UAE Praised For Humanitarian Contributions At UN Seminar In Geneva
The seminar titled "Role of Human Rights Mechanisms in the Context of Armed Conflicts" recently held at the Palace of Nations in Geneva, shed light on the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) significant contributions to humanitarian efforts amidst global conflicts. Organized by the Union Association for Human Rights in collaboration with the Arab-European Human Rights Dialogue and various European and international organizations, this event took place alongside the 55th session of the Human Rights Council. The focus was on the UAE's role as a prominent humanitarian aid donor, a position highly commended by speakers at the seminar.
During this gathering, the UAE's humanitarian and relief initiatives were thoroughly examined. These efforts are aimed at safeguarding fundamental human rights such as life and health in conflict zones through measures like ensuring water and food security, developing hospitals, providing healthcare support, treating the injured, and partnering with UNICEF along with other UN entities. The seminar also highlighted the UAE's active contributions during its membership in the UN Security Council, notably its support for Resolution 2720 which calls for enhanced humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza and protection for UN personnel and humanitarian workers in conflict situations.
One of the key advocacies of the seminar was for the development of international mechanisms to protect civilians during conflicts. This includes upholding international humanitarian law, granting immunity to humanitarian workers, and establishing humanitarian ceasefires and safe corridors to ensure civilians have access to essential services and livelihood support. Furthermore, it called for a ban on military actions that endanger civilians, especially women and children, increased protection for civilian infrastructure and medical facilities, reinforcement of international accountability mechanisms for violations and crimes during armed conflicts, ensuring accountability and prosecution, and enhancing the role of non-governmental organizations in providing humanitarian aid during conflicts.
The event saw wide participation from international experts, UN special rapporteurs, representatives from numerous human rights-focused international organizations and initiatives, as well as journalists accredited by the UN and several countries participating in the Human Rights Council sessions. This broad engagement underscores the global commitment to addressing humanitarian needs in conflict zones and highlights the UAE's pivotal role in these efforts.
By focusing on these critical areas, the seminar underscored not only the immediate needs of those affected by armed conflicts but also the importance of long-term strategies to ensure their safety and well-being. The UAE's leadership in these humanitarian endeavors sets a commendable example for other nations to follow, emphasizing the need for collective action in addressing global challenges.
With inputs from WAM
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