EU Statement – UN Security Council: Open debate on Protection of Civilians

Check against delivery  Mr. President,I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States. The Candidate Countries North Macedonia*, Montenegro*, Serbia*, Albania*, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina* and Georgia, as well as Armenia, Monaco and San Marino align themselves with this statement. Excellencies, Colleagues, here we are, once again: We have discussed each year the need to prevent suffering, protect civilians, and respect our international humanitarian law obligations. And yet, the experience of civilians, especially women and children in armed conflicts globally, continues to reflect a catastrophically different reality. Indiscriminate, disproportionate, and often deliberate attacks on civilians and civilian objects are occurring with greater frequency. Overly permissive and self-serving interpretations of international humanitarian law have led to increased suffering, starvation, displacement, civilian casualties, and protection crises. Women, older people, persons with disabilities, and children, face increased risk of harm during armed conflicts, including from explosive remnants of war. Attacks on humanitarian personnel have alarmingly increased: 2024 was the deadliest year on record with more than 360 humanitarian workers killed in 20 countries, while denial of access for both humanitarian personnel and supplies have amplified these challenges. The European Union also notes with deep concern that funding for...