President Halonen at the UN: Finland supports democratic development in Libya

President Tarja Halonen spoke at the High-Level meeting on Libya on 20 September, 2011. Copyright © Office of the President of the Republic of Finland

At the high-level meeting on Libya in New York on Tuesday, 20 September 2011 President of the Republic Tarja Halonen promised Finland’s support to Libya in the strengthening of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Convened by the UN Secretary-General, the meeting focused on the future of Libya, and particularly on the role of the UN and the international community in the country.

To coordinate support for Libya, the UN has established the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). Finland supports Libya through the UN and the EU, as well as bilaterally. Finland is doubling its funding for the North Africa and Middle East regions and is also prepared to double the amount of humanitarian assistance to Libya. Finland is also ready to contribute expertise in forensics and police training, for example, and to support the development of democracy, rule of law, civil society and women’s rights.

In her speech President Halonen stressed the role of the UN in coordinating the contribution of the international community. She also emphasised the role of women in building a sustainable and just society. “Finland urges the new Libya to ensure the full enjoyment of human rights for both women and men. Every effort should be made to harness the potential of all citizens and to guarantee equal rights for all, for the benefit of Libya’s future,” President Halonen said.

President of the Republic Tarja Halonen travelled to New York for the opening week of the 66th Session of the UN General Assembly, which takes place during 16–24 September 2011. President Halonen will deliver Finland’s statement as part of the general debate on Wednesday, 21 September, the opening day of the General Assembly.

Panel on Global Sustainability

Prior to the opening of the General Assembly, President Halonen chaired the meeting of the High-level Panel on Global Sustainability during 18–19 September. President Halonen co-chairs the panel together with the President of the Republic of South-Africa Jacob Zuma. The Panel is due to submit its report to the UN Secretary-General by the end of the year.

The current international situation, particularly in the Middle East and northern Africa, will feature heavily during the week. Other key themes will include sustainable development, the Millennium Development Goals, and the strengthened role of the UN in crisis prevention and peace mediation.

During the week President Halonen also participated in the Clinton Global Initiative Annual Meeting, an event of the Council of Women World Leaders, and high-level meetings on reproductive health and on sexual violence in conflicts. President Halonen’s programme will also include a reception hosted by President of the United States Barack Obama and several bilateral meetings.

• Speech at the High-Level Meeting on Libya at the United Nations on 20 September 2011