Minister for Foreign Affairs Soini: Mediation at the forefront in UN activities 

Press release 279/2015
9 December 2015

Foreign Minister Timo Soini spoke at the 60th anniversary celebrations of Finland's membership of the UN at Finlandia Hall on Wednesday 9 December. He appealed to Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon by saying that Finland wishes to see mediation and dialogue at the forefront of the UN's work.

Foreign Minister Soini assured that Finland will  continue its active contribution to the development of mediation. Finland emphasises women's participation and the role of the civil society.

Inter-cultural and inter-faith dialogue play a big role in efforts to repress violent extremist movements. Foreign Minister Soini hoped that the Network of Religious and Traditional Peacemakers, the establishment of which was supported by Finland, will help the UN in its peace efforts.

Additionally, the Minister informed that Finland will stand for candidacy for membership of the Human Rights Council of the UN in 2022–2024. The elections will be held at the General Assembly of the United Nations in 2021. Finland's candidacy is supported by the other Nordic countries.

Finland is committed to taking part in the UN's activities keeping in mind that human rights remain the cornerstone of the activities of the organisation. Membership of the Human Rights Council would enable Finland to raise for discussion issues that it regards important, such as women's rights, more strongly than before.

Inquiries: Riikka Taivassalo, Special Adviser ot the Foreign Minister, tel. +358 46 923 4581; Emmi Oikari, Deputy Director, Unit for UN and General Global Affairs; tel.  +358 295 351 735; and Nina Nordström, Director, Unit for Human Rights Policy, tel. +358 295 350 104.