One civilian lost their life every 14 minutes in armed conflicts worldwide last year, as disclosed by Edem Wosornu, the head of the UN global humanitarian response unit. During a Security Council debate on civilian protection in conflict zones, Wosornu highlighted the alarming statistics. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs emphasized the widespread violations of international laws in various conflict regions, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Ukraine, and the occupied Palestinian territory.
Growing violations of international humanitarian and human rights laws in global hostilities were underscored by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee principals in a recent statement. They expressed deep concern over the large-scale harm inflicted on civilians, particularly children, through killings, injuries, and displacements. The use of sexual violence as a war tactic, predominantly affecting women and girls, was condemned. Additionally, the destruction of essential civilian infrastructure like homes, schools, hospitals, and food production facilities was noted.
The statement by the principals also drew attention to the rise of conflict-induced hunger and famine, often exacerbated by siege strategies and intentional starvation of civilians. Moreover, they highlighted the significant risks faced by aid workers, with over 1,000 humanitarian personnel losing their lives in the past three years. The principals emphasized the importance of upholding the rules of war by all parties involved in conflicts, citing the critical need for consistent adherence, accountability, and action to prevent atrocities.
