2025 Jeju Forum Congratulatory Remarks(Rosemary DICARLO, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs)
2025-06-13 20:34:11
20th Jeju Forum Congratulatory Remarks(Rosemary A. DICARLO, Under-Secrtary-General of UN Political and Peacebuilding Affairs).pdf

I am honored to address the Jeju Forum for Peace and Prosperity, as you mark its milestone 20th anniversary. I commend the Government of the Republic of Korea and the Jeju Forum Secretariat for convening this vital gathering, at a time when multilateral cooperation is being challenged.


Therefore, this year’s theme, Harnessing Innovation for Peace and Shared Prosperity, could hardly be more appropriate. We need to look afresh at the way we approach the complex issues facing us.


We must question the traditional way of doing things and assess frankly what works and what has to change. As we do so, we will be able not only to better tackle difficulties but also uncover opportunities.

For us at the United Nations, this is not just talk, this is our current reality. We have embarked on a major exercise to rationalize our activities and mandates, including by harnessing innovation to make our organization stronger and more efficient. This is not reform for its own sake.


Ultimately, a leaner, more efficient and thereby stronger UN can be more effective at maintaining and building peace, promoting equitable development and human rights, and combating the climate crisis.

In the current complex global landscape, characterized by enduring conflicts and growing strategic competition, a UN that can better deliver on its mission is in the interest of all of us.


In Northeast Asia, the Korean Peninsula remains a reminder of both the fragility of peace and the persistent efforts, by governments, civil society, and the international community, to sustain dialogue and prevent escalation.

The United Nations remains committed to supporting efforts toward sustainable peace and the complete and verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, which must be anchored in dialogue and diplomacy.


At the same time, science and technology are advancing at a breathtaking pace, bringing both promises of transformation and concerns about their potential misuse. I hope that this region’s technological leadership can be a force for good. We must ensure that innovation becomes a bridge – not a barrier – to inclusive peace.

At the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA), we believe in the power of innovation to support peace and prevent conflicts.


Innovation for peace is not only about technology. It is about fresh mindsets, new partnerships, and reimagining the ways we work together.

A truly innovative approach must be people-centered and grounded in the meaningful inclusion of women and youth. They are not just beneficiaries of peace; they are builders of it.


Across Northeast Asia, young leaders are already demonstrating what this looks like in practice: by advancing climate action, fostering digital cooperation, and actively shaping dialogue at platforms such as this forum. DPPA will host a panel of young peacebuilders at this year’s meeting, where they will outline their recommendations for regional digital cooperation. I hope their visions will inspire policymakers.

I encourage all of you to think creatively and act collaboratively. I wish you a successful and inspiring Forum.


Thank you.


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