Statement by the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Sérgio França Danese, at the Security Council Open Debate on the Future of Peace Operations - September 9th, 2025

I thank the Republic of Korea for organizing this open debate, and the briefers for sharing their perspectives. Brazil welcomes the fact that peace operations have been widely discussed in the Council this year. Peacekeeping and special political missions are core UN tools for maintaining international peace and security, and they should constantly be valued, improved and adapted to new challenges.

Action 21 of the Pact for the Future and the ongoing comprehensive review of peace operations have given Member States another chance to consider this issue. We hope that the ongoing review translates into political will and action, particularly from this Council.

Mr. President,

We all agree that peace operations are facing a moment of crisis and must adapt to an increasingly complex and fragmented reality. However, it is essential that responses to these pressures do not overlook key elements of legitimacy, such as the central role of the UN and the necessity of multilaterally agreed mandates. Nor should they compromise the pillars of the international system, with the defense of human rights at its center. Weakening these foundations risks causing greater harm than benefit, both to the UN and to international peace and security.

At the same time, some core elements must remain at the heart of future peace missions:

Brazil firmly believes that the success of peace operations depends, first and foremost, on the primacy of politics. Military or technical measures cannot be an end in themselves; they must remain anchored in clear political strategies that foster dialogue and address root causes of conflict. Equally important is the provision of strengthened operational support. Peace operations must be adequately equipped and resourced to implement their mandates effectively and safely. Predictable, adequate and sustainable funding, efficient logistics and management, and modern capabilities are essential to ensure that missions can respond to evolving challenges on the ground.

Likewise, the full, equal, meaningful, and safe participation of women and youth, and the participation of local communities must remain at the core of peace operations. These are not optional add-ons - they are integral to building legitimacy, trust, and long-lasting peace.

Finally, peace operations should be fully connected to peacebuilding efforts. The concurrence of peacekeeping and peacebuilding requires continuity of support, stronger partnerships with host countries, and investment in national institutions. The Peacebuilding Commission can play a key role in this regard. Only by linking political engagement, security, and development can we ensure that countries and regions emerging from conflict do not relapse into violence.

Mr. President,

Brazil reaffirms its commitment to strengthening UN peace operations so that they remain a vital tool for international peace and security. We hope that the ongoing review exercise result in concrete gains to peace operations, leveraging these missions' goals.

Thank you.