Statement by H.E. Sanita Pavļuta-Deslandes, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Latvia at the United Nations General Assembly Debate on Strengthening the role of mediation in the peaceful settlement of disputes, conflict prevention and resolution
New York, 1 June 2026
Madam President,
At the outset, I would like to thank the PGA for convening this timely debate upon request of the Group of Friends on Mediation led by Finland and Türkiye. This discussion comes at an important moment to reaffirm the role of mediation in the UN’s work.
Since its foundation in 1945, the UN has been a cornerstone of the international peace architecture. And the mediation is one of the most effective tools we have at our disposal to prevent escalation and build sustainable peace. At the time of growing geopolitical divisions, effective mediation is needed more than ever.
As a central pillar of mediation, I would like to underline the importance of the good offices of the Secretary‑General. They reflect the UN’s unique ability to bring parties of the conflict together and consolidate mediation tracks by individual member states or regional actors. The Secretary‑General can create political space, mobilize resource and act discreetly when open diplomacy reaches its limits. Accordingly, we call for stronger Member State support to empower the Secretary‑General to engage directly in crisis resolution, including through discreet, high‑level diplomacy to prevent, de‑escalate, or resolve conflicts. The UN’s comparative advantage lies in its impartiality and global mandate which must be protected and strengthened.
Latvia considers that the UN80 initiative offers a timely opportunity to modernize the peace architecture. It is a chance to reinforce multilateralism, optimize UN field presence and enhance preventive diplomacy capacities. Last year’s Peacebuilding Architecture Review and the forthcoming review of UN peace operations provide a roadmap for adapting our tools to today’s realities. Mediation efforts must evolve alongside these reforms. While genuine in-person engagement will always remain critical, technology can nurture mediation efforts. AI-assisted data analysis and online connectivity tools can make processes more inclusive, responsive and effective. At the same time, mediation efforts need to factor-in and address risks to peace related to disinformation, often fuelled through digital platforms.
Madam President,
The UN Security Council holds a unique toolbox. For instance, political missions, early‑warning mechanisms and unified messaging among others. Yet, these instruments are more efficient before crises have escalated. The resolution 2788 adopted by the UNSC reminds us that prevention must come first. Political will, not mandates, determines whether these tools are used in time to make a difference. I would also like to highlight the importance of women and youth participation in mediation in line with the UNSC resolution 1325 on WPS and the YPS agenda. It is well proven that inclusive processes are always more durable.
In closing, allow me to reiterate that mediation is not a sign of weakness. It is an expression of political courage. As we look beyond UN80 and the selection of the next Secretary‑General, we have a shared responsibility to give mediation the renewed momentum it deserves. Trust in the United Nations must be restored, as the place where disputes are resolved peacefully.
I thank you.