Explanation of Vote before the vote by the Republic of Lithuania at the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly Second Committee Agenda item 16 (a)
Explanation of Vote before the vote by the Republic of Lithuania at the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly Second Committee Agenda item 16 (a) "Unilateral economic measures as a means of political and economic coercion against developing countries" on Tuesday, 21 November 2023.
Mr. Chair,
This resolution has been problematic for Lithuania, however the text of this year’s resolution contains elements that made it impossible for Lithuania to accept. Important to note that the geopolitical situation has changed from 2021 when Lithuania abstained on this resolution, as more sanctions were imposed in particular on Russia because of its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine.
During the negotiation process, we were faced with a one-sided approach when the language favorable to the proponent of the resolution was accepted without consideration while the proposals of counter partners were rejected without making efforts to strive for compromise.
First of all, it should be stated that sanctions are an integral component within a broader and encompassing political strategy, which includes elements such as political dialogue and various instruments. They serve as a legitimate tool, aiming to respond to grave violations of the UN Charter, human rights and uphold the principles of international law. Furthermore, sanctions are a means of fostering international peace, security, and democracy, rather than being isolated as an end in themselves. EU sanctions in particular are targeted and measured, not aimed against any developing countries.
We cannot agree with the premise of this resolution that sanctions in themselves negatively affect development efforts. They do not exist in vacuum. Serious human rights violations and armed conflicts are more detrimental to the development efforts and achievement of the SDGs. Thus, several paras of this resolution are misleading.
We also regret that the suggested paragraph clearly making the distinction between legality and illegality of the restrictive measures has not been included in the final version of the text. Lastly, it is not the purview of this resolution to provide new mandates to Resident coordinators.
We regret that EU amendments to make this resolution more balanced were not accepted.
Lithuania believes that implementation of the Agenda 2030 and its Sustainable Development Goals is effective and successful if universal principles such as good governance, rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms and non-use of force are respected. Sanctions are aimed to protect these values, to maintain peace and international security.
Thank you.
