About the Statement:

A written statement was issued by the Union Association for Human Rights (UAHR), in cooperation with a consultative organization, under document number A/HRC/55/NGO/117. The statement, submitted to the Human Rights Council at its 55th session (February–April 2024), focuses on ensuring international protection for civilians during times of war and armed conflict. It highlights the serious challenges faced by civilians, particularly women and children, and calls for effective international action in accordance with international humanitarian law. The statement also commends the efforts of the United Arab Emirates in providing humanitarian assistance in conflict zones.

First: General Background

• The statement underscores that civilians, especially women and children, are the most affected by wars and armed conflicts.
• It expresses concern over the continued violations and war crimes occurring in conflict zones, amidst the failure of international protection mechanisms to prevent or mitigate such abuses.
• The statement affirms that international law requires all parties to protect civilians, from the planning phase of military operations to the provision of aid and care.

Second: A Call for Human Rights Council Action

The statement urges the Human Rights Council to uphold its responsibility in ensuring the protection of civilians during armed conflicts, particularly through:

• Relief mechanisms.
• Ensuring access to humanitarian assistance.
• Protection of humanitarian, medical, and media personnel.
• Accountability for perpetrators of crimes and violations.

Third: Key Recommendations

• Strengthen compliance with international humanitarian law, particularly the Geneva Conventions, especially the Fourth Convention on protection of civilians.
• Raise awareness among military forces through training and education to ensure respect for civilian rights and avoid excessive use of force.
• Protect civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, shelters, places of worship, and relief centers.
• Establish an international mediation mechanism to resolve conflicts peacefully and minimize the impact of war on civilians.
• Ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid and access to basic necessities, such as water, food, and healthcare, especially in conflict zones.
• Promote accountability and combat impunity through transparent investigations and the prosecution of violations.
• Involve civilians in decision-making processes related to conflict, ensuring that the voices of those affected are represented in international resolutions.
• Strengthen international cooperation to protect civilians, through joint efforts by governments, humanitarian organizations, and the international community.
• Link the Fourth Geneva Convention with Chapter VII of the UN Charter, framing serious violations against civilians as threats to international peace and security.

Fourth: Commending the Role of the United Arab Emirates

• The statement commends the UAE’s humanitarian role in providing assistance to Gaza, Yemen, Sudan, Afghanistan, and Ukraine.
• This includes medical, food, and logistical aid, as well as hosting injured individuals and children for treatment.

Significance of the Statement

• The statement highlights the gap between legal obligations under international law and the actual protection afforded to civilians in conflict.
• It reaffirms the central role of international humanitarian law as a tool to safeguard human rights during war.
• It showcases the UAE as a model for humanitarian action and a key supporter of civilian protection and relief efforts.