At the UNSC open debate (Photo: VNA)

Ambassador Dang Dinh Quy, Vietnam's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, stressed the need to address the underlying root causes of conflicts, at an open debate on “Exclusion, inequality and conflict” of the UN Security Council (UNSC) on November 9.

He noted that inequalities and exclusion can drive or exacerbate the underlying root causes of conflicts.

“We all know that very few conflicts end simply with the signing of a peace agreement,” he said, pointing out that damaged infrastructure, lack of essential services and few development opportunities can jeopardize post-conflict recovery efforts.

It is thus essential to address the underlying root causes of conflict. The Council must continue to uphold the Charter and work with other UN entities in accordance with their respective mandates.

Ambassador Dang Dinh Quy, Vietnam's Permanent Representative to the United Nations (Photo: VNA)

Regional organisations play a complementary role in maintaining international peace and security, he added, citing the role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Meanwhile, the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development continues to be the utmost priority, and more innovative finance should be considered to support its implementation.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the COVID‑19 pandemic has amplified misery and inequalities, with 120 million more people being pushed into poverty, billions lacking social protection, health care and job protection to cope with the biggest recession the world has seen since the Second World War.

Pointing out vaccine gap between countries, which has hindered recovery efforts, he said there is a need to invest in the development of all people, equally, and prioritise women in peace building,

Trust must be built through national institutions that include and represent all people, anchored in human rights and the rule of law, he said, calling for institutions resilient to corruption and abuse of power, and policies and laws specifically protecting vulnerable groups.

In all societies, especially those experiencing conflict, persity of culture, religion and ethnicity should be viewed as a powerful benefit, rather than a threat, he said, adding “Without full inclusion and equality, peace is a job half done.”/.