Ambassadorial-level PBC meeting on Peacebuilding in Guatemala

Check Against Delivery

Chair, excellencies,

Let me first thank the briefers and His Excellency Bernardo Arévalo, President of Guatemala for coming to this Commission to share the peacebuilding priorities of Guatemala.

Denmark welcomes today’s opportunity to learn from Guatemala’s experience.

We commend the efforts towards a revitalization of democracy and consolidation of peace: From fostering inclusive decision-making processes to fighting impunity and overcoming divides in communities.

The dialogue initiatives and platforms to discuss sustainable development priorities between the government and representatives of Indigenous Peoples deserve to be highlighted. It is time to overcome the significant challenges that Indigenous Peoples have been facing far too long. And it is key to find a mutual understanding in order to work together towards a shared future that meets the aspirations and needs of the whole of society.

It is encouraging – including as a significant donor – to see how projects financed through the Peacebuilding Fund are contributing towards sustaining peace in Guatemala. Worth highlighting are projects that have supported transitional justice, women survivors of sexual violence, and civil society organizations, including those led by women and youth.

In conclusion, let me take the opportunity to thank Guatemala for the collaboration in the UN. Through effective multilateralism we can better deliver for the peoples and support efforts towards peaceful, just and inclusive societies.

I thank you.