Press Communiqué of the Co-Chairs of the Geneva International Discussions

GENEVA, 30 June 2021 - The 53^rd round of the Geneva International Discussions (GID) took place on 29 and 30 June 2021, with requisite COVID-19 pandemic measures in place.

An information session on “Comprehensive / Human Security” was held, at which the participants exchanged views on the multifaceted and complex nature of security.

As before, this comprehensive perspective was reflected in the 53^rd round, where participants met in two separate working groups focused on security and humanitarian issues. The overall security situation on the ground was assessed as relatively calm and stable, although participants reviewed a number of issues, including detentions, missing persons, freedom of movement, and the specific security situation in certain areas.

There was particular focus on the core agenda item of non-use of force and international security arrangements. Participants had a substantive and frank exchange of views on the matter, and reviewed the potential for more focused discussions within the GID framework.

Participants reiterated the importance of, and their commitment to, the GID process, addressing the security and humanitarian consequences on conflict-affected populations as mandated by the six-point ceasefire agreement of 2008, amongst other topics. Possible joint efforts to address the post-pandemic needs of communities, and to mitigate the pandemic’s impact on humanitarian and socio-economic situations, were also discussed. In this regard, the Co-Chairs noted the constructive co-operation between the participants.

The Co-Chairs welcomed the continued functioning of the Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) in Ergneti, and emphasized the need to resume regular meetings of the Gali IPRM as soon as possible.

Aspects of the “Women, Peace and Security” (WPS) framework were also discussed. In this context, the Co-Chairs explored ways to intensify engagement within the GID framework to address the different ways the conflict affects women and men, as well as to promote inclusive processes.

Due to a walkout by some participants, a substantive discussion on the core issue of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees could not take place.

The Co-Chairs again called on all participants to increase efforts to build trust and confidence among them, to address all elements of comprehensive security, and to ensure constructive cooperation with international humanitarian and human rights organizations.

The participants agreed to hold their next meeting in Geneva on 12 and 13 October 2021.