A brief roundup of United Nations-related political and peacebuilding events and developments globally.

"It is high time for peace in Ukraine," says USG DiCarlo, as Russian invasion hits three-year mark

On 24 February, Under-Secretary-General (USG) Rosemary DiCarlo told the Security Council that “for three long years, the people of Ukraine have endured relentless death, destruction and displacement." She noted that the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) had verified that, since 24 February 2022, at least 12,654 Ukrainian civilians had been killed and 29,392 had been injured. The war had created the largest displacement crisis in Europe since the Second World War, she said, noting that 10 million Ukrainians had been uprooted, including 3.6 million within Ukraine and 6.9 million abroad. In addition, the massive destruction of civilian infrastructure had impacted millions. "It is high time for peace in Ukraine," she said. "This peace must be just, sustainable and comprehensive, in line with the Charter of the United Nations, international law, and resolutions of the General Assembly."

"This may be our last chance to achieve the two-State solution," Kaag tells Council

On 25 February, Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process ad interim Sigrid Kaag told the Council that the region was undergoing rapid transformation and its people could "emerge with peace, security, and dignity," she said. "However, this may be our last chance to achieve the two-State solution." While welcoming the implementation of the initial ceasefire stage, including the release of 34 hostages, Kaag said that “none of us will forget the harrowing pictures of the coffins of the Bibas children taken hostage with their mother and killed while in captivity.” Condemning Hamas’ public parading of hostages, she also noted the release of 1,135 Palestinian prisoners and detainees, and reports of the ill treatment and humiliation they had experienced. In Gaza, far more remained to be done to address over 15 months of deprivation of basic human necessities. “Palestinians must be able to resume their lives, to rebuild and to construct their future in Gaza,” she stressed, adding that there could be no question of forced displacement. 

Permanent Mission of Canada hosts peacebuilding consultation

On 27 February, the Permanent Mission of Canada hosted a thematic consultation on peacebuilding impact as a contribution to the 2025 Peacebuilding Architecture Review. Assistant-Secretary-General for Peacebuilding Support Elizabeth Spehar and Permanent Representative of Colombia Leonor Zalabata Torres opened the discussion, which focused on current and emerging methodologies for measurement, supporting nationally and locally-owned peacebuilding and prevention strategies and consultation processes through evidence-based approaches, and actions to be taken to demonstrate the impact of the Peacebuilding Architecture. The discussion highlighted broad consensus from Member States around the importance of the Peacebuilding Impact Hub’s work and mission in leading such efforts. DPPA's Peacebuilding Support Office launched the Peacebuilding Impact Hub in December 2023 to help respond to the need for a more holistic, evidence-based approach to peacebuilding and to better capture the effects of prevention and peacebuilding efforts through greater availability of data and measurement.

SRSG Al Hassan calls for greater inclusion of Iraqi women in decision-making

On 22 February, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) Mohamed Al Hassan participated in an event organized by Dream Organization with the theme "Celebrating Iraqi Women" ahead of International Women’s Day. Al Hassan praised the history of Iraqi women, commending their role across generations as an inspiring example for other women. In his remarks, he asked "What prevents us from dreaming and seeing, in the near future, an Iraqi woman as President of the Republic, Prime Minister, or Speaker of Parliament?" He also reaffirmed the UN's support for Iraqi women and stressed the importance of preserving the achievements and gains made to date. 

UNAMI Hosts cultural carnival to celebrate Baghdad’s designation as Arab Capital of Tourism 2025

On 27 February, UNAMI hosted a cultural carnival to mark Baghdad's designation as Arab Capital of Tourism for 2025 by the Arab Tourism Organization. The event showcased traditional Iraqi music, dance, and fashion. Attendees included the Speaker of the Iraqi Council of Representatives Mahmoud al-Mashhadani, the Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities, Ahmed Fakak Al-Badrani, as well as several ministers, Iraqi officials, ambassadors, and representatives of diplomatic missions. Additionally, the Mayoralty of Baghdad organized a bazaar showcasing handicrafts and artisanal products.

SRSG Al Hassan participates in Baghdad International Dialogue Conference

On 22 February, SRSG Al Hassan attended the Baghdad International Dialogue Conference, which was held under the auspices of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani and attended by Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani. In his remarks, Al Hassan emphasized that despite regional changes, Iraq remains determined to move forward in consolidating security, stability, and state-building. He further stated that Iraq is in need of meaningful and constructive dialogue, one based on mutual respect, fostering unity rather than division, and focusing on the future and on building a strong and sustainable Iraq. 

Working towards the end of land conflict in Colombia

From 21-22 February, the UN Verification Mission in Colombia joined President Gustavo Petro at a conference in Chicoral, in the municipality of Espinal, Tolima, where about 4,000 farmers, Indigenous people, and Afro-descendants from across the country gathered. During the event, the "Pact for the Land and Life" was signed, establishing a ten-year agrarian reform plan aimed at ensuring equitable land transfer and sustainable rural development. Land issues have been a central element of the country's armed conflict for over 50 years.

SRSG Massieu participates in Summit of Colombian women leaders

On 26 February, Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Colombia Carlos Ruiz Massieu participated in the Summit of Colombian Women Leaders for Equality organized by UN Women Colombia. He highlighted the National Action Plan of Resolution 1325, calling it a key instrument to ensure women's participation in peace initiatives. "Women governors, mayors, deputies, materialize the desires and aspirations of women's participation in the construction of the country," he said.

Next Week

Denmark will commence its Presidency of the Security Council for March.