UNSC extends authorisation to ISAF until 2014 end

The UN Security Council on Thursday extended its authorization of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan until December 31, 2014. It welcomed the progress made towards the complete transfer of lead security responsibility in Afghanistan to the country's Government, and authorized States participating in ISAF to take all necessary measures to fulfil their mandate. It further welcomed the agreement between the Afghan Government and the countries contributing to the Force to "transfer full security responsibility -- to the Afghan Government country-wide by the end of 2014". Satisfied with the country's transition process, the Council called on States to contribute personnel, equipment and other resources to ISAF, which is led by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and to continue their support for the country's security, stability and transition. It welcomed in this regard the Afghan Government's strong commitment to develop, with ISAF support, an Afghan National Security Force governed by the Constitution and capable of ensuring peace, security, stability and human rights for all Afghans, including those of women. The Council also "reinforced and updated" the United Nations Peacebuilding Office in the Central African Republic (CAR), out of concern by the deteriorating security situation and widespread human rights abuses. It welcomed the decision of the African Union to authorize the deployment of an "African-led International Support Mission in the CAR," known as MISCA, and looked forward to its swift establishment, so that it creates the conditions for a stable and democratic country. The Council requested the Secretary-General to submit within 30 days, in close cooperation with the AU, a report on the planning of MISCA, including a possible option of transforming it into a UN peacekeeping operation "subject to appropriate conditions on the ground." The Council also extended the mandate of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) until 15 October 2014, and encouraged it to enhance further the Government's ability to extend State authority throughout the country and promote good governance and the rule of law at all levels. It recognized the steps that Haiti had taken towards stabilization, but noted with concern the delays in preparations for elections scheduled for later this year. Endorsing Secretary-General's recommendations, the Council reduced the Mission's overall force levels from 6,270 to 5,021 troops, and maintained a police component of 2,601 personnel