Statement of Australia at the UNGA72

Quotes/References to disarmament:

Nuclear weapons: “(North Korea) illegal nuclear and missile programs violate multiple UNSC resolutions. The security of millions of people is at risk as a result of North Korea's refusal to abide by international laws and norms (...) The Security Council has responded with tough new economic sanctions. It is crucial that all UN member states and especially the Permanent 5, who have a particular responsibility, strictly implement these sanctions to compel North Korea to abandon its illegal programs.”

Chemical weapons: “ The use of chemical weapons presents another serious threat to the rules based order. (...) Australia supports the work of the UN - and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons - in identifying those who deployed these appalling illegal weapons.”  

Quotes/References to WPS:”

Peacekeeping:”The UN must focus on conflict prevention as that is more effective than dealing with the tragic consequences of conflict. UN management systems must be made more efficient and accountable.”

Participation: “There must be more women in senior positions.”

General WPS: “Empowering women and girls to reach their full potential lifts a country's productivity and underpins stability."

Protection: “The number of journalists and human rights defenders detained, abused or killed each year should be of grave concern to us all.”

Human Rights: “Similarly, we will promote strong, independent national rights institutions - to raise awareness of human rights, to address violations and to hold to account those responsible for abuses.”