In the event that we fail to prevent wars or conflicts, we must combine our e...

In the event that we fail to prevent wars or conflicts, we must combine our efforts, capacities, means and resources to protect those who are most vulnerable, namely, women, children, older persons and persons with disabilities. Those groups are always the easiest targets in conflict situations and the most likely victims. But we should ask ourselves: can we take immediate and well-focused action to ease suffering and provide effective assistance? Can we protect volunteers, United Nations employees and other dedicated women and men who are providing or trying to provide humanitarian assistance and relief, often putting their own lives in danger? What is the price of overcoming political divergences, national interests and global objectives in situations where we see millions of people suffering, when they are internally displaced, forced to flee their homes or killed in military action? How do we protect children recruited to fight, women used as human shields, girls who are being sexually abused?