Statement by H.E. Ambassador ISHIKANE Kimihiro, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the Annual Session of the Peacebuilding Commission on Financing for peacebuilding

2021/11/29
(As delivered)
Thank you, Mr. Chair,
 
I would like to start by clarifying few points that Japan considers important in discussing the concrete steps to address the issue of financing, including various options put forward by the Secretary-General in his report in 2018 and his “Our Common Agenda” report.
 
First, the aim of financing for peacebuilding is to help fragile and conflict-affected countries sustain peace and build resilient and prosperous nations. It is distinct from humanitarian assistance aiming to keep people alive.
 
Second, adequate, predictable and sustained resources is not an objective in itself. It is the means to achieve the goal of sustaining peace. Therefore, the discussions on how to secure the resources and how to use them should go hand in hand.
 
Third, the analysis and proposals in the SG reports refer to both overall financing for peacebuilding and financing of PBF. The two discussions should not be mingled.
 
Mr. Chair,
 
The PBF is but one of diverse sources of funding that fulfill the vast needs in the conflict-affected countries. Our discussion at the high-level meeting should address all existing and potential sources of financing for peacebuilding.
 
In this regard, let me emphasize the critical importance of building partnerships. We need to mobilize all available resources, be it domestic or international, or public or private. Corporate sector, CSOs, bilateral ODA, South-South cooperation, IFIs and UN pooled funds can all play their role.
 
There should not be a competition over the limited resources, but a confluence of various funding towards shared objectives. This can only be possible if all the relevant information is shared in a transparent manner. With its convening power, the PBC can play a greater role to build partnerships, catalyze synergies and strengthen coherence among all these actors.
 
On the discussions regarding the PBF, particularly on the question of allocating assessed contribution to the PBF, we need in-depth analysis and thorough discussion on the use of PBF’s resources and the concrete result achieved. While Japan is open to discussing options, we must keep in mind the comparative advantage of being a fast, flexible pooled fund – a trait that should not be compromised.
 
Mr. Chair,
 
No matter where the resources might come from, the first step to garner funds is to be clear on their effective use and the expected results. In Japan’s view, the priority areas are as follows.
 
First, prevention. It has been emphasized in countless resolutions and SG reports.
 
Second, institution building. Credible institutions supports good governance, the rule of law and private sector-led growth. They are the foundations for resource mobilization, both domestic and international.
 
Third, local actors, especially women. Adequate resources must be allocated to empower them and enhance their participation in peacebuilding.
 
I hope the PBC will demonstrate to the potential sources of funding that investing in these areas can deliver results and will pay off in the long run.
 
To conclude, Japan is committed to play an active role in formulating PBC’s inputs to the upcoming high-level meeting.
 
Thank you very much.