The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has unanimously adopted a resolution proposing an informal working group on general issues relating to sanctions, as reported by our publication correspondent.
The drafted resolution, jointly proposed by Malta and the US, was passed through consensus, establishing a new informal UNSC working group focusing on addressing general aspects of its sanctions. This newly established body will comprise all Security Council members and is expected to convene at least twice a year in a closed format. If deemed necessary, other United Nations member states can be invited to participate, subject to the agreement of all Security Council members.
During discussions surrounding the development of the text, Russia exhibited a constructive approach, demonstrating their willingness to showcase a responsible attitude towards efforts aimed at reaching compromise solutions. As stated by Russian First Deputy Representative to the United Nations Dmitry Polyansky, “Our active participation and support contributed to the consensus decision on establishing a Security Council informal working group on general issues of sanctions.
While the resolution is not expected to resolve all the problems associated with the use of UNSC sanctions, Russia remains hopeful that it will mark a positive step in the right direction. The Russian diplomat expressed that they believe “this work will continue,” emphasizing that this additional Security Council body will not infringe upon the competences of the existing sanction committees, and its activities will be conducted on the basis of consensus.