The United Arab Emirates laid emphasis on the paramount role that the health sector plays in maintaining world peace and security during an open debate of the United Nations Security Council focusing on the impact of Coronavirus pandemic on global security matters. In its statement to the UNSC, the UAE asserted that it has viewed health and security as part of a nexus that not only affect each another but also require close multilateral attention and cooperation. Noting the close relationship between health and security, the UAE's international response to the COVID-19 pandemic has supported various international organizations and countries across the world.

"This understanding has informed the UAE’s international response to COVID-19, including our endorsement of the Secretary-General’s call for a global ceasefire, contributions to the UN World Health Organisation and UN World Food Programme, and bilateral delivery of more than 1,000 metric tons of medical supplies to over 70 countries, including many on the Security Council’s agenda," the UAE said in its statement.

Besides international humanitarian efforts, UAE's understanding of the role of health in global security has also reflected in its domestic action.

"This understanding is also reflected in our domestic actions, where we have committed to transparent public data and free testing and treatment for citizens, residents, and visitors alike. We believe in the adage that no one is safe until everyone is safe," the statement added.

Echoing UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's call for an immediate ceasefire across the world in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, the UAE welcomed the adoption of Resolution 2532 (2020) by the UNSC which calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities in all situations on its agenda and a durable humanitarian pause. Significantly, the Emirates was one of the first nations to endorse the appeal for a global ceasefire, highlighting the need to tackle the impact of the COVID-19 disease.

"Resolution 2532 (2020) is expected to be a key precedent for future UN Security Council action on pandemics," it said.

The UAE further welcomed the steps taken to protect the peacekeeping staff from the disease, recommending quick and needs-based deployment of medical commodities for peacekeeping and other staff in the UN’s supply depots around the globe. At the same time, the Emirates highlighted the crucial role that peacekeeping missions could have played in response to health crises while reminding of the vital support provided by the peacekeeping missions in West Africa's humanitarian operations during the response to Ebola.

Furthermore, the UAE underlined the necessity of gender-mainstreaming in the Security Council, adding that incidents of sexual and gender-based violence have increased around the world during the COVID-19 pandemic. Noting the disproportionate impact of the disease on women in conflict-affected communities, the UAE further called for the Council to take issues related to women and SGBV in consideration of its response. In addition, the Council’s peacekeeping and political missions must have adequate resources and incentives for the safety and security of women.

In conclusion, the UAE called attention to the need for humanitarian access in crisis situations, in view of the border closures across several countries to curb the spread of the pandemic. The Emirates also urged the Security Council to encourage the flow of essential medical and humanitarian supplies to serve those most in need.

"The UAE plays a critical role in maintaining humanitarian logistics during crises, with Dubai International Humanitarian City having processed some 80 percent of personal protective equipment, PPE, in the World Health Organisation’s global response to COVID-19," it concluded.  

WAM