More than 60 UN member states participated in this open debate. In his statement Minister Linkevičius stressed the dramatic consequences of the absence of the rule of law and focused on the important role that rule of law implementation can have in conflict prevention and breaking the cycle of violence.
"The events in the Central African Republic and Syria offer a shocking example of what happens when there is no rule of law. In CAR, a total collapse of law and order has led to unspeakable atrocities and fears of ethnic cleansing and genocide. In Syria, siege and starvation are being used as a weapon of war", - Minister Linkevičius noted in his statement.
Lithuania's Foreign Minister noted that lingering grievances and unresolved disputes, abuse of power and a deficit of democratic governance sooner or later erupt in violence and conflict.
"In the middle of Europe today, Ukraine is burning with protests. Clashes between government and protesters have led to injuries and deaths. We must use all means available to stop the bloodshed immediately and to hold its perpetrators to account. Restoring the rule of law is essential to beginning a genuine dialogue on constitutional reform and inclusive government and preventing further violence", - stressed Minister Linkevičius.
In his statement Lithuania's Foreign Minister stressed the importance of the holistic approach towards rule of law implementation. "The rule of law is a lot more than the mere sum of specific activities carried out by peacekeepers and special political missions on the ground: it is the underlying framework of rules and rights that make safe, secure, and fair societies possible", - said Minister Linkevičius.
While underlining the principle of national ownership, Minister Linkevičius noted that it alone can guarantee that the rule of law will continue to prevail after the departure of peacekeepers. He also highlighted the importance of accountability for crimes against humanity, genocide and war crimes as a key to progress on the path of reconciliation and peace. According to the Minister, it is the primary responsibility of national justice systems to investigate and prosecute such crimes.
Where national judicial systems fail, however, according to Lithuania's Foreign Minister, Security Council should use the full range of tools at its disposal, including sanctions and referrals to International Criminal Court, to end the impunity.
Minister Linkevičius expressed appreciation of the work carried out by UN peacekeepers and missions in providing support to national rule of law efforts and called on the Council to continue holding open debates on the rule of law on a regular basis.
Lithuania is a non-permanent UN Security Council member state for a two-year term in (2014-2015). In February Lithuania holds the presidency of the UN Security Council.
