OIC and UN stress need to protect civilians, aid workers

On World Humanitarian Day, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) emphasized the urgent need to protect civilians and aid workers. Both organizations pledged their continued commitment to supporting member states grappling with humanitarian crises, ensuring the safety of civilian populations, and upholding respect for international humanitarian law.

The OIC, comprising 57 member states, grapples with numerous countries affected by armed conflicts, displacement, and humanitarian emergencies, resulting in devastating consequences from violations of international humanitarian law. These violations include attacks on civilians, aid workers, healthcare facilities, and essential civilian infrastructure.

The OIC and UN OCHA highlighted the increasing complexity of armed conflicts, particularly due to the rise of emerging technologies such as armed drones and artificial intelligence, which heighten the risks faced by civilians and humanitarian workers. They stressed that all parties to conflicts, regardless of the weaponry or technologies employed, must adhere to international humanitarian law and take all feasible measures to shield civilians and those engaged in medical and relief roles.

The OIC and UN OCHA urged states and parties to conflicts to comply with their legal obligations, ensure accountability for violations, and safeguard humanitarian and medical personnel. They also advocated for the responsible use of emerging technologies to minimize harm to civilians, rather than exacerbate it, asserting that human protection should remain paramount amidst the evolving nature of warfare.

Both organizations affirmed their dedication to enhancing humanitarian response, supporting vulnerable populations, and advocating for the protection of civilians and aid workers who bravely assist those affected by conflict and crises. They concluded by reiterating that humanity must remain the core focus of every conflict response, stressing that advancements in warfare should not diminish the collective responsibility to safeguard civilians and humanitarian workers.