SOLIDARITY: THE WORLD‘S BEST LINE OF DEFENSE
Back in September, the world committed to a landmark political declaration on universal health coverage. Now, in the throes of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis, the president of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly has reiterated the importance of investing in health as “an investment in human capital, social and economic development and the empowerment of all people.”
Reflecting on the 193-member body’s work throughout the pandemic, Tijjani Muhammad-Bande reminded journalists that despite the extraordinary circumstances, the Assembly has worked hard to uphold its vital mandates, perform essential services and ensure continuity for the people it serves.
Against the backdrop of restrictions to physical in-person meetings, the Assembly has had to apply innovative working methods, such as a so-called ‘silence procedure,’ which provides Member States with at least 72 hours to raise objections on a draft resolution or decision, and allowing countries to outline their positions.
“Since March 27th, the General Assembly has adopted 26 resolutions and decisions under silence procedure,” said Muhammad-Bande.
Following consultations with Member States, the UN has developed a procedure during the health crisis to conduct voting and election processes, via secret ballot without the usual full plenary meeting.
Mohammad-Bande informed correspondents based at UN Headquarters in New York, that 17 June would be a bumper election day, for non-permanent members of the Security Council; new members who will sit on the Economic and Social Council; and for his successor, who will wield the gavel in the General Assembly.