On January 28th, an interactive dialogue session on “Preserving Human Dignity in Armed Conflict: Promoting Compliance with International Humanitarian Law” was convened by the President of the General Assembly in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Discussions centered on the human cost of ongoing conflicts, the critical role of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in protecting civilians, the challenges posed by the use of new technologies in war zones, and the need for stronger multilateral efforts to uphold IHL. Many delegations underscored the importance of the Global Initiative launched by the ICRC last year, emphasizing that preserving human dignity amid conflict lies at the heart of IHL.
In his opening remarks, H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang, President of the General Assembly, underscored the persistent and widespread violations of IHL in regions such as Gaza, Sudan, Myanmar, and Ukraine. Highlighting the devastating impact on civilians, he stressed the urgent need for all nations to uphold the rules of war, irrespective of political or strategic considerations. Reaffirming that IHL serves as the cornerstone of peace and human dignity, President Yang also addressed the emerging challenges posed by new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and autonomous weapon systems, emphasizing that IHL applies universally, regardless of the tools of warfare.
As a keynote speaker, H.E. Mr. Tom Fletcher, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, focused his address on the importance of upholding IHL to protect civilians, essential infrastructure, medical missions, and prohibit acts such as torture and sexual violence. Emphasizing that IHL is often instrumentalized as a tool for loosely interpreting military objectives, he highlighted the importance of the Global Initiative, which advocates for ensuring medical facilities are located away from potential military targets. Additionally, he warned about the risks posed by artificial intelligence, which could lead to the misclassification of targets in a war zone.
H.E. Ms. Mirjana Spoljaric, President of the ICRC, highlighted that the Global Initiative to reinvigorate political commitment to IHL is an exceptional effort given the current situation, calling for IHL to be elevated as a political priority. She also emphasized that unleashed violence creates global security risks where and when least expected. Reaffirming the importance of multilateralism, she described the UN system as its backbone.
Experts and practitioners from various fields participated in the panel discussions, exploring the complexities of modern warfare and the challenges of implementing IHL. They highlighted issues such as addressing enforced disappearances, bridging the gap between IHL ideals and practical application, and raising awareness among key actors to uphold IHL. Emphasis was placed on preventing urban warfare, fostering smart diplomacy, and promoting continuous IHL training to protect civilians and infrastructure. The enduring relevance of the Geneva Conventions was reaffirmed, with a call to leverage the Global Initiative to foster dialogue, enhance accountability, and address persistent violations.
During the open debate, Ambassador Beresford-Hill delivered a statement highlighting the profound mental health consequences of armed conflict, particularly the long-term psychological trauma endured by civilians, especially children. He stressed that trauma extends beyond the individual, reverberating through families and communities, hindering reconciliation and sustainable development for generations. He further noted that a society burdened by the untreated psychological scars of war cannot fully heal, nor can it prosper.
The Ambassador stressed that the situation in Ukraine serves as a poignant example of the far-reaching traumatic effects of war on children. He noted that prolonged exposure to violence has not only disrupted their schooling and daily routines but has also impeded their ability to lead normal and fulfilling lives.
The Sovereign Order of Malta has been actively engaged in addressing these issues through initiatives such as therapeutic programs, play centers, and summer camps, providing critical emotional and psychological support. However, these efforts represent only a fraction of the broader need. Ambassador Beresford-Hill emphasized the urgency of scaling up mental health interventions and ensuring that both psychological and physical well-being are prioritized in humanitarian responses.
He also reiterated the relevance of the Geneva Conventions of 1949, which were established to mitigate the human suffering caused by war. The Ambassador called for stronger mechanisms to enforce compliance with IHL and hold violators accountable, ensuring the protection of civilians including children in conflict zones.
In closing, he reaffirmed the Sovereign Order of Malta’s commitment to upholding the principles of IHL through humanitarian diplomacy and fieldwork. He urged the international community to act collectively to safeguard vulnerable populations, emphasizing that the protection of human dignity and mental health is fundamental to rebuilding post-conflict societies. The meeting concluded with a collective call from Member States, observers, and NGOs for upholding IHL, regardless of political interests, to protect a shared humanity rooted in multilateralism.
