Photo used for illustrative purpose.

The UAE stressed the importance of prevention and proactive action in addressing issues of exclusion, inequality and conflict, during the Security Council's open debate on exclusion, inequality and conflict, chaired by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

Ambassador Mohamed Abu Shehab, Deputy Permanent Representative of the State to the United Nations, said that addressing the root causes of conflict, especially those that exacerbate discrimination and widen inequality within societies, is one of the most effective means to maintain international peace and security.

He said that governments must ensure educational and economic opportunities for all, in an important step to reduce inequality gaps and address the long-standing drivers of conflict.

He stressed the importance of empowering women and youth leaders, and involving them in national strategies aimed at building resilience.

In a related context, Abu Shehab stressed the importance of constructive dialogue that includes a wide range of local actors, and work within strategies designed to suit local communities. He added that UN peacekeeping and special political missions should contribute to building local capacities to strengthen the rule of law and stability.

He pointed out that combating corruption is critical to maintaining the rule of law, referring to the recently signed UAE agreement with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime to establish a program to support the implementation of the 2019 Abu Dhabi Declaration.

At the conclusion of the statement, he stated that the UAE would work to enhance inclusiveness and build resilience during its membership in the Security Council 2022-2023, guided by the pillars of promoting inclusion and building resilience.