New York: The General Assembly has adopted two significant resolutions, declaring 5 September as the International Day of the World's Indigenous Women and Girls, and conducting a review of the United Nations peacebuilding architecture. The resolution on Indigenous women and girls aims to address structural inequalities faced by these groups, while the peacebuilding review emphasizes enhancing advisory roles and cooperation to support lasting peace.
According to EMM, the peacebuilding resolution, titled the 2025 Review of the United Nations Peacebuilding Architecture, was adopted without a vote. It underlines the importance of strengthening the advisory role of the Peacebuilding Commission and improving its collaboration with the Economic and Social Council. The resolution also establishes an annual peacebuilding week in June, encourages dialogue with the Peacebuilding Fund, and calls for innovative financing for peacebuilding efforts. The General Assembly further requested a comprehensive review of UN peacebuilding by 2030.
After the resolution's adoption, Egypt's representative highlighted the consensus as a testament to multilateralism's strength and the international community's shared commitment to peacebuilding. The representative of Morocco praised the inclusivity of the drafting process, while the United Kingdom's representative pointed to the resolution as a clear and ambitious path forward. However, Argentina's representative disassociated from references to certain aspects, citing concerns over potential inequalities.
The Russian Federation's representative stressed that the main aim of the peacebuilding architecture is to assist post-conflict countries, emphasizing the need for significant resources and efforts. Iran's representative echoed the importance of national ownership in peacebuilding processes.
Concerns were raised by several representatives regarding omissions in the text. Switzerland noted the absence of peace and security advisers, while Australia criticized the lack of recognition for climate change threats. Denmark, speaking for the European Union, expressed disappointment over the resolution's language regarding civil-society engagement and gender equality. Norway regretted the lack of attention to climate change and environmental degradation, calling for a broader scope in peacebuilding efforts.
Simultaneously, Bolivia's representative introduced the resolution for the International Day of the World's Indigenous Women and Girls, emphasizing the need to address structural inequality. The day, observed in remembrance of Bartolina Sisa, aims to honor Indigenous women's contributions and rights.
However, the United States opposed the resolution, citing a policy against the proliferation of international theme days. Despite this, the resolution was adopted by a vote of 123 in favor, 3 against, and 2 abstentions. Concerns were expressed by Ethiopia, Iran, and Paraguay regarding the complexity of the term "Indigenous" and the voluntary nature of related agendas.
Cuba's representative criticized the United States for requesting a vote, emphasizing the resolution's importance in recognizing Indigenous women's contributions and addressing structural barriers to their rights.