'Ministerial Discussion on the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel' (EN)

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

This ministerial discussion occurs amid a concerning global backdrop, with over 120 armed conflicts ongoing worldwide.

As a result, millions of people require humanitarian aid and protection, while humanitarian and UN personnel face growing threats, often becoming targets of attacks.

Switzerland is alarmed by the rising violence against humanitarian workers, which is sometimes deliberately directed at them.

A concrete step was taken in May: my country introduced Security Council resolution 2730 on the protection of humanitarian and UN personnel, addressing this alarming trend. The resolution was adopted with the support of 98 UN Member States. I extend my thanks to all these States, especially Brazil for its initial work on the resolution.

This resolution is crucial for three reasons:

1. It reaffirms the obligations of States and parties in armed conflicts to respect and protect humanitarian and UN personnel, including national and local staff.

2. It condemns attacks on these personnel and urges States to ensure accountability for related violations.

3. It mandates the Secretary-General to submit recommendations to the Security Council within six months to prevent and address such attacks and combat impunity.

These recommendations focus on concrete actions. They are currently being prepared, and we look forward to receiving them in November.

Excellencies

Humanitarian personnel are a lifeline for millions of civilians worldwide, risking their lives daily to assist and protect those affected by armed conflict.

We must safeguard their ability to carry out this vital work and reaffirm our commitment to their protection.

With so many conflicts raging and civilians suffering so much, we must step up our efforts to ensure respect for international humanitarian law and strengthen the political will to build a more humane world.

Thank you.