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“There is no avoiding mention of the Libyan crisis”
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Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict

10 May 2011

On 10 May 2011, the Security Council held a day-long Open Debate on the Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict (PoC). The Council addresses this agenda item through biannual Open Debates and annual Reports by the Secretary-General. In this first PoC debate of 2011, the Secretary-General did not yet submit a report or statement and the Council did not take action.

Member States took the opportunity to express their views on the Council’s controversial decision in SCR 1973 (2011) to authorize States to “take all necessary measures” to protect civilians in the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, including the recent NATO bombings. States acknowledged that “both conceptually and practically new ground has been broken” (Turkey) in the Council’s treatment of the Protection of Civilians agenda. Statements reflected country-specific concerns about impeded access to humanitarian assistance, and violations of human rights and international law in conflicts on the Council's agenda: Afghanistan, Côte d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Occupied Palestinian Territories/Gaza, Iraq, Sri Lanka, Somalia, and South Sudan; as well as during recent violence and unrest in: Bahrain, Burma, Colombia, Syria, and Yemen.

The debate featured 51 statements including: 3 UN officials, the permanent and nonpermanent members of the Council, and 33 other delegations. Consistent with the previous Council debate on the protection of civilians in armed conflict, 33 of these statements, 65%, addressed the gender dimension of the protection of civilians and issues of women, peace and security. Most of these gender references were focused on protecting women from sexual violence in conflict, representing a narrowing trend of addressing women, peace and security within the Council. Attention was also given to the latest WPS resolution, SCR 1960 (2010), which includes a monitoring mechanism for sexual violence.

Gender Analysis

Out of the 51 statements, 33 addressed the gender dimension of the protection of civilians and issues of women, peace and security. These references were made by two of the three UN officials and 31 of the Member State statements (see statements and extracts below). Of particular regret was the continued absence of women/gender from Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO), Alain Le Roy’s statement to the Council.

The focus of the gender references was on protecting women from sexual violence in conflict, representing a narrowing trend of addressing women, peace and security within the Council. Armed conflicts in which women were cited as needing such protection included those in the DRC, Côte d'Ivoire, Libya, and Yemen.

Several Member States supported the latest WPS resolution, SCR 1960 (2010), which includes a monitoring mechanism for sexual violence. Some also (South African, Switzerland, and Uruguay) extended their support for integrating the WPS agenda with the protection of civilians in armed conflict and the protection of children in armed conflict, an initiative taken by Brazil's presidency of the Council in February 2011.

In the OCHA statement, Under-Secretary-General Amos provided useful insight into the complex context in which sexual violence occurs. She stated that sexual violence "remains a defining characteristic" of conflict, particularly in the DRC but also Côte d'Ivoire, and it coexists with other factors such as post-election violence; attacks against civilians, humanitarian workers, and peacekeepers; and indiscriminate-shelling.

OHCHR acknowledged the need for women's participation and gender mainstreaming in the protection of civilians. "In accordance with the letter and spirit of Security Council resolutions 1888 (2009) and 1960 (2010), OHCHR is in discussion with all relevant United Nations partners regarding the possibility of women protection advisers being located within the human rights components." This reference and the Australian statement were regrettably the only statements, which referenced the need to engage women as agents in the protection of civilians.

Absent from the three UN briefings (OCHA, DPKO, and OHCHR) and national statements was consideration for the gender dimension of discussed themes including detainees and the impeded access of humanitarian assistance.

Australia highlighted that “engaging local communities, including women, in discussions on protection requirements is key both in the planning stages and while peacekeeping missions are deployed in the field”. The Austrian statement similarly sought to emphasize “the importance of taking gender-sensitivities into account” when carrying out peacekeeping mandates and preventing violence.

Citing means to implement the protection of women from sexual violence, the representative of the Swiss delegation stated: "Significant progress has been made in recent years in the normative and institutional framework with the adoption of important resolutions, most recently resolution 1960 (2010), which established a monitoring, analysis and reporting mechanism on conflict-related sexual violence. However, emphasis must now be placed on progress in enhancing protection on the ground." Joined by Canada, Norway, and South Africa, the Japanese statement similarly expressed that it "expect[s] that the monitoring, analysis and reporting arrangements on conflict-related sexual violence requested under resolution 1960 (2010) will be operational as soon as possible."

Chile, Peru, South Africa, and Ukraine broadened their focus to the other WPS resolutions. The Kenyan delegation highlighted the WPS institutional structure as evidence of “efforts that are expected to give new impetus to the protection of civilians in conflict.”

“There is no avoiding mention of the Libyan crisis”

- Italian delegation

Italy and Cuba addressed the unique vulnerability of women in armed conflict in a disagreement that divided UN-members during the open debate regarding the validity of the use of force by the international community in Libya for the protection of civilians. Italy argued "With repeated attacks on civilians, including women and children, the situation in the country had deteriorated so drastically that international action to protect the population was the only viable option." Cuba, joined by Nicaragua and Venezuela, asked " How can indiscriminate bombing, the use of sophisticated weapons and aircraft and the death of innocent people, including children, under the pretext of protecting other equally innocent civilians, be justified?...The silence of the Organization in the face of the murder of innocent people, including women and children, perpetrated by the foreign troops attacking that country, is outrageous.” Under-Secretary-General Amos also cited concern “over civilian casualties resulting from coalition air strikes.”

The delegation of Turkey acknowledged that “both conceptually and practically new ground has been broken” in the Council’s treatment of the protection of civilians agenda. Council action in Libya and Côte d’Ivoire mark a departure from what Peru cited as previous inadequacy. In the November 2010 debate, they “outlined a clear message to the effect that the United Nations can and must do more on the ground to meet the requirements for the protection of civilians.” However, many statements suggested that this enhanced attention should go to the funding of PoC mandates in Peacekeeing Missions in order to address the current resource gaps, which make the effective protection of civilians improbable.

Broader suggestions to the Council included the need for consistency in responding to protection crises among civilians. In this vein, statements by Bangladesh, Cuba, Nicaragua, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, and Venezuela cited the civilians in occupied Palestinian territories as deserving of Council-level protection measures.

Participants

Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Croatia, Cuba, France, Gabon, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, Nicaragua , Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Portugal, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Slovenia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Syrian Arab Republic, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Uruguay, United States of America, Venezuela, as well as the Human Security Network, the European Union delegation.

The Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator (OCHA), Valerie Amos; Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO), Alain Le Roy; and the Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, Ivan Simonivic, speaking on behalf of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR), Navi Pillay, briefed the Council in their respective fields and identified entry points for Council action on the protection of civilians in armed conflict.

Note: Bolded names refer to statements, which referenced women/gender.

Statement Extracts by Theme
Statements by Country/Region

Civil Society (CSO)

UN Security Council Members

UN Security Council Members
Nigeria (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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We can think of no better way to keep civilians out of harm’s way than to prevent conflict before it breaks out. Prevention is infinitely better than cure. We therefore urge the international community to lend greater support to the preventive diplomacy initiatives of civil society and regional and subregional bodies and efforts, such as the Economic Community of West African States Observation and Monitoring System. Such measures encourage stability and thereby reduce the vulnerability of women, men and children caught in conflict. In this way, we might protect civilians beyond those on the agenda of this Council.

Conflict Prevention

UN Security Council Members | Non-Security Council Member States

UN Security Council Members
Nigeria (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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We can think of no better way to keep civilians out of harm’s way than to prevent conflict before it breaks out. Prevention is infinitely better than cure. We therefore urge the international community to lend greater support to the preventive diplomacy initiatives of civil society and regional and subregional bodies and efforts, such as the Economic Community of West African States Observation and Monitoring System. Such measures encourage stability and thereby reduce the vulnerability of women, men and children caught in conflict. In this way, we might protect civilians beyond those on the agenda of this Council.
Non-Security Council Member States
Austria (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The events in Walikale in August 2010 and other incidents of widespread sexual violence in situations of armed conflict show that peacekeepers need to have the capacity to interact closely and communicate effectively with local communities and the host Government in order to carry out their mandate and prevent an escalation of violence. We would like to reiterate the importance of taking gender sensitivities into account and making full use of all components available to mission, including civil affairs officers and community liaison interpreters.

Disarmament & DDR

Non-Security Council Member States

Non-Security Council Member States
Austria (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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We also share the concern of the Secretary- General over the threat posed to civilians by explosive weapons, as outlined in his 2010 report on the protection of civilians in armed conflict. Deployed in populated areas, these weapons cause unacceptable suffering for women, children and men, even years after their initial use. Austria urges all States to accede to and strengthen relevant international instruments, such as the Mine Ban Treaty, the Convention on Cluster Munitions, and Additional Protocols II and V to the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons.
Botswana (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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It is reprehensible to resort to armed conflict whenever there is a small difference of opinion between contending parties, each claiming exclusive rights and control over the other. In this conflagration, it is, unfortunately, the women and children who suffer the most, as they are subjected to acts of violence that include murder and maiming; sexual violence; forced displacement from their homes; forced recruitment, in the case of children, as child soldiers; and kidnapping and human trafficking, as well as enslavement and other traumatic psychological experiences.

Displacement

UN Security Council Members | Non-Security Council Member States

UN Security Council Members
Bosnia and Herzegovina (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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With regard to the situation in the Ivory Coast, we also reiterate our deep concern over the reported serious violations of human rights and the use of disproportionate force. We are alarmed by the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the country, where more than a million people have reportedly been internally displaced and more than 100,000 had to flee the country and find shelter in Liberia. We urge the international community to redouble its efforts and provide the much-needed humanitarian assistance. Allegations of the existence of mass graves in the country are worrisome and must be investigated. We condemn the use of sexual violence as a means to political ends and welcome the decision of the Human Rights Council to establish an independent international commission of inquiry.
Non-Security Council Member States
Botswana (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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It is reprehensible to resort to armed conflict whenever there is a small difference of opinion between contending parties, each claiming exclusive rights and control over the other. In this conflagration, it is, unfortunately, the women and children who suffer the most, as they are subjected to acts of violence that include murder and maiming; sexual violence; forced displacement from their homes; forced recruitment, in the case of children, as child soldiers; and kidnapping and human trafficking, as well as enslavement and other traumatic psychological experiences.
Ukraine

10 May 2011

Ukraine is alarmed by the fact that civilians continue to account for the majority of casualties in conflicts, as well as a high number of displaced persons. We are deeply concerned by the frequency and gravity of attacks against civilians, especially women and children, and by issues of safety for humanitarian personnel and of timely humanitarian access to those in need, particularly vulnerable groups. My country attaches great importance to such issues, especially in its capacity as an active participant in peacekeeping operations and as a member of the Peacebuilding Commission and the Executive Board of UN-Women.

General

UN Security Council Members | Non-Security Council Member States

UN Security Council Members
United Arab Emirates (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The United Arab Emirates reiterates its strong condemnation of the serious and tragic crimes committed against peaceful civilians, especially women, children and humanitarian and media workers, in areas of armed conflict. It wishes to emphasize that fair trials and proportional punishment for perpetrators and a system of legal accountability with no impunity all constitute a critical step in developing strategies and efforts to protect people.
United States of America (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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Mr. President, we have a window of opportunity to translate recent Security Council cooperation on civilian protection into lasting improvements in our response to crises. We must seize it—for all of our sakes, and for the sake of the innocent men, women, and children who rely on our collective action to defend them.
Non-Security Council Member States
Slovenia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The situation of civilians in armed conflicts around the world remains alarming. Civilians continue to account for the majority of casualties in conflicts and are often the deliberate targets of different forms of violence by all parties to conflict. Special attention should be paid to the most vulnerable groups, in particular women and children.

Governance & Elections

UN & Civil Society Speakers

UN & Civil Society Speakers
United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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In Côte d’Ivoire, November’s post-election crisis degenerated into a conflict marked by increased violence that seriously affected the civilian population. Direct attacks against civilians, indiscriminate shelling, sexual violence, and attacks against humanitarian workers and peacekeepers have all been reported and must be investigated without delay.

Human Rights & IHL

UN Security Council Members | Non-Security Council Member States | UN & Civil Society Speakers

UN Security Council Members
Bosnia and Herzegovina (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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Civilians are still, and too often, targets in armed attacks and atrocities and are victims of human rights abuses, in particular rape and other sexual violence. It is the unfortunate and unacceptable reality of our times that civilians continue to be a main target for armed attacks and account for a high number of casualties in conflicts.
Croatia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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Despite several positive developments in the Council, Croatia remains extremely concerned about the severity and prevalence of attacks on civilians, especially women and children. The Council has a responsibility to respond to situations of armed conflict where humanitarian assistance is being deliberately obstructed, not merely by calling on the parties involved to allow unimpeded passage to relief, but also by imposing targeted measures in grave instances of the wilful impediment of the delivery of such supplies. The Council needs to provide strong and effective leadership on this issue, including by taking concrete action when necessary, with the ultimate aim of ending mass atrocities. We thus support the international community’s increased preparedness to take collective action through the Security Council when national authorities manifestly fail to protect their populations from violations of humanitarian law.
United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in follow-up to the recent mapping report, the Government is preparing to establish a special chamber to investigate serious violations of international law, including mass killings, sexual violence and displacement, and to prosecute the perpetrators. However, as we have recently discussed with the Minister of Justice, the current draft law needs to be amended to guarantee the inclusion of a sufficient international component and to protect the independence and integrity of the process.
United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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As far as sexual violence is concerned, the scale of the problem requires reinforced efforts. In accordance with the letter and spirit of Security Council resolutions 1888 (2009) and 1960 (2010), OHCHR is in discussion with all relevant United Nations partners regarding the possibility of women protection advisers being located within the human rights components.
Non-Security Council Member States
Armenia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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It is unfortunate that, despite the existence of international legal instruments and normative mechanisms, innocent civilians, including women and children, as well as international humanitarian personnel, continue to suffer in conflict situations. Undoubtedly, the prosecution of those responsible for crimes committed against peaceful populations continues to be an urgent matter. We believe that the Security Council should further contribute to the strengthening of the rule of law and the upholding of international law by supporting criminal justice mechanisms. The relevant United Nations entities and international treaty bodies should also continue to play their important role. The priority at this point is to ensure the comprehensive and effective implementation of existing norms.
Canada (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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It is also important that protection strategies be clear, concrete and measurable. That can be ensured by drawing on clear indicators and benchmarks, which can help demonstrate where progress is being made and where additional efforts are required. Monitoring and reporting mechanisms contribute to ensuring that violations of international human rights and international humanitarian law are documented and reported to the Council for consideration and action. In this regard, Canada welcomed the Security Council’s adoption of resolution 1960 (2010) in December 2010, which calls for the establishment of monitoring, analysis and reporting arrangements to address conflict-related sexual violence.
Croatia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

In our opinion, the question of the protection of civilians in armed conflict deserves more consistent attention from the Council. Statistics over the past 20 to 30 years clearly show that civilian casualties in conflict areas have consistently outnumbered military casualties and continue to do so. In the twenty-first century we are still witnessing gross violations of international humanitarian law in which civilians are increasingly and deliberately becoming a primary target of armed groups. It is evident that the nature of contemporary conflict has changed. Nowadays, in the conduct of armed conflict, civilians more often than not become the targets of armed attacks and atrocities that include murder, deportation and ethnic cleansing, as well as rape and sexual violence, which have thus become weapons of war.
Italy (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The violence perpetrated against populations, even women and children in some cases, in Côte d’Ivoire, Libya, Yemen and, more recently, Syria is a tragic reminder of the importance of protecting civilians. Italy calls on all States and non-State actors to abide by international humanitarian and human rights law and has always been ready to help all parties to a conflict to exercise their responsibility to protect civilians.
Ukraine

10 May 2011

We welcome the increased understanding of the primacy of the protection of civilians in situations of armed conflict and the ever-growing attention to this issue within the United Nations. Ukraine commends the work of the Secretary-General and his Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, as well as that of Member States, particularly concerning the implementation of resolutions relating to women and peace and security. My delegation fully supports a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue of the protection of civilians. This will entail, in particular, taking further action to address core challenges, namely, to strengthen compliance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law, including by non-State armed groups; to improve the mechanisms for the protection of civilians through United Nations peace operations; and to improve humanitarian access and strengthen accountability for violations.
Ukraine

10 May 2011

It is the same unshakable commitment and sense of responsibility for the protection of civilians under threat of imminent violence that lies behind Ukraine’s decision to be an active participant in the provision of temporary reinforcements to the United Nations Operation in Côte d’Ivoire. We are proud of the contribution that the Ukrainian aviation unit made to the United Nations efforts to save civilians in Abidjan, thanks to which thousands of innocent lives, mainly of women and children, were spared the imminent danger posed by deadly heavy weaponry. As in the first case I mentioned, Ukraine acted strictly in accordance with international law, and in particular with the unanimously adopted resolution 1975 (2011).
Uruguay (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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Finally, I would like to reiterate that Uruguay believes the agenda on the protection of civilians in armed conflict to be a multidimensional one. It is informed and sustained by more specific, although closely linked, issues, such as, among others, those of children in armed conflict and women and peace and security. It is therefore essential to make progress in as coordinated a manner as possible in order to achieve synergies, avoid duplication of effort and, as effectively as possible, take advantage of the tools at the disposal of the Organization in the field. That will make possible greater coordination among all stakeholders involved, which will lead to more coherent responses in the protection of civilians — especially for groups in vulnerable situations, who are the most exposed and require greater efforts to secure their effective protection. That will also make it possible for us to focus more closely on post-conflict tasks, such as the reintegration of victims whose rights have been gravely violated and children who have been affected by armed conflict.
UN & Civil Society Speakers
Human Security Network

10 May 2011

Significant progress has been made in recent years in the normative and institutional framework with the adoption of important resolutions, most recently resolution 1960 (2010), which established a monitoring, analysis and reporting mechanism on conflict-related sexual violence. However, emphasis must now be placed on progress in enhancing protection on the ground. The worrying recent increase in the number of conflict situations, in particular in countries in North Africa and the Middle East, leaves no doubt that we need to strengthen our efforts so as to protect civilians from the impact of armed conflict and from becoming targets of attacks. We are deeply concerned by the use of force against civilians and by ongoing violations of international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.

Implementation by Member States

UN Security Council Members | Non-Security Council Member States

UN Security Council Members
Gabon (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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With respect to the systematic violence carried out against women and girls, we welcome the investigations that are under way in the country, which reflect the determination of MONUSCO and of the Congolese Government to combat impunity.
South Africa (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The plight of women and children, in particular, remains perilous and requires urgent attention. South Africa appreciates the efforts of many Governments, including those of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Chad, to combat sexual violence, as demonstrated by the arrest of senior military officers involved in crimes of conflict-related sexual violence. The increased momentum in the implementation of resolutions 1325 (2000), 1612 (2005) and 1960 (2010), including on monitoring, information-sharing and reporting, needs to be further accelerated.
Non-Security Council Member States
Austria (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

We also share the concern of the Secretary- General over the threat posed to civilians by explosive weapons, as outlined in his 2010 report on the protection of civilians in armed conflict. Deployed in populated areas, these weapons cause unacceptable suffering for women, children and men, even years after their initial use. Austria urges all States to accede to and strengthen relevant international instruments, such as the Mine Ban Treaty, the Convention on Cluster Munitions, and Additional Protocols II and V to the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons.
Chile

10 May 2011

In recent years, the United Nations has made significant progress in the protection of civilians in armed conflict. The Council has adopted a number of important resolutions, including resolution 1325 (2000) on the protection of women in armed conflict, the significance of which marked a milestone in efforts to address that issue. My country has developed its own national plan in that regard. The Council also adopted resolution 1960 (2011) establishing monitoring, analysis and reporting arrangements on conflict-related sexual violence.
Italy (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The violence perpetrated against populations, even women and children in some cases, in Côte d’Ivoire, Libya, Yemen and, more recently, Syria is a tragic reminder of the importance of protecting civilians. Italy calls on all States and non-State actors to abide by international humanitarian and human rights law and has always been ready to help all parties to a conflict to exercise their responsibility to protect civilians.

Implementation by the Security Council

UN Security Council Members | Non-Security Council Member States | UN & Civil Society Speakers

UN Security Council Members
Brazil (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The protection of civilians in armed conflict is one of the crucial challenges of our time. In the Security Council and other forums, Brazil has sought to contribute to the United Nations efforts in that area. Last February, during the Brazilian presidency of the Security Council, we organized a meeting aimed at considering all dimensions of the protection agenda (see S/PV.6479).
Croatia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

Despite several positive developments in the Council, Croatia remains extremely concerned about the severity and prevalence of attacks on civilians, especially women and children. The Council has a responsibility to respond to situations of armed conflict where humanitarian assistance is being deliberately obstructed, not merely by calling on the parties involved to allow unimpeded passage to relief, but also by imposing targeted measures in grave instances of the wilful impediment of the delivery of such supplies. The Council needs to provide strong and effective leadership on this issue, including by taking concrete action when necessary, with the ultimate aim of ending mass atrocities. We thus support the international community’s increased preparedness to take collective action through the Security Council when national authorities manifestly fail to protect their populations from violations of humanitarian law.
India (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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An enormous amount of the Council’s attention has been focused recently on protection issues, with the Council adopting a number of resolutions and statements on the protection of civilians and related issues of violence against women and children in situations of armed conflict. In bringing those protection issues within the purview of matters relating to international peace and security, the Council has placed them squarely at the centre of the conflict resolution and peacekeeping agenda. That intense focus has, in some situations of conflict, shifted attention from the tried and tested methods of mediation and negotiation that are the staples of conflict resolution.
Japan (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The ability of the Security Council to enforce accountability for the protection of civilians, especially women and children, must be further strengthened. In that regard, we expect that the monitoring, analysis and reporting arrangements on conflict-related sexual violence requested under resolution 1960 (2010) will be operational as soon as possible. We also expect the Council to take action to hold accountable any parties that attack schools.
South Africa (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

The plight of women and children, in particular, remains perilous and requires urgent attention. South Africa appreciates the efforts of many Governments, including those of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Chad, to combat sexual violence, as demonstrated by the arrest of senior military officers involved in crimes of conflict-related sexual violence. The increased momentum in the implementation of resolutions 1325 (2000), 1612 (2005) and 1960 (2010), including on monitoring, information-sharing and reporting, needs to be further accelerated.
South Africa (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

In February, at the initiative of the Brazilian presidency, the Council held informal consultations to discuss protection-related items on its agenda, namely, protection of civilians, children and armed conflict, and women and peace and security. South Africa supports this holistic approach, whereby these issues are dealt with in a coherent manner. In that regard, actions undertaken by the Secretariat should be mutually reinforcing.
Non-Security Council Member States
Armenia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

It is unfortunate that, despite the existence of international legal instruments and normative mechanisms, innocent civilians, including women and children, as well as international humanitarian personnel, continue to suffer in conflict situations. Undoubtedly, the prosecution of those responsible for crimes committed against peaceful populations continues to be an urgent matter. We believe that the Security Council should further contribute to the strengthening of the rule of law and the upholding of international law by supporting criminal justice mechanisms. The relevant United Nations entities and international treaty bodies should also continue to play their important role. The priority at this point is to ensure the comprehensive and effective implementation of existing norms.
Croatia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

In our opinion, the question of the protection of civilians in armed conflict deserves more consistent attention from the Council. Statistics over the past 20 to 30 years clearly show that civilian casualties in conflict areas have consistently outnumbered military casualties and continue to do so. In the twenty-first century we are still witnessing gross violations of international humanitarian law in which civilians are increasingly and deliberately becoming a primary target of armed groups. It is evident that the nature of contemporary conflict has changed. Nowadays, in the conduct of armed conflict, civilians more often than not become the targets of armed attacks and atrocities that include murder, deportation and ethnic cleansing, as well as rape and sexual violence, which have thus become weapons of war.
Cuba (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

How can indiscriminate bombing, the use of sophisticated weapons and aircraft and the death of innocent people, including children, under the pretext of protecting other equally innocent civilians, be justified? The United Nations has made no statements whatsoever regarding the protection of the civilian victims of NATO’s aggression against a sovereign country. The silence of the Organization in the face of the murder of innocent people, including women and children, perpetrated by the foreign troops attacking that country, is outrageous.
Italy (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

There is no avoiding mention of the Libyan crisis, also in the light of the important results obtained at the second meeting of the Contact Group on Libya, held in Rome on 5 May. With repeated attacks on civilians, including women and children, the situation in the country had deteriorated so drastically that international action to protect the population was the only viable option. That is why Italy supported the Security Council’s intervention from the beginning of the crisis and, in complete coherence with resolutions 1970 (2011) and 1973 (2011), contributed to the collective action under way, which has prevented even greater violence being committed against the Libyan people.
Qatar

10 May 2011

Those efforts led to the Security Council’s establishment of a Working Group tasked with the protection of civilians and to draw up plans to put an end to all murder and other forms of violence, including sexual violence, affecting civilians. However, the thrust of the recommendations and presidential statements by the Council have unfortunately not yielded the desired results. We therefore call for respect for all legal obligations and resolutions adopted in this area, as the failure to implement them would lead to the proliferation of a culture of impunity and more violence against civilians.
Slovenia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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Situation-specific resolutions have increasingly called for protection to be prioritized in the implementation of peacekeeping mandates. We particularly welcome the development of comprehensive strategies on the protection of civilians, which assist missions in understanding the relevant threats facing civilians in their areas of operation and enable them to better channel their efforts towards addressing them. Special attention should be given to including appropriate wording on sexual and genderbased violence when formulating peacekeeping mandates, given the ongoing reports of mass rapes and similar crimes from conflict zones. It is essential that the Council provide peacekeeping missions with clear mandates and appropriate resources to enable peacekeepers to implement their mandate fully.
Uruguay (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

Finally, I would like to reiterate that Uruguay believes the agenda on the protection of civilians in armed conflict to be a multidimensional one. It is informed and sustained by more specific, although closely linked, issues, such as, among others, those of children in armed conflict and women and peace and security. It is therefore essential to make progress in as coordinated a manner as possible in order to achieve synergies, avoid duplication of effort and, as effectively as possible, take advantage of the tools at the disposal of the Organization in the field. That will make possible greater coordination among all stakeholders involved, which will lead to more coherent responses in the protection of civilians — especially for groups in vulnerable situations, who are the most exposed and require greater efforts to secure their effective protection. That will also make it possible for us to focus more closely on post-conflict tasks, such as the reintegration of victims whose rights have been gravely violated and children who have been affected by armed conflict.
UN & Civil Society Speakers
Human Security Network (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

The protection of civilians in armed conflict is a priority of the Human Security Network. We highly value the continued attention that the Security Council is giving to that important issue. The holding of informal consultations of the Security Council on protection issues last February was a welcome step to address the three pillars of the protection architecture — namely, the protection of civilians, children and armed conflict, and women and peace and security — in a comprehensive and coherent manner.
Human Security Network

10 May 2011

Significant progress has been made in recent years in the normative and institutional framework with the adoption of important resolutions, most recently resolution 1960 (2010), which established a monitoring, analysis and reporting mechanism on conflict-related sexual violence. However, emphasis must now be placed on progress in enhancing protection on the ground. The worrying recent increase in the number of conflict situations, in particular in countries in North Africa and the Middle East, leaves no doubt that we need to strengthen our efforts so as to protect civilians from the impact of armed conflict and from becoming targets of attacks. We are deeply concerned by the use of force against civilians and by ongoing violations of international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.

Implementation by the UN System

Non-Security Council Member States

Non-Security Council Member States
Armenia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

It is unfortunate that, despite the existence of international legal instruments and normative mechanisms, innocent civilians, including women and children, as well as international humanitarian personnel, continue to suffer in conflict situations. Undoubtedly, the prosecution of those responsible for crimes committed against peaceful populations continues to be an urgent matter. We believe that the Security Council should further contribute to the strengthening of the rule of law and the upholding of international law by supporting criminal justice mechanisms. The relevant United Nations entities and international treaty bodies should also continue to play their important role. The priority at this point is to ensure the comprehensive and effective implementation of existing norms.
Kenya

10 May 2011

Sexual violence is no longer a simple by-product of armed conflict. It is being used as a weapon of war, aimed at dehumanizing and instilling fear in civilians in situations of armed conflict. Whether carried out by non-State armed groups or Government security forces in conflict and post-conflict situations, it is to some extent designed to achieve political and military objectives. The adoptions of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) addressing the impact of war on women, resolution 1820 (2008) calling for the cessation of all acts of sexual violence against civilians, and resolution 1888 (2009) establishing the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary- General on Sexual Violence in Conflict are efforts that are expected to give new impetus to the protection of civilians in conflict. As the United Nations considers a new configuration in the Sudan, the issue of protection of civilians should remain pivotal.
Republic of Korea (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

Thirdly, sexual violence against women and girls in armed conflicts is one of the most horrible forms of violence, not only against civilians but against civilization itself, and it deserves our special attention. Women and girls are most vulnerable, and sexual violence has a devastating and corrosive effect on society as a whole. My delegation hopes for increased coordination among the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, UN Women, the Department of Peacekeeping Operations and other relevant organizations to better tackle these atrocious crimes.

Indicators

Non-Security Council Member States

Non-Security Council Member States
Canada (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

It is also important that protection strategies be clear, concrete and measurable. That can be ensured by drawing on clear indicators and benchmarks, which can help demonstrate where progress is being made and where additional efforts are required. Monitoring and reporting mechanisms contribute to ensuring that violations of international human rights and international humanitarian law are documented and reported to the Council for consideration and action. In this regard, Canada welcomed the Security Council’s adoption of resolution 1960 (2010) in December 2010, which calls for the establishment of monitoring, analysis and reporting arrangements to address conflict-related sexual violence.

Justice & Rule of Law & SSR

UN Security Council Members | Non-Security Council Member States

UN Security Council Members
Bosnia and Herzegovina (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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With regard to the situation in the Ivory Coast, we also reiterate our deep concern over the reported serious violations of human rights and the use of disproportionate force. We are alarmed by the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the country, where more than a million people have reportedly been internally displaced and more than 100,000 had to flee the country and find shelter in Liberia. We urge the international community to redouble its efforts and provide the much-needed humanitarian assistance. Allegations of the existence of mass graves in the country are worrisome and must be investigated. We condemn the use of sexual violence as a means to political ends and welcome the decision of the Human Rights Council to establish an independent international commission of inquiry.
Gabon (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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With respect to the systematic violence carried out against women and girls, we welcome the investigations that are under way in the country, which reflect the determination of MONUSCO and of the Congolese Government to combat impunity.
South Africa (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

The plight of women and children, in particular, remains perilous and requires urgent attention. South Africa appreciates the efforts of many Governments, including those of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Chad, to combat sexual violence, as demonstrated by the arrest of senior military officers involved in crimes of conflict-related sexual violence. The increased momentum in the implementation of resolutions 1325 (2000), 1612 (2005) and 1960 (2010), including on monitoring, information-sharing and reporting, needs to be further accelerated.
South Africa (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

South Africa is fully committed to the protection of civilians in armed conflict and continues to support a strengthened normative and legal framework for enhancing such protection measures. We welcome the concerted efforts of the international community to protect civilians in armed conflict. Despite such positive efforts and the progressive steps that are being taken, scores of civilians in many regions of the world are still harmed or maimed during armed conflicts, from Afghanistan to Somalia to Libya to Côte d’Ivoire. In this regard, we regret deeply that civilians, in particular women and children, continue to account for the vast majority of casualties in armed conflicts.
United Arab Emirates (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The United Arab Emirates reiterates its strong condemnation of the serious and tragic crimes committed against peaceful civilians, especially women, children and humanitarian and media workers, in areas of armed conflict. It wishes to emphasize that fair trials and proportional punishment for perpetrators and a system of legal accountability with no impunity all constitute a critical step in developing strategies and efforts to protect people.
United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in follow-up to the recent mapping report, the Government is preparing to establish a special chamber to investigate serious violations of international law, including mass killings, sexual violence and displacement, and to prosecute the perpetrators. However, as we have recently discussed with the Minister of Justice, the current draft law needs to be amended to guarantee the inclusion of a sufficient international component and to protect the independence and integrity of the process.
Non-Security Council Member States
Armenia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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It is unfortunate that, despite the existence of international legal instruments and normative mechanisms, innocent civilians, including women and children, as well as international humanitarian personnel, continue to suffer in conflict situations. Undoubtedly, the prosecution of those responsible for crimes committed against peaceful populations continues to be an urgent matter. We believe that the Security Council should further contribute to the strengthening of the rule of law and the upholding of international law by supporting criminal justice mechanisms. The relevant United Nations entities and international treaty bodies should also continue to play their important role. The priority at this point is to ensure the comprehensive and effective implementation of existing norms.
Qatar

10 May 2011

Those efforts led to the Security Council’s establishment of a Working Group tasked with the protection of civilians and to draw up plans to put an end to all murder and other forms of violence, including sexual violence, affecting civilians. However, the thrust of the recommendations and presidential statements by the Council have unfortunately not yielded the desired results. We therefore call for respect for all legal obligations and resolutions adopted in this area, as the failure to implement them would lead to the proliferation of a culture of impunity and more violence against civilians.

Participation

UN Security Council Members | Non-Security Council Member States

UN Security Council Members
India (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

We have remained at the cutting edge of many United Nations operations in places where civilians were under threat. Today, we have a female formed police unit — the first such formation composed entirely of women — in the United Nations Mission in Liberia. Thus, India brings to this table a quantum of experience in actually protecting civilians in peacekeeping missions that is unique in its relevance, variety and depth.
Nigeria (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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We can think of no better way to keep civilians out of harm’s way than to prevent conflict before it breaks out. Prevention is infinitely better than cure. We therefore urge the international community to lend greater support to the preventive diplomacy initiatives of civil society and regional and subregional bodies and efforts, such as the Economic Community of West African States Observation and Monitoring System. Such measures encourage stability and thereby reduce the vulnerability of women, men and children caught in conflict. In this way, we might protect civilians beyond those on the agenda of this Council.
Non-Security Council Member States
Australia

10 May 2011

Engaging local communities, including women, in discussions on protection requirements is key both in the planning stages and while peacekeeping missions are deployed in the field. Engaging the community builds trust and lines of communication; it assists in ensuring consistency with efforts which communities already have under way, and can help manage expectations about what peacekeeping missions are able to do, which can assist in preserving their credibility. The development of community alert networks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a good example of local engagement that allows isolated communities to contact local authorities and bases of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo when under threat.

Peacekeeping

UN Security Council Members | Non-Security Council Member States

UN Security Council Members
Gabon (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

With respect to the systematic violence carried out against women and girls, we welcome the investigations that are under way in the country, which reflect the determination of MONUSCO and of the Congolese Government to combat impunity.
India (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

We have remained at the cutting edge of many United Nations operations in places where civilians were under threat. Today, we have a female formed police unit — the first such formation composed entirely of women — in the United Nations Mission in Liberia. Thus, India brings to this table a quantum of experience in actually protecting civilians in peacekeeping missions that is unique in its relevance, variety and depth.
United States of America (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

We have seen progress—led by member states in concert with the Secretariat—to improve the tools, guidance, and resources to help UN missions identify and address the threats to populations in conflict zones. We must continue to learn from experience and provide better support to missions, including doing more to address sexual and gender-based violence. In difficult environments, such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the UN has developed mission-wide protection strategies, including establishing community-liaison assistants and joint-protection teams to better protect civilians. We welcome these efforts
Non-Security Council Member States
Australia

10 May 2011

Engaging local communities, including women, in discussions on protection requirements is key both in the planning stages and while peacekeeping missions are deployed in the field. Engaging the community builds trust and lines of communication; it assists in ensuring consistency with efforts which communities already have under way, and can help manage expectations about what peacekeeping missions are able to do, which can assist in preserving their credibility. The development of community alert networks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a good example of local engagement that allows isolated communities to contact local authorities and bases of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo when under threat.
Austria (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The events in Walikale in August 2010 and other incidents of widespread sexual violence in situations of armed conflict show that peacekeepers need to have the capacity to interact closely and communicate effectively with local communities and the host Government in order to carry out their mandate and prevent an escalation of violence. We would like to reiterate the importance of taking gender sensitivities into account and making full use of all components available to mission, including civil affairs officers and community liaison interpreters.
European Union

10 May 2011

The European Union commends the work conducted within the United Nations in recent years to foster and strengthen a common understanding of protection of civilians in armed conflicts. The joint efforts in the United Nations have, in addition to increasing the understanding of the concept of the protection of civilians, also resulted in the establishment of a platform for action. The landmark resolution 1894 (2009) provides a solid basis, and recent developments in this regard include the presidential statement and updated aide-memoire of November last year (S/PRST/2010/25), the adoption of resolution 1960 (2010) on sexual violence in conflict, and the development of a stronger framework for the protection of civilians by peacekeepers. The European Union strongly welcomes these developments. Indeed, what is important is to make full and coherent use of this platform in order to make a difference on the ground. The informal expert group on protection of civilians has an important role to play in this regard.
Norway

10 May 2011

It is important to emphasize that the common positions on the protection of civilians agenda, which have been developed by the international community over the past decade, need to be upheld and further enhanced. The updated aidememoire (S/PRST/2010/25, annex), the adoption of resolution 1960 (2010), which establishes a monitoring and reporting mechanism on conflict-related sexual violence, and the new strategic framework for the protection of civilians in peacekeeping missions are important steps forward.
Republic of Korea (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

Thirdly, sexual violence against women and girls in armed conflicts is one of the most horrible forms of violence, not only against civilians but against civilization itself, and it deserves our special attention. Women and girls are most vulnerable, and sexual violence has a devastating and corrosive effect on society as a whole. My delegation hopes for increased coordination among the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, UN Women, the Department of Peacekeeping Operations and other relevant organizations to better tackle these atrocious crimes.
Slovenia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

Situation-specific resolutions have increasingly called for protection to be prioritized in the implementation of peacekeeping mandates. We particularly welcome the development of comprehensive strategies on the protection of civilians, which assist missions in understanding the relevant threats facing civilians in their areas of operation and enable them to better channel their efforts towards addressing them. Special attention should be given to including appropriate wording on sexual and genderbased violence when formulating peacekeeping mandates, given the ongoing reports of mass rapes and similar crimes from conflict zones. It is essential that the Council provide peacekeeping missions with clear mandates and appropriate resources to enable peacekeepers to implement their mandate fully.
Ukraine

10 May 2011

Ukraine is alarmed by the fact that civilians continue to account for the majority of casualties in conflicts, as well as a high number of displaced persons. We are deeply concerned by the frequency and gravity of attacks against civilians, especially women and children, and by issues of safety for humanitarian personnel and of timely humanitarian access to those in need, particularly vulnerable groups. My country attaches great importance to such issues, especially in its capacity as an active participant in peacekeeping operations and as a member of the Peacebuilding Commission and the Executive Board of UN-Women.

Protection

UN Security Council Members | Non-Security Council Member States | UN & Civil Society Speakers

UN Security Council Members
Brazil (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

The protection of civilians in armed conflict is one of the crucial challenges of our time. In the Security Council and other forums, Brazil has sought to contribute to the United Nations efforts in that area. Last February, during the Brazilian presidency of the Security Council, we organized a meeting aimed at considering all dimensions of the protection agenda (see S/PV.6479).
Croatia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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Despite several positive developments in the Council, Croatia remains extremely concerned about the severity and prevalence of attacks on civilians, especially women and children. The Council has a responsibility to respond to situations of armed conflict where humanitarian assistance is being deliberately obstructed, not merely by calling on the parties involved to allow unimpeded passage to relief, but also by imposing targeted measures in grave instances of the wilful impediment of the delivery of such supplies. The Council needs to provide strong and effective leadership on this issue, including by taking concrete action when necessary, with the ultimate aim of ending mass atrocities. We thus support the international community’s increased preparedness to take collective action through the Security Council when national authorities manifestly fail to protect their populations from violations of humanitarian law.
India (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

We have remained at the cutting edge of many United Nations operations in places where civilians were under threat. Today, we have a female formed police unit — the first such formation composed entirely of women — in the United Nations Mission in Liberia. Thus, India brings to this table a quantum of experience in actually protecting civilians in peacekeeping missions that is unique in its relevance, variety and depth.
India (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

An enormous amount of the Council’s attention has been focused recently on protection issues, with the Council adopting a number of resolutions and statements on the protection of civilians and related issues of violence against women and children in situations of armed conflict. In bringing those protection issues within the purview of matters relating to international peace and security, the Council has placed them squarely at the centre of the conflict resolution and peacekeeping agenda. That intense focus has, in some situations of conflict, shifted attention from the tried and tested methods of mediation and negotiation that are the staples of conflict resolution.
Japan (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

The ability of the Security Council to enforce accountability for the protection of civilians, especially women and children, must be further strengthened. In that regard, we expect that the monitoring, analysis and reporting arrangements on conflict-related sexual violence requested under resolution 1960 (2010) will be operational as soon as possible. We also expect the Council to take action to hold accountable any parties that attack schools.
South Africa (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

The plight of women and children, in particular, remains perilous and requires urgent attention. South Africa appreciates the efforts of many Governments, including those of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Chad, to combat sexual violence, as demonstrated by the arrest of senior military officers involved in crimes of conflict-related sexual violence. The increased momentum in the implementation of resolutions 1325 (2000), 1612 (2005) and 1960 (2010), including on monitoring, information-sharing and reporting, needs to be further accelerated.
South Africa (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

In February, at the initiative of the Brazilian presidency, the Council held informal consultations to discuss protection-related items on its agenda, namely, protection of civilians, children and armed conflict, and women and peace and security. South Africa supports this holistic approach, whereby these issues are dealt with in a coherent manner. In that regard, actions undertaken by the Secretariat should be mutually reinforcing.
South Africa (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

South Africa is fully committed to the protection of civilians in armed conflict and continues to support a strengthened normative and legal framework for enhancing such protection measures. We welcome the concerted efforts of the international community to protect civilians in armed conflict. Despite such positive efforts and the progressive steps that are being taken, scores of civilians in many regions of the world are still harmed or maimed during armed conflicts, from Afghanistan to Somalia to Libya to Côte d’Ivoire. In this regard, we regret deeply that civilians, in particular women and children, continue to account for the vast majority of casualties in armed conflicts.
United States of America (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

We have seen progress—led by member states in concert with the Secretariat—to improve the tools, guidance, and resources to help UN missions identify and address the threats to populations in conflict zones. We must continue to learn from experience and provide better support to missions, including doing more to address sexual and gender-based violence. In difficult environments, such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the UN has developed mission-wide protection strategies, including establishing community-liaison assistants and joint-protection teams to better protect civilians. We welcome these efforts
Non-Security Council Member States
Australia

10 May 2011

Engaging local communities, including women, in discussions on protection requirements is key both in the planning stages and while peacekeeping missions are deployed in the field. Engaging the community builds trust and lines of communication; it assists in ensuring consistency with efforts which communities already have under way, and can help manage expectations about what peacekeeping missions are able to do, which can assist in preserving their credibility. The development of community alert networks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a good example of local engagement that allows isolated communities to contact local authorities and bases of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo when under threat.
Canada (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

It is also important that protection strategies be clear, concrete and measurable. That can be ensured by drawing on clear indicators and benchmarks, which can help demonstrate where progress is being made and where additional efforts are required. Monitoring and reporting mechanisms contribute to ensuring that violations of international human rights and international humanitarian law are documented and reported to the Council for consideration and action. In this regard, Canada welcomed the Security Council’s adoption of resolution 1960 (2010) in December 2010, which calls for the establishment of monitoring, analysis and reporting arrangements to address conflict-related sexual violence.
Chile

10 May 2011

In recent years, the United Nations has made significant progress in the protection of civilians in armed conflict. The Council has adopted a number of important resolutions, including resolution 1325 (2000) on the protection of women in armed conflict, the significance of which marked a milestone in efforts to address that issue. My country has developed its own national plan in that regard. The Council also adopted resolution 1960 (2011) establishing monitoring, analysis and reporting arrangements on conflict-related sexual violence.
Cuba (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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How can indiscriminate bombing, the use of sophisticated weapons and aircraft and the death of innocent people, including children, under the pretext of protecting other equally innocent civilians, be justified? The United Nations has made no statements whatsoever regarding the protection of the civilian victims of NATO’s aggression against a sovereign country. The silence of the Organization in the face of the murder of innocent people, including women and children, perpetrated by the foreign troops attacking that country, is outrageous.
European Union

10 May 2011

The European Union commends the work conducted within the United Nations in recent years to foster and strengthen a common understanding of protection of civilians in armed conflicts. The joint efforts in the United Nations have, in addition to increasing the understanding of the concept of the protection of civilians, also resulted in the establishment of a platform for action. The landmark resolution 1894 (2009) provides a solid basis, and recent developments in this regard include the presidential statement and updated aide-memoire of November last year (S/PRST/2010/25), the adoption of resolution 1960 (2010) on sexual violence in conflict, and the development of a stronger framework for the protection of civilians by peacekeepers. The European Union strongly welcomes these developments. Indeed, what is important is to make full and coherent use of this platform in order to make a difference on the ground. The informal expert group on protection of civilians has an important role to play in this regard.
Italy (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The violence perpetrated against populations, even women and children in some cases, in Côte d’Ivoire, Libya, Yemen and, more recently, Syria is a tragic reminder of the importance of protecting civilians. Italy calls on all States and non-State actors to abide by international humanitarian and human rights law and has always been ready to help all parties to a conflict to exercise their responsibility to protect civilians.
Italy (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

There is no avoiding mention of the Libyan crisis, also in the light of the important results obtained at the second meeting of the Contact Group on Libya, held in Rome on 5 May. With repeated attacks on civilians, including women and children, the situation in the country had deteriorated so drastically that international action to protect the population was the only viable option. That is why Italy supported the Security Council’s intervention from the beginning of the crisis and, in complete coherence with resolutions 1970 (2011) and 1973 (2011), contributed to the collective action under way, which has prevented even greater violence being committed against the Libyan people.
Kenya

10 May 2011

When conflict erupts, its major victims are civilians, mainly women and children. My delegation therefore welcomes the Secretary-General’s latest report (S/2010/579) on the protection of civilians in armed conflict, which provides contemporary guiding principles on the matter.
Kenya

10 May 2011

However, continual cases, such as those involving the mass rape of women and children by rebel groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, are stark reminders that action to stop such violations needs to be taken now. Therefore, today’s debate provides us with yet another opportunity to reflect on the progress made, the challenges we face and the steps we need to take to address this recurring problem while renewing our political will and resolve to rally support for the protection of those helpless civilians who so often find themselves trapped in conflict situations.
Kenya

10 May 2011

Sexual violence is no longer a simple by-product of armed conflict. It is being used as a weapon of war, aimed at dehumanizing and instilling fear in civilians in situations of armed conflict. Whether carried out by non-State armed groups or Government security forces in conflict and post-conflict situations, it is to some extent designed to achieve political and military objectives. The adoptions of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) addressing the impact of war on women, resolution 1820 (2008) calling for the cessation of all acts of sexual violence against civilians, and resolution 1888 (2009) establishing the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary- General on Sexual Violence in Conflict are efforts that are expected to give new impetus to the protection of civilians in conflict. As the United Nations considers a new configuration in the Sudan, the issue of protection of civilians should remain pivotal.
Norway

10 May 2011

It is important to emphasize that the common positions on the protection of civilians agenda, which have been developed by the international community over the past decade, need to be upheld and further enhanced. The updated aidememoire (S/PRST/2010/25, annex), the adoption of resolution 1960 (2010), which establishes a monitoring and reporting mechanism on conflict-related sexual violence, and the new strategic framework for the protection of civilians in peacekeeping missions are important steps forward.
Slovenia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

Situation-specific resolutions have increasingly called for protection to be prioritized in the implementation of peacekeeping mandates. We particularly welcome the development of comprehensive strategies on the protection of civilians, which assist missions in understanding the relevant threats facing civilians in their areas of operation and enable them to better channel their efforts towards addressing them. Special attention should be given to including appropriate wording on sexual and genderbased violence when formulating peacekeeping mandates, given the ongoing reports of mass rapes and similar crimes from conflict zones. It is essential that the Council provide peacekeeping missions with clear mandates and appropriate resources to enable peacekeepers to implement their mandate fully.
Ukraine

10 May 2011

We welcome the increased understanding of the primacy of the protection of civilians in situations of armed conflict and the ever-growing attention to this issue within the United Nations. Ukraine commends the work of the Secretary-General and his Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, as well as that of Member States, particularly concerning the implementation of resolutions relating to women and peace and security. My delegation fully supports a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue of the protection of civilians. This will entail, in particular, taking further action to address core challenges, namely, to strengthen compliance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law, including by non-State armed groups; to improve the mechanisms for the protection of civilians through United Nations peace operations; and to improve humanitarian access and strengthen accountability for violations.
Ukraine

10 May 2011

It is the same unshakable commitment and sense of responsibility for the protection of civilians under threat of imminent violence that lies behind Ukraine’s decision to be an active participant in the provision of temporary reinforcements to the United Nations Operation in Côte d’Ivoire. We are proud of the contribution that the Ukrainian aviation unit made to the United Nations efforts to save civilians in Abidjan, thanks to which thousands of innocent lives, mainly of women and children, were spared the imminent danger posed by deadly heavy weaponry. As in the first case I mentioned, Ukraine acted strictly in accordance with international law, and in particular with the unanimously adopted resolution 1975 (2011).
Uruguay (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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Finally, I would like to reiterate that Uruguay believes the agenda on the protection of civilians in armed conflict to be a multidimensional one. It is informed and sustained by more specific, although closely linked, issues, such as, among others, those of children in armed conflict and women and peace and security. It is therefore essential to make progress in as coordinated a manner as possible in order to achieve synergies, avoid duplication of effort and, as effectively as possible, take advantage of the tools at the disposal of the Organization in the field. That will make possible greater coordination among all stakeholders involved, which will lead to more coherent responses in the protection of civilians — especially for groups in vulnerable situations, who are the most exposed and require greater efforts to secure their effective protection. That will also make it possible for us to focus more closely on post-conflict tasks, such as the reintegration of victims whose rights have been gravely violated and children who have been affected by armed conflict.
Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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These issues must be discussed in the United Nations, where some are using the noble purpose of protecting civilians as a pretext to occupy sovereign countries and promote national interests. Humanitarian reasons are invoked while war crimes are committed. Civilians are being killed, including women and children, allegedly in the defence of civilians.
UN & Civil Society Speakers
Human Security Network (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

The protection of civilians in armed conflict is a priority of the Human Security Network. We highly value the continued attention that the Security Council is giving to that important issue. The holding of informal consultations of the Security Council on protection issues last February was a welcome step to address the three pillars of the protection architecture — namely, the protection of civilians, children and armed conflict, and women and peace and security — in a comprehensive and coherent manner.
Human Security Network

10 May 2011

Significant progress has been made in recent years in the normative and institutional framework with the adoption of important resolutions, most recently resolution 1960 (2010), which established a monitoring, analysis and reporting mechanism on conflict-related sexual violence. However, emphasis must now be placed on progress in enhancing protection on the ground. The worrying recent increase in the number of conflict situations, in particular in countries in North Africa and the Middle East, leaves no doubt that we need to strengthen our efforts so as to protect civilians from the impact of armed conflict and from becoming targets of attacks. We are deeply concerned by the use of force against civilians and by ongoing violations of international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.

Sexual and Gender-based Violence

UN Security Council Members | Non-Security Council Member States | UN & Civil Society Speakers

UN Security Council Members
Bosnia and Herzegovina (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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Civilians are still, and too often, targets in armed attacks and atrocities and are victims of human rights abuses, in particular rape and other sexual violence. It is the unfortunate and unacceptable reality of our times that civilians continue to be a main target for armed attacks and account for a high number of casualties in conflicts.
Bosnia and Herzegovina (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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With regard to the situation in the Ivory Coast, we also reiterate our deep concern over the reported serious violations of human rights and the use of disproportionate force. We are alarmed by the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the country, where more than a million people have reportedly been internally displaced and more than 100,000 had to flee the country and find shelter in Liberia. We urge the international community to redouble its efforts and provide the much-needed humanitarian assistance. Allegations of the existence of mass graves in the country are worrisome and must be investigated. We condemn the use of sexual violence as a means to political ends and welcome the decision of the Human Rights Council to establish an independent international commission of inquiry.
Gabon (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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With respect to the systematic violence carried out against women and girls, we welcome the investigations that are under way in the country, which reflect the determination of MONUSCO and of the Congolese Government to combat impunity.
Gabon (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in Côte d’Ivoire and in Libya, as well as other crises, has shown that the vulnerability of civilians in crises continues to be marked by violence of increasing intensity as a result of clashes and confrontations between armed groups. Be it continuing, unpunished violence and sexual abuse, violence related to the exploitation of natural resources or violence resulting from terrorist acts, Gabon has consistently condemned all violence against civilians as well as all acts whose victims are civilians. Such acts must not go unpunished.
Germany (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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Children are sexually abused, killed and/or maimed and sometimes even used as suicide bombers by parties to a conflict.
Japan (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

The ability of the Security Council to enforce accountability for the protection of civilians, especially women and children, must be further strengthened. In that regard, we expect that the monitoring, analysis and reporting arrangements on conflict-related sexual violence requested under resolution 1960 (2010) will be operational as soon as possible. We also expect the Council to take action to hold accountable any parties that attack schools.
Portugal (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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Women are too often subjected to sexual violence used as a tactic of war.
South Africa (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The plight of women and children, in particular, remains perilous and requires urgent attention. South Africa appreciates the efforts of many Governments, including those of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Chad, to combat sexual violence, as demonstrated by the arrest of senior military officers involved in crimes of conflict-related sexual violence. The increased momentum in the implementation of resolutions 1325 (2000), 1612 (2005) and 1960 (2010), including on monitoring, information-sharing and reporting, needs to be further accelerated.
South Africa (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

South Africa is fully committed to the protection of civilians in armed conflict and continues to support a strengthened normative and legal framework for enhancing such protection measures. We welcome the concerted efforts of the international community to protect civilians in armed conflict. Despite such positive efforts and the progressive steps that are being taken, scores of civilians in many regions of the world are still harmed or maimed during armed conflicts, from Afghanistan to Somalia to Libya to Côte d’Ivoire. In this regard, we regret deeply that civilians, in particular women and children, continue to account for the vast majority of casualties in armed conflicts.
United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in follow-up to the recent mapping report, the Government is preparing to establish a special chamber to investigate serious violations of international law, including mass killings, sexual violence and displacement, and to prosecute the perpetrators. However, as we have recently discussed with the Minister of Justice, the current draft law needs to be amended to guarantee the inclusion of a sufficient international component and to protect the independence and integrity of the process.
United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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As far as sexual violence is concerned, the scale of the problem requires reinforced efforts. In accordance with the letter and spirit of Security Council resolutions 1888 (2009) and 1960 (2010), OHCHR is in discussion with all relevant United Nations partners regarding the possibility of women protection advisers being located within the human rights components.
United States of America (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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We have seen progress—led by member states in concert with the Secretariat—to improve the tools, guidance, and resources to help UN missions identify and address the threats to populations in conflict zones. We must continue to learn from experience and provide better support to missions, including doing more to address sexual and gender-based violence. In difficult environments, such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the UN has developed mission-wide protection strategies, including establishing community-liaison assistants and joint-protection teams to better protect civilians. We welcome these efforts
Non-Security Council Member States
Austria (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The events in Walikale in August 2010 and other incidents of widespread sexual violence in situations of armed conflict show that peacekeepers need to have the capacity to interact closely and communicate effectively with local communities and the host Government in order to carry out their mandate and prevent an escalation of violence. We would like to reiterate the importance of taking gender sensitivities into account and making full use of all components available to mission, including civil affairs officers and community liaison interpreters.
Botswana (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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It is reprehensible to resort to armed conflict whenever there is a small difference of opinion between contending parties, each claiming exclusive rights and control over the other. In this conflagration, it is, unfortunately, the women and children who suffer the most, as they are subjected to acts of violence that include murder and maiming; sexual violence; forced displacement from their homes; forced recruitment, in the case of children, as child soldiers; and kidnapping and human trafficking, as well as enslavement and other traumatic psychological experiences.
Canada (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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It is also important that protection strategies be clear, concrete and measurable. That can be ensured by drawing on clear indicators and benchmarks, which can help demonstrate where progress is being made and where additional efforts are required. Monitoring and reporting mechanisms contribute to ensuring that violations of international human rights and international humanitarian law are documented and reported to the Council for consideration and action. In this regard, Canada welcomed the Security Council’s adoption of resolution 1960 (2010) in December 2010, which calls for the establishment of monitoring, analysis and reporting arrangements to address conflict-related sexual violence.
Chile

10 May 2011

In recent years, the United Nations has made significant progress in the protection of civilians in armed conflict. The Council has adopted a number of important resolutions, including resolution 1325 (2000) on the protection of women in armed conflict, the significance of which marked a milestone in efforts to address that issue. My country has developed its own national plan in that regard. The Council also adopted resolution 1960 (2011) establishing monitoring, analysis and reporting arrangements on conflict-related sexual violence.
Croatia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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In our opinion, the question of the protection of civilians in armed conflict deserves more consistent attention from the Council. Statistics over the past 20 to 30 years clearly show that civilian casualties in conflict areas have consistently outnumbered military casualties and continue to do so. In the twenty-first century we are still witnessing gross violations of international humanitarian law in which civilians are increasingly and deliberately becoming a primary target of armed groups. It is evident that the nature of contemporary conflict has changed. Nowadays, in the conduct of armed conflict, civilians more often than not become the targets of armed attacks and atrocities that include murder, deportation and ethnic cleansing, as well as rape and sexual violence, which have thus become weapons of war.
European Union

10 May 2011

The European Union commends the work conducted within the United Nations in recent years to foster and strengthen a common understanding of protection of civilians in armed conflicts. The joint efforts in the United Nations have, in addition to increasing the understanding of the concept of the protection of civilians, also resulted in the establishment of a platform for action. The landmark resolution 1894 (2009) provides a solid basis, and recent developments in this regard include the presidential statement and updated aide-memoire of November last year (S/PRST/2010/25), the adoption of resolution 1960 (2010) on sexual violence in conflict, and the development of a stronger framework for the protection of civilians by peacekeepers. The European Union strongly welcomes these developments. Indeed, what is important is to make full and coherent use of this platform in order to make a difference on the ground. The informal expert group on protection of civilians has an important role to play in this regard.
Kenya

10 May 2011

However, continual cases, such as those involving the mass rape of women and children by rebel groups in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, are stark reminders that action to stop such violations needs to be taken now. Therefore, today’s debate provides us with yet another opportunity to reflect on the progress made, the challenges we face and the steps we need to take to address this recurring problem while renewing our political will and resolve to rally support for the protection of those helpless civilians who so often find themselves trapped in conflict situations.
Kenya

10 May 2011

Sexual violence is no longer a simple by-product of armed conflict. It is being used as a weapon of war, aimed at dehumanizing and instilling fear in civilians in situations of armed conflict. Whether carried out by non-State armed groups or Government security forces in conflict and post-conflict situations, it is to some extent designed to achieve political and military objectives. The adoptions of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000) addressing the impact of war on women, resolution 1820 (2008) calling for the cessation of all acts of sexual violence against civilians, and resolution 1888 (2009) establishing the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary- General on Sexual Violence in Conflict are efforts that are expected to give new impetus to the protection of civilians in conflict. As the United Nations considers a new configuration in the Sudan, the issue of protection of civilians should remain pivotal.
Norway

10 May 2011

It is important to emphasize that the common positions on the protection of civilians agenda, which have been developed by the international community over the past decade, need to be upheld and further enhanced. The updated aidememoire (S/PRST/2010/25, annex), the adoption of resolution 1960 (2010), which establishes a monitoring and reporting mechanism on conflict-related sexual violence, and the new strategic framework for the protection of civilians in peacekeeping missions are important steps forward.
Peru (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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The treatment of the protection of civilians in armed conflict is multidimensional and cuts across the 23 work of the various United Nations bodies, in particular in the context of the General Assembly and the work of the Third and Sixth Committees through various resolutions, among which those on the “Status of the Protocols Additional to the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and relating to the protection of victims of armed conflicts” and the “Intensification of efforts to eliminate all forms of violence against women” stand out.
Qatar

10 May 2011

Those efforts led to the Security Council’s establishment of a Working Group tasked with the protection of civilians and to draw up plans to put an end to all murder and other forms of violence, including sexual violence, affecting civilians. However, the thrust of the recommendations and presidential statements by the Council have unfortunately not yielded the desired results. We therefore call for respect for all legal obligations and resolutions adopted in this area, as the failure to implement them would lead to the proliferation of a culture of impunity and more violence against civilians.
Republic of Korea (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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Thirdly, sexual violence against women and girls in armed conflicts is one of the most horrible forms of violence, not only against civilians but against civilization itself, and it deserves our special attention. Women and girls are most vulnerable, and sexual violence has a devastating and corrosive effect on society as a whole. My delegation hopes for increased coordination among the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, UN Women, the Department of Peacekeeping Operations and other relevant organizations to better tackle these atrocious crimes.
Slovenia (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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Situation-specific resolutions have increasingly called for protection to be prioritized in the implementation of peacekeeping mandates. We particularly welcome the development of comprehensive strategies on the protection of civilians, which assist missions in understanding the relevant threats facing civilians in their areas of operation and enable them to better channel their efforts towards addressing them. Special attention should be given to including appropriate wording on sexual and genderbased violence when formulating peacekeeping mandates, given the ongoing reports of mass rapes and similar crimes from conflict zones. It is essential that the Council provide peacekeeping missions with clear mandates and appropriate resources to enable peacekeepers to implement their mandate fully.
Ukraine

10 May 2011

We welcome the increased understanding of the primacy of the protection of civilians in situations of armed conflict and the ever-growing attention to this issue within the United Nations. Ukraine commends the work of the Secretary-General and his Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, as well as that of Member States, particularly concerning the implementation of resolutions relating to women and peace and security. My delegation fully supports a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue of the protection of civilians. This will entail, in particular, taking further action to address core challenges, namely, to strengthen compliance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law, including by non-State armed groups; to improve the mechanisms for the protection of civilians through United Nations peace operations; and to improve humanitarian access and strengthen accountability for violations.
UN & Civil Society Speakers
Human Security Network

10 May 2011

Significant progress has been made in recent years in the normative and institutional framework with the adoption of important resolutions, most recently resolution 1960 (2010), which established a monitoring, analysis and reporting mechanism on conflict-related sexual violence. However, emphasis must now be placed on progress in enhancing protection on the ground. The worrying recent increase in the number of conflict situations, in particular in countries in North Africa and the Middle East, leaves no doubt that we need to strengthen our efforts so as to protect civilians from the impact of armed conflict and from becoming targets of attacks. We are deeply concerned by the use of force against civilians and by ongoing violations of international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.
United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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In Côte d’Ivoire, November’s post-election crisis degenerated into a conflict marked by increased violence that seriously affected the civilian population. Direct attacks against civilians, indiscriminate shelling, sexual violence, and attacks against humanitarian workers and peacekeepers have all been reported and must be investigated without delay.
United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, conflict persists, with direct attacks against civilians by foreign and Congolese armed groups. Some elements of the national security forces continue to be implicated in these violations. Sexual violence, including rape, remains a defining characteristic of the conflict.

UN System Reform

Non-Security Council Member States

Non-Security Council Member States
Cuba (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

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How can indiscriminate bombing, the use of sophisticated weapons and aircraft and the death of innocent people, including children, under the pretext of protecting other equally innocent civilians, be justified? The United Nations has made no statements whatsoever regarding the protection of the civilian victims of NATO’s aggression against a sovereign country. The silence of the Organization in the face of the murder of innocent people, including women and children, perpetrated by the foreign troops attacking that country, is outrageous.

UN Women

Non-Security Council Member States

Non-Security Council Member States
Republic of Korea (Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict)

Download full statement | 10 May 2011

Thirdly, sexual violence against women and girls in armed conflicts is one of the most horrible forms of violence, not only against civilians but against civilization itself, and it deserves our special attention. Women and girls are most vulnerable, and sexual violence has a devastating and corrosive effect on society as a whole. My delegation hopes for increased coordination among the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, UN Women, the Department of Peacekeeping Operations and other relevant organizations to better tackle these atrocious crimes.
Ukraine

10 May 2011

Ukraine is alarmed by the fact that civilians continue to account for the majority of casualties in conflicts, as well as a high number of displaced persons. We are deeply concerned by the frequency and gravity of attacks against civilians, especially women and children, and by issues of safety for humanitarian personnel and of timely humanitarian access to those in need, particularly vulnerable groups. My country attaches great importance to such issues, especially in its capacity as an active participant in peacekeeping operations and as a member of the Peacebuilding Commission and the Executive Board of UN-Women.

UN Security Council Members | Non-Security Council Member States | UN & Civil Society Speakers

UN Security Council Members
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Brazil
Gabon
Germany
India
Nigeria
Portugal
South Africa
United States of America
Non-Security Council Member States
Armenia
Australia
Austria
Botswana
Canada
Chile
Croatia
Cuba
European Union
Italy
Japan
Kenya
Norway
Peru
Qatar
Republic of Korea
Slovenia
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
Uruguay
Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
UN & Civil Society Speakers
Human Security Network
United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA)
United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

Additional Information

UN Press Release: Open Debate on the Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict