Maria Malmer Stenergard, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden, stating that, 80 years after nations came together in a “bold act of faith” in multilateralism, “the world and our organization, the United Nations, are facing the risk of failing.”  Also 80 years ago, the Swedish author Astrid Lindgren published her first book about the strongest girl in the world:  Pippi Longstocking, who believed everything was possible, whose spirit is captured by the phrase, “I have never tried that before, so I should definitely be able to do it”.  The Minister added:  “Let us use the coincidence of anniversaries as a reminder that even in the face of unprecedented challenges, we must approach the impossible with boldness and resolve.”

“We cannot be deterred by a few States’ disregard for our Charter,” she emphasized, underscoring the need for an efficient UN that defends the right of every State; a strong UN that helps Member States deliver on their commitments; a UN focused on securing peace, advancing human rights, driving sustainable development and providing humanitarian relief.  As a steadfast partner and major donor to the UN, her country is committed to addressing global development challenges and to humanitarian efforts and it strongly supports UN peacekeeping efforts.  On the question of the next UN Secretary-General, she said, “Let me be clear: Sweden’s choice is always merit based. But isn’t it strange that for 80 years, no woman has been elected — especially if the selection is based on merit?” 

She went on to underscore the need for accountability in a world of multiplying conflicts, calling for the international legal system’s independence and impartiality to be protected.  In this context, she described a picture of “little Angelina” celebrating her birthday next to a giant teddy bear.  “Angelina never got to celebrate her third birthday,” she said, stating that she and her mother died in an attack on Kyiv this August.  “The only one saved from the rubble was the giant teddy bear.”  The Russian Federation must be held accountable “to preserve the global order”.  Voicing concern over rising resistance against women’s rights, she highlighted her country’s tenure as President of the UN Women Executive Board this year, stressing:  “We must push back the pushback.”