UN Security Council Demands Peaceful Transition of Power in Yemen

The United Nations Security Council condemned human rights violations in Yemen and demanded that all sides reject violence, commit to a peaceful transition of power based on proposals by the Gulf Cooperation Council, and allow the exercise of fundamental rights of peaceful assembly and expression. The resolution expressed profound regret at the hundreds of deaths, mainly of civilians, including women and children, and stressed that all those responsible for violence, human rights violations, and abuses should be held accountable.

Key Takeaways:

• The Security Council demanded that all sides immediately reject violence to achieve political goals and that the Yemeni authorities ensure their actions comply with international humanitarian and human rights law.
• The resolution reaffirmed the importance of an inclusive and Yemeni-led political process of transition that meets the legitimate demands and aspirations of the Yemeni people for change.
• The Security Council expressed serious concern at the worsening security situation, including armed conflict, and the deteriorating economic and humanitarian situation due to the lack of progress on a political settlement.
• The resolution welcomed the Secretary-General's efforts, including visits by the Special Adviser, and urged all States and regional organizations to contribute to implementing the resolution.
• The resolution condemned all terrorist and other attacks against civilians and against the authorities, and stressed that terrorism in all forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.
• The Security Council expressed concern over the presence of Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula and its determination to address this threat in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and international law.
• The resolution encouraged the international community to provide humanitarian assistance to Yemen and requested all parties in Yemen to facilitate the work of the United Nations agencies and other relevant organizations.

Statistics:

• Hundreds of deaths, mainly of civilians, including women and children, as a result of the conflict in Yemen.
• The Security Council resolution called for an end to attacks against civilians, including women and children, and the protection of their rights.
• $10 million allocated by the UN for humanitarian assistance to Yemen.
• The Security Council resolution requested the Secretary-General to report on implementation of this resolution within 30 days of its adoption and every 60 days thereafter.

Sources:

• United Nations Security Council Resolution 2014 (2011)
• United Nations Press Statement, 24 September 2011
• Gulf Cooperation Council, Ministerial Council Statement, 23 September 2011