Perspective from a small country in Europe

Who we are – As a nation that has experienced war, conflict, separation, oppression, mass migration, Albania’s long history finds resonance in the aims and objectives of the UN Charter. We understand the complexities of conflict as well as the importance of dialogue, confidence building, and fostering good relations with neighbors. We can share our own experience of resolving conflict, forge reconciliation and build peace.

Albania has a long-standing tradition of interreligious harmony and peaceful co-existence among Muslims, Catholics, Orthodox Christians, Jews and non-religious people. Albania’s example shows that religious co- existence is not only possible but also beneficial for a country’s development. We will bring in the Security Council our positive experience and use it as a good example against rising intolerance and violent extremism that undermine peace and security.

We have learnt through our own history that in order to build sustainable peace, the root causes of conflict need to be properly addressed. Peace building takes time and must be all-inclusive. All the voices of the communities must be heard. We believe that women and girls have a special role to play in building peace. These values underpin our commitment to partnership with the UN and its member states.

Our membership to the Security Council for the 2022- 2023 term is an opportunity to contribute as a reliable partner, capable to actively engage in addressing the threats to global peace and security.

Albania serving on this important UN body is an expression of its unwavering commitment to the multilateral system and institutions, with the UN at its core. Albania adheres to the purposes and principles set out in the United Nations Charter and is a party to all the major conventions and treaties of the United Nations. Albania strongly supports United Nations activities in the fields of the maintenance of international peace and security, international humanitarian law, arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation, sustainable economic development, climate change, good governance, security, the promotion and protection of human rights, including the protection of women’s rights and support for women’s empowerment.

Albania supports the reform of the United Nations and its main bodies, with an aim to strengthen the Organization’s ability to address the current emerging challenges, and threats to international peace, security and development.

Albania strongly believes that regional and local actors play a major role in finding sustainable solutions to issues. The involvement of a wide range of actors with direct interest in the matter, from local civil society groups to state actors and regional organizations in affected locations, could create the necessary long-term conditions for conflict prevention to peacebuilding, and sustainable development.