UN Calls for Stronger Civilian Protection in Armed Conflict

The UN Security Council has issued a presidential statement urging member states to redouble their efforts in protecting civilians, Xinhua reported today.

Adopted unanimously on Friday, the statement comes as the world marks the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions and 25 years since the Council began considering civilian protection as a key thematic issue.

The Council stressed the “enduring need” to strengthen protections, calling on parties to “take all appropriate measures to actively search for persons reported missing, to enable the return of their remains, to account for persons reported missing without adverse distinction, and to put in place appropriate channels enabling response and communication with families on the search process.” Particular emphasis was placed on cases involving children.

The statement also underscored the critical role of the International Red Cross and the need to include humanitarian elements in peace processes. Accountability and truth-seeking mechanisms were highlighted as crucial for reconciliation.