National Statement of Finland at the Arria Formula Meeting on Advancing New Paradigms for Peacebuilding: Fortifying Inclusive and Sustainable Approaches to Peacemaking
Read the National Statement of Finland at the Arria Formula Meeting on Advancing New Paradigms for Peacebuilding: Fortifying Inclusive and Sustainable Approaches to Peacemaking, delivered by H.E. Ms. Elina Kalkku, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Finland to the United Nations, on January 12, 2026.
President,
thank you for convening this Arria meeting. The topic carries strong contemporary relevance. Last July the Security Council urged states to settle their international disputes by peaceful means, in the resolution 2788.
As Finland, together with Türkiye, co-chairs the Group of Friends of Mediation, I will focus my remarks on peace mediation.
A great deal of evidence-based work in strengthening mediation capacity has been done over the years. As a result, we often have a good idea of what needs to be done. However, too often we lack the will or the resources to carry out the actual work.
The UN needs to play a much stronger role in peace-making and peacebuilding in the future. It can act on its own, or support others in their efforts, including regional organizations or Member States. The UN has lots of knowhow and tools for these purposes, and it can leverage meaningful incentives for peace.
The UN is the Charter based international organization, and it represents aspirations of all Member States. As a peacemaker, it does not and cannot have own special interests, beyond the need to restore peace and ensure respect of the Charter and international law, and providing legitimacy. Its principal organs and the PBC need to be active during difficult times. It is the responsibility of the UN to act.
Attention and commitment at the highest political level are needed for effective peace-making. At the same time, reconciliation efforts and peacebuilding require sustained support. Peace is a continuum.
Just and sustained peace agreements require inclusive peace mediation. In particular in conflicts within states and between communities, sustained peace is within reach only through involvement and contribution of local civil societies that can provide the necessary real-life backing to political level agreements.
We need to ensure that women have a greater say in peace negotiations. Finland has joined the Secretary-General’s Common Pledge on Women’s Participation in Peace Processes. It is striking to witness the absence of women at the negotiation table, in virtually all of the protracted conflicts that feature on the agenda of this Council.
More emphasis must be placed on young people in mediation. They are essential part of solutions for peace and usually have the greatest stake in shaping a future free from conflict. Finland, together with South Africa, is implementing a pilot mentoring program involving young people from different continents. Finland will also seek to strengthen the role of persons with disabilities in mediation.
President,
Finland will continue to advocate for robust and impactful peace mediation within the UN system, including through the Group of Friends of Mediation. We call on all Member States to join us in this endeavor.
I thank you.