Statement by H.E Dr. R.M.
Marty M. Natalegawa Permanent
Representative of the At the
Security Council Open Debate on Agenda Item: “Protection
of Civilians in Armed Conflict” Mr. President, I should preface by thanking the Security Council
in organizing this meeting, and the Under Secretary-General for Humanitarian
Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mr. John Holmes, for his statement. Mr. President, Notwithstanding the
pronounced focus on the issue protection of civilians in armed conflicts over
the past decade, the deplorable fact remains: civilians continue to fall victims
of violence. Persistent violations occur
that include deliberate targeting on civilians, the indiscriminate and
excessive use of force, sexual and gender based violence; in violation of international
law, human rights law and refugee law. Indeed, in many
instances, we
have been witness to attacks against relief workers and humanitarian aid
convoys and others engaging in humanitarian assistance to the civilians from
the effects of war. Mr.
President, We are cognizant of the five core challenges
identified in the Secretary-General’s report (S/2009/277) for their
protection. We concur that key is the failure of parties to
comply fully with their obligations to protect civilians in armed
conflict. In this respect, all parties
to armed conflicts should adhere to relevant international laws, including the
1994 Convention on the Safety of the UN and Associated Personnel and its
Optional Protocol. We value the Security Council’s efforts, consistent
with its Charter-mandated responsibilities, in protecting civilians in armed
conflict; meriting the wide support of regional and international actors alike. At the same time, it is worth underscoring that the
best protection from armed conflict is in its prevention and resolution. The Council should spare no efforts in this area. By the same token, the Security Council should lend
its full support to the efforts of regional organizations in addressing dire
humanitarian situations. A “culture of protection” must continually be
promoted through regional and international organizations. This would sustain
attention to the issue and promote concrete action by the various actors. Mr. President, It is First, respect for humanitarian
principles needs to be continuously maintained. The rapid and unimpeded access
of humanitarian personnel should be ensured consistent with international
humanitarian law. Likewise, humanitarian personnel are subject to the principles
of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, independence, respect of sovereignty,
territorial integrity and national unity of states. Second, in the conduct of
hostilities, parties should do everything feasible to protect civilians and
civilian objects. Third, examples of good
practices should also be noted and where feasible implemented to ensure that
populations in urgent need acquire consistent assistance. Finally,
Mr. President, let me reiterate that
all efforts to protect civilians in armed conflict must be founded on the
tenets of human rights, security and development; the three pillars of the
United Nations. These three principles
should be reflected in the next report in commemoration of the tenth
anniversary this coming November. The tenth anniversary should also serve to maintain
the momentum by strengthening the UN system with Member-States and other
stakeholders to work in a coordinated, coherent, comprehensive, and cooperative
manner. An approach that includes development and humanitarian dimensions is
required, supported by the political will states to ensure that civilians are
protected in time of armed conflict, and in time of peace. I
thank you.
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