Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict: UN Security Council Media Stakeout

The Dire Reality for Civilians in Conflict

• ⚠️ Civilians in armed conflicts are enduring extreme danger, insecurity, and suffering, with the UN recording at least 36,000 civilian deaths in 2024.
• 💥 The use of explosive weapons in populated areas has led to tens of thousands of casualties, while landmines and explosive remnants of war continue to pose a threat.
• 🌍 Devastating humanitarian crises are unfolding in Gaza and Sudan, with widespread starvation, critical risk of famine, and millions displaced.
• 🌍 Similar suffering is reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mali, Myanmar, Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, Syria, and Ukraine.

Legal and Moral Imperative for Protection

• ⚖️ The protection of civilians is not optional but a legal obligation under international humanitarian law and a moral imperative.
• 📢 A clear message is delivered: all parties to armed conflict must respect international humanitarian law in all circumstances.
• 🎯 Civilian protection must be central to all military planning and political decisions, not a secondary consideration.

Safeguarding Humanitarian and Media Personnel

• 🤝 The vital role of humanitarian actors is commended, with a condemnation of all violence and threats against them.
• 💔 Over 360 humanitarians were killed in 2023, highlighting the urgent need for concrete measures to ensure their safety and enable their work.
• ✈️ Parties to conflict are urged to allow safe, rapid, and unhindered humanitarian access to all civilians in need.
• 📰 The importance of journalists and media professionals is recognized, especially in combating misinformation, and their independence must be respected.

Accountability and Prevention

• 🔍 Accountability for violations of international humanitarian law and human rights is essential, with a call for credible investigations and an end to impunity.
• 💡 A comprehensive approach is needed, focusing not just on response but also on prevention of civilian harm.
• 💖 A collective responsibility is emphasized to uphold international law, prioritize the safety, dignity, and rights of civilians, and ensure their voices are central to actions towards peace.