UN Chief Urges Immediate Protection for Humanitarians, Civilians

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an end to attacks on humanitarian workers and civilians, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability, Xinhua reported today.

In a message marking World Humanitarian Day on August 19, Guterres highlighted the vital role of aid workers who strive to alleviate human suffering amid escalating violence. He noted that humanitarian operations reached over 140 million people last year, despite severe funding shortages and increasing dangers.

Guterres condemned disinformation campaigns and the disregard for international humanitarian law, stating that a climate of impunity allows perpetrators to evade justice. He urged governments to pressure conflict parties to protect civilians and cease arms transfers to violators of international law. Guterres insisted that celebrating humanitarians is insufficient; the international community must take decisive action to safeguard humanity.