UAE Reaffirms Commitment To Humanitarian Principles At ECOSOC Humanitarian Affairs Segment In Geneva

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reiterated its steadfast dedication to principled humanitarian efforts at the 2025 ECOSOC Humanitarian Affairs Segment (HAS) in Geneva. Jamal Jama Al Musharakh, the UAE's Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other International Organisations in Geneva, highlighted the significance of maintaining core humanitarian principles such as neutrality, impartiality, and independence.

Al Musharakh advocated for a transformative shift in the humanitarian system from reactive measures to anticipatory actions. He emphasised the necessity for increased investment in early warning systems and anticipatory financing, especially concerning climate-related crises. This approach aims to better prepare for and mitigate potential disasters before they occur.

Addressing the situation in Gaza, Al Musharakh underscored the urgent need to protect civilians in conflict areas and ensure unhindered humanitarian access. He stated, "We strongly condemn Israel’s continued violations and underline the need to support efforts and endeavors to ensure the immediate, safe, unhindered, and sustainable delivery of aid on a wide scale, through all possible means."

During a high-level panel titled ‘Reimagining the Humanitarian System: Innovative Models to Save Lives, Reduce Suffering, and Promote People’s Resilience and Livelihoods’, Al Musharakh participated alongside representatives from key international organisations. These included Tom Fletcher from OCHA, as well as representatives from UNHCR, UNDRR, FAO, WFP, UNICEF, Women for Change South Sudan, and The International Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA).

In his remarks at the panel discussion, Al Musharakh stressed that innovation is crucial for effective humanitarian response. "Innovation is no longer optional — it is essential," he stated. He called for improved delivery mechanisms that align with the needs of affected populations while highlighting the necessity for "political courage" to drive systemic reform.

The 2025 ECOSOC HAS brought together global leaders, humanitarian experts, and diplomats to address evolving challenges within the international humanitarian system. Discussions focused on innovation, resilience-building, and enhancing multilateral cooperation amidst growing global crises like armed conflict, climate change, and forced displacement.

Commitment to Collaborative Approaches

The UAE's active involvement in these discussions underscores its ongoing commitment to fostering innovative and collaborative approaches to humanitarian responses. By engaging with global leaders and experts at events like ECOSOC HAS 2025, the UAE aims to contribute effectively towards addressing some of the world's most pressing crises.

This dedication reflects a broader effort by the UAE to support principled approaches that prioritise collaboration and innovation in tackling complex humanitarian challenges worldwide.

With inputs from WAM