Along with Albania, Brazil, Gabon, and Ghana , the UAE joined the UN Security Council for 2022-2023, marking its second term on the Council since 1986-1987. The UAE’s bid for the seat was driven by its national and international efforts to foster inclusion, innovation, resilience, and peace. The UAE also committed to upholding the principles of human fraternity in advancing and maintaining peace. The UAE took over the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council for June 2023. During its presidency, the UAE organized several high-level meetings and events on issues such as climate and security, humanitarian access in Syria, women, peace and security, and the situation in Yemen. The UAE also guided the Council to adopt four resolutions and issue six statements during its presidency. These included extending the mandates of peacekeeping missions in Afghanistan and South Sudan, and the panel of experts supporting the sanctions committee on North Korea. The UAE has been a vocal supporter of regional and international cooperation, especially in the Middle East and Africa, to tackle the root causes of conflict and instability . The UAE has also backed the efforts of the UN Secretary-General to reform the UN system and improve its effectiveness and efficiency.
The UAE also emphasized women’s empowerment and gender equality in peacekeeping and conflict resolution. It also advocated greater involvement of women in peace negotiations and peace-building efforts. In addition, the UAE drafted with Japan resolutions on Afghanistan and issues related to the impoverished country. In April, the council unanimously adopted a resolution drafted by the two countries condemning the Taliban’s decision to ban Afghan women from working for the UN in the country.
The UAE has also been at the forefront of diplomatic efforts to stop the violence and increase humanitarian in Gaza. The UAE’s resolution received 13 votes in favor and two abstentions from Russia and the US.
The UAE’s two-year term in the UN Security Council, which draws to a close next week, was obviously another success to be added to the long list of this ambitious state achievements.