Preserving human dignity in armed conflict: promoting…

• Opening statement
• Interactive panel discussion

The informal interactive dialogue aims to raise awareness about the importance of strengthening compliance with international humanitarian law in preserving human dignity during armed conflicts and to identify challenges and gaps in its implementation as well as to promote multilateral and national efforts to enhance compliance with international humanitarian law.

With armed conflicts wreaking devastating humanitarian consequences on civilians, the President of the UN General Assembly, Philemon Yang, with the support of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), will convene a signature event on Tuesday 28 January 2025 to highlight the urgent need for compliance with international humanitarian law to preserve human dignity and reduce civilians' suffering in conflict zones globally.

The Geneva Conventions, at the core of international humanitarian law, protect victims of armed conflict. In the Pact for the Future, Member States also reaffirmed their commitment to international humanitarian law and to protect all civilians in armed conflicts. Widespread violations of international humanitarian law and their devastating impact on human lives urgently demand our attention.

As one of the priorities of the President of the General Assembly, this dialogue will be an opportunity for all Member States to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening compliance with international humanitarian law, safeguarding civilians, and preserving human dignity in times of armed conflict.