Holy See urges effective protection of civilians in warzones
Addressing a public debate in New York on the protection of civilians in armed conflicts, the Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations denounces attacks on civilian infrastructure, use of indiscriminate weapons in areas populated areas and increasing attacks against humanitarian personnel.
By Lisa Zengarini
The Holy See reiterated its urgent call for the effective protection of those who face greater risks during the conflict, including humanitarian personnel, health workers, religious personnel, journalists, internally displaced persons, women, children and people with disabilities.
Speaking Wednesday during a public Security Council debate in New York, marking the 25th anniversary of UN Resolution 1265, the Vatican's Permanent Observer to the organization, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, stressed that With the dramatic increase in conflict around the world, the protection of civilians is more urgent today than ever.
No place is a safe haven for civilians in modern warfare
In his speech, Archbishop Caccia highlighted the fact that in modern warfare, no place is now a safe haven for civilians: civilian infrastructure such as schools, hospitals and places of worship have become “devastating targets , disproportionately affecting the lives of the innocent and defenseless.” .”
In this regard, the Vatican Observer called for special protection of places of worship in conflict zones, emphasizing that these places are not only places of prayer, but also serve as places of assistance and protection for those who need it.
Use of indiscriminate weapons in populated areas
Second, the Vatican Observer reiterated the Holy See's repeated calls for an end to the production, stockpiling and use of indiscriminate weapons, such as landmines, cluster munitions and explosive weapons in populated areas. While commending the United Nations Mine Action Service for its work, he urged the implementation of the Political Declaration on the Use of Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas.
Concerns about the increase in attacks against humanitarian personnel
Finally, Archbishop Caccia reaffirmed the Holy See's strong condemnation of any attempt to obstruct the delivery of supplies such as food, water and medicine to those suffering from the consequences of war, as well as indiscriminate attacks against humanitarian and medical personnel who sacrificed their lives. in danger to help the population on the ground.
