In conclusions adopted on Monday 25 November without debate, the EU Council reaffirmed its deep commitment to respecting and promoting international humanitarian law. It emphasises that international humanitarian law is “one of the strongest tools the international community has for ensuring the protection and dignity of all persons and recalls the obligation to respect and ensure respect for it in all circumstances”.
These conclusions will feed into the common message to be sent during the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions and the 33rd International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent (9-12 December in Geneva).
The EU Council emphasises the important role of the ICRC as guardian and promoter of international humanitarian law. It is alarmed by the increasing number of deliberate violations of humanitarian law.
The EU reaffirms its determination to address the rapidly increasing humanitarian needs in the world, to strengthen coordination between humanitarian, development and peace actions and to more effectively address the humanitarian impact of climate change.
The EU recalls that the primary obligation of parties to armed conflicts is to meet the needs of the populations under their control. It assures that it will continue to promote the protection of humanitarian and medical personnel in conflict areas. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)