Protection of Civilians in UN Security Council Cites Cluster Bombs in Yemen, Little on Burundi

By Matthew Russell Lee

UNITED NATIONS, January 19 -- When “Protection of Civilians” was debated all day in the UN Security Council under its Uruguayan presidency for the month on January 19, one expected to hear not only about Syria but also Yemen and Burundi, and even abuses by UN Peacekeepers themselves.

   At the UNTV stakeout, Inner City Press managed to ask Uruguay's Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Jose Luiz Cancela about both Burundi and Yemen, and Deputy Secretary General Jan Eliasson about peacekeepers accused of rape, particularly in the Central African Republic. DSG video here.

Inner City Press also asked Cancela about Ladsous' position that he couldn't or wouldn't stop a genocide in Burundi. Video here.

   Cancela, previously his country's Permanent Representative at the UN, replied diplomatically that the consent of host countries is required -- one might say, then “Never Again” means little -- but then focused on the upcoming Council trip to Burundi.

  But what will the Security Council accomplish in Burundi? The Council's “penholder” on the country, France, is not even sending its Permanent Representative; scribe-like media was selected, excluding others like the Press, with no transparency.

  Meanwhile on Yemen, little is said amid the airstrikes; the UN's envoy is not accountable. The Netherlands' speaker called for accountability by the leadership of UN peacekeeping missions - but what about the head of the Department, Herve Ladsous, who publicly linked the rapes to “R&R”? Video here.

  In the Council chamber, João Vale de Almeida of the EU lamented that no compliance with International Humanitarian Law resolution was passed at the Red Cross and Red Crescent meeting in December.  Croatia to its credit mentioned cluster bombs not only in Syria but also Yemen.

  The session ended with some rights of reply: Azerbaijan and Armenia going one round on Nagorno Karabakh, Israel and Ukraine speaking, and then an abrupt end. 

In Somalia, After Merka Deaths Admitted by African Union, UK Tells ICP It Wants AU Civilian Casualty Response Cell

By Matthew Russell Lee

UNITED NATIONS, August 28 -- After the African Union acknowledged that Ugandan troops in AMISOM executed civilians at a wedding in Merka in late July, Inner City Press asked the UN and Ambassador Matthew Rycroft of the UK, what will the UN Security Council which authorized AMISOM, and UN Peacekeeping which supports it, do?

  On August 28, in response to Inner City Press' question to Ambassador Rycroft, the UK Mission to the UN told Inner City Press:

"You asked about a recent AMISOM incident. We are aware of reports of civilian deaths in recent AMISOM operations. This is a very serious allegation. The AU has apologised and is investigating, including through recalling the local AMISOM commander for questioning.

"The AU now needs to follow up and ensure accountability.

 "Incidents like this underline the need for AMISOM to improve protection of civilians in operations. The Security Council has repeatedly called for a civilian casualty response cell in AMISOM. The UK is taking forward discussions with the AU to get a cell established as soon as possible."

  The answer is appreciated; we'll say on this.

 Back on July 28 when the UN Security Council adopted a Somalia resolution days after allegations of reprisal killings by AMISOM in Marka, Inner City Press asked UK Ambassador Rycroft:

Inner City Press: On Somalia, there are a lot of Al Shabaab attacks, there have also been some recent allegations of a reprisal attack by AMISOM. And the UN said they asked the African Union. But given the increasing support in relation with the UN, what should be done to help the African Union forces don’t commit abuses while fighting Al Shabaab?

Amb Rycroft: "So the very clear message from this resolution is first of all that AMISOM does need to get stronger in its robust response to some attacks. But it does need to do so in a way that has absolute clarity about command and control. And we’re looking to see that improve through the mission statement in this resolution.

"And in terms of allegation of any inappropriate behaviour by any members of AMISOM, or the other UN peacekeeping operations, all of those allegations need to be followed up rapidly and robustly, and we are putting in place through this resolution and through the work that the African Union has done, measures that will allow the African Union to get a tighter grip on these sorts of allegations."

  But what does this "grip" mean? What implications does this have under the UN's supposed Human Rights Due Diligence Policy?

  Now  AU envoy and AMISOM head Sidokou has admitted the killings of civilians had taken place. “We have established that, on that occasion, seven civilians died following an incident involving our troops,” Sidokou said in a statement issued in Kenya.

  The UNSC resolution itself, while "welcoming the AU's investigation of allegations of sexual violence allegedly perpetrated by some AMISOM troops," expresses "its disappointment that the AU did not receive full cooperation from all AMISOM troop contributing countries in carrying out its investigation, and calling on the AU and troop contributing countries to ensure that allegations are properly investigated and appropriate follow-up action is taken."

 We'll see.

Back on May 8 when the UN's outgoing humanitarian coordinator for Somalia Philippe Lazzarini held a press conference, Inner City Press asked him about the impact of money transfer and remittance being cut off, about the future of the Dadaab refugee camp in Kenya -- and about Puntland and Somaliland, where people fleeing Yemen are landing.Video here.

  Lazzarini said that remittances have been cut from the UK, US, Australia and more recently Kenya; the latter country might reinstate some of the money transfer companies, he said. Returns to Somalia from Dadaab should be voluntary.  

  In response to Inner City Press' question about the involvement of some parts of the UN, and of the International Organization for Migration in screening refugees including for “counter-terrorism,” Lazzarini said that the government of Somalia is concerned about returnees who might have joined certain groups while in Yemen. Can you say, Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula? There is more transparency needed, however, particularly from IOM.

  Lazzarini has previously answered Inner City Press about Somaliland's airspace. On May 8 when Inner City Press asked about the UN's dealings with Somaliland and Puntland, he said it is a big topic, but concretely the deadly attack on UNICEF in Puntland means one can no longer say Puntland more safe than, say, Mogadishu. But what about Somaliland? We will have more on this.

  Lazzarini is headed next to Lebanon; we'll continue to cover his and the UN's work there, and wish him luck.

   

On South Sudan, Inner City Press Asks If UN in Yambio Protected Hotels Guests & Its Own Staff, But Not Residents

By Matthew Russell Lee

UNITED NATIONS, August 5 -- The UN speaks a lot about how it has opened its camps in South Sudan to protect civilians. But recently when Inner City Press asked about the UN refusing to allow civilians fleeing fighting from entering its Yambio camp, the UN first said it didn't know, then tried to explain the refusal away, see below. Now there are more questions.

 On August 5, Inner City Press asked UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric:

Inner City Press: on Yambio in South Sudan, in a follow-up question to yesterday, Farhan gave an answer that seemed to acknowledge that civilians were not allowed in the camp but saying things had calmed down now.  What I want to ask is I’ve since heard two things, one that hotels in Yambio were closed during this fighting which people are basically saying was a retaliatory attack by Government forces on civilians and that the UN did take in hotel residents into the camp.  And I’m also told that national staff didn’t go home and stayed within the camp.  So I wanted to know, maybe you will need to ask them, but how is this consistent, if it’s safe enough for civilians not to be let in the camp, why did the UN keep its national staff inside the camp and allow in generally more affluent people from visiting Yambio into the camp but not those who live there?

Spokesman:  I don’t know, Matthew.  We can check with the mission.

  Eight hours later, there was no answer yet. But it should be answered.

 On August 3, Inner City Press asked UN spokesman Dujarric, video here:

Inner City Press: there are these reports of UNMISS in South Sudan, the Yambio base, turning away civilians seeking protection inside the base from fighting between the Government and rebels, and it seems to be true, because UNMISS is quoted as saying that, pursuant to their mandate, they informed the Government that it’s their… it’s their duty to protect people.

Spokesman Dujarric:  I… I… I’m happy… I’m happy to check.  What I do know is that the UN mission in South Sudan is currently protecting more than 100,000 civilians, but I will check on this particular case.

Inner City Press:  Yeah.  And if you can... explain why they turn them away.

Spokesman Dujarric:  Have a wonderful time.  We’ll see you at 1.

On August 4, Dujarric's deputy Farhan Haq returned with this:

"We were asked yesterday about the situation in Yambio, South Sudan. The UN Mission there (UNMISS) says that the security situation has improved and that the majority of the civilians have returned home. As you know, opening UNMISS compounds to civilians is and will remain a last resort measure.

"Right now, the Mission is protecting civilians by various means to create security conditions for a safer environment.  These include engaging with local authorities and conducting patrols.  UNMISS has increased patrols in an attempt to restore a sense of safety and security in Yambio by patrolling day and night and providing a reassuring presence."

  Apparently this circumlocution is how the UN acknowledges that it did not allow civilians fleeing fighting from entering its camp.

   This comes as the UN has proved unable or unwilling to provide any accountability for, much less protect, an aid worker in its Bentiu camp was was allegedly raped by an employee of UNICEF contractor Life for Construction, click here for that. 

Back on July 1, UN Secretary General issued a statement condemning an attack on the UN's Protection of Civilians site in Malakal, specifically asking for an investigation from Riek Machar and Johnson Olony.

  But on July 8, after UN Peacekeeping chief Herve Ladsous briefed the Security Council behind closed doors about South Sudan, and Inner City Press asked him about Malakal when he came out of the Council, Ladsous refused to answer. Periscope video here for now. (He also refused to answer if the Central African Republic sexual abuse investigation panel has spoken with him yet.)

 So when the Security Council's president for July Gerard van Bohemen of New Zealand came to the stakeout, Inner City Press asked him if Malakal and how the UN can better protect civilians was discussed. He answered that this was not discussed in the consultation; neither was Riek Machar's public comments that fighting will continue as long as Salva Kiir, whose term expires on July 8, remains in power. Periscope video here, for now.

Inner City Press Q: On South Sudan, as to UNMIS, was there a discussion of the incident in Malakal where an IDP was killed? And, Riek Machar has said he’ll keep fighting as long as Salva Kiir stays in power, and that Salva Kiir's term expires today, July 8. Did this come up?

A: Neither of those specific situations have been discussed today.

  How could neither of this -- the Machar comments and especially the killing at Malakal and how the UN could do better -- have been raised by or to Ladsous? We'll be seeking more on this - and on the CAR sexual abuse panel. Watch this site.

 Of the UNSC sancctions, one of those now sanctioned, without a listed passport, is Peter Gadet, regarding whom Inner City Press has previously asked the US State Department, here. The individual WITH the passport is Marial Chanuong Yol Mangok, Passport no.: R00005943, South Sudan. Here's the full list, from US Ambassador Samantha Power's July 1 statement:

"Today, the Security Council took strong action in support of a peaceful end to the conflict in South Sudan by sanctioning six South Sudanese individuals for fueling the ongoing conflict and contributing to the devastating humanitarian crisis in their country.

Major-General Marial Chanuong Yol Mangok; Lieutenant-General Gabriel Jok Riak;  Major-General Santino Deng Wol; Major-General Simon Gatwech Dual; Major-General James Koang Chuol; and Major-General Peter Gadet will now be subject to a global travel ban and asset freeze for their contributions to a conflict that has  left more than 6.5 million people in need of humanitarian assistance and forced more than 2 million from their homes."

  Back on May 20, six days after the UN's envoy to South Sudan Ellen Loj spoke to the Security Council and to the Press at the Council stakeout on May 14, on the evening of May 20 the US State Department issued a statement about violence in South Sudan:

"The United States condemns the intensified fighting and violence in Unity, Upper Nile, and Jonglei states in South Sudan by the Sudan People’s Liberation Army, the armed opposition, and forces led by General Johnson Olony that have led to massive new developments and had a devastating effect on civilians.  We call on all armed groups to immediately halt offensive actions taken in contravention of the January 2014 Cessation of Hostilities Agreement.

Violations of international humanitarian norms, including the outright targeting of civilians already vulnerable to greater harm, especially women and children, and grave human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law by all sides are unacceptable.  The international community will hold those who perpetrate such abuses and violations to account.  We call on all sides to silence the guns immediately, permit the UN Mission in South Sudan to investigate the sites of all alleged human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law, and allow all humanitarian workers immediate, free and unobstructed access to conflicted-affected communities regardless of their locations.

The human, social, and economic costs of this war have been devastating and the long-suffering people of South Sudan will also bear the brunt of the potential long-term consequences of this escalating fighting.  Any damage to South Sudan’s oil infrastructure is an additional life-long wound to the people and jeopardizes South Sudan’s development and rebuilding.  These resources belong to all South Sudanese people and the needs of the nation should be prioritized over the violent intentions of a few.

We will continue to work for a better future for all South Sudanese citizens and condemn those that intentionally jeopardize their collective future."
    Inner City Press on May 15 asked Loj about the UN Mission in South Sudan base in Bentiu, and more generally about proposals to lift UN immunity, called Code Blue, in the wake of the alleged rape of children in Central African Republic by French "peacekeepers" in the Sangaris force, allegedly covered up by French UN Peacekeeping chief Herve Ladsous.   (While the Security Council, on which France has one of five permanent veto-wielding seats, has taken no action on this issue, the General Assembly's Fifth (Budget) Committee has summoned Ban Ki-moon's chief of staff to a close door meeting, as Inner City Press first reported.)

  The Council's statement mentions for example the UNMISS camp at Bentiu, but none of the issues raised to and by Loj at her May 14 stakeout and May 15 press conference. Video here.

  Loj acknowledged that the new Bentiu camp she had referred to the day prior was not yet ready, and that SPLA intelligence are sometimes in front of the existing camp. She again noted camp residents, not only in Bentiu but also in Juba, cutting the wires of the fence. Afterward, her and one of Ladsous' spokespeople said that journalists are free to visit the Bentui camp (although Inner City Press and the Free UN Coalition for Access have heard differently; we hope to have more on this.)

  Here is the Security Council's May 17 press statement:

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Raimonda Murmokaité (Lithuania):

On 14 May, the members of the Security Council were briefed by Special Representative of the Secretary-General Ellen Margrethe Løj on the situation in South Sudan.

The members of the Security Council expressed condemnation at the renewed and ongoing large-scale violence in Unity State caused by the recent Government of South Sudan offensive and resulting in the displacement of more than 100,000 civilians and the suspension of nearly all activity and delivery of aid to populations in the affected areas, over 300,000 civilians, by humanitarian agencies and organizations.  The members of the Security Council further expressed their condemnation of the large-scale attack initiated on 15 May by the SPLM/A (in Opposition) on the town of Malakal, in Upper Nile State. 

The members of the Security Council underlined their grave concern that as a result of violence and increased insecurity since the beginning of the conflict, more than 50,000 internally displaced persons have sought shelter and assistance at the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) camp in Bentiu, and an additional nearly 25,000 at the UNMISS camp in Malakal, only further magnifying a dire humanitarian crisis.

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the repeated violations of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement accepted and signed by the Republic of South Sudan and the SPLM/A (in Opposition) on 23 January 2014, and underscored that there is no military solution to this conflict that has now lasted more than 17 months.  

The members of the Security Council called upon all parties to engage meaningfully in the peace process so as to bring about a political solution to the crisis and an end to the conflict.  They acknowledged the IGAD-led peace process and urged renewed regional and international efforts to swiftly implement a common plan and to table a reasonable and comprehensive solution to end the crisis in South Sudan.  In this context, they reiterated their willingness to impose sanctions against those who threaten the peace, security, or stability of South Sudan as established in resolution 2206 (2015), and noted the 24 March 2015 African Union Peace and Security Council Communiqué on South Sudan and the 12 May 2015 African Union Commission Chairperson’s Statement on South Sudan in this regard.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their full support for UNMISS peacekeepers and for the vital mandate they are performing under very difficult conditions, including to protect civilians in South Sudan.  They demanded that all parties end intimidation and harassment against UNMISS and humanitarian personnel, cease ongoing restrictions on freedom of movement, and allow UNMISS to fully implement its mandate.  They further demanded full adherence to the Status of Forces Agreement and permission for the deployment of essential assets and enablers currently being blocked by the Government of South Sudan.  The members of the Security Council underscored the importance of close cooperation and communication between UNMISS and the Government in addressing these issues.

The members of the Security Council condemned, and reiterated their demand for an immediate end to, all human rights violations and abuses and violations of international humanitarian law.  They reiterated that those responsible for violations of international humanitarian law and violations and abuses of human rights must be held accountable and that the Government of South Sudan bears the primary responsibility to protect civilians within its territory and subject to its jurisdiction, including from potential crimes against humanity and war crimes.

The Security Council renewed its calls for the parties to the conflict to allow and facilitate the full, safe and unhindered access of humanitarian personnel, equipment and supplies to all those in need and timely delivery of humanitarian assistance in accordance with relevant provisions of international law and United Nations guiding principles of humanitarian assistance.

 Loj said that as a former diplomat she did not favor any blanket lifting of immunity. She said she has taken sexual abuse seriously, then said she is strict about curfew. One was left wondering how the UN will reform itself, if it ever will.  Let's see how you write this up, Loj genially said. Well here it is.

May 14 Video here.

 Loosely transcribed by Inner City Press (video here), Loj replied on May 14

"Let me say what UNMIS has undertaken in collaboration with IOM [the International Organization for Migration]. Primarily the project is primarily financed by the Dutch government. It’s actually a new site for the camp, on higher ground and with better drainage, because the Bentiu camp was totally flooded during the last rainy season. That work is being undertaken as of this week. We are hoping to get it finished…

As far as the fence, the problem with the fence is not that UNMIS is not putting up the fence. It’s that even if the fence were there, the problem with the fence is that the IDPs themselves cross the fence  in order to sneak out...

Yes, we have had troubles with the SPLA,  right outside the gates, and we have tried to solve it...We are doing our utmost to ensure that nobody enters the camp with weapons. We are doing regular searches in all camps … for alcohol and illegal substances…"

  She then said that UNMISS installed lights, but people break them. There was more to ask, including from great reporters on the bround. Inner City Press asked for another question but was told no, to ask on May 15. Watch this site.

After the May 14 stakeout, Loj told a story about UN staff in Liberia telling her all about Inner City Press, which after time she associated with her time on the UN Security Council. She has seen the UN from that position and now two countries.

   

On South Sudan, Inner City Press Asks of Non-Protection by UN in Yambio, Answered Next Day

By Matthew Russell Lee

UNITED NATIONS, August 4 -- The UN speaks a lot about how it has opened its camps in South Sudan to protect civilians. But recently when Inner City Press asked about the UN refusing to allow civilians fleeing fighting from entering its Yambio camp, the UN first said it didn't know, then tried to explain the refusal away.

 On August 3, Inner City Press asked UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric,video here:

Inner City Press: there are these reports of UNMISS in South Sudan, the Yambio base, turning away civilians seeking protection inside the base from fighting between the Government and rebels, and it seems to be true, because UNMISS is quoted as saying that, pursuant to their mandate, they informed the Government that it’s their… it’s their duty to protect people.

Spokesman Dujarric:  I… I… I’m happy… I’m happy to check.  What I do know is that the UN mission in South Sudan is currently protecting more than 100,000 civilians, but I will check on this particular case.

Inner City Press:  Yeah.  And if you can... explain why they turn them away.

Spokesman Dujarric:  Have a wonderful time.  We’ll see you at 1.

On August 4, Dujarric's deputy Farhan Haq returned with this:

"We were asked yesterday about the situation in Yambio, South Sudan. The UN Mission there (UNMISS) says that the security situation has improved and that the majority of the civilians have returned home. As you know, opening UNMISS compounds to civilians is and will remain a last resort measure.

"Right now, the Mission is protecting civilians by various means to create security conditions for a safer environment.  These include engaging with local authorities and conducting patrols.  UNMISS has increased patrols in an attempt to restore a sense of safety and security in Yambio by patrolling day and night and providing a reassuring presence."

  Apparently this circumlocution is how the UN acknowledges that it did not allow civilians fleeing fighting from entering its camp.

   This comes as the UN has proved unable or unwilling to provide any accountability for, much less protect, an aid worker in its Bentiu camp was was allegedly raped by an employee of UNICEF contractor Life for Construction, click here for that. 

Back on July 1, UN Secretary General issued a statement condemning an attack on the UN's Protection of Civilians site in Malakal, specifically asking for an investigation from Riek Machar and Johnson Olony.

  But on July 8, after UN Peacekeeping chief Herve Ladsous briefed the Security Council behind closed doors about South Sudan, and Inner City Press asked him about Malakal when he came out of the Council, Ladsous refused to answer. Periscope video here for now. (He also refused to answer if the Central African Republic sexual abuse investigation panel has spoken with him yet.)

 So when the Security Council's president for July Gerard van Bohemen of New Zealand came to the stakeout, Inner City Press asked him if Malakal and how the UN can better protect civilians was discussed. He answered that this was not discussed in the consultation; neither was Riek Machar's public comments that fighting will continue as long as Salva Kiir, whose term expires on July 8, remains in power. Periscope video here, for now.

Inner City Press Q: On South Sudan, as to UNMIS, was there a discussion of the incident in Malakal where an IDP was killed? And, Riek Machar has said he’ll keep fighting as long as Salva Kiir stays in power, and that Salva Kiir's term expires today, July 8. Did this come up?

A: Neither of those specific situations have been discussed today.

  How could neither of this -- the Machar comments and especially the killing at Malakal and how the UN could do better -- have been raised by or to Ladsous? We'll be seeking more on this - and on the CAR sexual abuse panel. Watch this site.

 Of the UNSC sancctions, one of those now sanctioned, without a listed passport, is Peter Gadet, regarding whom Inner City Press has previously asked the US State Department, here. The individual WITH the passport is Marial Chanuong Yol Mangok, Passport no.: R00005943, South Sudan. Here's the full list, from US Ambassador Samantha Power's July 1 statement:

"Today, the Security Council took strong action in support of a peaceful end to the conflict in South Sudan by sanctioning six South Sudanese individuals for fueling the ongoing conflict and contributing to the devastating humanitarian crisis in their country.

Major-General Marial Chanuong Yol Mangok; Lieutenant-General Gabriel Jok Riak;  Major-General Santino Deng Wol; Major-General Simon Gatwech Dual; Major-General James Koang Chuol; and Major-General Peter Gadet will now be subject to a global travel ban and asset freeze for their contributions to a conflict that has  left more than 6.5 million people in need of humanitarian assistance and forced more than 2 million from their homes."

  Back on May 20, six days after the UN's envoy to South Sudan Ellen Loj spoke to the Security Council and to the Press at the Council stakeout on May 14, on the evening of May 20 the US State Department issued a statement about violence in South Sudan:

"The United States condemns the intensified fighting and violence in Unity, Upper Nile, and Jonglei states in South Sudan by the Sudan People’s Liberation Army, the armed opposition, and forces led by General Johnson Olony that have led to massive new developments and had a devastating effect on civilians.  We call on all armed groups to immediately halt offensive actions taken in contravention of the January 2014 Cessation of Hostilities Agreement.

Violations of international humanitarian norms, including the outright targeting of civilians already vulnerable to greater harm, especially women and children, and grave human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law by all sides are unacceptable.  The international community will hold those who perpetrate such abuses and violations to account.  We call on all sides to silence the guns immediately, permit the UN Mission in South Sudan to investigate the sites of all alleged human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law, and allow all humanitarian workers immediate, free and unobstructed access to conflicted-affected communities regardless of their locations.

The human, social, and economic costs of this war have been devastating and the long-suffering people of South Sudan will also bear the brunt of the potential long-term consequences of this escalating fighting.  Any damage to South Sudan’s oil infrastructure is an additional life-long wound to the people and jeopardizes South Sudan’s development and rebuilding.  These resources belong to all South Sudanese people and the needs of the nation should be prioritized over the violent intentions of a few.

We will continue to work for a better future for all South Sudanese citizens and condemn those that intentionally jeopardize their collective future."
    Inner City Press on May 15 asked Loj about the UN Mission in South Sudan base in Bentiu, and more generally about proposals to lift UN immunity, called Code Blue, in the wake of the alleged rape of children in Central African Republic by French "peacekeepers" in the Sangaris force, allegedly covered up by French UN Peacekeeping chief Herve Ladsous.   (While the Security Council, on which France has one of five permanent veto-wielding seats, has taken no action on this issue, the General Assembly's Fifth (Budget) Committee has summoned Ban Ki-moon's chief of staff to a close door meeting, as Inner City Press first reported.)

  The Council's statement mentions for example the UNMISS camp at Bentiu, but none of the issues raised to and by Loj at her May 14 stakeout and May 15 press conference. Video here.

  Loj acknowledged that the new Bentiu camp she had referred to the day prior was not yet ready, and that SPLA intelligence are sometimes in front of the existing camp. She again noted camp residents, not only in Bentiu but also in Juba, cutting the wires of the fence. Afterward, her and one of Ladsous' spokespeople said that journalists are free to visit the Bentui camp (although Inner City Press and the Free UN Coalition for Access have heard differently; we hope to have more on this.)

  Here is the Security Council's May 17 press statement:

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Raimonda Murmokaité (Lithuania):

On 14 May, the members of the Security Council were briefed by Special Representative of the Secretary-General Ellen Margrethe Løj on the situation in South Sudan.

The members of the Security Council expressed condemnation at the renewed and ongoing large-scale violence in Unity State caused by the recent Government of South Sudan offensive and resulting in the displacement of more than 100,000 civilians and the suspension of nearly all activity and delivery of aid to populations in the affected areas, over 300,000 civilians, by humanitarian agencies and organizations.  The members of the Security Council further expressed their condemnation of the large-scale attack initiated on 15 May by the SPLM/A (in Opposition) on the town of Malakal, in Upper Nile State. 

The members of the Security Council underlined their grave concern that as a result of violence and increased insecurity since the beginning of the conflict, more than 50,000 internally displaced persons have sought shelter and assistance at the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) camp in Bentiu, and an additional nearly 25,000 at the UNMISS camp in Malakal, only further magnifying a dire humanitarian crisis.

The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms the repeated violations of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement accepted and signed by the Republic of South Sudan and the SPLM/A (in Opposition) on 23 January 2014, and underscored that there is no military solution to this conflict that has now lasted more than 17 months.  

The members of the Security Council called upon all parties to engage meaningfully in the peace process so as to bring about a political solution to the crisis and an end to the conflict.  They acknowledged the IGAD-led peace process and urged renewed regional and international efforts to swiftly implement a common plan and to table a reasonable and comprehensive solution to end the crisis in South Sudan.  In this context, they reiterated their willingness to impose sanctions against those who threaten the peace, security, or stability of South Sudan as established in resolution 2206 (2015), and noted the 24 March 2015 African Union Peace and Security Council Communiqué on South Sudan and the 12 May 2015 African Union Commission Chairperson’s Statement on South Sudan in this regard.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their full support for UNMISS peacekeepers and for the vital mandate they are performing under very difficult conditions, including to protect civilians in South Sudan.  They demanded that all parties end intimidation and harassment against UNMISS and humanitarian personnel, cease ongoing restrictions on freedom of movement, and allow UNMISS to fully implement its mandate.  They further demanded full adherence to the Status of Forces Agreement and permission for the deployment of essential assets and enablers currently being blocked by the Government of South Sudan.  The members of the Security Council underscored the importance of close cooperation and communication between UNMISS and the Government in addressing these issues.

The members of the Security Council condemned, and reiterated their demand for an immediate end to, all human rights violations and abuses and violations of international humanitarian law.  They reiterated that those responsible for violations of international humanitarian law and violations and abuses of human rights must be held accountable and that the Government of South Sudan bears the primary responsibility to protect civilians within its territory and subject to its jurisdiction, including from potential crimes against humanity and war crimes.

The Security Council renewed its calls for the parties to the conflict to allow and facilitate the full, safe and unhindered access of humanitarian personnel, equipment and supplies to all those in need and timely delivery of humanitarian assistance in accordance with relevant provisions of international law and United Nations guiding principles of humanitarian assistance.

 Loj said that as a former diplomat she did not favor any blanket lifting of immunity. She said she has taken sexual abuse seriously, then said she is strict about curfew. One was left wondering how the UN will reform itself, if it ever will.  Let's see how you write this up, Loj genially said. Well here it is.

May 14 Video here.

 Loosely transcribed by Inner City Press (video here), Loj replied on May 14

"Let me say what UNMIS has undertaken in collaboration with IOM [the International Organization for Migration]. Primarily the project is primarily financed by the Dutch government. It’s actually a new site for the camp, on higher ground and with better drainage, because the Bentiu camp was totally flooded during the last rainy season. That work is being undertaken as of this week. We are hoping to get it finished…

As far as the fence, the problem with the fence is not that UNMIS is not putting up the fence. It’s that even if the fence were there, the problem with the fence is that the IDPs themselves cross the fence  in order to sneak out...

Yes, we have had troubles with the SPLA,  right outside the gates, and we have tried to solve it...We are doing our utmost to ensure that nobody enters the camp with weapons. We are doing regular searches in all camps … for alcohol and illegal substances…"

  She then said that UNMISS installed lights, but people break them. There was more to ask, including from great reporters on the bround. Inner City Press asked for another question but was told no, to ask on May 15. Watch this site.

After the May 14 stakeout, Loj told a story about UN staff in Liberia telling her all about Inner City Press, which after time she associated with her time on the UN Security Council. She has seen the UN from that position and now two countries.

   

Exclusive: UN's Ladsous Now in DRC, But Refused to Visit Rwanda, His FDLR History

By Matthew Russell Lee, Exclusive

UNITED NATIONS, April 22 -- Today's announcement by the UN mission in the DR Congo that UN Peacekeeping chief Herve Ladsous is in the DRC for five days inevitably brings up history, twenty one years ago and this year.

  In 1994 Ladsous argued for the escape of Hutu genocidaires into eastern Congo; this year he blocked UN participation in military operations against their successors the FDLR. Ladsous refused to waive a stated rule which WAS waived to fight the LRA.

  Now Inner City Press can exclusively report that Ladsous has refused to attend a high level "Protection of Civilians" event in Rwanda in May.  His reason, made known to diplomats? Rwanda has, Ladsous hautily believes, been rude to him. 

  This is how the UN allows Ladsous to operate - he can refuse to answer questions from media which asks about this history; now he can refuse invitations from and talk badly about a member state like Rwanda.

  Here's what his MONUSCO says about Ladsous' visit to the DRC:

"Le Secrétaire général adjoint des Nations Unies chargé des Operations de maintien de la paix,Hervé Ladsous, est arrivé à Kinshasa le 21 avril 2015. Au cours de sa visite de cinq jours, monsieur Ladsous se rendra à Goma et à Bukavu. A Kinshasa, il rencontrera les membres du gouvernement congolais et le Président de la République."

  We'll haver more on this.

  Twenty one years after the beginning of the genocide in Rwanda, UN Peacekeeping remains under the thumb of Herve Ladsous, who in 1994 acting as France's Ambassador in the UN Security Council argued for the escape of the Hutu genocidaires into Eastern Congo. See Ladsous' memo here, put online by Inner City Press. On April 7, the French Presidency said it would declassify some documents. But will those like Ladsous', and more, be released? Why?

  Notably, Ladsous has banned UN support to a military offensive to “neutralize” the heirs of the genocide, the Hutu FDLR militia. Ladsous refuses Press questions on this -- so on April 7 Inner City Press asked UN Spokesman Stephane Dujarric, transcribe here, video here:

Inner City Press: A follow-up on this question of the twenty-first anniversary of the Rwanda genocide.  I saw the statement by the Special Envoy in the Great Lakes, Said Djinnit, basically saying the FDLR [Forces Democratiques de Liberation du Rwanda] should be defeated.  What can you say about the seeming contradiction, despite these various statements of how important it is to eliminate the FDLR, the decision relatively at the last minute by MONUSCO [United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo] or the Force Intervention Brigade and DPKO [Ladsous' Department of Peacekeeping Operations] not to participate against the FDLR?  And does it make it less likely they, in fact, will be defeated and will continue?

Spokesman Dujarric:  I think MONUSCO and our peacekeeping colleagues have very good reasons not to participate in that… in that.  This is an issue that the Congolese Government also needs to deal with.  And I think we had good reasons not to participate.

Inner City Press:  The reason I'm asking about the contradictions is it seems this same human rights due diligence policy was explicitly waived in the case of pursuing the Lord's Resistance Army and was, at least in some people's mind, seemingly waived or delayed in the case of the Minova rapes.  So it seems for this to be the one invocation of it as regards to the group that's basically the successor to the genocidaires.

Spokesman:  I think you and I can agree to have different views on this

  This too: Ladous has twice had his spokesmen physically remove the UNTV microphone from Inner City Press, which asked. 

 On April 6 it was claimed that Ladsous' spokesman was pointing to another journalist as Ladsous refused to answer Inner City Press' questions - but he grabbed the microphone, as happened before, here.

  Among documents put online on April 6, 2015 was the Mucyo Commission report, which says of the Security Council advocacy involving Ladsous that in the Security Council, the French Ambassador “did a lot of lobbying with the the Member States of the Council to avoid the Security Council's use of the expression 'genocide.'” Page 179,here.

  But the documents released jump from June 1994 to 1998, thus missingthis Ladsous memo. Pre-selected coverage, focused on US Bill Clinton, John Shattuck, Prudence Bushnell and Joyce Leader and UK David Hannay, omits this link to current events at the UN as well. We'll have more on this.

 When today's UN Peacekeepers are determined, by the UN itself, to have shot at civilians by using inappropriate force, what accountability is there? None, with Herve Ladsous atop UN Peacekeeping. But even the supposed reporting in the incidents is inconsistent.

  On Mali, after Ladsous' MINUSMA reached side deals with the MNLA rebels about Tabankort, there was a protest in Gao.

  UN Police ultimately under Ladsous' command shot and killed three civilians. In this case, because the Malian government wanted an investigation of the killing of protesters which supported its positition, the UN did an investigation and at least released a summary. (Ladsous refused to answer Inner City Press' questions including about the roots of the protest, his mission's deal with the MNLA in Tabankort.)

   But in Haiti, where Ladsous' peacekeeping mission was filmed shooting at protesters who oppose Michel Martelly, the report has not even been summarized. MINUSTAH chief Sandra Honore told Inner City Press the report is finished and "with DPKO" - that is Ladsous. But no summary is being released. Ladsous refused Inner City Press' question about this, and scribes ignored that these are two incidents of shooting unarmed civilians, in two countries, under Ladsous. Who is responsible?

   Vine here. These questions took place at the UN Security Council stakeout, but Reuters and Agence France Presse did not mention it, only blaming Rwanda. Both previously tried to censor Inner City Press coverage of Ladsous and French colonialism, to the extent of moving to ask the UN to throw Inner City Press out.

Which approach is journalism?

AFP wasn't even AT this stakeout - Ladous sought to avoid questions by repeating his talking points in French, but no AFP. Then Reuters told UNTV to give it the microphone, to ask about Rwanda. Ladsous leered. Then a retired Reuters reporter was pointed at by Ladsous' spokesman Nick Birnback, who then grabbed the UNTV microphone to take it away from Inner City Press.

On April 2 Ladsous appeared at the UN Security Council media stakeout but after reading a prepared statement refused to answer Press questions about the underlying Tabankort agreement with the MNLA which led to the Mali shooting. Video I here.

  Inner City Press also asked about shooting at civilians by Ladsous' peacekeepers in Haiti, caught on video, and asked if that withheld report would be released. Ladsous said, I do not respond to you. Video II here.

  Inner City Press asked if it isn't now a pattern, peacekeepers shooting at unarmed civilians not only in Mali but also Haiti, and if Ladsous will take responsibility.

  Ladsous' spokesman Nicholas Birnback then grabbed the UNTV microphone and moved it away from Inner City Press. This happened before with Ladsous and his previous spokesman. Video here, story here. At that time, after the Free UN Coalition for Access complained, the UN Spokesperson told FUNCA it would not happen again. Now it has. Accountability?

 Tellingly, the Ladsous scribe who angled for and got the first question asked pointedly if the peacekeepers in Mali weren't from Rwanda. Ladsous leered and said the Troop Contributing Country, then spoke again at the end to lay the blame on them. Video II, here, near end.

  In the public record is Ladsous' 1994 memo supporting the escape of the Hutu genocidaires who formed the FDLR into Eastern Congo, where now Ladsous' MONUSCO finds one excuse after another NOT to neutralize the FDLR as it did the largely Tutsi M23 armed group.

  Accountability? Video here.

  Inner City Press, which has been asking the UN Spokesperson - sinceUN Peacekeeping chief Herve Ladsous refuses Press questions -- about the killings since they occurred in January, on April 2 asked UN spokesperson Farhan Haq if the report will be made public, and if any verdict or sentence against the peacekeepers would be made public. Haq did not say yes to either.

  A report on Ladsous' peacekeepers in Haiti firing at unarmed demonstrators hasn't even been summarized, much less released.

As to the killings by peacekeepers in Gao, Haq would not even publicly state the nationality of the peacekeepers. Talk about impunity. He said the Ladsous will briefing the Security Council -- behind closed doors, of course -- about the report, then will come to the UNTV stakeout. But Ladsous refuses Press questions, on his cover up of rapes in DR Congo and Darfur and every other question. Video here, Vine here. 

This is a new low in UNaccountability.

 Here is the UN's summary as read-out by Haq, video to follow:

The Inquiry launched by the Secretary-General to determine the facts surrounding the violent demonstration that took place on 27 January 2015 in Gao, Mali, in front of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) Regional Headquarters has submitted its report.

The Inquiry determined that members of a MINUSMA Formed Police Unit used unauthorized and excessive force on civilian protesters during the demonstration, resulting in the death by gunfire of three protesters and the wounding of four others.

The Inquiry also established that some protesters and organisers of the demonstration bear responsibility for the violence of the protest, which included Molotov cocktails, stone throwing and attempts to breach the perimeter of the Regional MINUSMA Headquarters in Gao. The Inquiry noted that MINUSMA security forces were left to face the protesters on their own in violation of the Status of Forces Agreement with the host country. Five MINUSMA police officers were wounded during the event.

The Secretary-General profoundly regrets the casualties among civilians resulting from the excessive use of force during this event by the MINUSMA personnel concerned.  He condemns it as a violation of the MINUSMA Directive on the Use of Force. The Secretary-General is committed to ensuring that the responsible individuals are held fully accountable for their actions.

Steps are being taken in this regard with the authorities of Mali and the relevant police-contributing country. The Secretary-General encourages the Government of Mali to take the appropriate steps to prevent future such incidents.  Communications, management and crisis procedures within MINUSMA will also be examined to prevent the recurrence of such acts.

The Secretary-General is committed to ensuring justice for the victims and their families according to local customs and appropriate United Nations procedures. MINUSMA is in contact with the local authorities and with the individuals and families concerned in this regard.

On behalf of the United Nations, the Secretary-General expresses his deepest apologies to the victims and their families.

The United Nations, and MINUSMA in particular, remain committed to supporting the stabilisation of Mali.

   

In UNSC Debate, Sochi Olympics Truce Violation Alleged, Ladsous Gives Thanks for Drones

By Matthew Russell Lee

UNITED NATIONS, February 12 -- Two weeks ago the UN Security Council debate  on "War, its lessons, and the search for a permanent peace" under Jordan's presidency triggered several rounds of fighting on issues ranging from Japan and World War II to Russia and Georgia, Armenia and Turkey, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

  On February 12 the debate on Protection of Civilians under this month's president Lithuania had fewer fights. At the end Azerbaijan and Armenia along with Russia and Georgia fought one round each; Israel fired back to Palestine and, strangely, Egypt.

  Israel chided Palestine on, among other things, gay rights, then said that the Egyptian government, post Morsi mind you, should submit a volume of its "best practices" on protection of civilians.

  Azerbaijan said that Armenia is "escalating... even during the Sochi Olympics;" afterward they told Inner City Press they still feel they are on the Security Council, which they only left in December, and that they have filed long letters with Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.

  Russia, neither Ambassadors Churkin or Pankin, chided Georgia for "tiresome cliches;" Georgia said twenty percent of its territory is occupied. Reuters, not present at the Security Council stakeout, filed a story with the same quote that Russia opposes 30% of the Syria draft resolution as Inner City Press ran 22 hours before. 

 The possibility of heavy snow and UN closure might, some said, cancel UN Humanitarian chief Valerie Amos' briefing on the topic, throwing off the game plan or time table on the resolution.

  Sudan's charge d'affaires spoke near the end, and asked if Valerie Amos who'd spoken in the morning could still hear him. He did not call out UN Peacekeeping head Herve Ladsous, who met with Sudan's ICC-indicted president Omar al Bashir in July.

  During the opening session Ladsous cited Ban's stated Human Rights Due Diligence Policy, of which he made a mockery in the Democratic Republic of the Congo bystonewalling on the DRC Army's mass rapes in Minova in November 2012. Ladsous' DPKO won't provide information on any convictions, nor the results of a closed investigation of alleged rapes by UN Peacekeepers in Mali.

  Ladsous also sung the praising of the drones he is now using in the Congo, saying they are "making a difference." One already crashed -- sources tell Inner City Press Ladsous in consultations tried to recharacterize it as a "hard landing" -- and it remains unclear when UN Peacekeeping will "neutralize" the Hutu FDLR militia.  

 Yesterday, Ladsous appeared on UNTV to read a statement but refused to answer any questions; the question of cluster bombs being used in South Sudan, and by whom, remains unanswered.

  Back on January 29, Chinese Permanent Representative Liu Jieyi told Inner City Press he would be raising the issue of Japanese prime minister Abe visiting the Class A War Criminals" in the Yasukuni shrine, and he did. He said, "What Abe is doing is to try to reverse the verdict on the war and defend war criminals."

  Since then, China has raised questions about Japan's treatment of letters by kamikaze pilots. But it did not arise, at least in rights of reply, in the February 12 debate. 

   Lithuania's Permanent Representative Raimonda Murmokaite was chairing at the end, given each replier one turn and then politely explaining the dearth so far this month of question and answer stakeouts, which the Free UN Coalition for Access believes should take place after each closed consultation of the Council. Will there be one on February 13, along with and after Valerie Amos? Watch this site.