United Nations Radio

The seriousness of the situation in Zimbabwe and its possible consequences has the potential to affect regional peace and security in profound ways.

The warning comes from Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro(photo) in a briefing to an open meeting of the UN Security Council on Zimbabwe.

She says the Zimbabwe issue poses a challenge to the world.

And she adds that when an election is conducted in an atmosphere of fear and violence, its outcome cannot have a legitimacy that is based on the will of the people.

"It is clear Zimbabwe will have to go through a political transition bringing together its people around a common project. It will also need a process of national healing and reconciliation that should include wide-ranging and participatory national consultations."

Deputy Secretary-General Rose-Migiro says the creation of a government of national unity as a way forward enjoys broad support in the region, adding that the Secretary-General strongly supports the African Union's recommendation for a mechanism on the ground to support the mediation efforts.