Statement by the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Ronaldo Costa Filho, on Ukraine January 17th, 2023
Mr President,
Freedom of religion is a fundamental human right, enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and in numerous multilateral instruments, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination based on Religion or Belief, adopted by the General Assembly in 1981. Religion is part of the development of the individual and of the cultural identity of peoples.
The Brazilian Constitution guarantees respect for freedom of worship for both nationals and foreigners, regardless of their origin. We are proud of our religious diversity and the respect and tolerance that mark relationships between our communities.
Religious differences must not be exploited to fuel inter-communal tensions. It is not clear, at this stage, that this is the case in Ukraine. Brazil expects that the Ukrainian state will act with moderation and discernment, refraining from attitudes that could characterize in any way religious persecution.
Mr President,
In March 2020, leaders of the three Abrahamic faiths gathered in Jerusalem to pray together for an end to the Covid-19 pandemic. This scene illustrates, in our view, the potential of religion to unite peoples, overcome differences and promote peace. We support the efforts of religious leaders to facilitate dialogue and encourage the parties to heed the pleas of the majority of members of this organization in favour of a diplomatic solution to the conflict.
Mr President,
At last Friday’s meeting, the distinguished representative of the United Arab Emirates recalled that, since February 2022, this Council has met more than 40 times to discuss the conflict in Ukraine. Nevertheless, as USG Rosemary DiCarlo noted in her briefing, there does not appear to be any willingness on either side for a ceasefire in the near future. That regrettable conclusion in itself should encourage reflection on our collective response to the crisis.
On many occasions, the United Nations General Assembly has expressed its firm condemnation of the violation of Ukraine’s territorial integrity. It is necessary to go further. This Council must live up to the responsibilities assigned to it by Article 33 of the UN Charter and explore, with both parties, ways to end the conflict without delay.
I thank you.