South Africa's voting position statement on the draft resolution regarding the return of Ukrainian children at the United Nations General Assembly

Key Chapter Title List

1. Meeting Background and South Africa's Fundamental Position
2. Concerns Regarding the Escalation of Conflict and Its Socio-Economic Impact
3. Clear Stance on the Situation of Children in the Conflict
4. Reaffirmation of the Universal Principles of Children's Rights
5. Opposition to the Politicization of Children's Rights
6. Prudent Attitude Towards the Specific Content of the Draft Resolution
7. South Africa's Diplomatic Initiatives and Cooperation
8. Summary of Voting Position and Call for International Law

Document Introduction

This document is the full text of the explanatory vote position statement delivered by the Republic of South Africa on December 3, 2025, at the resumed eleventh emergency special session of the United Nations General Assembly, regarding the draft resolution on the return of Ukrainian children. Issued against the backdrop of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the international community's high concern over the humanitarian crisis it has triggered, this statement systematically elaborates the South African government's official position, policy principles, and diplomatic actions on the specific issue of child protection in conflict.

The statement begins by reiterating South Africa's consistent call for an end to the conflict in Ukraine through an immediate ceasefire and genuine inclusive negotiations without preconditions. South Africa emphasizes its commitment to resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict peacefully and through negotiations within the rule-based system centered on international law and the UN Charter, and reaffirms the inviolability of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states. The document further lists the escalation of the conflict and its impact on regional and global politics, socio-economics, particularly on the food and energy security of developing countries, as matters of grave concern, and examines the plight of Ukrainian children within the framework of the unfortunate social consequences brought about by this conflict.

On the core issue, South Africa clearly expresses regret over the displacement of children during the conflict and calls on all parties to the conflict to refrain from actions leading to the displacement and abuse of children, especially those that violate the core provisions of international law and international humanitarian law. The statement unconditionally supports the prompt return of all displaced children to their families or designated welfare systems, enabling them to live free from violence, recover, and lead normal lives in a social environment that respects their identity and upholds their humanity. South Africa cites the Convention on the Rights of the Child as the cornerstone for respecting and protecting children's rights, emphasizes that the best interests of the child should be the primary consideration in any decision affecting them, and underscores the central role and necessity of compliance with international law as the world's core organizing principle.

Notably, South Africa strongly urges all member states in the statement to avoid politicizing the lives of children, pointing out that children's rights should not be used as bargaining chips in any conflict. South Africa expresses its willingness to play a bridge-building role among the conflicting parties, including in efforts to facilitate the return of Ukrainian children. Regarding the specific draft resolution under consideration by the General Assembly, South Africa believes that some of its inferences remain contentious and insufficiently clear within the context of the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing that any allegations should be verified through the good offices of the UN Secretary-General, as suggested by the resolution.

Finally, the document outlines South Africa's current diplomatic engagement, namely its cooperation with Canada, Qatar, and the Vatican in an initiative aimed at implementing international law and ensuring the protection and safe return of children. South Africa's voting position aims to reflect the importance of respecting international law and to emphasize that children must never be targets of violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law. This statement is a key text for understanding how South Africa balances humanitarian concerns, principles of international law, and diplomatic paths for peaceful conflict resolution within a complex geopolitical crisis, providing policy analysts and researchers with first-hand insights into the positions and strategies of a significant Global South nation.