peer learning among members. Bounded by cooperation and solidarity, the first-hand experience of the member countries has proven helpful in pursuing stability.

I would like to conclude by reiterating our commitment to provide support to the g7+ WTO accession group. We believe that together we can make a change in the lives of our citizens through equitable and fair trade and cooperation.

I thank you for your attention and wish you a fruitful deliberation.

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H.E. Dr. Francis M. Kai-Kai delivered a welcoming remarks at the 5th Ministerial Meeting of the g7+ in Lisbon, Portugal

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 07:54:25 +0000

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Your Excellency, Teresa Ribeiro,
Secretary of State, Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Portugal
Your Excellency, Mr. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão,
Eminent Person of g7+, former President and Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor Leste;
Ms Asako Okai, Assistant Secretary General and Assistant Adminsitrator, United Nations
Honourable Members of Parliament;
Colleague Ministers and Representatives of g7+ Member Countries;
Excellencies, Ambassadors and Members of Diplomatic Corp
Development Partners;
Members of the Press;

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen
It is my pleasure to be here in Lisbon and to warmly welcome you all to the 5th g7+ Ministerial meeting. This is significant for me as this is my first function as Chair of the Group of countries. Let me on behalf of my colleague g7+ Ministers and other delegates heartily thank the Government and People of Portugal and City Council of Lisbon, for offering the office space for our European Hub, which has afforded us the opportunity to hold our Ministerial meeting in this beautiful city of Lisbon. We are equally thankful for the warm welcome extended to the various delegations on our arrival in this historic city. Many thanks also to the General Secretary and staff of the g7+ Secretariat for a well organized meeting and excellent facilities.
I would also like to emphasize how appreciative we the g7+ are, for the generous financial support of the successive Governments of Timor-Leste ( one oif the founding members of g7+), in particular the visionary leadership of H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, our Eminent Person. In addition, the fact that the presence of All parliamentary benches of National Parliament of your country, here today, simbolises the strong commitment to the noble cause of g7+.

Eminent Person, Colleague Ministers, distinguished ladies and gentlemen,
Let me at this point recognize the presence of my colleague Ministers and other delegates from g7+ family for their contribution to the common goal of achieving Peace and stability. I am very pleased that what we conceived 9 years as a group of originally 7 countries has today become a consolidated group and a voice that influences the conversation on Peace, Statebuilding and development issues relating to countries affected by conflict and fragility. Through our advocacy and peer learning efforts globally, the g7+ has impacted the discourse about fragility and influenced our development partners to take the context of conflict affected countries into consideration in their policies concerning our countries. We note here that indeed many of our partners have heeded and are making noticeable changes in the way they do business in countries in fragile situation. These efforts are recognized and applauded and we ask that our partners continue to do so.

Excellencies ladies and Gentlemen, it is estimated that more than half of the 836 million extremely poor people today live in fragile contexts. This proportion is projected to rise to 80% by 2030, the timeline set to deliver on the global aspiration of wiping off the extreme poverty. Considering the increasing cost of addressing the consequences of crisis, the only way to falsify this daunting estimate is to address conflict and fragility. In other words, the success of agenda 2030 depends achieving stability in conflict affected countries. Therefore we have SDG16, which strives to ensure that no one is ‘left behind’ as an important pillar to the global prosperity. In order to make this work, we need to focus our efforts on addressing fragility and tackling the root causes of crises.
In the g7+ countries and elsewhere, home grown solutions that involve the whole of society to promote dialogue and reconciliation efforts must be supported and promoted. We also need to maintain peace in our countries. Sustaining peace however requires capable institutions that bridge the gap between people and states. Our responsibility as Leaders is to build institutions that preserve peace and deliver services to citizens. We need to work with our development partners to maximize the benefits of our natural and human resources to improve the lives of citizens.

Distinguished delegates, this is why the g7+ remains the forum where we can consolidate our voices to influence the global development agenda in the best interest of our poverty stricken populations. And this is why through this collaboration; we are organizing globally in order to improve lives locally, for our people. Yes this is why we are striving for an observer status at the United Nations so that our collective voice as group can be amplified at that level. For this, we require all your support. We know we can do this. We did when through the collective effort of the g7+ and our partners; we were able to establish the New Deal and latter secure goal 16 in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). And we continue this active collaboration in their implementation as it is in our best interest to implement the SDGs and make them work for us by aligning them to the New Deal and respective national development plans.

Excellencies, I hope that our discussions over the next two days will be open, frank and focused on addressing our challenges and finding ways of tackling them. I know we will always find similarities in circumstances which should help us to find joint solutions. Let us use this Ministerial meeting to close our ranks, look inwards as well as outwards, and bring forth ideas that will make us relevant to the current realities.
Let me conclude by re-emphasising that the future of sustainable development hinges on Peace and stability in conflict affected countries. It depends on how well the international community engages with countries in fragile situation. Our countries continue to experience periodic internal conflicts and it is very important that we take urgent actions to stop the tragedy of war and conflict. As we all know, building schools and hospitals is a waste of money if they will later be destroyed by combatants – there is an urgent need to ensure peace and stability in order to attain sustainable development and meet socio-economic needs. Peace can be built only through action, and not with passivity. And if lasting improvements are to be made, a renewed commitment on preventive action is necessary.

We need to develop correct narrative to understand, anticipate and respond better to fragility. While global awareness of fragility is expanding, there are still real knowledge gaps about how it is distributed and experienced. Not enough is known about informal networks, institutions and economies that shape day-to-day realities. Without improvements in diagnosing fragility, a cure will remain elusive.
Let me assure you that the g7+ will build on its success in shaping global policy thinking on conflict and fragility by more actively engaging with policy and practice communities that are shaping the Peacebuilding, Sustaining Peace, prevention and Statebuilding agenda.
I THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION!

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H.E. Dr. Francis M. Kai-kai, Chair of g7+ delivered closing remarks at MAFRA Dialogue on “Strategic Dialogue for Peace Diplomacy”

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 07:54:04 +0000

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Closing Remarks by
H.E. Dr. Francis M. Kai-kai
Chair of g7+
Minister of Planning and Economic Development
at MAFRA Dialogue, 18 May 2021 (19H00 Lisbon/18H00 Freetown)
on “Strategic Dialogue for Peace Diplomacy”

Mr. Moderator,
Excellency Mr. Paulo Neves, President of IPDAL
Mr. Helder Sousa Silva, Mayor of Mafra
Excellency Miroslaw Jenca, Under Secretary General for Europe ,Central Asia and the Americas, DPKO,
Excellency, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Eminent Person of g7+, former President and Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor Leste;
Representative from Swiss Embassy in Portugal
Excellencies Ambassadors
Distinguished Speakers Ladies and Gentleman,

Let me start by thanking IPDAL, Institute for the promotion of Latin America and Caribbean and Municipal Chamber of Mafra with the support from Swiss Embassy in Portugal for organizing this important event on “Strategic Dialogue for Peace Diplomacy”.
The theme for this event is very timely and relevant to the current situation in many g7+ members and other conflict affected countries.
The g7+ was established in 2010 in Dili as an intergovernmental organisation that brings together 20 conflict affected countries, aim at achieving sustainable peace, stability and prosperity. The group provides a platform to advocate for effective cooperation and facilitate peer learning and sharing of experience through our flagship program called “Fragile to Fragile (F2F) Cooperation”, in pursuing peace, stability and sustainable development.

Ladies and gentlemen,
The outbreak of the COVID-19 has meant more than health crisis for the g7+ countries that already have weak institutions, fragile economy and peace. It has threatened to reverse the hard-won gains in pursuit of peace and stability. Despite the global call for ceasefire stirred by the UNSG, conflicts and violence in some of our countries did not only continue but were escalated.
The g7+ members issued a joint solidarity statement “A call for concerted support in our effort to curb COVID-19” to the UN Secretary General and other institutions calling for ceasefire and asking for collective effort to address the consequences of the pandemic. However, we witness the increased of violence and conflict some of our member countries such as Afghanistan, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, Chad, South Sudan and Yemen. We hope with our observer status at the UN, that was granted by the UN General Assembly in December 2019 will help us in raising our voice and mobilize timely and effective international support for our member countries.

Now, many of these conflicts were born of the fragility of States. Many conflicts are inter-linked more strongly, with other countries as supporter of the parties to the conflict or as parties to the conflicts, so they are not merely internal conflicts any more, sometimes asymmetric, with huge suffering, displacement of populations.

Having served my country, as Permanent Representative of Sierra Leone to the United Nations over the years, I lived in a multipolar world, and it is in this context that I believe a surge in diplomacy for peace promoted by the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres is imperative nowadays. Member states will have to assume the leading role, and it is very much expected that the UNSG office can, using his good offices, be an added value in that surge, acting as a catalyst, sometimes a convenor, but always as a bridge-builder and an honest broker. The g7+ fully supports this initiative!

However, this task will not be easy in the complex world we are facing today, that is why we also need a lot of preventive diplomacy, a lot of efforts in mediation, and we need to have a strategy to address the root causes of these kinds of conflicts in the world.
For sure, there are two things in mind: the alignment of the sustainable and inclusive development with sustaining peace agenda. The g7+ outlook to development is based on the premise that without peace and stability there can be no development; and that development cooperation engagement should be consistent with domestic contexts based on the national development agenda of countries. It is clear that development is an important element in the prevention of conflicts, specially if it is inclusive and sustainable.

We need to address the root causes of the fragility and to support States, institutions, civil societies to become stronger, more resilient that will help diminish the tendency of States to be involved on conflict situations. The g7+ experience in mediation and reconciliation shows that understanding the people, understanding their concerns, anxieties and fear, and caring for them, and trying to find solutions for them are absolutely essential to re-establish the confidence between political establishments and populations.
The question is how can we use our partnerships with other entities, taking into account each other´s comparative advantages – the EU, AU, G7, G20, regional organisations – to enhance our capacity to manage the peace dividends from prevention to conflict resolution to peacekeeping to peacebuilding and to long term development under the strategy for peace diplomacy.
Hence, I would like to leave you with two important points as a food for thoughts before we close the first day of this dialogue.

Firstly: the g7+ recently conducted a joint assessment together with the UNDP on the secondary impact of the COVID-19 in Countries Affected by conflict and Fragility across six OECD Dimensions of Fragility – Economic, Social, Human, Political, Security and Environments. The paper is concluded with some recommendations to mitigate the impact of the pandemic in conflict affected countries.
The recommendation includes pursuing ceasefire to end ongoing conflicts, more regional cooperation founded on solidarity, revival of commitment to the New Deal Engagement in Fragile States, fostering self-reliance in conflict affected countries, and ensuring that people in conflict affected countries have access to the COVID-19 vaccine. To achieve this, the world needs multilateralism more than ever as a fundamental part of conflict prevention.
Yesterday, the g7+ secretariat was officially invited by the UN Peacebuilding Commission (UN PBC) in New York virtually to share its experiences on peacebuilding in conflict affected states. We are keen to institutionalize such partnership with the UN and support the mediation efforts undertaken by the Un Secretary General, as outlined in the objectives of the I Mafra Dialogue – Strategies for Peace Diplomacy.

Secondly, the g7+ believes in the soft diplomacy of using dialogue and reconciliation to achieve peace. We have firsthand experiences in few g7+ member countries ( for example Guine Bissau and Central African Republic) and we need to activate every track of diplomacy to have a dialogue and reconcile to pursue peace.
Ladies and gentlemen,
I am glad to see that in the first day of dialogue this evening, we had two important panel discussion. One of the sessions, discussed on the benefit of peace in the case of Colombia. The experience that was shared by Mr. Emilio Archila, the Special Advisor for Stabilization and Consolidation from President of the Republic of Colombia really inspired us on the importance and benefit of peace to the development of the country.

I wish this can be as starting point to establish our relationship, between g7+ and Colombia and the g7+ Secretariat which is led by General Secretary of g7+, Dr. Helder da Costa (who is with you today physically in this Mafra dialogue), stands ready to get in touch with you to start the discussion and explore for areas of common interest for collaboration.
Another great panel session was on the conflict prevention and mediation in the case of Mozambique. After listening to the talk from all speakers including H.E. Pedro Comissario, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Mozambique, I have an expectation that similar experience can be shared with our g7+ member countries under our flagship program “the Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation”.
So against the backdrop of wars and the pandemic, I would like to call all of us to double our effort, raise awareness for addressing conflicts and use diplomacy as a means to achieve peace and stability.
I thank you all.

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“H.E. Dr. Francis M. Kai-Kai, Chair of g7+ delivered opening remarks at the, 2nd Conference on State Fragility Pandemics, Vaccination and Solidarity: Implications in Fragile Countries”

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 07:53:46 +0000

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2nd Conference on State Fragility
Pandemics, Vaccination and Solidarity: Implications in Fragile Countries
Monday, 28th of June 2021

Excellency Joao Ribeiro de Almeida, President of Camoes
Excellency Pekka Haavisto, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Finland
Excellencies Ministers from fellow g7+ Countries, Invited Speakers
Excellency Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Eminent person of g7+
Excellency David Cameron, Co-Chair of the Council on State Fragility
Excellency Luis Amado, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the EDP Group Company
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen
A very good morning from Freetown, Sierra Leone. I hope you and your loved ones are safe and healthy.

At the outset, I would like to welcome you all to the 2nd conference on state fragility; “Pandemics, Vaccination and Solidarity: Implications in Fragile Countries”. I thank the g7+ secretariat and Club of Lisbon for organizing this conference, the theme of which speaks to the heart of overcoming the crises the world is going through. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen!
COVID-19, by several measures, is the unprecedented crisis of our generation. Of course humanity had gone through even worse man-made and natural calamities over the history.
But this pandemic affected us in a unique way. It befell on us in time where the world is much progressed on every front than it was during the past time pandemics.

The blessing of scientific advancement has made such crises as controllable challenges.
The globalization which is often cited to be responsible for the rapid spread of corona virus, has made such crises easily manageable. Regional and global integration and partnership modals have empowered us to curb such catastrophes more effectively and efficiently than we could ever do in the history. Multilateralism has equipped us to overcome challenges of a scale; even severer than the pandemic.

Had we harnessed the blessing of science, globalization, multilateralism and cooperation, corona virus would not have even turned in to pandemic. Therefore, the most pressing questions we owe to answer are:
– Why the world failed in curbing the pandemic which is now in its second year.
– How severe and how long will its impact last?
– What has been missing in the global response to the pandemic?
– How can we ensure we come out of this crisis all at once?
– How confident are we that no one will be left behind?

This conference is an important opportunity to explore answers to these questions!
Excellencies, distinguished ladies and gentlemen!
However global the pandemic is, conflict affected fragile countries such as those in the g7+ are the worst impacted by its immediate and long-lasting direct and indirect consequences. Owing to our institutional and economic fragility and the ongoing conflicts, our countries are prone to an adverse impact of such crises. Our countries have been so vulnerable that even the globally adapted counter-measures started to worsen the situation. Considering these multifaceted effects, the g7+ issued a join call last year with 4 big asks namely:

“ceasefire, care for displaced people, strengthening health system and support for institutions and self-reliance”.
We had expected that the onset of the pandemic will induce empathy and solidarity and, therefore, the call for ceasefire would be respected. We had anticipated that regional cooperation will take new forms where it will rest on humane solidarity rather than mere vested political and economic interest. Our hope was that the rich nations of the world join hands to curb this crisis while leaving behind political differences.

But to our dismay, the opposite happened. Conflicts in form of insurgency, terrorism and civil war escalated in countries such as Afghanistan, Syria, Central African Republic, Yemen and etc.
Regional and global powers adapted a “first me” approach and hence used the global measures such as lock down to close borders on the face of trade and movement. This affected the least developed peers and in particular conflict affected countries like those in g7+. Trade
The world powers started reacting to this crisis not with solidarity, but with hatred and blaming.
This is a gloomy picture that daunted us many. However, the recent development gives us a hope that we will develop compassion instead of hatred; global solidarity will win over narrow sense of hegemonic quest; our generosity will win over greed and hence help those most in need.
Against this background, I would like to leave you with few points that might to be food for thought in the sessions of this conference:

First: We cannot defeat the virus, our common enemy, until we overcome our differences at any level. First and foremost, we need to do everything to stop wars anywhere. We need to use all tracks of diplomacy to pursue global ceasefire and reconciliation. The UN with should establish a high level council to facilitate dialogue and reconciliation. The g7+ is willing to cooperate in this regard by lending our experience.

Second: Multilateralism is the only vehicle that can help in overcoming any shared challenge such as covid-19 and its long lasting impacts. We call upon the United Nations to take lead in the global response to the pandemic. We urge regional organizations such as European Union, African Union, ASEAN and etc to cooperate and adapt regional policies that can act as catalyst to overcome the impact of covid-19

Third: We welcome the initiative of COVAX. Furthermore, we are happy to hear the recent commitments made during the G7 meeting. However, the need of vaccination over run the available supply. In addition, we are concerned with the preferential treatment in immunization. In particular, poor countries such as those in the g7+ are at the risk of being left behind. Therefore, we urge vaccine producing countries to waive the patent in production of vaccination. This will help in speeding up the much needed vaccination of the world. Remember that no one is safe until everyone is safe.

Finally: The covid-19 pandemic has unleased the fragility in global systems and mechanisms; the phenomenon we the fragile countries have lived for decades. Therefore we would like to reiterate the need to help in overcoming state fragility. Fragile countries have relied on foreign assistance for decades. Now is the time to use that assistance in pursuing stability and self-reliance in these countries. This will require adapting paradigm shift in the way we have managed assistance. We urge donors to realize the New deal principles which are ever relevant to our contexts.
I thank you for your attention and wish you fruitful deliberation.

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H.E. Dr. Francis Mustapha Kai-Kai, Minister of Planning and Economic Development and Chair of g7+ delivered opening remarks at the Senior Official Meeting on 30 November 2021.

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 07:52:52 +0000

Ms. Abie Elisabeth Kamara, Focal Point from Sierra Leone, read out opening remarks of H.E. Francis Mustapha Kai-Kai, Minister of Planning and Economic Development and Chair of g7+, at the Senior Official Meeting on 30 November 2021.

Opening Remarks
H.E Francis M. Kai-Kai, Chair of g7+
The g7+ Senior Official Meeting
30 November, 2021

Excellency, Eminent Person of g7+, Mr. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, General Secretary of g7+ Secretariat, Dr. Helder Da Costa, dear Focal points and representatives from all of g7+ member states.
On behalf of the Chair, I want to start by thanking the g7+ Secretariat, especially the General Secretary for organizing this senior officials’ meeting, as well as the representatives of member states participating in this meeting today.
As we all know, since 2019, senior officials of the of g7+ have not had the opportunity of meeting physically as a result of the Covid 19 pandemic.
Good morning, good afternoon; good evening depending on which part of the world you are joining from. I bring you greetings from the Chair of g7+ Dr Francis Kai-Kai, who could not be here due to logistical reasons. He sends his support and best wishes for a very fruitful meeting.

Thankfully, the world is starting to breathe a sigh of relief, despite recent talks of another wave. We all know that we are in a better position in the fight against the virus now than we were a year ago. We are hopeful that we will soon put this behind us enter a post-pandemic era, thanks to the rapid development of vaccines to curb the virus. When we met virtually last year, our countries were struggling with the spread of the virus that had paralyzed all aspects of our societies. A year later, even though we are not yet out of the woods, conflict affected countries in particular g7+ are starting to look at ways to dealing the secondary impact of the virus that is expected to last even longer. As highlighted in our collective advocacy, the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on our transition toward stability.

Dear Senior Officials of the g7+, despite the added challenges that Covid pandemic has brought upon us, it is gratifying to note that the g7+ group has increasingly been recognized as an influential platform on matters of peace and Statebuilding. The attainment of the Observer Status at the United Nations General Assembly and the overwhelming support by Un member states reiterates the relevance of our work and advocacy. The achievements we have made through the years could not have been possible without the collective efforts of our member countries and the untiring efforts of the g7+ secretariat, which has been indispensable in the work of the g7+ family.

Chair would like to particularly thank the Government and people of Timor-Leste for the generous financial and moral support they continue to prove to the organisation. This support has been an invaluable contribution to our noble cause of promoting peace and stability.

As it is often said, the reward of hard work is more work. With the many successes that g7+ has registered in recent years comes the rising expectations on part of our members and our partners. This would mean that we need to double our efforts to deliver on those expectations. The observer status at the UN, for instance, affords us an avenue for engaging on various matters that need our collective inputs at the global level. The increasing incidents of outbreak of violence and crisis make us feel obliged to explore ways to pursue reconciliation and dialogue, promote institutional effectiveness and more effective and impactful engagement with humanitarian, peacebuilding and development actors.
On behalf of the Chair of the g7+, it is my honour to open today’s meeting with two points to bear in mind as we discuss the points highlighted by the General Secretary, Dr. Helder Da Costa:

First: The privilege to have an observer status at the UN equips us with the opportunity to be more assertive in pursuing our collective agenda. It is an avenue that can enable us achieve tangible impacts on decisive debates on issues paramount to our countries. But we need to turn this opportunity into actions that can have positive contribute to achievement of peace and stability in our countries. We therefore need to operationalize our observer status by having our presence at the UN to, among other things, strengthen coordination among member countries.

Second: As an intergovernmental organization, we need to consolidate our membership even further. The progress we have achieved over the years is attributable to the political support we have had from our member states. We therefore need to maintain and further strengthen the political commitment of og7+ countries around the work we do. It is the hope of Chair that the ambition of organizing a High-Level Event at the 77th UN General Assembly will become a reality. And we all must commit to doing so.

Thank you for your attention.

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H.E. Dr. Francis M. Kai-Kai, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leone, Chair of g7+ delivered keynote speech at the launch of the Study Centre on Fragile and Conflict-affected countries in Lisbon

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 07:52:32 +0000

Remarks H.E. Francis M. Kai-Kai, Minister of Planning and Economic Development of Sierra Leonne, Chair of g7+

Instituto Superior of Sociais and Political Sciences (ISCSP)
Universidade Tecnica de Lisboa
Thursday, 2 December 2021
Excellency Prof. Dr. Ricardo Ramos Pinto, President of Higher Institute for Social and Political Sciences (ISCSP)
Eminent Person of g7+, H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão
Excellency, Dr. Luis Amado, President of the g7+ Foundation
Excellency, Dr. Carlos Moedas, President of the Chamber for Lisbon
Distinguished Guests
Ladies and Gentlemen

A very good evening to you. As Chair of the g7+, I would like on behalf of the g7+ family to express my thanks and appreciation to the President of Higher Institute for Social and Political Sciences (ISCSP), University of Lisbon, for inviting me to be part of this public lecture and launch of the Study Centre on Fragile and Conflict-affected countries. This is indeed welcome news for us at the g7+ as understanding “fragility” and its drivers and pursuing ways to address this is one of our key objectives as a group. As a respected institute that has existed for more than 100 years and has significantly contributed to the body of knowledge, we are confident that this study center will play a great role in enhancing our understanding of fragility in our various countries through the training that will be provided to our member states. This could not have come at a more opportune time as our member states of Afghanistan, Central African Republic, South Sudan and Yemen continue to experience instability.

It is also our hope that this study centre will open an opportunity for collaboration between the Higher Institute for Social and Political Sciences, University of Lisboa the g7+ group.
As an organization that obtained Observer Status at the United Nation in December 2019, we will step up our advocacy for reforms in the ways the international organizations including United Nations engage in our member states. We will continue to bring this to the fore in our various engagements including high level side events we organize during the United Nations General Assembly and the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF).

Through our Fragile-to-Fragile (F2F) Cooperation initiative of the g7+, we have been promoting the sharing of experiences and peer learning among our member countries in different thematic areas relating to peacebuilding and statebuilding. We have also expanded our collaboration with other non-g7+ countries such as Rwanda and Cambodia, to learn from their experiences on how to moving out of conflict and fragility into peace and stability. Our attaining Associate Observer at the CPLP (Community of Countries for Portuguese Language) has added to the success of our outreach to non g7+ states and a recognition of the important work we do as a group in promoting peace and stability in fragile states. With Portugal being one of the active members in CPLP and having provided an office space for the g7+ European Hub here in Lisbon, the partnership with ISCSP will provides further areas of cooperation between the g7+ family and Portugal and the opportunity to work together to support our member countries and increase our visibility in the European region.

This event today symbolizes our bond of trust and dedication to our common interest. We are honoured to continue with this partnership in the future, leveraging our collective strength so that together, we can prevent conflict sand proffer solutions to problems that no one country organization can solve alone
Let me conclude by reiterating my hope that this space will serve as means to connect with our member countries in exploring root causes of conflict and fragility and how to address those issues, as part of supporting our member countries in moving out of conflict and fragility.
I will be remiss in my duty if I fail to extend my thanks and best wishes to all academic at ISCSP who will be at the agents of delivering this initiative.
I thank you and wish you all merry Christmas and Happy and 2022.

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H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, Eminent Person of g7+, delivered a Keynote Speech on Trade for Peace “addressing fragility through economic integration” at the Fragility Forum 2022

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 16:39:58 +0000

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Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:57:40 +0000

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Timor-Leste

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:57:11 +0000

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South Sudan

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:49:28 +0000

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Sierra Leone

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:46:15 +0000

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Sao Tome e Principe

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:40:19 +0000

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Liberia

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:35:54 +0000

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Guinea-Bissau

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:29:38 +0000

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Democratic Republic of Congo

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:25:00 +0000

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Union of Comoros

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:18:53 +0000

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Afghanistan

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:06:26 +0000

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ANNUAL REPORT 2020

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 03:52:51 +0000

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ANNUAL REPORT 2019

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 03:50:28 +0000

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ANNUAL REPORT 2018 & 2017

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 03:48:41 +0000

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Annual Report 2016

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 03:45:43 +0000

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Annual Report 2015 & 2014

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 03:42:12 +0000

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Annual Report 2013

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 03:40:08 +0000

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H.E Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, Eminent Person of g7+ delivered a speech on “STATEBUILDING AND RULE OF LAW IN A POST-COVID WORLD: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES” at Faculty of Law, University of Coimbra

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 16:47:43 +0000

Eminent Person of g7+ H.E Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao Speech at Faculty of Law of the University of Coimbra

Faculty of Law of the University of Coimbra (FDUC)
“STATEBUILDING AND RULE OF LAW IN A POST-COVID WORLD: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES”
by
His Excellency
KAY RALA XANANA GUSMÃO
Coimbra, Portugal
06 December 2021

Your Excellency Professor Amilcar Falcão, Dean of the Coimbra University
Your Excellency Professor João Nuno Calvão da Silva, Vice-Rector for International Relations
Your Excellency Professor José Manuel Aroso Linhares, President of the Legal Institute of FDUC
Your Excellency Professor Carlos Loureiro, Assistant Professor, Legal Institute of FDUC
Your Excellency Professor Paula Veiga
Your Excellency Professor Suzana Tavares da Silva

Departments and students of FDUC,

Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,

It is a great pleasure for me to return once more to this lovely city, and in particular to its ex-líbris, the University of Coimbra.
I am humbled to accept the invitation to address such an distinguished audience at this Faculty of Law. I want to thank you for this invitation in my name and on behalf of every member-State and people of the g7+, since this is another opportunity to give voice to the voiceless.
The g7+ has experience that makes this organisation unique in all the world. Its ability to make assessments and analysis must be put to the service of the common good.

However, we know that we cannot and should not do this by ourselves. We are living in a globalised and increasingly interdependent world.
As such, it was with great satisfaction and hope that the g7+ signed a Protocol with the Faculty of Law of the University of Coimbra, on 29 May 2017, to collaborate on research initiatives concerning peacebuilding and Statebuilding.
Thanks to this joint reflection, the commitment by the Faculty of Law and the intensification of our joint work, we have already taken action with training on “Constitutional Statebuilding” and are currently conducting research.

We are also here together again to reflect on the challenges and opportunities provided by the mightiest of ideals that is the Rule of Law – the cornerstone of our democracies.

Sadly, this takes place at a time when the Covid-19 pandemic has fuelled authoritarian trends across the world. Several countries, including g7+ state-members, have moved backwards on the path to democracy.

To its credit, the g7+ has acknowledging that the path towards Statebuilding and peacebuilding increasingly requires greater accountability by its members, their authorities and civil society. And yet, this is a time when even the bulwark of democracy, the United States of America, has left so much to be desired with regard to democratic consolidation.
It seems an obvious reaction to have less to trust in democracy as we witness increasing social and economic inequality, increasing corruption and discredited agencies of democracy.

The media, which is accessible at our fingertips, conveys this discontentment to every corner of the world. It often does so out of context, or misrepresenting the facts, and through the perspective of a narrow lens.
Democracies become hollow when citizens lose faith in the ability of State agencies to respond to social demands and to solve everyday problems. It becomes a problem of trust.
Nevertheless, as Churchill famously put it, “Democracy is the worst form of government – except for all the others that have been tried.”

It is indeed a demanding system, which is why it calls upon us constantly. That is why it is absolutely essential that everyone is engaged in citizenship.
Democratisation and peacebuilding are common objectives of States seeking to abide by principles of transparency, freedom, justice, human rights and solidarity. At the same time, they represent a permanent challenge, particularly in times of crisis.
The polarisation of opinions, interests and power may bring substantial new threats to the survival of democracy and even humankind itself. That is how complex and uncertain our century is.

We must all stop in time to think that if Western societies themselves are at their wits’ end searching for solutions to the challenges of the world, what must it be like and what must be the actual situation in fragile and transitioning democracies whose agencies and democratic procedures are still emerging?

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H.E. Xanana Gusmao, Eminent Person of g7+ delivered a Keynote speech at the g7+ Senior Official Meeting

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 17:01:32 +0000

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H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, Eminent Person of g7+ delivered a Comemorative speech on “Shaping a New Era of Peace and Development in a Post- Covid World” Sophia Univeristy, Japan

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 17:17:21 +0000

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Eminent Person of g7+ Speech – “the role of g7+ Countries for Peacebuilding” Waseda University

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 17:02:16 +0000

Eminent Person of g7+ Speech – “the role of g7+ Countries for Peacebuilding” Waseda University

Waseda University
“Peacebuilding and Democratic Governance in an Era of Uncertainty”
KAY RALA XANANA GUSMÃO
on
“The Role of the ‘g7+’ for Peacebuilding”
24 November 2021
Tokyo, Japan2

H.E. Prof. Hori Yoshie, School of Social Science
H.E. Prof. Yamada Mitsuru, International Relations, School of Social Science
H.E. Ambassador Kitahara Iwao
H.H. Mr. Morihiro Yoshimitsu, Senior Operations Coordinator, Joint Staff Office, Ministry of Defense
H.E. Mr. Mori Takuro, Deputy Director, Indo-Pacific Regional Policy Division, Bureau of Defense Policy, Ministry of Defense

Ladies and Gentlemen
Excellencies
Dear Students,

I am humbled to be here again, in this prestigious University that, 5 years ago, on the 4th October 2016, had bestowed upon me with an Honorary Award.
I would like to start by thanking you for inviting me to talk about ‘Peacebuilding and Democratic Governance in an Era of Uncertainty’ and about the Role of the ‘g7+’, an intergovernmental Organization, established by fragile, in-conflict and post-conflict countries.

The ‘g7+’ was established in 2010, initially by 7 countries and now this intergovernmental Organization has 20 members States, from the Pacific to the Caribbean and from Africa to Middle East.

When we say ‘fragility’, we are meaning about the absence or weakness of the State Institutions and the lack of democratic environment and, on the situation of ‘postconflict’, where is vital a good process of reconciliation in order to achieve peace.

Not less, there is also a situation of ‘in-conflict’, when the opposite sides must try a better approach and do everything to stop the violence and suffering of civilians, by choosing the right path to put an end to the conflict.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Dear Students,

While democratisation and peacebuilding are core aspects of a State, that wants to govern itself by the principles of transparency, freedom, justice, human rights and solidarity, it is no less true that upholding these ideals is an ongoing challenge for any society, particularly in times of crisis.

This challenge has never been greater than in today’s multipolar and ever changing world. So complex and uncertain is this 21st century, that the polarisation of opinions, interests and power entails substantial new threats against the survival of 3 democracy and even humankind itself.

If Western societies are having difficulty finding solutions to the challenges of today’s changing world, in which the economy has become globalised and where economic and political decisions have an increasing international impact, leading to destabilisation or even loss of trust in democracy, then one might wonder about the situation of fragile and transitioning democracies, in which democratic agencies and procedures are still young.

Trends that were lingering in some societies in the world, such as xenophobia, nationalism and populism, the temptation to curb individual freedoms, and even ethnical and religious rivalries, are now being fuelled by the global pandemic crisis.
The only certainty we can have is that no nation, no matter how powerful, is able to understand and to respond by itself to the changes affecting our planet. If a threat can cross a border, then it can also dilute that border. Such a threat requires a collective response.

The recent pandemic highlighted, even more, the need for the International Community to act as one – in order to overcome not just the global public health crisis, but also its consequences and negative impacts on the social and economic structures of every country in the world, particularly developing countries.
The pandemic contributed to the weakening of democracies around the globe. This virus, which has already killed over 5 million people, is an enemy of freedom and a strong ally of inequality.

Despite the optimistic vaccination rates in many parts of the world, the virus continues to be active. We are still far from being able to claim victory over COVID-19, particularly if we take the time to look at the bottom of the global vaccination tables.

As long as the vaccination rates in countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Chad, South Sudan, Yemen and Haiti – just to mention a few from the ‘g7+’ group – remain below 1%, these countries continue to be helpless.
In fact, we all continue to be helpless, since it is possible that the virus might change into new, more resistant variants. This, in turn, may render useless the high vaccination rates achieved in more fortunate countries.

Vaccines in South Sudan must be dropped by parachute, as there is no road infrastructure enabling the distribution of vaccines in time. Yemen is still dealing with one of the worst humanitarian crises ever. Haiti is facing instability, hunger and the dramatic fury of nature.

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Speech in Portugese

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H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, Eminent Person of g7+ delivered a Comemorative speech on Peace and Culture: The Arts in the Service of Peace”, Kyoto Univeristy

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 17:19:19 +0000

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South Sudan Fragility Assessment Report

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:36:04 +0000

South Sudan Fragility Assessment Report

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

Challenges faced by g7+ member countries

The deteriorating situations in the Central African Republic and South Sudan have been a cause of great distress. As members of the g7+ family we need to learn from these difficult times, to understand the factors that can lead to relapse and support each other by encouraging development partners to act responsibly and sustainably. In sum, 2013 taught us that our mission is more important than ever.

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The New Afganistan (A Transformation In Progress)

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:34:34 +0000

The New Afganistan (A Transformation In Progress)

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

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Nine Main Findings Of The Independent Review

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:33:35 +0000

Nine Main Findings Of The Independent Review

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

Challenges faced by g7+ member countries

The deteriorating situations in the Central African Republic and South Sudan have been a cause of great distress. As members of the g7+ family we need to learn from these difficult times, to understand the factors that can lead to relapse and support each other by encouraging development partners to act responsibly and sustainably. In sum, 2013 taught us that our mission is more important than ever. It reminded me that in all our activities and advocacy we should never lose sight of our ultimate goal – to do all we can to ensure that all of our countries exit fragility and emerge as resilient and robust states. I often say that we should go ‘back to the basics’ and not forget our simple mandate. That is summed up in a simple truth:

“Without peace we can have no development”
Ministers, Focal Points and Secretariat, you should be proud of the work of the g7+ in 2013. I thank you and urge us all to press on with even greater vigour and determination in our very important work in 2014.
H.E. Emilia Pires
Minister of Finance Timor-Leste,
Chair of g7+

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Sierra Leone’s Agenda For Prosperity

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:32:43 +0000

Sierra Leone’s Agenda For Prosperity

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

Challenges faced by g7+ member countries

The deteriorating situations in the Central African Republic and South Sudan have been a cause of great distress. As members of the g7+ family we need to learn from these difficult times, to understand the factors that can lead to relapse and support each other by encouraging development partners to act responsibly and sustainably. In sum, 2013 taught us that our mission is more important than ever.

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Liberia Fragility Assessment Report-final received 17 June 2014

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:31:23 +0000

Liberia Fragility Assessment Report-final received 17 June 2014

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

Challenges faced by g7+ member countries

The deteriorating situations in the Central African Republic and South Sudan have been a cause of great distress. As members of the g7+ family we need to learn from these difficult times, to understand the factors that can lead to relapse and support each other by encouraging development partners to act responsibly and sustainably. In sum, 2013 taught us that our mission is more important than ever.

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

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The post Liberia Fragility Assessment Report-final received 17 June 2014 appeared first on g7plus.

Union des Comores – Fragility Assessment 2017

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:30:06 +0000

Union des Comores – Fragility Assessment 2017

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

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The post Union des Comores – Fragility Assessment 2017 appeared first on g7plus.

Second Fragility Assessment – Liberia

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:28:04 +0000

Second Fragility Assessment – Liberia

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

Challenges faced by g7+ member countries

The deteriorating situations in the Central African Republic and South Sudan have been a cause of great distress. As members of the g7+ family we need to learn from these difficult times, to understand the factors that can lead to relapse and support each other by encouraging development partners to act responsibly and sustainably. In sum, 2013 taught us that our mission is more important than ever.

PSG Formulacao

1. Política legítima e inclusiva Incentivar acordos políticos inclusivos, legítimos aos olhos da população e favorecer a resolução de conflitos
2. Segurança Estabelecer e reforçar a segurança das pessoas
3. Justiça Remediar as injustiças e aumentar o acesso das pessoas à justiça
4. Fundamentos económicos 5. Rendimentos e serviços
Criar empregos e melhorar os meios de subsistência Gerir as receitas públicas com eficácia e reforçar as capacidades em prestar serviços de forma responsável, qualitativa e equitativa

Challenges faced by g7+ member countries

The deteriorating situations in the Central African Republic and South Sudan have been a cause of great distress. As members of the g7+ family we need to learn from these difficult times, to understand the factors that can lead to relapse and support each other by encouraging development partners to act responsibly and sustainably. In sum, 2013 taught us that our mission is more important than ever.

PSG Formulacao

1. Política legítima e inclusiva Incentivar acordos políticos inclusivos, legítimos aos olhos da população e favorecer a resolução de conflitos
2. Segurança Estabelecer e reforçar a segurança das pessoas
3. Justiça Remediar as injustiças e aumentar o acesso das pessoas à justiça
4. Fundamentos económicos 5. Rendimentos e serviços
Criar empregos e melhorar os meios de subsistência Gerir as receitas públicas com eficácia e reforçar as capacidades em prestar serviços de forma responsável, qualitativa e equitativa

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Powering up energy investments in fragile states: A call to action

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:23:28 +0000

Powering up energy investments in fragile states: A call to action

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

Challenges faced by g7+ member countries

The deteriorating situations in the Central African Republic and South Sudan have been a cause of great distress. As members of the g7+ family we need to learn from these difficult times, to understand the factors that can lead to relapse and support each other by encouraging development partners to act responsibly and sustainably. In sum, 2013 taught us that our mission is more important than ever.

Download Resource

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The post Powering up energy investments in fragile states: A call to action appeared first on g7plus.

A call to put people at the center of justice

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:18:55 +0000

A call to put people at the center of justice

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

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The post A call to put people at the center of justice appeared first on g7plus.

Mensagem do Secretário-Geral do g7+, Dr. Helder da Costa

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:14:03 +0000

Mensagem do Secretário-Geral do g7+, Dr. Helder da Costa

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

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Opening Remarks H.E. Minister Francis M. Kai-Kai, chair of g7+

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:12:00 +0000

Opening Remarks H.E. Minister Francis M. Kai-Kai, chair of g7+

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

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The post Opening Remarks H.E. Minister Francis M. Kai-Kai, chair of g7+ appeared first on g7plus.

Second Conference on State Fragility, Pandemics, Vaccination and Solidarity

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:08:49 +0000

Second Conference on State Fragility, Pandemics, Vaccination and Solidarity

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

Challenges faced by g7+ member countries

The deteriorating situations in the Central African Republic and South Sudan have been a cause of great distress. As members of the g7+ family we need to learn from these difficult times, to understand the factors that can lead to relapse and support each other by encouraging development partners to act responsibly and sustainably. In sum, 2013 taught us that our mission is more important than ever.

PSG Formulacao

1. Política legítima e inclusiva Incentivar acordos políticos inclusivos, legítimos aos olhos da população e favorecer a resolução de conflitos
2. Segurança Estabelecer e reforçar a segurança das pessoas
3. Justiça Remediar as injustiças e aumentar o acesso das pessoas à justiça
4. Fundamentos económicos 5. Rendimentos e serviços
Criar empregos e melhorar os meios de subsistência Gerir as receitas públicas com eficácia e reforçar as capacidades em prestar serviços de forma responsável, qualitativa e equitativa

Download Resource

Download File

The post Second Conference on State Fragility, Pandemics, Vaccination and Solidarity appeared first on g7plus.

A perspective from the 2021 VNR of Afghanistan

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 10:05:25 +0000

A perspective from the 2021 VNR of Afghanistan

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

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Rapport National d’evaluation de la Fragilité en RDC

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 05:38:26 +0000

Rapport National d’evaluation de la Fragilité en RDC

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

Challenges faced by g7+ member countries

The deteriorating situations in the Central African Republic and South Sudan have been a cause of great distress. As members of the g7+ family we need to learn from these difficult times, to understand the factors that can lead to relapse and support each other by encouraging development partners to act responsibly and sustainably. In sum, 2013 taught us that our mission is more important than ever.

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Statement of Solidarity with the People of Afghanistan

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 05:36:50 +0000

Statement of Solidarity with the People of Afghanistan

Since the establishment of the g7+, every new year brings new opportunities, aspirations and of course challenges, which further teach us new ways of handling our journey toward resilience and prosperity. The strategic priorities we agreed upon in the second g7+ Ministerial helped in guiding our journey more strategically. The voice of the g7+ is now being sought in a variety of international forums. We continue to participate in the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and State building and the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

New Deal Compact. Broad consultation was conducted across 10 of the 13 states. Sierra Leone also signed a Mutual Accountability Framework in February 2014, in support of its Agenda for Prosperity and as a vehicle for implementing the New Deal commitments and PSGs.

Progress in implementing the New Deal

Guinea-Bissau and Union of Comoros became the latest g7+ member to undertake a fragility assessment in March 2014 – bringing the total of fragility assessments conducted to seven. The PSG indicators developed from these assessments offer a menu that can help to measure progress against the PSGs. Somalia developed and signed their New Deal Compact, with funding of USD 2.7 billion pledged by development partners. With this funding set to be used within the country-owned and led framework of the New Deal, this is a BIG deal for Somalia and the g7+. Also during the year South Sudan did a remarkable job of country-wide consultation as they began to develop their own

The g7+ should scale up its work of promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation based on self-reliance and ownership.

The g7+ group and its members need to work harder to translate the principles of New Deal into reforms that can make aid more effective.

The g7+ needs to double its efforts to steer the attention of the international community to addressing the root causes of conflicts and fragility.

The g7+ members should fulfil their obligation to make regular financial contributions as established in the g7+ Charter.

The g7+ member countries should strive to increase the number of member countries that have ratified the g7+ Charte

Increased communication between members

Four g7+ technical meetings were held during 2013, with members represented at the Ministerial level as well as by Focal Points. These meetings provided members with the opportunity to update each other on country progress and share experiences. We also spread the g7+ message within our membership through an African Roadshow, which involved myself and members of the g7+ Secretariat visiting Chad, DRC and Liberia. This included presentations by g7+ Focal Points and Ministers to their respective political leaderships, which aimed to build support for the New Deal. The g7+’s ability to communicate more regularly has been supported by enhanced capacity within the g7+ Secretariat, with Senior Policy Specialist, Mr Habib Mayar and Senior Researcher, Dr Nelson Martins, joining the Secretariat in January and June respectively. Further positions will be added in 2014, enhancing our capacity and inclusiveness.

Challenges faced by g7+ member countries

The deteriorating situations in the Central African Republic and South Sudan have been a cause of great distress. As members of the g7+ family we need to learn from these difficult times, to understand the factors that can lead to relapse and support each other by encouraging development partners to act responsibly and sustainably. In sum, 2013 taught us that our mission is more important than ever.

PSG Formulacao

1. Política legítima e inclusiva Incentivar acordos políticos inclusivos, legítimos aos olhos da população e favorecer a resolução de conflitos
2. Segurança Estabelecer e reforçar a segurança das pessoas
3. Justiça Remediar as injustiças e aumentar o acesso das pessoas à justiça
4. Fundamentos económicos 5. Rendimentos e serviços
Criar empregos e melhorar os meios de subsistência Gerir as receitas públicas com eficácia e reforçar as capacidades em prestar serviços de forma responsável, qualitativa e equitativa

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H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, Eminent Person of g7+, delivered opening remarks on the implications of conflict on achieving the SDGs: A perspective from the 2021 VNR of Afghanistan

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 17:20:00 +0000

Opening Remark The implications of conflict on achieving the SDGs: A perspective from the 2021 VNR of Afghanistan

Opening Remark
The implications of conflict on achieving the SDGs: A perspective from the 2021 VNR of Afghanistan
H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Eminent Person of g7+
H.E. Dr. Karima Hamid Faryabi, Minister of Economy of Afghanistan
H.E. Adela Raz, Permanent Representative of Afghanistan to the United Nations
H.E. Alie Kabba, Permanent Representative of Sierra Leone to the United Nations
Ms Sarah Cliffe, the Moderator

Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good evening from Dili, Timor-Leste; the host of g7+ Headquarters.
I thank The Permanent mission of Afghanistan and the g7+ secretariat for co-organizing this useful event and for inviting me to speak.

At the outset, I would like to express our solidarity with the people and Government of Afghanistan and other g7+ member countries as it goes through a critical transition. I am saddened by the news of insurgency that results in the loss of precious lives. We had attached and still attach a lot of hope to the ongoing peace process. We expected and still hope that the peace process will result in ceasefire, lasting peace and ending of the suffering of Afghans.

I visited Afghanistan in 2016, during the g7+ Ministerial meeting. I was impressed by the resilience of Afghan people and the potential for peace and growth Afghanistan has gotten; the attributes that we rarely hear from News.

I congratulate the Government of Afghanistan for presenting Voluntary National Review (VNR). The finding of this report should convince the world that conflict and war are the biggest obstacle in realizing SDGs. The outcome of the report should be enough to prove that Afghanistan and other g7+ countries are committed to achieving the ambition of agenda 2030. The findings of the VNR in Afghanistan are enough to prove that “there can be no development without peace and that peace cannot last without development”

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
We the g7+ were among the strongest advocates for the goal on peace, justice and effective institutions. Our advocacy for a standalone goal on peace, justice and effective institutions was backed by the experiences that we have lived. We have witnessed that peace is a precondition for sustainable development. My own country, Timor-Leste which is endowed with natural resources, has the potential of self-reliance and hence development. We could not exploit that potential unless there was peace. We would never achieve stability without taking the charge of our own destiny. And we would never consolidate our state institutions without peace. It is in this context that goal 16 of the Agenda 2030 is of importance to us, the g7+ members.

Timor-Leste survived 24 years of occupation that cost us the lives of 1/3rd of our population. The legacies of these suffering could last for decades if we had not chosen the path of reconciliation within Timorese society and also with our neighbor, Indonesia. We had to overcome our bitter past for the vision of a brighter and more peaceful future. Reconciling was not easy but the strong will of leaders and our people enable us to overcome the violent past. We chose peaceful co-existence over antagonism; we chose forgiveness because we did not want the bitter past to haunt us for decades.

Today, my country enjoys peace, stability and has friendly relation with Indonesia. I invited the former foreign Vice Minister of Indonesia, Mr. Dino Pati Djalal to attend the Ministerial meeting in Afghanistan in 2016. We both shared our lessons with the Afghan leaders and people. We aimed at inspiring our brothers and sisters in Afghanistan. I visited some of the g7+ member countries with the same objective.
Against this background, I would like to leave you with 3 points in the interest of today’s session.

First: Pursuing reconciliation, which has to be at the core of SDG 16 in conflict affected countries such as those in g7+ group, has largely been ignored. Realizing the goal on peace, justice and effective institution requires political will and action. Ceasefire is the stepping stone to realize peace in countries like Afghanistan. Therefore, we call upon the UN, the entire international community and regional actors to step up efforts and pursue a truce in Afghanistan and elsewhere. I have said it once and again that Afghanistan is at crossroad of regional development and stability. A stable Afghanistan is a guarantee of stability in the region. As the European Union (EU) decision to withdraw all the troops from Afghanistan by the end of August and the United States (US) remaining troops by September this year, it represents a turning point for the country and its neighbors. We hope this will be a moment of both opportunity and challenges for Afghans, and for the region to reiterate their commitment to peace. We equally call upon all the warring factions everywhere to lay down arms so that we can concentrate on addressing covid-19 which is a common challenge.

Second: The ability of state to provide security, justice, social and economic wellbeing is a determinant of sustaining peace. Strengthening state institutions require continued assistance that needs to be channeled with the aim of stability. Therefore, international community and development partners need to maintain their level of support to the state institutions in countries in fragile situation. As Afghanistan is going through the current transition, international community should not abandon it. Their constructive and effective engagement is critical for preserving the gains made over the last 2 decades.

Third and final point: I would like to use this opportunity to offer our assistance in sharing our experience with Afghanistan. The g7+ family reiterates our commitment to help achieving peace and stability in Afghanistan. Recognizing that there is unique context in every country, we believe that our respective lesson can inspire change for peace. Brotherhood and empathy guide our engagement among the g7+ members.

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen
I would like to conclude by reminding ourselves that our collective success in realizing the ambition of agenda 2030 depends on peace in the world’s conflict affected countries and regions.
I thank you for your attention!

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FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2023

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 10:01:30 +0000

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FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2022

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 10:09:06 +0000

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FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2021

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 10:12:37 +0000

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FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2020

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 31 Dec 2020 04:23:54 +0000

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” H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, Eminent Person of g7+ delivered a video message on the “The Role of the United Nations and Japan in the Post-Corona Era in Addressing Global Threats and Challenges”, TOKYO PARLIAMENTARIAN PEACE FORUM”

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Sun, 01 Mar 2020 17:34:24 +0000

The post ” H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, Eminent Person of g7+ delivered a video message on the “The Role of the United Nations and Japan in the Post-Corona Era in Addressing Global Threats and Challenges”, TOKYO PARLIAMENTARIAN PEACE FORUM” appeared first on g7plus.

FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2019

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Tue, 31 Dec 2019 04:33:29 +0000

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LE CONSENSUS DE NEW YORK : OUVRIR UN NOUVEAU CHAPITRE POUR LE G7+

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 02:24:14 +0000

LE CONSENSUS DE NEW YORK :
OUVRIR UN NOUVEAU CHAPITRE POUR LE G7+

“Promouvoir le développement souverain et l’unité stratégique”

Nous, chefs d’État et de gouvernement des pays membres du g7+ réunis en marge de la 80ème session de l’Assemblée générale des Nations unies à New York le 23 septembre 2025, adoptons par la présente ce consensus afin de marquer un tournant décisif dans notre quête collective de paix, d’unité, de développement économique stratégique et de prospérité.

Conscients de la profonde fragmentation de l’ordre mondial et de la transition vers une géopolitique transactionnelle, nous affirmons que cette période présente non seulement des défis, mais aussi une opportunité stratégique sans précédent pour nos nations.

Conscients de notre potentiel collectif, nous sommes déterminés à redéfinir notre discours, passant d’une vision axée sur la fragilité à une vision axée sur l’action, la valeur et le développement souverain, et nous soutenons pleinement l’appel à l’action à cette fin. Nous réaffirmons en particulier notre engagement en faveur d’une gestion efficace et transparente de nos ressources naturelles, qui constitue une voie essentielle vers l’autonomie et l’équité intergénérationnelle.

Réaffirmant les principes fondamentaux et les engagements du g7+, tels qu’ils sont inscrits dans notre Charte et détaillés dans la Résolution de Dili du 12 avril 2025, nous nous engageons à promouvoir un avenir qui se définit par l’autonomie, la coopération mutuelle et un engagement mondial fondé sur des valeurs.

En consequence :

Nous approuvons le document final de la 6ème Réunion ministérielle du Groupe qui s’est tenue à Dili les 11 et 12 avril 2025.

Nous nous engageons à présenter le g7+ comme un bloc unifié, stratégiquement pertinent et partenarial. Nous utiliserons notre voix collective, notamment par l’intermédiaire de nos membres siégeant au Conseil de sécurité des Nations unies, pour veiller à ce que les perspectives des États touchés par des conflits soient au cœur des décisions mondiales en matière de paix, de sécurité et de développement. Nous nous engagerons activement auprès de toutes les puissances mondiales et de tous les blocs régionaux dans un esprit de respect mutuel et d’intérêt réciproque.

Nous lançons officiellement le Centre d’Intervention Rapide g7+, pierre angulaire de notre autonomie. Ce Centre fournira aux États membres une expertise technique et des conseils de classe mondiale, axés sur la demande, dans des domaines critiques tels que l’arbitrage juridique, la médiation pour la paix, la gouvernance des ressources naturelles et la gestion des finances publiques.

Nous saluons l’accord de collaboration conclu entre le Secrétariat du g7+ et la Fondation g7+ en vue de rendre le Centre opérationnel et leur confions la mobilisation des ressources financières et techniques nécessaires à sa réussite.

Nous mandatons le Secrétariat du g7+, en consultation avec les États membres, pour élaborer des propositions concrètes de mécanismes financiers audacieux et pour les promouvoir dans le cadre d’une refonte du discours généralement tenu sur les États touchés par des conflits.

Nous réaffirmons notre engagement indéfectible en faveur de la ratification intégrale de la Charte du g7+ afin de consolider notre fondement juridique et institutionnel.

Nous exprimons notre profonde gratitude à la Sierra Leone, sous la direction de Son Excellence le Président Julius Maada Bio, pour son leadership exceptionnel en tant que Président, et sommes heureux de le nommer au Conseil des Personnalités éminentes du g7+.

Nous exprimons également notre profonde gratitude à S.E. M. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Premier ministre du Timor-Leste et Personnalité éminente, pour son engagement indéfectible envers le travail et la vision du Groupe, notamment l’appel à l’action contenu dans sa lettre du 13 juin 2025.

Nous souhaitons la bienvenue aux Îles Salomon en tant que nouveau Président du g7+, ainsi qu’à la République démocratique du Congo et au Libéria en tant que Vice-Présidents, et nous nous engageons à leur apporter notre soutien total pendant leur mandat.

Nous exprimons notre profonde gratitude à l’hôte du siège du g7+, le gouvernement du Timor-Leste, pour son leadership inébranlable et pour avoir accueilli la 6ème Réunion ministérielle.

Ce consensus de New York établit notre feuille de route pour les années à venir. Nous décidons par la présente de nous réunir chaque année en marge de l’Assemblée générale des Nations unies afin d’examiner les progrès accomplis, de renforcer notre unité et de faire avancer nos priorités stratégiques.

ADOPTÉ PAR LES CHEFS D’ÉTAT ET DE GOUVERNEMENT DU G7+ CE 23 SEPTEMBRE 2025
SIÈGE DE L’ONU, NEW YORK

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THE NEW YORK CONSENSUS: CHARTING A NEW CHAPTER OF g7+

9vMFy6@2e@IH — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 01:59:49 +0000

THE NEW YORK CONSENSUS:
CHARTING A NEW CHAPTER OF g7+

“Advancing Sovereign Development and Strategic Unity”

We, the Heads of State and Government of the g7+ member countries, assembled on the margins of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on 23 September 2025, hereby adopt this Consensus to mark a definitive turning point in our collective pursuit of peace, unity strategic economic development and prosperity.

Recognizing the profound fragmentation of the global order and the shift towards transactional geopolitics, we affirm that this moment presents not only challenges but also an unprecedented strategic opportunity for our nations.

Aware of our collective potential, we resolve to reframe our narrative from one of fragility to one of agency, value, and sovereign development, and we fully endorse the call to action to this end. In particular, we reiterate our commitment to the effective and transparent management of our natural resources as a critical pathway toward self-reliance and intergenerational equity.

Reaffirming the foundational principles and commitments of the g7+, as enshrined in our Charter and detailed in the Dili Resolution of 12 April 2025, we commit to advancing a future defined by self-reliance, mutual cooperation, and principled global engagement.

Accordingly:

We endorse the Outcome Document of the 6th Ministerial Meeting of the Group held in Dili from 11 to 12 April 2025.

We commit to projecting the g7+ as a unified bloc of strategic relevance and partnership. We will leverage our collective voice, including through our members serving on the UN Security Council, to ensure that the perspectives of conflict-affected states are central to global decision-making on peace, security, and development. We will actively engage with all global powers and regional blocs on the basis of mutual respect and reciprocal benefit.

We officially launch the g7+ Rapid Response Center as a cornerstone of our self-reliance. This Centre will provide world-class, demand-driven technical expertise and advice to member states in critical areas including concession negotiations related to natural resources and infrastructure development.

We commend the collaborative arrangement between the g7+ Secretariat and the g7+ Foundation to operationalize the Centre and entrust them with mobilizing the necessary financial and technical resources for its success.

We mandate the g7+ Secretariat, in consultation with member States, to develop concrete proposals for bold financial mechanisms and to advocate for these as part of reframing the narrative widely held about conflict-affected states.

We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the full ratification of the g7+ Charter to solidify our legal and institutional foundation.

We express our profound gratitude to Sierra Leone, under the leadership of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, for its exceptional leadership as Chair, and are pleased to appoint him to the g7+ Eminent Persons Council.

We further acknowledge and express profound gratitude to H.E. Mr. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste and Eminent Person, for his steadfast commitment to the work and vision of the Group, including the call to action in his letter of 13 June 2025.

We welcome Solomon Islands as the new Chair of the g7+, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Liberia as Deputy Chairs and pledge our full support for their tenure.

We extend our deep appreciation to the host of the g7+ Headquarters, the Government of Timor-Leste for its steadfast stewardship and for hosting the 6th Ministerial Meeting.

This New York Consensus establishes our roadmap for the coming years. We hereby resolve to convene annually on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly to review progress, reinforce our unity, and advance our strategic priorities.

ADOPTED BY THE g7+ HEADS OF STATE AND GOVERNMENT ON THIS 23rd DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2025
UNHQ; NEW YORK

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PSG	Formulacao
1. Política legítima e inclusiva	Incentivar acordos políticos inclusivos, legítimos aos olhos da população e favorecer a resolução de conflitos
2. Segurança	Estabelecer e reforçar a segurança das pessoas
3. Justiça	Remediar as injustiças e aumentar o acesso das pessoas à justiça
4. Fundamentos económicos	5. Rendimentos e serviços
Criar empregos e melhorar os meios de subsistência	Gerir as receitas públicas com eficácia e reforçar as capacidades em prestar serviços de forma responsável, qualitativa e equitativa

Recources Archive - g7plus

Eighty-second session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)

Dr. Helder da Costa, General Secretary of g7+

Eighty-second session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)Agenda item 3: “Leaving no one behind: advancing a society for all ages in Asia and the Pacific”

Bangkok, 26 February 2026, 14:00-17:00 hrs

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Statement of Tribute : Peaceful Settlement of Border Dispute

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Statement of Solidarity : Tragic Loss of Afghan Civilians During Aerial Bombardment

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Statement of Appeal for Peace: Escalating Conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan and the Wider Regional Implications

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Déclaration d’appel en faveur de la paix: L’escalade du conflit entre l’Afghanistan et le Pakistan et les implications régionales de cette situation.

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Chair of g7+ delivered Briefing Focus on: Sierra Leone’s experience of south-south and triangular cooperation and peacebuilding; the g7+, Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation, the Dili Resolution, and the Freetown Declaration

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The g7+: From Solidarity to Strategic Influence

The Combined Power of The g7+

The Journey of the g7+: 15 Years of Unity and Resilience

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La résilience en tant que finalité : une approche à large spectre de la fragilité et de l’appropriation par les pays

La résilience en tant que finalité : une approche à large spectre de la fragilité et de l’appropriation par les pays

En bref

La résilience en tant que finalité : une approche à large spectre de la fragilité et de l’appropriation par les pays

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RESILIENCE AS AN END: A SPECTRUM APPROACH TO FRAGILITY AND COUNTRY OWNERSHIP

RESILIENCE AS AN END: A SPECTRUM APPROACH TO FRAGILITY AND COUNTRY OWNERSHIP

In Brief

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Tracking Donor Funding Toward the Global COVID-19 Response: An Analysis of Pledges, Commitments and Disbursements

Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+ delivered remarks at the Peacebuilding Commission Ambassadorial-level meeting on South-South and Triangular Cooperation for building and sustaining peace.

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Mobiliser une sagesse collective: Un modèle de coopération de fragile à fragile

Harnessing Collective Wisdom: A Framework for Fragile-to-Fragile Cooperation

La chronologie du g7+ (2008 – 2025)

The g7+ Journey in Brief (2008 -2025)

SDG 16 Conference 2025 Advancing Peace, Justice and Institution for Sustainable Development

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Dr. Helder da Costa delivered a Keynote Speech at the Climate Integrity Summit 2025 in Canberra – 12 FEBRUARY 2025

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Liberia for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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Timor Leste for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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Chad for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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Solomon Islands for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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Somalia for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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Sierra Leone for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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São Tomé e Príncipe for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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La République Centrafricaine for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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La République Démocratique du Congo for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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Cote d’Ivoire for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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Guinea-Bissau for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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Burundi for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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Afghanistan for g7+ 6th Ministerial Meeting in Timor-Leste

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The g7+ Joint Letter Calling for Urgent Action on Climate Financing – COP29

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Dr. Helder da Costa delivered welcoming Remarks for Signing of the MoU with IEP – 17 October

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Dr. Helder da Costa, General Secretary of g7+ speaking notes on truth, reconciliation and dialogue – Geneva peace week -15 Oct 2024

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Mr. Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary UNSC Open Debate on peacebuilding and sustaining peace – 21 August 2024

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Mr. Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+ delivered remarks on 56th UN Human Righs Council side event-15 July 2024

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Dr. Helder da Costa, General Secretary of g7+ delivered Closing remarks on Second high level conference of the forum on global action for shared development Beijing-13 July 2024

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Mr. Habib Mayar, Deputy General Secretary of g7+ delivered speech on IDLO Side Event-11 July 2024

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Dr. Helder da Costa,
General Secretary of g7+

Eighty-second session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)
Agenda item 3: “Leaving no one behind: advancing a society for all ages in Asia and the Pacific”