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DENMARK AND THE UN

General Assembly’s 65th Session

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DANISH STATEMENT AT THE INTERGOVERMENTAL NEGOTIATIONS ON THE QUESTION OF EQUITABLE REPRESENTATION AND INCREASE OF THE MEMBERSHIP OF THE SECURITY COUNCIL AND OTHER MATTERS RELATED TO THE COUNCIL 11 JUNE 2009

Statement by Ambassador Carsten Staur, Permanent Representative of Denmark to the United Nations, at the Intergovermental Negotiations on the question of equitable representation and increase of the membership of the Security Council and other matters related to the Council 11 June 2009

Mr Chairman,

Let me at the outset assure you that Denmark remains a firm supporter of a comprehensive Security Council reform. It is an essential component of the overall United Nations reform. Progress is needed to strengthen the credibility and legitimacy of the whole UN organization. To do so the Security Council must reflect the realities of today’s world.

With regard to today’s topic - the composition of the Security Council - Denmark supports the idea of enlargement in both the permanent and non-permanent categories of membership. Furthermore, we remain convinced that the right of veto should not be extended to new members - regardless of category. We also holds the view that the use of the veto should be restrained and permanent members should abstain from using it in certain situations.

When it comes to the size of an enlarged council, it is important that we achieve a proper balance between legitimacy and efficiency: Enlargement should create a more representative Council without decreasing the Council’s ability to deliberate and act. It is difficult to point to a magic number that would achieve such a balance. We believe that a number somewhere in the mid twenties could be suitable.

In order to move forward Denmark is, furthermore, ready to look at interim solutions that would allow for the testing of various models, provided they contain a clear review-clause. One such option could be the introduction of a third category of seats.

Small states form the majority of the membership of the United Nations. It is important to ensure that any reform takes full account of the need to give small states an opportunity to participate in the work of the Security Council. In other words, we must guarantee that all countries, be they large or small, continue to have the opportunity to serve as members of the Council and give their contribution to stability and security. This is crucial for achieving our common goal of enhancing the credibility and legitimacy of this important body, and thereby also it efficiency.

Mr. Chairman,

Allow me to briefly reiterate the Danish position on another key issue which impinges on the reform of the Security Council.

Denmark believes that improving the working methods of the Council should be an integral part of a comprehensive reform. It is of utmost importance that the Council, when acting on behalf of all the UN members, takes all possible steps to ensure maximum transparency and interaction with members outside the Council. Transparency should make it easier for non-Members who have a real interest in or knowledge of a matter to make a contribution. Improving the working methods of the Council through better access, more transparency and openness will also have a positive effects on the relationship between the Security Council and the General Assembly. In this regard the annual report of the Security Council to the General Assembly should be made as substantial and analytical as possible. Also the Council could hold an interactive discussion on the annual report when it is considered by General Assembly. We consider reform of the working methods of the Security Council an ongoing process that should be kept under review.

Mr. Chairman,

Let me conclude by assuring you that Denmark remains committed to engaging actively in order to advance the reform of the Security Council. We look forward to tangible progress during this second round of negotiations under your able guidance. We will support you in your ambition to “go very far, very fast”.

Thank you.

Edited September 29, 2010