In the context of Greece’s Presidency of the UN Security Council, Greece initiated a debate focused on the protection of civilians in armed conflict. This issue is both highly topical and of enormous importance to the values of humanitarianism anchored in the UN Charter. Vulnerable groups, women and girls, children, journalists, diplomats and those involved in humanitarian missions need special protection.
Unfortunately, the facts are particularly negative. Violent incidents are increasing, they are becoming more and more aggressive. And as a result, measures must be taken immediately to protect civilians. Around 130 conflicts are currently raging in the world. These conflicts disproportionately affect vulnerable populations who are less capable of protecting themselves. By virtue of this initiative, Greece drafted a joint statement that also reflects recent developments in conflict zones.
This proposal, which reflects the values of humanitarian law, was adopted by 80 diplomatic missions, 80 countries in total. This is a significant number of nations aligning themselves with the Greek initiative. I had the honor of delivering this statement here at the UN Headquarters. It reflects the positions of the entire United Nations’ system regarding the protection that civilians should enjoy.
In addition, the Greek Presidency has undertaken a special initiative to issue a joint statement, concerning the environmental impacts of armed conflict. These impacts also affect civilian populations, who are often forced to flee their homes due to deteriorating conditions and find themselves even more vulnerable to conflict and hostile acts in their own countries.
Greece is currently at the forefront of global diplomacy at the United Nations. We have taken the initiative, by the end of May, to convene a special session focused on the status of civilians and the protection of vulnerable populations in Gaza. The goal is to provide an assessment, but above all to establish an active alliance to ensure that children, women, and all those who suffer the harsh consequences of armed conflict are protected to the greatest extent possible.
This is an obligation of the international community. And through its initiatives, Greece will be at the forefront, ensuring that armed conflicts are reduced. But above all, where there are armed conflicts, we should limit their impact on people, especially on the most vulnerable.
May 22, 2025