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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH prods UN to enhance protection of civilians in urban war zones

PH prods UN to enhance protection of civilians in urban war zones

Published Feb 2, 2022 03:31 pm

The Philippines has expressed support for measures to protect civilians in urban settings affected by war and conflict during a high-level open debate at the United Nations (UN).

Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative Ariel R. Peñaranda of the Philippine Mission to the UN (Photo courtesy of the UN Photo Library)

During the UN Security Council High-Level Open Debate on “War in Cities: Protection of Civilians in Urban Settings” last Jan. 26, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative Ariel R. Peñaranda of the Philippine Mission to the UN emphasized the obligation to respect and ensure respect for international humanitarian law under all circumstances.

Peñaranda cited that the Philippines adheres to the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence in the provision of humanitarian assistance as he made a reference to Philippine laws demonstrating the country’s strong commitment to the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols.

The Filipino diplomat also stressed that a more proactive approach must be employed by using advanced weapon systems designed for effective and responsible military operations in urban settings in view of a highly volatile and complex urban warfare.

“The decision to employ the kind of weapons to gain military advantage must fully take into account domestic laws and international legal obligations,” he said.

“The use of an advanced weapon system, combined with an acute focus on humanitarian assistance, while taking heed of domestic and international laws, and respect for sovereignty, would allow nations to better protect civilians during armed conflict in urban settings,” he added.

The Open Debate was convened by the Security Council under the presidency of Norway. Presiding over the Open Debate, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre of Norway stated that the “effective protection of civilians and civilian objects must be made a strategic priority in the planning and conduct of military operations in urban areas.”

He added that ensuring protection of civilians will also lead to a more sustainable peace after conflict.

Secretary General António Guterres encouraged all parties to conflict to fully respect international humanitarian law. “Respect for these rules is all the more critical when armed conflict is waged in urban areas,” he said.

Related Tags

united-nations UN Security Council High-Level Open Debate war in cities Ambassador Ariel R. Peñaranda 20222
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