The Special Committee on the Charter of the United Nations is set to examine and strengthen the UN Charter, as expressed in a recent statement. The committee will focus on the peaceful settlement of disputes and procedures outlined in the Charter and other international instruments.
A significant part of the agenda includes discussions on targeted sanctions implemented by the Security Council under the UN Charter. The aim is to enhance these measures' effectiveness through talks in an Informal Working Group. While acknowledging that sanctions outside UN auspices are not within this committee's focus, it was noted they could be legal means to achieve various objectives.
Concerns were raised about older proposals deemed duplicative or inconsistent with the roles of principal UN organs as per the Charter. It was suggested that topics such as a legal study of General Assembly powers, UN reform proposals, and advisory opinions from the International Court of Justice should be moved beyond.
The inclusion of bilateral concerns outside the committee's mandate was also addressed. Specifically, there was opposition to proposals concerning unilateral coercive measures and Article 51, suggesting these issues are better suited for other forums.
Delegations were urged to withdraw longstanding proposals lacking consensus. The statement emphasized focusing on practical and non-political proposals that do not duplicate efforts elsewhere in the United Nations. The need for efficiency improvements was highlighted, including potentially shortening sessions or moving to biennial meetings.
In conclusion, gratitude was extended to those contributing to the Special Committee's work.
"Thank you."