Denmark Assumes UN Security Council Presidency, Emphasizes Global Peace and Multilateralism

Danish Ambassador Marcus Lassen, the newly appointed President of the UN Security Council, has highlighted the critical need for constructive creativity, consistency, and a commitment to transparency and diverse voices in addressing international peace and security. This marks Denmark’s first presidency of the UN Security Council in over two decades.

Ambassador Lassen emphasized that the world is at a pivotal moment, particularly with ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as pressing issues in the Middle East, Afghanistan, Haiti, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Sudan. He acknowledged the new challenges and responsibilities Denmark faces in driving meaningful change during its tenure.

Lassen addressed Denmark’s and the European Union’s primary concerns regarding the war in Ukraine, condemning Russian President Vladimir Putin’s illegal invasion as an act of aggression. Denmark has reaffirmed its full support for Ukraine, especially amid recent tensions between U.S. President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

In a show of solidarity, Denmark recently participated in a high-profile summit in London alongside leaders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Turkey, Finland, Sweden, the Czech Republic, and Romania. The summit also included NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, as well as the Presidents of the European Commission and the Council of Europe.

Lassen stressed that attacking neighboring countries for recognition is futile and counterproductive. He underscored the importance of listening to diverse voices, maintaining transparency, and upholding a strong commitment to multilateralism. “As a founding member of the United Nations, Denmark has always been a staunch supporter of this organization. We firmly believe in international law and the Security Council’s role as the global forum for peace and security,” he stated.

Reflecting on recent global events, Lassen reiterated Denmark’s stance on Greenland, emphasizing that its future should be determined solely by the Greenlandic people. “Greenland belongs to the Greenlandic people, and their voices must guide its future,” he said.