Statement by the delegation of Ukraine at the 2024 ECOSOC Humanitarian Affairs Segment on the theme: “Putting humanity first in the face of conflicts and climate change: strengthening humanitarian assistance and respect for international humanitarian law, and promoting effectiveness, innovation and partnerships” (27 June 2024)

Mr. Vice-Chair, 

The delegation of Ukraine aligned itself with the statement delivered by the EU. I make these remarks in my national capacity.

We appreciate Croatia for organizing the Humanitarian Affairs Segment on the especially timely theme. 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions and the 25th of the Security Council’s Protection of Civilians agenda. Despite these milestones, wars continue with blatant disregard for civilian lives. New and prolonged conflicts, natural disasters, and climate change have escalated humanitarian needs, straining the system.

Ukraine deeply appreciates the dedicated efforts of the United Nations and various humanitarian partners who work tirelessly, often in very difficult situations, to alleviate suffering and provide humanitarian aid and protection.

In the third year of the Russian invasion, over 11 million Ukrainians are displaced. Of these, 6.5 million have fled abroad, and 4.8 million are internally displaced. Women, children, older people, and those with disabilities bear the brunt of this crisis, with 14.6 million people needing humanitarian assistance and protection.

Mr. Vice-Chair, 

The humanitarian situation in Ukraine is worsening due to Russia's daily missile and drone attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure. These attacks aim to spread terror and fuel a severe humanitarian crisis. Strikes on energy facilities have destroyed over 40% of Ukraine's capacity, causing daily power cuts. 

Attacks on humanitarian personnel and distribution points have severely disrupted UN operations, with over 150 incidents since February 2022, resulting in about 50 deaths or injuries of humanitarian workers. This year alone, three workers have been killed and twenty injured. We honor those who risk their lives to help others.

More than 60 air strikes have targeted humanitarian warehouses. In December 2023, five NGO warehouses were destroyed in Kherson, depriving vulnerable populations of essential aid. UN convoys carrying humanitarian supplies are also being targeted, with twelve distribution points attacked this year.

Just yesterday, Russian troops yet again attacked the humanitarian headquarters in Kherson, injuring five people and damaging the premises and aid vehicles.

The above highlights Russia's blatant disregard to IHL. Russia’s continual refusal to provide access to the UN and other humanitarian organizations to the Russian-occupied areas affected by hostilities also must be strongly condemned. 

The international community must demand that Russia cease its violations, fulfill its obligations under IHL, and assist Ukraine in holding all perpetrators accountable.

In conclusion, Ukrainians want peace above all and seek a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace based on the UN Charter. The Summit on Peace in Switzerland has initiated this work. We urge all those who have not yet joined to actively engage and contribute to the process of its implementation, particularly focusing on its humanitarian dimension.

Thank you.