The Situation in Mali - Security Council, 930…

Amid surging clashes between non-State armed groups, massive displacement and a “catastrophic” humanitarian situation, the United Nations continues to offer the best framework for the lasting stability of Mali and the larger Sahel region, the Organization’s senior official in that country told the Security Council today, as he detailed recent developments on the ground.

El-Ghassim Wane, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Mali and Head of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), presenting the Secretary-General’s latest report (document S/2023/236), told the 15-member Council that the situation remains volatile.  

“Listening to those displaced persons who were begging us literally for drinking water was a shocking experience,” he said, also noting the urgent need for food, medicine and shelter. 

He also called on signatory parties to the 2015 Agreement on Peace and Reconciliation in Mali to respond to the profound aspirations of the Malian people by rising above their own interests. 

As Council members took the floor, many paid tribute to the peacekeepers who have lost their lives in service of MINUSMA.  Delegates also called for enhanced cooperation with the Mission, as many voiced their concerns over the country’s political, humanitarian, security and human rights situations, and outlined their views.

The meeting began at 10:05 a.m. and ended at 11:59 a.m.