Statement delivered by Her Excellency Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Permanent Representative of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana at the Open Debate on the ‘Protection of civilians in armed conflict: 25th anniversary of resolution 1265’
Mr. President,
Thank you for convening this timely meeting on an issue pertinent to the maintenance of international peace and security.
I also thank Under Secretary General Nderitu, Assistant Secretary General Msuya, ICRC’s President Ms. Spoljaric Egger and Mr. Khadhraoui of Civic for their comprehensive briefs on the protection of civilians in armed conflict.
The adoption of resolution 1265 twenty-five years ago, signaled the international community’s recognition of and commitment to the protection of civilians during armed conflicts and underscored the necessity of compliance with International Humanitarian Law, including as codified in the Geneva Conventions.
Resolution 1265 has been instrumental in shaping the mandates of peacekeeping Missions over the years, and several Council products and other instruments have contributed to a robust framework which treats with various matters concerning the protection of civilians in armed conflict. Resolutions 2286 (2016), 2417 (2018), 2474 (2019) and 2573 (2021) are notable in this regard.
However, as evidenced in several countries with ongoing armed conflicts, including the DRC, Haiti, Palestine and Sudan the road to implementation of resolution 1265 is fraught with obstacles, including the rise of non-state actors, misinformation and disinformation as a tool of war and the use of asymmetric warfare tactics. This has resulted in the loss of and disruption to millions of civilian lives, especially those of women and children. It is also evident in the destruction of critical infrastructure, displacement and lack of access to lifesaving and essential services. The challenges associated with the provision of some of these services are further exacerbated by the effects of climate change, compounding the already precarious situation in which many civilians find themselves.
Mr. President,
The lack of implementation of resolution 1265 could also be attributed to the increasingly relative approach taken by some actors in the interpretation of International Humanitarian Law, which was designed to maintain the sanctity of life and modulate the conduct of war. The subjective application of IHL is self-serving and deviates from the objective for which this body of law was developed. Let us be reminded that all humans are created equal and must be so treated in the application of the law. When the indiscriminate use of force, targeting of non-combatants and destruction of essential infrastructure are allowed to take place with impunity in some cases, while accountability is demanded in other cases, it is an affront to the dignity of the human being and perpetuates the dangerous idea that all humans are not created equal. It is therefore important that interpretation and application of IHL and the principles enshrined therein prioritize the safety and dignity of all civilians. This is critical for reducing or mitigating the impact of armed conflicts on people’s wellbeing.
The challenges adumbrated represent a fraction of the obstacles faced in ensuring the protection of civilians in armed conflict. They, however, are not insurmountable and global efforts must intensify to so do.
Mr. President,
The protection of humanitarian personnel is also a critical part of the broader framework regarding the protection of civilians. Given the important role that humanitarian personnel play in conflict situations, it is incumbent upon us to guarantee their protection in the execution of their duties. Guyana is therefore supportive of the initiative currently being led by Switzerland to develop a Security Council resolution on the protection of humanitarians. We look forward to a consensus adoption.
In closing, the observance of the twenty-fifth year of the adoption of resolution 1265 is an opportune moment for the international community, including UN agencies and other international organizations, to renew their commitment to the full implementation of resolution 1265. Bearing in mind that thousands of lives are lost to the scourge of war, let us collectively resolve to act to improve the protection of civilians. Further, let us resolve to root our actions in truth, accountability and adherence to the UN Charter and to international law, including International Humanitarian Law. While it is true that the protection of civilians is a legal obligation, it is also a moral imperative. The fate of humanity in many parts of the globe hinges on this realization.
Thank you.
