Statement at the UN Security Council Open Debates on “Protection Of Civilians In Armed Conflict: 25th Anniversary Of SCR 1265 (1999); The Report Of The Secretary General” by Permanent Representative of Latvia, Ambassador H.E. Ms. Sanita Pavļuta-Deslandes
New York, 21 May 2024
Mr President,
At the outset, I would like to express our appreciation to Mozambique for convening this discussion on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Security Council landmark resolution 1265 on the Protection of civilians in armed conflict. We also extend our gratitude to all briefers for their insightful contributions.
The International Humanitarian Law (IHL) stands as cornerstone of civilian protection and defines the rules of war. For 75 years Geneva conventions have served as a powerful guardian of non-combatants during armed conflict. However, we witness a rise in open violation of these rules. The international community must respond decisively to any disregard of fundamental laws. International law and international humanitarian law are absolutely clear - civilians must be protected at all times.
As we speak, humanitarian crises unfold in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan and other places. More than 35 thousand Palestinian civilians, including women and children have perished and the remaining residents of Gaza continue to face life threatening danger. Hostages taken by Hamas attack of 7 October remain in captivity. In Ukraine, more than 10 million people are displaced and more than 10 thousand civilians are killed. Intentional attacks on Ukraine’s critical infrastructure by Russia are specifically aimed to harm civilians cutting access to electricity, heat and other vital amenities. With violence escalating in Sudan, millions face critical food shortages and displacement, highlighting the urgent need for civilian protection and unimpeded humanitarian access.
Let me be clear, the deliberate targeting of civilians, sexual violence, rape, torture are war crimes. These crimes demand justice and accountability.
Mr. President,
The international community cannot stand idle. What needs to be done?
First and foremost, violations must be deterred and perpetrators must be brought to justice, including to international courts. Accountability must be swift and decisive. We must ensure that no civilian victim is neglected.
Second, the media play a critical role in the struggle for accountability. By documenting the war's devastating human cost and giving the voice to civilians caught in the crossfire, journalists become targets themselves. We must steadfastly defend their fundamental right to free and independent reporting. Their safety is paramount in ensuring accountability for war crimes.
Third, all crimes against civilians, including conflict-related sexual violence, must be documented and investigated. Victims not only deserve justice, but they also possess the potential to lead peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts. In order to prevent crimes from repeating, it is crucial to build the resilience of the most vulnerable groups, particularly women, children, and persons with disabilities.
Forth, we need to address structural factors that lead to suffering of civilians in conflicts. In this regard, we highlight the challenges posed by illicit flows of small arms and light weapons. We believe the upcoming Fourth Review Conference of the UN Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat, and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons provides opportunity to step up our efforts in this field. As vice-president, Latvia will contribute to substantial outcome of the Conference.
In conclusion, let me underline that shared global understanding of the rules of war and the fundamental principle of protecting civilians is crucial. This education, particularly among future generations, holds the key to building a safer world. Latvia remains committed to work together for peace and resilience!
I thank you.