Nordic Statement at the General Assembly Veto Debate

Read the Nordic Statement delivered by H.E. Ms. Elina Kalkku, Permanent Representative of Finland to the United Nations, at the General Assembly Veto Debate on October 1, 2026.

President,

I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic countries Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and my own country Finland.

The Nordic countries deeply regret the use of the veto by the Russian Federation and China in the Security Council on 17 September, blocking the extension of the mandate of the Panel of Experts assisting the 1737 Sanctions Committee.

The draft resolution enjoyed broad support, with 11 Council members voting in favor of it thereby showing their commitment to extend the mandate of the Panel of Experts.

Since its establishment, the Panel of Experts for the Sanctions Committee has served as both the Council’s and the broader membership’s eyes and ears on Iran’s nuclear programme. It has gathered facts, investigated violations, provided independent technical expertise, and supported informed decision-making.

The Council resolutions on Iran’s nuclear programme, including resolution 1929, were restored on 27 September 2025, reinitiating the Panel’s mandate.

President,

It is of great concern that Iran’s nuclear programme continues to pose a serious threat to international peace and security and to undermine the global non-proliferation and disarmament regime.

The use of the veto against Panels of Experts complicates the mandated work of the Sanctions Committees and undermines the role of the Security Council, to which Member States have entrusted primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security under Article 24 of the Charter.

Discontinuing the Panel’s work has serious implications. The impartial and objective assessments provided by the Panels of Experts are invaluable to all Member States and national authorities implementing sanctions, as well as to businesses and civil society. The issue has also paralysed the entire working of the Council’s subsidiary bodies leaving the Council unable to fulfil a core part of its work for nine months and counting.

President,

The Nordic countries underline the significance of Assembly resolution 76/262. The veto initiative is a vital tool for strengthening transparency and accountability and reinforces the General Assembly’s capacity to uphold the principles of the UN Charter when the Security Council is unable to act.

It is deeply regrettable that the veto stands in the way of effectively maintaining international peace and security and promoting the peaceful settlement of disputes, this Assembly should now consider how to fill this vital monitoring gap.

Thank you.