A/78/PV.46 General Assembly

I would like to draw the attention of Members to the date of recess of the current session. Members will recall that at its 32nd plenary meeting, on 10 November, the General Assembly agreed to postpone the date of recess of the seventy- eighth session to Friday, 15 December 2023. However, in view of the work that remains to be completed for this part of the session, I would like to propose to the Assembly that it further postpone the date of recess to Tuesday, 19 December 2023. If there is no objection, may I take it that the Assembly agrees to postpone the date of recess to Tuesday, 19 December 2023?

I now give the floor to the representative of Spain to introduce draft resolutions A/78/L.17.

I am honoured to introduce draft resolution A/78/L.17, entitled. “Safety and security of humanitarian personnel and protection of United Nations personnel”, on behalf of the European Union and its member States. Insofar as humanitarian needs have continued to increase throughout the world over the course of 2023, humanitarian and United Nations personnel have risen to meet the growing challenges in order to provide life-saving assistance. The upsurge in political instability, conflicts and climate change has complicated efforts to alleviate human suffering. Humanitarian and United Nations personnel operate in an environment that is increasingly volatile and insecure. They selflessly expose themselves to enormous personal risks in order to serve others. We, the international community, have a moral obligation to mitigate the risks they face, enable a receptive and conducive environment for humanitarian assistance and reverse the alarming trend of attacks on humanitarian and medical personnel. As facilitators of this draft resolution since 1998, the European Union and our 27 member States take this obligation very seriously. In addition to our leadership on the draft resolution, the European Union continues to take steps to enable principled humanitarian action to reach those in need, safely. An invaluable partner in this mission is the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), which is entrusted to lead the security approach of the United Nations worldwide. The Department’s oversight and risk management efforts are critical to the protection of humanitarian and medical personnel. We commend the excellent work done by UNDSS under the guidance of Under-Secretary-General Gilles Michaud. That includes the ongoing reform process, in which the Department has enhanced security training protocols, integrated new technologies into its security risk management, established an emergency response unit and developed surge capacity for emergency response through the deployment of Emergency Response Teams. However, if it is to continue to strengthen its operations, UNDSS must have adequate and predictable resources. This year, we have seen two worrisome trends, which we have highlighted in this year’s updated draft resolution. First, the threats to humanitarian workers, which were already numerous, have been further exacerbated by rising disinformation campaigns and misinformation. Those can undermine trust in the United Nations and humanitarian organizations and put their personnel at risk. This year’s draft resolution encourages Member States and the United Nations system to take appropriate action to address that increasing threat. Secondly, the Secretary-General’s report (A/78/369) reveals a surge in violent deaths and a disturbing rise in abductions and sexual assaults against humanitarian and United Nations personnel. National and locally recruited staff, unfortunately, face particular vulnerabilities and bear the brunt of those violent acts. This year’s draft resolution expresses deep concern about the increasing trend of safety and security incidents affecting humanitarian and United Nations personnel. We very much hope that this trend can be reversed. The draft resolution maintains all of the elements negotiated in past years and adds important references to those two specific trends, as well as other topics. The European Union sincerely thanks all delegations that participated in the fruitful negotiation process this year. We also express our gratitude to those delegations that are sponsoring the draft resolution. Our in-depth discussions ultimately resulted in a draft resolution that we feel expresses the appropriate amount of concern for humanitarian and United Nations personnel, including continued and emerging threats to their work and well-being. We are proud that the draft resolution remains a consensus document, reflecting our common commitment to humanitarian action. Those who risk their lives to help others deserve the strong support of the entire General Assembly, and we are glad that the draft resolution continues to signal that support. Lastly, we pay tribute to aid workers on the front lines, who risk their lives to save others and reduce human suffering. We also honour the memory of those who we have lost their lives in the service of others.

I now call on the representative of the Russian Federation to introduce draft amendments A/78/L.18 and A/78/L.19.

We thank the European Union delegation for preparing draft resolution A/78/L.17, the consultations held and its generally constructive approach. There is no doubt that the issues of ensuring the safety and security of humanitarian personnel and the protection of United Nations personnel must remain the focus of the close attention of the Member countries of our Organization. At the same time, the draft document retains language regarding the so-called International Criminal Court (ICC) and the Rome Statute that is unacceptable to us. At the time of its creation, great hopes were placed in the ICC. It was expected to deal with the most serious crimes under international law and to investigate them impartially and effectively. However, the Rome Statute has been compromised by the failed activities of the ICC itself, which, thanks to the generous donations of its Western patrons, has become an instrument of political pressure. In no situation has resort to the ICC contributed to stabilizing the situation in a particular country, in terms of either preventing new crimes or of promoting national reconciliation. Its slavish dependence on Western donors, the absolute opacity of its work and the double standards of both the pseudo- Court itself and its pseudo-Prosecutor Mr. Khan are plain and clear for all to see. There is no justice being served by the so-called ICC. One need not look far for examples. The pseudo-Court, demonstrating its commitment to a form of justice that only it understands, has issued warrants for the arrest of Russians for evacuating street children from the combat zone. At the same time, it demonstrates total blindness and complete inaction regarding events unfolding in a place on our planet that, according to Secretary-General Guterres, has turned into a “cemetery for children”. It is fitting to call that place a cemetery for humanitarian workers as well. It is well known that more than 130 staff members of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East have been killed in bombings in the Gaza Strip since 7 October, and that number rises every day. Many have been killed along with their families. That is the highest number of casualties among United Nations personnel in a single conflict in history. With such justice being meted out under orders from Washington, D.C., all assurances about the role of the ICC in protecting the memory of innocent humanitarian workers and United Nations employees remain empty words and null and void. We are convinced that this is why more than a third of State Members of the United Nations do not participate in that pseudo-Court. There is no doubt that over time, the queue to leave it will only grow. As for the draft resolution under consideration, its paragraphs 12 and 19 have long established language on responsibility under international humanitarian law. The question is one of strict compliance with the relevant standards. Taking the aforementioned into account, we have submitted amendments to the draft resolution. We advocate the deletion of the thirty-third preambular paragraph and operational paragraph 8. We urge delegations to vote against those paragraphs with us. We ask the Secretariat to submit them for consideration separately. I should now like to make a few points regarding humanitarian issues. For the most part, a number of those will be covered in the statement to be delivered later by the representative of Venezuela on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations. We align ourselves fully with that statement. We should like to add the following. In the light of the deteriorating humanitarian situation, due not only to political conflicts, but also to natural disasters and the devastating consequences of unilateral sanctions, the United Nations humanitarian system is obviously no longer able to bear the burden of responsibility for the fate of millions of people. There is a need to strengthen the development system as such and, in general, to improve project activities in beneficiary countries without discrimination of any kind. Such efforts must be fully consistent with national priorities in order to strengthen the potential of the countries in need, including in the field of food security. All of that is addressed in resolution 46/182. In the context of food security, we categorically reject any accusation against our country for allegedly unleashing a global crisis, including due to the termination of the so-called Black Sea Initiative. The Istanbul package of agreements, which includes the Russia-United Nations memorandum, was distorted by Western delegations from the very beginning. European countries used the Black Sea Initiative for exclusively commercial purposes to export Ukrainian food for the purpose of processing and resale at a higher cost. American corporations, which bought up about 30 per cent of Ukraine’s arable land, profited from the Initiative by exporting and reselling Ukrainian grain. The provisions of the memorandum between the United Nations and Russia, despite the efforts of the United Nations, never came into effect. In addition, the maritime humanitarian corridor has been used by the Kyiv regime for armed provocations and terrorist attacks on Sevastopol and the Crimea bridge. Unmanned aerial vehicle and naval vehicles have been produced in proximity to the grain silos and deployed to strike civilian infrastructure facilities in Crimea. During the year of the Black Sea Initiative, 33 million tons of grain were exported from the ports of Odessa, Chernomorsk and Yuzhny; of that, wheat accounted for only 8.8 million tons. By comparison, the volume of global grain exports amounts to 422 million tons, half of which is wheat. Ukrainian grain, mainly feed grain, went to well-fed Europe. Less than a million tons, or 3 per cent of the total supply under the Black Sea Initiative, were sent to needy countries in Africa. In the context of events in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict zone, we once again express our deepest condolences for the deaths of civilians on both sides of the conflict. There is no military solution to what is happening in the enclave. The long-suffering people of the Gaza Strip have the right to life, but they are being steadily led to their deaths. Only an immediate ceasefire and the restoration and multiple increase in sustainable humanitarian supplies to the enclave will give us a chance to stabilize the situation. Since the beginning of the escalation, we have made every possible effort to evacuate Russian citizens from Gaza. In total, since 12 November 10 special flights to Moscow have evacuated 949 of our nationals and members of their families. On the territory of Russia, all of them are provided with the necessary assistance. In that regard, we note the assistance of the Egyptian, Israeli and Palestinian authorities. For our part, we also delivered almost 300 tons of humanitarian supplies to Egypt for subsequent transportation to Gaza.

I now call on the representative of Sweden to introduce draft resolution A/78/L.20.

First, I would like to note that Sweden, following the introduction of the omnibus draft resolution A/78/L.20, will also deliver a statement together with India. It also fully aligns itself with the statement that will be made by Maciej Popowski, Director-General of the Directorate General European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations, on behalf of the European Union. Today it is my great privilege to introduce, on behalf of 81 sponsors, this year’s draft resolution on the strengthening of the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance of the United Nations, contained in document A/78/L.20  — the so-called humanitarian omnibus draft resolution. This year marks the thirty-second anniversary of the adoption of the landmark resolution 46/182, adopted in December 1991, which laid the foundations of today’s United Nations humanitarian system. Sweden has been honoured to facilitate the negotiations of this annual resolution ever since. The goal of our collective efforts remains the same as it was in 1991  — to effectively assist women, men, girls and boys affected by crisis. We remain convinced that principled humanitarian assistance is the best way to achieve that. The consultations were marked by a very constructive spirit that enabled us to reach an agreement on the text as a whole. This is a mature draft resolution, the core elements of which enjoy the broad support of Member States. This year’s draft resolution includes important strengthened language on humanitarian access, respect for international humanitarian law, food security and the need to narrow the humanitarian funding gap. I would like to thank all delegations for their engagement and willingness to compromise, making those important achievements possible. I also want to extend our sincere gratitude to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and the technical support staff, who made great efforts to ensure a smooth process. We strongly encourage adoption by consensus today. Moreover, we invite all Member States that have not already done so to co-sponsor the draft resolution when action is taken later today. In conclusion, let me say that by adopting the draft resolution, we, as States Members of the United Nations, must hold ourselves accountable by translating the words of the draft resolution into concrete action to save lives, alleviate suffering and maintain human dignity across the globe. Following the introduction of the humanitarian omnibus draft resolution in our national capacity, it is now my privilege to deliver a joint statement on behalf of India and Sweden on this agenda item. We would first like to pay tribute to humanitarian and medical personnel worldwide. We extend our sincere gratitude for the work they are doing to ensure that emergency relief reaches those in need, often at great personal risk. The protection of humanitarian workers, especially in situations of armed conflict, remains a concern. Attacks on humanitarian personnel are unacceptable, and we welcome draft resolution A/78/L.17, on the safety and security of humanitarian personnel and protection of United Nations personnel. India and Sweden share a strong commitment to strengthening the United Nations system to respond to the complex humanitarian challenges of our time. A staggering 360 million people are now in need of humanitarian assistance  — the highest in a decade  — and the funding needs amount to $55 billion. That is a formidable challenge for the entire international community, and one we cannot afford to downplay. Conflicts, climate change, disasters and global economic slowdown have aggravated the humanitarian situation in several parts of the world, contributing to increased humanitarian needs. Food insecurity has reached historic levels, with more than 260 million people facing acute food insecurity, some at risk of famine. It is worth reiterating that this is fundamentally about people. The chances of a being able to live a life in dignity and prosperity, the hopes and dreams of women, men, boys and girls, are undermined in humanitarian crises that are often manmade. We call on the entire global community to reflect on that, in terms of what can be done to address the root causes of humanitarian needs and to respond both to the acute challenges and the effects of prolonged humanitarian crises. On that note, the humanitarian community has made impressive efforts to address the challenges in the past year. Early action and anticipatory approaches have continued to be developed and implemented in relation to disaster preparedness and response, and the private sector is increasingly stepping in as a strong and creative partner to traditional humanitarian actors. Collaboration among humanitarian, development and peacebuilding efforts needs to further increase, and it is important to recognize local leaders and communities as key first responders. The persistent and increasing shortfall in the financing of humanitarian appeals remains a challenge. We call upon Member States to consider increasing their contribution to the United Nations humanitarian assistance system, including country-based and regional pooled funds and the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), to which India and Sweden are long-standing donors. We would also like to emphasize the value of quality funding and predictable support to our humanitarian partners. India and Sweden remain committed to preserving the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence in responding to all humanitarian situations. Repeated violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law are persistent challenges. Parties to armed conflicts, including non-State actors, continue to flout international humanitarian law and perpetrate human rights abuses with impunity. Arbitrary restrictions on humanitarian access on account of violence, insecurity, active hostilities, threats, movement restrictions, bureaucratic and administrative impediments and attacks on humanitarian personnel are an increasing problem that deprives people of assistance that is both needed and available. Humanitarian actors have a responsibility to place protection at the centre of humanitarian action across all sectors. The protection of women and children remains a particularly pressing issue that requires increased attention. India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam  — “One Earth, one family, one future”  — which resonates with the spirit of unity, compassion and cooperation, strives to ensure that no one gets left behind and that countries commit themselves unequivocally to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It is a call to action, urging us to come together in the face of adversity and to build a world in which every individual is treated as a part of the global family. The concept has come a long way to becoming the highlight of India’s presidency of the Group of 20, an event that has showcased India’s commitment to fostering a sense of global togetherness, inclusivity and collaboration. India also launched the concept of Mission LiFE — Lifestyle for Environment — in 2022 to help the global community adopt environmentally conscious practices as a testament to our dedication to a sustainable global family. Moving forward, the India-led Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), a multi-stakeholder global partnership, has been receiving global attention, with 34 countries and 7 multilateral organizations endorsing its Charter and supporting its mandate through the commitment of technical assistance and financial resources. The Infrastructure For Resilient Island States initiative, one of the strategic initiatives of CDRI launched at the twenty-sixth Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, is envisioned to be truly owned by small island developing States to achieve sustainable development through a systemic approach to promote resilient, sustainable and inclusive infrastructure. In the face of the unprecedented increase in humanitarian needs, Sweden is proud to remain one of the largest donors to the United Nations humanitarian system. This year, we are contributing a total of about $900 million in humanitarian aid. In line with its grand bargain commitments, Sweden will continue to provide major United Nations agencies  — such as the World Food Programme, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, UNICEF and CERF — with multi-year core funding. Such funding allows for timely, independent, effective and efficient humanitarian action, and that is why Sweden strongly encourages other donors to follow suit. Sweden will remain a strong voice for principled humanitarian assistance and a leader in developing new, innovative and efficient solutions to the challenges facing the world in the humanitarian field. We  — India and Sweden  — reiterate our commitment to working with all Member States to ensure a unified and robust response to the world’s humanitarian challenges. Our debate today presents an opportunity to send a strong and unified message of support to those in need of humanitarian assistance and to humanitarian actors worldwide. We therefore call on delegations to adopt the draft humanitarian resolutions by consensus.

I now call on the representative of Cuba to introduce draft resolution A/78/L.21.

Cuba is honoured to introduce, on behalf of the Group of 77 (G-77) and China, a draft resolution entitled “International cooperation on humanitarian assistance in the field of natural disasters, from relief to development”, contained in document A/78/L.21. Each year, our group presents this text as a contribution of the South to the efforts and deliberations of the United Nations in the area of humanitarian assistance, focused on the assistance that is provided in the case of natural disasters. On this occasion, and without setting a precedent for the future, the G-77 and China have decided to introduce a text that is mostly a technical update to resolution 77/29, adopted by consensus last year. Nevertheless, language has been introduced in paragraph 83 referring to the high-level meeting on the midterm review of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030, which took place in May. That new element is the outcome of consultations that that took place openly and transparently within our Group. We thank those delegations that participated in a constructive manner and those that have sponsored the draft resolution. We encourage those that have not yet done so to proceed to its adoption. In conclusion, allow me to express the wish of the G-77 and China that the draft resolution will continue to be adopted by consensus.

I now give the floor to the representative of Belgium to introduce draft resolution A/78/L.22.

I have the honour to speak on behalf of Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Ireland, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden to introduce the annual draft resolution on assistance to the Palestinian people (A/78/L.22). First of all, we offer our sincere condolences to the families of Israelis, Palestinians, United Nations staff and journalists who have been killed, injured or held hostage since the abhorrent terrorist attacks by Hamas on 7 October. Accounts of sexual violence during the attacks are appalling. We deplore the killing of humanitarian and medical personnel, including 133 staff of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. We reiterate our call on Hamas for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. We remain gravely concerned about the living conditions and humanitarian situation affecting the Palestinian people, in particular women and children, throughout the occupied Palestinian territory. We also express our deep concern about the devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The situation for civilians is alarming, as we all know. We express our appreciation for the work of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, and recognize its vital role in providing humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people, particularly in the Gaza Strip. As humanitarian needs have continued to rise globally throughout 2023 and in the current context of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, we consider it important to present this draft resolution again this year, during the Assembly’s general humanitarian debate, as a sign of our joint commitment to principled humanitarian action. The draft resolution presented for adoption is put forward as a technical rollover, on the understanding that the technical rollover text under consideration does not reflect or address the developments on the ground since the attacks of 7 October, but is submitted in the spirit of cooperation and compromise under the present catastrophic circumstances. As in previous years, we sincerely hope that the rest of the membership will rally behind the principles and objectives outlined in the draft resolution.

The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has the honour to take the floor on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations. The Group of Friends considers the humanitarian and disaster relief assistance provided by the United Nations, including special economic assistance, to be of particular importance, taking into account its nature as the multilateral entity par excellence, and an ethical and humanist commitment, as enshrined in the ideal that inspired the founding of our Organization in 1945. It is because of its scope and the nature of its institutional status that all the agencies, funds, programmes and bodies dependent on the United Nations are called upon and obliged, for the sake of their credibility and reliability among all actors on the international scene, and particularly States, to ensure their full adherence to the principles and purposes enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, including the sovereign equality of States and national sovereignty, non-interference in the internal affairs of States and the self-determination of peoples. Human activity based on a model of exploitation of nature and concentration of wealth has led in recent decades, and especially in recent years, to an intensification of the destructive power of previously rare natural phenomena: far-reaching droughts and floods, cold and heat waves of great magnitude, broken biological cycles and the destruction of entire ecosystems, with the real risk that global temperatures will rise to such an extent that life will no longer be sustainable. The consequences of that dramatic reality have led to the deaths of millions as a result of such tragedies, to homelessness, to the destruction of entire cities, and to the starvation and suffering of millions, while States often lack the capacity to respond, causing rising needs and reliance on humanitarian and disaster relief assistance. On the other hand, and also as a consequence of human activity and the excessive ambition of some centres of hegemonic power, for decades humanitarian emergencies have been instigated for political reasons and by the search for natural resources beyond national territories, armed conflicts that have been incited and fostered as commercial ventures, the artificial generation of social polarization for political and economic purposes, and interventionism for destabilization purposes. This breeding ground for the exacerbation of poverty and hunger, unplanned human mobility crises, with a high impact on national economies, and, in sum, humanitarian emergencies has created a vicious cycle that, far from ending, seems to be growing. Its ultimate victims are potentially the most vulnerable populations. In that context, and speaking of human-caused humanitarian catastrophes, particular mention must be made of the current situation in the occupied State of Palestine, where the world is witnessing in anguish and anger deliberate and indiscriminate attacks against the Palestinian people, including in Gaza, claiming the lives of thousands of people, including women, children and the elderly, as well as of United Nations and other humanitarian personnel. We call not only for an immediate ceasefire and for the increase of much- needed humanitarian assistance, but also, and most importantly, for assistance to be permitted to reach all those in need, in an unimpeded and swift manner and at scale, and for the protection of humanitarian personnel to enable aid to be delivered to desperate civilians. International law, including international humanitarian and human rights law, must be upheld and not set aside, much less violated systematically in cases of humanitarian emergencies. A third major cause of humanitarian emergencies, also of human origin, is the illegal and immoral application of unilateral coercive measures against specific countries for political reasons, which prevent the national institutions of targeted States from being fully capable of accessing international markets for food, medicines, finance, technology of all kinds, including communication and education, and ultimately with an economic impact whose victims are the populations, especially children, women, the elderly, people with disabilities and other communities, including in times of emergencies, to the detriment of national development plans, including the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals, as foreseen in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Group of Friends highlights the need and importance for all humanitarian activities carried out by the United Nations system and any other entity or nation to be governed by the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and operational independence, as established in resolution 46/182. In addition, transparency, ongoing dialogue and the consent of the receiving States must be ensured as the only way to guarantee the reliability and sustainability of all assistance. In that context, while the Group recognizes the work carried out in all regions of the world by the United Nations and its specialized humanitarian agencies, it urges all its entities to continue to exercise utmost vigilance in the face of the potential and often proven risk that external actors, including countries and economic groups, may seek to politically instrumentalize their work, which would be detrimental to their original mission and mandate and affect the work of humanitarian assistance in situations where it is required. The Group wishes to emphasize that notions such as the responsibility to protect and humanitarian intervention, which have not been developed or agreed upon at the international level, are not a guarantee for preventing or addressing humanitarian emergencies but, very much to the contrary, can become the causes of such crises, while undermining the rule of law and the role of diplomacy and cooperation in international conflicts, with dire consequences for national and regional political stability and correlating burdens on the humanitarian community. To conclude, the Group of Friends recognizes the efforts made over the years by the United Nations and its agencies in the humanitarian field, under the leadership of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and other agencies of the system. In that regard, we appreciate the importance of increasing all efforts aimed at strengthening its coordination, the protection of its personnel in the field and all initiatives to increase dialogue and cooperation with the States in each phase of the political and operational processes of humanitarian management, as the best guarantee of the complete fulfilment of its mandate.

I now give the floor to the representative of the European Union, in its capacity as observer.

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union (EU) and its 27 member States. The candidate countries North Macedonia, Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova and Bosnia and Herzegovina; the potential candidate country Georgia; as well as Andorra and Monaco, align themselves with this statement. As humanitarian emergencies grow in severity, scale and frequency, the call on the international community for solidarity and collective action to save lives and alleviate human suffering is stronger than ever. The EU and its member States reaffirm their unwavering support for the global humanitarian system, which was set up more than 30 years ago under resolution 46/182. Principled humanitarian action remains at the core of the EU’s response, whether in the case of natural disasters or human-made crises. We remain fundamentally convinced that the humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence are indispensable in our action. That holds particularly true in today’s landscape. The unprecedented climate crisis further exacerbates humanitarian needs. We therefore welcome the strong humanitarian focus at the twenty-eighth Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and reaffirm the EU’s endorsement of the two flagship initiatives, the Declaration on Climate, Relief, Recovery and Peace and the Getting Ahead of Disasters Charter. We also acknowledge that armed conflicts remain the major driver of humanitarian needs, including by triggering record levels of food insecurity and displacement. The operational environment for aid delivery is increasingly constrained. This year, we are again seeing attacks and threats against humanitarian workers. Regardless of whether they are internationally or locally recruited, and whether they are from the United Nations, the Red Cross movement or non-governmental organizations, humanitarian workers deserve our utmost respect and our concern for their safety and security. Against that background, I have three messages to highlight today. First, the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure and ensuring compliance with international humanitarian law remain the foundation of our humanitarian response. The principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution are central to international humanitarian law. The requirement of making all efforts to limit civilian harm is also central to international humanitarian law. The destruction or damage of civilian objects, including hospitals, schools, power and water infrastructure, are serious violations of international humanitarian law. Both the immediate and long-term effects of that harm can stunt the recovery of civilian populations and even drive protracted economic instability. International humanitarian law applies at all times during a conflict. The international humanitarian law principle of non-reciprocity means that a party must comply with international humanitarian law even if the other side is not following the same rules. And to give full effect to international humanitarian law, it is also important that all those who violate the rules be held accountable. International humanitarian law compliance also means that principled humanitarian actors and medical workers must never be targets. Secondly, we remain committed to enabling full, unimpeded and rapid humanitarian access. In today’s complex operating environment, humanitarians should be fully supported to stay and deliver in a principled and efficient way. It is imperative that the humanitarian space remain open for all necessary aid to reach those in need. In that context, we commend the work of the Secretariat, notably the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, in developing a more systematic approach to ensuring access for the rapid provision of emergency assistance, including through negotiations with all parties concerned. To address access impediments, it is also essential to prevent any unintended potential negative impact of sanctions and counter-terrorism measures on exclusively humanitarian activities carried out by humanitarian actors. The EU recently adopted humanitarian exemptions to asset freezes in 10 of our restrictive measures regimes, allowing humanitarian actors, including those outlined in Security Council resolution 2664 (2022), to deliver humanitarian assistance without prior authorization. We will strive to continue taking such mitigating measures to enable safe and rapid access to people in need. Safeguarding the humanitarian space is not limited to ensuring physical access, but also requires maintaining the trust of local communities in humanitarians. Information manipulation, including disinformation and misinformation, undermines the standing of humanitarian organizations and puts their personnel at serious risk. It is in our shared interest to continue to counter such harmful practices. Thirdly, we will continue striving to make the international humanitarian response more effective and efficient. The EU and its member States reiterate their continued commitment to putting people at the centre of humanitarian action. Advancing on the twin priorities of localization and accountability to affected populations is an integral part of that mission. We will continue to support anticipatory action, which enables preparedness actions before disasters strike. Furthermore, operationalizing the humanitarian- development-peace nexus is important, since such cooperation helps to alleviate vulnerabilities and reduce humanitarian needs in the long run. But in the immediate term, humanitarian needs far outpace available resources. Addressing that calls for strong political will and creativity in order to find new approaches to expand and diversify the disturbingly narrow humanitarian donor base. The EU and its member States, in the Team Europe approach, have consistently demonstrated a strong commitment and determination to shoulder their share of responsibility. We have established a solid framework for increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of our humanitarian response. We have also mobilized more resources, including a recommendation for EU member States to devote 0.07 per cent of their gross national income to humanitarian action. We call upon others to follow suit. That commitment can lead to more equitable responsibility-sharing, help increase the financial stability and predictability of humanitarian operations and, most importantly, prevent massive cuts in vital assistance to affected people, particularly in less visible crises. Let me conclude by underscoring that, at this defining moment for the multilateral system, the EU will work to remain the predictable humanitarian partner we have long been for all of the international community. We look forward to working with the United Nations system and all partners in safeguarding principled humanitarian action as a vital global public good and a key investment in resilience and stability.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). We thank the Secretary- General for his comprehensive reports. The ASEAN region is experiencing a rise in complex emergencies and natural and human-induced disasters that threatens to reverse the gains we have made as a region towards the realization of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, compelling ASEAN to further improve and strengthen its practices on disaster risk management and emergency response. A key part of that endeavour is the ASEAN Vision 2025 on Disaster Management. ASEAN’s progress in emergency and disaster risk management has enabled the realization of the One ASEAN, One Response declaration, whereby ASEAN responds to disaster as one in the region and outside the region. With the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response as the main regional policy backbone to implement the One ASEAN, One Response initiative, and with the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management  — the AHA Centre  — as the primary regional coordinating body on disaster management and emergency response, we have provided a comprehensive ASEAN-wide strategy for disaster management and the effective provision of humanitarian assistance. ASEAN has also adopted the Bandar Seri Begawan Declaration on the Strategic and Holistic Initiative to Link ASEAN Responses to Emergencies and Disasters, which calls for optimized communication and the streamlining of ASEAN processes and mechanisms to swiftly and effectively prepare and respond to emergencies and disasters. The ASEAN Joint Disaster Response Plan, the ASEAN Disaster Monitoring and Response System and the ASEAN Framework on Anticipatory Action in Disaster Management are all part of ASEAN’s comprehensive strategy to enhance the region’s readiness and resilience and to ensure a more proactive and forward-looking approach to disaster management, disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. Those initiatives complement the United Nations Early Warnings for All initiative, with a shared goal of ensuring global protection through early warning systems by 2027. In September, under Indonesia’s chairmanship, ASEAN also agreed on a declaration on sustainable resilience, emphasizing the need to think beyond emergency response and to ensure that the disaster and emergency resilience agenda continues to support sustainable development. In ASEAN, we recognize the transboundary nature of disasters and understand the need for coordinated transnational and multilateral responses. As such, the ASEAN-United Nations Joint Strategic Plan of Action on Disaster Management for 2021-2025 will continue to guide ASEAN-United Nations cooperation in disaster risk reduction and emergency response and management and to enhance the capacity of the AHA Centre through close coordination. We commend the work of the United Nations system, in particular the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, for its tireless work to provide aid and assistance to affected Member States. ASEAN is ready to accelerate disaster resilience-building by strengthening cross- sectoral collaboration with the region. On that note, we welcome ASEAN Disaster Management Week, which was held in August in Singapore and focused on understanding and addressing challenges associated with transboundary disaster risk, fostering regional collaboration and identifying potential opportunities for cooperation to build a resilient and sustainable ASEAN community. ASEAN is greatly concerned about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. We call on all parties to protect and ensure the safety and security of all civilians, including ASEAN nationals, and the immediate and unconditional release of all remaining hostages. We are deeply concerned over the number of casualties among United Nations humanitarian personnel, who selflessly put themselves at risk to save those in need. We join the United Nations in mourning the loss of over 100 workers of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East in Gaza and call on all parties to allow immediate, full, sustained, safe and unhindered humanitarian access, including the establishment of a humanitarian corridor. In conclusion, ASEAN will continue to endeavour to strengthen and improve our disaster management risk and response capabilities towards building resilient societies and communities for the safety and well- being of our people and the region. In achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and beyond, we also stand ready to share the lessons learned and experiences gained with Member States and regional and global partners,

It is my honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Group of Arab States, which appreciates the holding of this meeting to take stock of the growing humanitarian needs internationally and to find the means of response to mitigate the suffering of those affected. The noticeable increase in humanitarian challenges and needs highlights the importance of the full application of international law and international humanitarian law while protecting civilians and medical and humanitarian workers. Furthermore, there is a need to find peaceful settlements to conflicts currently under way, in accordance with consistent standards that are in line with the Charter of the United Nations, without selectivity or double standards. It has been more than two months since the beginning of the brutal Israeli aggression against the Gaza Strip and the destruction has reached unprecedented levels. The brutal Israeli war machine has claimed more than 17,000 Palestinian martyrs, including more than 6,000 children, in addition to the thousands of people who have been injured, displaced or disappeared and the dozens of families that have been exterminated. Israel has destroyed more than half of all residences in the Gaza Strip and targeted hospitals, medical and humanitarian facilities and medical and humanitarian workers. Israel has killed more than 131 United Nations staff members and 286 medical personnel. Those figures are the highest in the history of the Organization and stand in flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and the draft resolutions that will adopt later today. Those shameful and unfortunate figures of victims, in addition to the killing of dozens of civil defence workers and journalists, urge the Arab Group to call for a genuine international stance and for elevating the human conscience here in the General Assembly. Are we really serious about adopting the draft resolutions today? Are we sincere about that? Are we really going to implement them? Educational, medical and humanitarian facilities, as well as the infrastructure and places of worship, have not been spared from being savagely destroyed by Israel. More than 50,000 tons of explosives have been dropped by Israeli warplanes since the beginning of the brutal, inhumane aggression against the Gaza Strip. Those violations by Israel have forcibly displaced more than 1.9 million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, while aerial bombardment and the destruction of infrastructure continue, compelling Palestinians to abandon their homes to safeguard their most basic human right, the right to life. All of that is perpetrated in a consistent manner with a brutal, inhumane Israeli policy that has imposed a siege leading to suffocation and starvation, preventing and impeding the delivery of humanitarian and medical assistance, and the closure of Israeli crossing points in violation of international law and international humanitarian law. That is an unjustifiable and unacceptable flouting of international law and human values. All United Nations organizations have underscored the gravity of the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. The World Food Programme has confirmed that the continued Israeli aggression against the Strip can only exacerbate the ongoing food crisis there, stressing that it has become impossible to distribute foodstuffs because humanitarian workers are being targeted and subjected to serious threats and shameful campaigns of disinformation and misinformation. Martin Griffiths, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, has warned that there are no safe places left in Gaza — neither in the hospitals nor in the refugee camps. Neither children nor medical or educational staff are safe. He noted that the United Nations ability to receive and distribute humanitarian assistance has been affected. However, we still see silent countries and others justify the continued inhumane violations and flagrant crimes committed against the unarmed Palestinian people. Israel seeks to attack, target and pressure certain United Nations officials one by one because of their humanitarian role in providing relief to the resilient Palestinian people. We wonder, alongside the entire world, how long will those atrocities continue before the very eyes of the international community without intervention to stop them. How long will this go on? How long can we wait for a serious stance in favour of implementing international law, to which the United Nations meets every day to reiterate its commitment? How long can we wait until the double standard policy that we are tired of denouncing is abolished? All of that drove the Secretary-General two days ago to invoke Article 99 of the Charter of the United Nations and alert the Security Council to the escalation of the situation in the Gaza Strip, which now poses a grave threat to international peace and security. The Secretary-General has reviewed the unbearable and deteriorating situation in the Gaza Strip as the brutal Israeli attacks continue and impede all of the United Nations humanitarian efforts. Mr. Philip Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, sent a similar letter to the President of the General Assembly in which he explained the repercussions of the brutal Israeli attack on Gaza, compounding the dire humanitarian situation with disease, hunger and inhumane shelling. He urged Member States to insist on a ceasefire, implement international law and protect civilians. The Arab Group demands that all United Nations resolutions on humanitarian work be respected, including those before us today. The Group demands an immediate and permanent end to the Israeli aggression and the lifting of all obstacles imposed by Israel to the supply of humanitarian and relief assistance. We demand that assistance be provided without conditions and that humanitarian and medical workers, as well as infrastructure, no longer be targeted. All measures to forcibly displace the Palestinians have to immediately stop and all attempts to eliminate the Palestinian question must end. The Arab Group underscores that peace and stability in the Middle East will be achieved only if Israel withdraws from all of the occupied Arab territories and that an independent Palestinian State must be established within the 4 June 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The Arab Group underscores its steadfast humanitarian and political support to the Palestinian people in defending their legitimate cause and their resilience against the Israeli brutal aggression, which shows no mercy for infants, children, mothers, sick people or the elderly. The Arab Group reaffirms that the time has come for all of us to act in earnest to end those repeated violations and allow the fraternal Palestinian people to enjoy their most basic rights to establish their State and live like all other peoples in peace, security and prosperity.

At the outset, my delegation thanks the Secretary-General for his reports, which highlight how Member States can work together to strengthen humanitarian and disaster relief assistance. I also express my delegation’s support for draft resolutions A/78/L.20, “Strengthening of the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance of the United Nations ”; A/78/L.21, “International cooperation on humanitarian assistance in the field of natural disasters, from relief to development”; and A/78/L.22 “Assistance to the Palestinian People”. My delegation aligns itself with the statement made by the representative of Indonesia on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). I add the following remarks in my national capacity. Singapore commends United Nations aid agencies and personnel for their efforts in responding to humanitarian emergencies globally. Singapore pays tribute to the unyielding determination of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to conduct life-saving work in Gaza, despite over 130 UNRWA staff members having been killed. Singapore has contributed more than $7 million in cash and in-kind donations to support relief operations in Gaza. We have also deployed a military aircraft to deliver life-saving assistance to Al-Arish for civilians affected by the war in Gaza. We continue to urge the immediate, safe and unhindered provision of humanitarian aid to civilians throughout Gaza. Singapore also appreciates the work of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and other agencies in responding to humanitarian emergencies. With the dramatic and unpredictable changes in the nature and extent of humanitarian situations, it is imperative that the United Nations system remain agile and adaptable to effectively address evolving challenges in disaster risk and management. Within ASEAN, one in seven individuals experienced the aftermath of disasters between 2018 and 2022. The first half of 2023 alone witnessed nearly 500 disasters in South-East Asia. ASEAN is particularly vulnerable to the detrimental impacts of climate change. Projections indicate that uncontrolled climate shifts could erase 35 per cent of ASEAN’s gross domestic product by 2050. That underscores the urgent need to fortify resilience and response capabilities. Singapore would like to make three recommendations in that regard. First, we should invest in capability-building for resilient communities. That will empower our communities to better prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters through resilience-building programmes. A 2020 study by the Asian Development Bank highlights that every dollar allocated towards disaster reduction can save between four to seven dollars in disaster response costs. Singapore is also happy to share our experiences through technical assistance programmes. Under the Singapore Cooperation Programme, Singapore has trained over 150,000 officials from more than 180 countries, territories and intergovernmental organizations, including on topics such as climate adaptation and mitigation, disaster risk management and green finance. Secondly, we should encourage further collaboration with non-governmental stakeholders. It makes sense to harness the capabilities and resources of civil society and the private sector to scale up relief efforts. We can also tap into their extensive networks to streamline last-mile aid delivery efforts. Thirdly, we should leverage on technology to improve our work and build our knowledge base and scientific understanding in disaster risk management and climate change adaptation, in line with the best available science. Singapore will be sharing high- resolution climate projections for South-East Asia from our latest national climate change study to support regional countries in their adaptation efforts. We believe that such sharing can have a meaningful multiplier effect in passing relevant knowledge to fellow developing countries. We encourage greater and innovative cooperation among Member States, relevant United Nations bodies such as the Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, and other stakeholders to fortify our combined capacity for managing disasters. In conclusion, Singapore attaches great importance to strengthening our collective resilience and ability to respond to disasters. Robust cooperation and multilateralism are vital to addressing those challenges and protecting the most vulnerable.

The Maldives expresses gratitude to the Secretary-General for his comprehensive report on strengthening the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance of the United Nations (A/78/73) and commends the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs for the extensive work it does in providing humanitarian relief to those affected and in need of assistance. Today we are in the midst of numerous crises that are both complex and multifaceted. As outlined in the Secretary-General’s report, the increasing adversity of the impacts of climate change, the escalation of violent conflicts and rising food insecurity are among worrisome trends that signal the urgent need for humanitarian assistance. To address those pressing challenges, the report rightly underscores the significance of a reinvigorated multilateral system that calls for a renewed commitment to integrating political solutions, mainstreaming disaster risk reduction and ambitious climate action, and fast-tracking progress towards the accomplishing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We gather here today at a critical moment as the urgent plea for humanitarian action reverberates loudly. The plight of the Palestinians in Gaza has escalated to a catastrophic level and the events unfolding demand our immediate attention and response. The deliberate targeting of essential infrastructure and the tragic loss of innocent children’s lives are unjustifiable actions and blatant violations of international humanitarian law. The Maldives has co-sponsored the draft resolution put forward by the United Arab Emirates in the Security Council, demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. The aggression displayed by Israel has prolonged the suffering of Palestinians for seven decades, and this year marks a grim milestone. With over 70 per cent of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents forcibly displaced, we are witnessing the largest mass displacement of Palestinians in 75 years. The Maldives unwaveringly stands with our brothers and sisters of Palestine and echoes the calls of the international community for an immediate ceasefire to stop further bloodshed. We also urge the Israelis to facilitate safe humanitarian corridors to ensure that Gaza receives aid at the scale it is needed. The Maldives remains committed in supporting a two- State solution, with a sovereign and independent State of Palestine established on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Climate change stands as one of the greatest threats to humankind. Its impacts, characterized by increasing frequency and intensity, have reached an alarming level, with the current year marking the warmest ever recorded. The Secretary-General’s report serves as a sobering reminder that unless we take ambitious climate action now, the number of natural disasters could surge from approximately 400 in 2015 to 560 annually by 2030. That looming scenario has far- reaching implications for our ability to address the surging humanitarian needs. The report underscores that a substantial 70 per cent of refugees and 80 per cent of internally displaced individuals are expected to originate from regions grappling with climate-related disasters. In the context of the Maldives, where the majority of land areas are less than one metre above sea level, we contend with heightened vulnerability amplified by climate change, including coastal erosion, frequent monsoon flooding and intense sea surges. While there are many challenges, there are reasons for optimism, as we have witnessed several encouraging developments. Among them, none is more significant than the ongoing the twenty-eighth Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in Dubai this year. Building on the historic achievement of establishing a loss and damage fund to assist climate-vulnerable developing countries, as agreed at COP27, we are delighted to witness COP28 President, the United Arab Emirates, formally operationalize the fund. That is a monumental step forward to enhance the ability of climate-vulnerable developing countries to access the financing and investments they desperately need to address climate-induced disasters and minimize their humanitarian impact. We commend the United Arab Emirates’ bold leadership as it has increasingly influenced several developed countries to pledge notable commitments to the fund. My delegation further wishes to underscore the significance of implementing disaster risk reduction mechanisms under the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030. We applaud the focus of the high-level meeting on the midterm review of the Sendai Framework on governance, resilience investments and disaster prevention. Disaster risk planning is key to achieving the SDGs. The political declaration commits to collective action, aligning with global agendas like climate and biodiversity. Those measures enhance predictability and safety during natural and human- induced disasters.. Disaster risk reduction initiatives, such as the Early Warning Systems for All, are aimed at minimizing the impact on affected populations and offer a substantial return on investment. For every $1 invested in disaster- resilient infrastructure, an estimated $4 is saved in reconstruction costs. We urge support for expansion of disaster risk reduction mechanisms, particularly early warning systems, to reduce the long-term humanitarian burden. In conclusion, as we strive to address these complex issues, we are reminded of our shared humanity and the responsibility we bear to ensure a safer and more equitable world for all. Together, we can steer the course towards a brighter future, where compassion and cooperation guide our actions and where the ripples of hope spread far and wide in the vast sea of our shared existence.

Over the past decade, we have convened to express our alarm at the exponential rise in humanitarian needs, calling every year “unprecedented”. And yet, at the end of 2023 we find ourselves having faced another challenging year of historic needs driven by increasingly protracted conflicts, exacerbated by climate change; a year marked by a historic milestone of more than 114 million people forcibly displaced and a record level of food insecurity. We began this year with the devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria, followed by the deadly conflict in the Sudan, and now in Gaza. And those are only the crises that dominate the headlines. We must not forget the so-called forgotten crises that remain severely underfunded each year. As we look back, we commend the unwavering dedication of humanitarian workers. We grieve the humanitarians killed, including the scores of aid workers who have lost their lives in Gaza. We continue to stand in global solidarity with efforts to ensure their protection. As we look towards 2024, Canada would like to highlight the following areas to focus our collective attention. First is quality humanitarian financing. The humanitarian system is under increasing pressure. We recognize the heart-wrenching prioritization decisions that our partners have had to make, often with tangible consequences for those most in need. That is why we are pleased that this year’s draft resolutions recognize the growing humanitarian funding gap. It remains more crucial than ever to maximize the efficiency of existing resources. Canada is doing its part. We provide predictable and flexible funding so that our partners can pivot to where they are needed most, in line with the Grand Bargain and good humanitarian donorship. We are also proud to be a top-ten donor to the United Nations country-based pooled funds, recognizing their efforts to provide direct support to local actors who play a critical role in the delivery of humanitarian assistance. But traditional approaches are not enough. We must strengthen coordination across the triple nexus, including with the international financial institutions and other development actors, ensuring respect for humanitarian principles. (spoke in French) Second is respect for international humanitarian law. We must continue to uphold the framework that protects civilians, even as the rules-based international order is challenged. The rapid and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid saves lives and must be maintained, whatever the political objectives. And we must continue to insist that humanitarian and medical workers are not targets. It is unacceptable that hundreds of humanitarian workers, the majority of them local responders, continue to be killed every year. We were pleased to see that point recognized in this year’s draft resolutions. Respect for international humanitarian law is not optional. It is the only assurance we have that humanity will be preserved during armed conflicts. Third is inclusive, gender-sensitive humanitarian action. Although there is evidence that women and girls continue to be disproportionately affected by crises, they are still often marginalized or even forgotten, in humanitarian responses. It is essential that marginalized people — particularly women and girls in all their diversity — be at the heart of the development and implementation of humanitarian response plans. That includes influencing the humanitarian system to systematically ensure the participation, leadership and empowerment of all women and girls in decision-making processes. Canada is committed to supporting humanitarian assistance that takes into account the intersecting needs of people in vulnerable situations, particularly those of women and girls in all their diversity and people who face discrimination because of their sexual orientation, their gender identity and expression, and their sexual characteristics. I would like to thank the facilitators of each of the humanitarian draft resolutions to be adopted here today. Together, as an international community, we can and must do more. Our partners and, above all, all those affected by crises are counting on us.

We are all well aware that the world is facing growing and, it appears, increasingly insurmountable humanitarian challenges. Whether in protracted crises or conflicts that intensify to the detriment of the civilian population — such as in the Middle East, Ukraine or the Sudan — the need for humanitarian assistance and protection continues to increase. However, available resources are unable to keep pace with growing demand and as a result the financing gap is growing irremediably. Peace, humanitarian aid and development efforts must go hand-in-hand, not only to respond to crises but also to find political solutions and prevent conflicts. Although it was not possible to find consensus on all the elements discussed within the framework of the three humanitarian draft resolutions, the negotiations carried out in recent weeks have been of capital importance. They demonstrate the desire of the international community to collectively address urgent humanitarian challenges. I would like to highlight three key elements from Switzerland’s point of view: First is respect for international humanitarian law and human rights. In a world where armed conflicts are increasing, strict respect for those rights is essential, be it in the context of the hostilities themselves or of the treatment of people who no longer take part in the fighting. That not only reduces the suffering of civilian populations but also facilitates the delivery of humanitarian aid so that it can reach those who need it most. Second is rapid and unhindered access to crisis areas. Without such access, reaching people in urgent need of help and protection becomes an insurmountable challenge. Rapid and unrestricted access for all impartial humanitarian organizations, be they international or national, is the sine qua non condition for the provision of essential assistance where it is most needed. Third is anticipatory action. We must work proactively to prevent crises and armed conflicts wherever possible. Conflict prevention is as vital as our ability to respond. By identifying and treating problems at the source, we can save lives and resources. In that context, the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund is an essential tool. It has played a pioneering role in developing innovative working methods. We encourage the sharing and scaling of pilot projects, particularly in terms of anticipatory action, in order to inspire and guide the entire humanitarian system. That change in approach is all the more important as resources are scarce. The future of people in need will depend on our ability to collectively chart such new paths as the localization of humanitarian aid. Innovative approaches are essential to delivering effective humanitarian assistance and reducing the funding gap.

At the outset, allow me to express my delegation’s gratitude to the coordinators and facilitators of the draft resolutions under consideration of agenda item 72 for their hard work towards the achievement of consensus among Member States. I would also like to extend my appreciation to the Secretary-General for his reports. I align myself with the statement delivered by the representative of Venezuela on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations, and deliver the following in my national capacity. In our view, all of the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter, notably respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States, should be strictly observed by all countries, as well as humanitarian aid organizations, when providing humanitarian assistance in other territories. Since States have the primary role and responsibility in response to their humanitarian emergencies, national ownership and leadership in the coordination of humanitarian assistance to ensure its effective delivery must be acknowledged. In the same vein, any humanitarian crises or emergencies, especially those that have been advertently created under a specific and hidden political agenda, must not lead to any foreign intervention, including under the pretext of the responsibility to protect. The Islamic Republic of Iran emphasizes the importance of humanitarian assistance activities, including the United Nations humanitarian response system, by upholding its purely humanitarian nature. We strongly believe that those who serve as the main contributors in protracted wars and occupations by their involvement or through the provision of sophisticated weapons should shoulder more of the burden in financing United Nations humanitarian responses. That also includes those that have historical responsibility in the greenhouse gas emissions that lead to rapid climate change and exacerbate disasters. We also strongly condemn situations wherein the humanitarian needs of populations in dire deprivation are taken hostage as a political means or military tool, including by imposing blockages to starve civilians to death. Furthermore, the United Nations must assure that all humanitarian aid is distributed among all populations in need indiscriminately and without any interference by donors. The Islamic Republic of Iran considers unilateral coercive measures to be one of the main obstacles that hinder international efforts to provide humanitarian assistance, while also serving as one of the main sources of creating humanitarian crises around the world. While our region is prone to a variety of disasters, including earthquakes, droughts, dust and sandstorms, as well as floods that stretch our resources to the absolute brink, the Islamic Republic of Iran has suffered tremendously from the additional weight that unlawful and illegal unilateral sanctions bear. There are many humanitarian crises around the world that require our swift attention. Regarding the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan, as has been our appeal at this time every year in this organ and under the consideration of this agenda item, and as the winter approaches and the situation of the Afghan people, especially women, girls and children, continue to deteriorate, the timely provision of humanitarian assistance should in no way be politicized, conditional or ignored due to other emerging humanitarian crises around the world. In addition, every effort should be made to ensure that the countries hosting Afghan refugees and citizens, especially Afghanistan’s neighbours, have unhindered access to humanitarian goods and other commodities. Afghanistan has experienced some devastating earthquakes in recent months. Its humanitarian needs are far beyond what the Islamic Republic of Iran has provided thus far. The international community must address that emergency. The international community continues to face one of the most exceptional challenges and largest tests in its history of humanitarian emergencies as it strives to address the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The Gaza Strip is under the worst siege since 2007 and the humanitarian situation is growing worse every day, while the death toll is rising due to the daily atrocity crimes committed by the Israeli regime against the innocent Palestinian people. Hospitals, mosques, churches, schools and other purely civilian infrastructure have not been immune, with many hundreds of people being brutally slaughtered inside those places. Some 70 per cent of the victims are children and women. Many people have been displaced. More than 80 journalists have been killed. Almost 111 staff members of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) are no longer among us. UNRWA premises are under deliberate attack, and people who have sought refuge inside those premises are bombarded. Unhindered access is still the main challenge to providing humanitarian assistance to the Palestinians. What is very sad, disappointing and unacceptable is the inaction of the international community, including the United Nations and especially the Security Council, in facing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Humanitarian pauses are not a solution to the deteriorating situation in Gaza. In such a dire situation, sympathy is no longer enough. Unfortunately, rather than denouncing the brutality of the Israeli regime in Gaza, those countries — which are staunch proponents of humanitarian intervention in other countries while having a horrific record of military interventions in countries including Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Libya, among others — instead embolden the regime by expressing their support for it in both words and in supplying sophisticated weapons. We strongly believe that addressing the root causes of humanitarian crises and emergencies, as well as greater investment in prevention, are the only sustainable solutions for that global phenomenon. In the Middle East, which attracts a significant amount of humanitarian assistance due to the conflicts emanating from military interventions and protracted occupations, especially in Palestine, the root causes of humanitarian crises must be addressed urgently. In that regard, it is incumbent on the Security Council to live up to its inherent responsibilities as a fundamental step towards ending the humanitarian crisis in our region, and especially in ending the atrocity crimes being committed by the Israeli regime in Gaza. In conclusion, the Islamic Republic of Iran reiterates its consistent call for the immediate halt of aggression against Gaza, the cease of all military support to the aggressor and occupying regime and the implementation of a sustainable and durable cessation of hostilities. All perpetrators of crimes against Palestinians, including those who aid and abet the Israeli regime to commit atrocity crimes in Palestine, especially in Gaza, must be held accountable.

We thank the Secretary- General for presenting important reports under agenda item 72. The world is today confronted with myriad of challenges  — conflicts, climate-induced natural disasters, economic downturn and food insecurity — giving rise to unprecedented humanitarian needs. The intersection of those challenges is unfolding in humanitarian crises and decelerating progress towards achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Secretary-General’s report on assistance to the Palestinian people (A/78/86) serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic humanitarian situation in Gaza created by Israel’s latest aggression against the Palestinian people, in blatant disregard of the recent resolution ES-10/21 and international law. We strongly and unequivocally condemn the indiscriminate use of force by Israel. Israel’s attacks on civilians, civilian objects and infrastructure, its blockading of essential humanitarian supplies and the forced displacement of people within the occupied territory are flagrant violations of international humanitarian law and amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity and may amount to the crime of genocide. While taking note of the Secretary-General’s report on the safety and security of humanitarian personnel and protection of United Nations personnel (A/78/369), we would like to express our grave concern at the killing and injuring of staff of United Nations agencies and entities, humanitarian workers and health-care workers by Israel. In the history of the United Nations, never have so many of its brave personnel lost their lives in such a short span of time, as we have witnessed in the past few weeks in Gaza. That deserves our collective condemnation and a collective demand for holding Israeli occupation forces accountable. Extreme weather and climate-related disasters are contributing to humanitarian crises, driving displacement and compounding risks and vulnerabilities. If current trends continue, the number of natural disasters per year globally is projected to increase from around 400 in 2015 to 560 per year by 2030 — an increase of 40 per cent during the lifetime of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030. The INFORM Climate Change Risk Index estimates that, by 2050, more than 1.6 billion people may be exposed to major droughts, 300 million people to river floods and 70 million people to coastal floods, and that more than half of the world’s population will be potentially at risk of malaria. This is a sombre moment of reflection for the international community that we are sleepwalking into a climate change-induced chaos. In the past few years, Pakistan has also faced unprecedented humanitarian emergencies arising from natural disasters and climate-related events. Given recurrent natural catastrophes such as floods, droughts, heat waves and cyclones, Pakistan has been ranked as one of the top 10 countries most affected by climate change in the past 20 years, despite being one of the lowest emitters. The massive dimensions of the unprecedented climate-induced floods in Pakistan last year have been well documented in the Secretary- General’s report presented under this agenda item. What Pakistan faced last year is a grim reminder of the increasing frequency and growing impact of the climate change that is upon us. We would like to express our profound gratitude to the Secretary-General for standing with the people of Pakistan during that tragedy, visiting those affected, issuing the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) emergency appeal, mobilizing relief, and then working with Pakistan and our other development partners through the United Nations Development Programme and the Resident Coordinator to develop, first, a post-disaster national assessment and then the Resilient Recovery, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Framework. We are also grateful for the solidarity and support demonstrated by the international community. The OCHA Central Emergency Response Fund was critical in the early stages of the disaster. However, we share the concern that the OCHA Floods Response Plan for Pakistan remains underfunded. The response to the 4RF plan at the Geneva Conference last January, co-hosted by the Secretary-General, was also most encouraging, with pledges of around $11 billion, of which more than 60 per cent have been realized. Beyond those projects for resilience against direct climate impacts, Pakistan has also formulated, with United Nations cooperation, a more extensive and long-term adaptation plan. An important component of the adaptation plan is the Living Indus initiative, which envisages the revitalization of the entire Indus basin through a series of 25 projects. We look forward to international cooperation in implementing that transformational initiative and Pakistan’s adaptation plan. We also look forward to the written report from the Secretary-General on Pakistan’s floods recovery and reconstruction efforts, to be presented during second quarter of 2024, as envisaged in resolution 77/1. Unprecedented global humanitarian challenges require enhanced international solidarity, commitment, political will and transformative actions. Achieving that will require the following. First, the root causes of humanitarian emergencies, ranging from conflicts to climate-induced natural disasters, should be addressed. Secondly, the humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence should be respected in all circumstances. There should be zero tolerance for violations of humanitarian principles and the enforcement of the Geneva Conventions must be ensured in conflict situations, including in situations of foreign occupation. Thirdly, resources for humanitarian assistance that are compatible with humanitarian needs on the ground should be mobilized. Financing for humanitarian assistance should be mobilized from all sources and channels, public and private. With the involvement of the international financial institutions, new and innovative financing mechanisms must also be devised. Fourthly, in humanitarian emergencies, people face multidimensional poverty and food insecurity. The international community must demonstrate solidarity in line with the principle of burden- and responsibility- sharing by addressing the causes of multidimensional poverty and food insecurity. Fifthly, pledges and commitments made at the Conferences of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change should be realized by ensuring the mobilization of $100 billion in climate finance, allocating half of that to adaptation projects, the early capitalization of the loss and damage fund, and accelerating the reduction of emissions, particularly by the industrialized countries. Sixthly, a fully resourced Central Emergency Response Fund at $1 billion, as endorsed by the General Assembly, and well-funded country-based pooled funds are essential to ensuring rapid, efficient, coherent and coordinated assistance for the people most in need and to responding to crises. Finally, Member States, the United Nations and humanitarian organizations should scale up efforts to prevent, mitigate and respond to disasters, including the humanitarian impacts of climate change, and accelerate adaptation and resilience-building efforts through humanitarian preparedness and response, strengthening early warning action systems and systemic risk reduction approaches. In that regard, we call upon Member States to support the implementation of Secretary-General’s Early Warnings for All initiative and its Executive Action Plan to ensure that everyone is protected by multi-hazard early warning systems by 2027. The humanitarian crises which the world faces today are existential threats. If we fail to address those crises, we can neither protect our current generations nor safeguard the well-being of our future generations. The clock is ticking and the time to act is now.

We are entering the year 2024 with devastating records in the global humanitarian outlook. As of end of October, 365 million people worldwide needed humanitarian assistance. The total number of forcibly displaced people continues to rise, reaching 114 million worldwide. Against that grim picture, funding requirements are increasing and have reached almost $56 billion. On the other hand, chronic underfunding for humanitarian assistance persists. Donations represent merely 33 per cent of the total funding required this year. The gap between financial requirements and resources constitutes enormous challenges. Those challenges are beyond the capacity of individual countries to tackle. Therefore, it is the collective responsibility of the international community to remain committed to resolving humanitarian crises around the world while addressing underlying root causes. Türkiye is doing its part within its borders and its region and beyond. As the second-most generous country in the world on the basis of per capita humanitarian spending, Türkiye mobilizes the necessary resources to assist millions of people in need. Also, as the top refugee-hosting country in the world, it provides shelter for almost 4 million people. While we pursue our efforts to leave no one behind, we call on the other members of the international community to provide predictable and sustainable funding for international humanitarian assistance. We also urge partners to equitably share the responsibility with the refugee-hosting countries and help to create conditions in respective countries in order to facilitate the safe, voluntary and dignified return of the refugees. Türkiye believes in international solidarity in the face of disasters. In the same spirit of solidarity, we received tremendous support from the international community, including the United Nations system, following the earthquakes that hit Türkiye on 6 February. I take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to all our friends and partners that complemented the work of Turkish authorities in earthquake response with their assistance. This important debate would be incomplete without discussing the biggest humanitarian tragedy of recent history that is unfolding in Gaza. The scale of the destruction and the number of civilian casualties are at unimaginable levels. Since the outset of the conflict, Türkiye has been calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, as well as for urgent and unimpeded humanitarian access. In line with that call, Türkiye, together with the other members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the League of Arab States Contact Group, has been working tirelessly to end the conflict as soon as possible. In addition to those efforts, Türkiye has been bilaterally providing much-needed humanitarian and medical support to the Palestinian people. We have made an additional voluntary contribution to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East under the OCHA flash appeal, in addition to our annual contribution to the Agency. Türkiye is committed to providing further support to the Palestinian people and United Nations agencies to alleviate the suffering of civilians in Gaza, while continuing its efforts to end the conflict. The ongoing conflict in the region also threatens the further destabilization of Syria and the deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the country. Therefore, it is imperative that the United Nations cross-border humanitarian assistance, which is a lifeline for millions of people in north-western Syria, continue in accordance with its long-standing modus operandi. That is critically important as millions of Syrians try to cope with harsh winter conditions. At the same time, the international community should spare no effort to find a lasting solution to the Syrian conflict, in line with Security Council resolution 2254 (2015), in order to address the root causes of the conflict. While we all continue our global relief efforts, we should also take into account the unfolding global food insecurity. With that in mind, Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts, together with the United Nations, brought the Black Sea Initiative to life and averted an immediate global food crisis. The Initiative was instrumental in contributing to food security, particularly in Africa, and complemented efforts to help alleviate the humanitarian crisis in the whole continent. Last but not least, United Nations personnel and humanitarian workers play a crucial role in delivering life-saving assistance to those facing crises, yet they risk their lives and become targets while doing their job. The eight workers killed in Gaza represent the highest number of United Nations fatalities ever recorded in a single conflict. That is unacceptable, and Türkiye has strongly condemned all acts of violence, attacks and threats against United Nations and humanitarian personnel. In that understanding, as in previous years, this year Türkiye is co-sponsoring the draft resolution on the safety and security of humanitarian personnel and protection of United Nations personnel (A/78/L.17). Regarding the fourth, fifth and thirty-third preambular paragraphs and operative paragraph 8 of the draft resolution, Türkiye is not a party to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court or to the Protocols Additional to the 1977 Geneva Conventions. As such, we count ourselves not bound by the provisions that contain references to instruments to which Türkiye is not a party. We interpret that those provisions do not alter the current state of customary international law or create new obligations.

The scale, severity and significance of humanitarian need across a number of contexts is particularly pronounced today. New Zealand is deeply distressed by escalating crises around the world and growing numbers of civilian casualties. We are gravely concerned by the deaths of humanitarians, medical workers and journalists in the field. The loss of life and the level of suffering that we are seeing in Gaza as a result of the Israel-Hamas conflict are devastating. New Zealand is extremely concerned about the renewed hostilities and their appalling impact on civilians. New Zealand has consistently called for all parties to abide by international law, including the need to ensure the protection of all medical and humanitarian personnel and facilities, in line with Security Council resolution 2286 (2016). Ensuring meaningful humanitarian access is critical and a key requirement of international humanitarian law. We call on all parties to urgently facilitate the necessary access to alleviate the plight of civilians in Gaza. New Zealand is calling on all parties, as well as countries with influence in the region, to take urgent steps towards establishing a ceasefire. We applaud humanitarians globally working in often very difficult and dangerous circumstances. New Zealand remains particularly concerned for women humanitarians facing restrictions based on their gender. Ensuring that humanitarian actors in all settings can carry out their work without hindrance or obstruction is essential. We call for barriers to humanitarian access in all contexts to be removed immediately. Safe, rapid and unimpeded access is vital. New Zealand hopes to see stronger language on this in humanitarian resolutions in the future. While armed conflict continues to be a key driver of global humanitarian needs, the impacts of climate change are increasingly an exacerbating factor, if not a driver themselves. Reflecting on the past 12 months, we have seen drought, floods, increased temperatures and other intense weather events have devastating impacts, including on livelihoods, food insecurity, health outcomes and displacement. In our own region of the Pacific, we recently saw a Category 5 tropical cyclone make landfall in October. The fact that this occurred prior to the official start of the cyclone season in November is highly unusual. We must be measured by how we both tackle the root causes of climate change and how we adapt and respond to its adverse effects. In that context, New Zealand is a strong proponent of anticipatory humanitarian action. When we know that a risk or a disaster is looming, anticipatory approaches can help lessen the scale of a crisis, and most importantly, lessen human suffering. Inclusive humanitarian action is key focus of New Zealand’s humanitarian responses. We reiterate the importance of reliable and safe access to sexual and reproductive health services in ensuring the health and well-being of all people, especially women and girls. We are committed to defending those hard-won rights and hope to see language on those issues continue to be strengthened in humanitarian resolutions. We also urge the system to make continued progress towards humanitarian action that is locally led, wherever possible, and accountable to affected populations at all times. An effective response to humanitarian need requires global solidarity and international cooperation. New Zealand continues to provide multi-year and flexible core funding to humanitarian partners, complemented by earmarked contributions to specific crises and longer-term preparedness investments in the Pacific. We are proud to play our part in the global humanitarian system, and to stand up for action that saves lives.

At the outset, my country’s delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered by the representative of sisterly Egypt on behalf of the Group of Arab States. I would like to deliver the following statement in my national capacity. The General Assembly is meeting today to discuss one of the most important items on its agenda, namely, strengthening the coordination of humanitarian assistance. This is a critical time at which our humanitarian principles are being put to a very difficult test that could discredit our international Organization and threaten the legitimacy and status of international order. The attacks and acts of aggression of the Israeli occupation forces continue against the north and the south of the Gaza Strip. They target, children and women as martyrs fall by the hour, in staggering and painful numbers that now exceed 17,000. The attacks have not spared even relief workers from the United Nations and international humanitarian organizations, who have lost their lives as they courageously carry out their humanitarian mandate. The attacks have also brutally targeted civilian buildings, hospitals and schools, all in blatant, continued and systemic violations of international humanitarian law, international human rights law and all humanitarian norms and principles perpetrated by the Israeli occupation forces. In that regard, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has continued to provide support to the brotherly Palestinian people besieged in the Gaza Strip by sending more than 25 relief planes and ships containing relief, medical and shelter supplies, along with more than 14 ambulances. We are also coordinating with international and humanitarian organizations to which we provide continuous support, especially the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East. Furthermore, we have launched a relief campaign in the Kingdom that has collected more than $100 million so far. Israel’s disregard of the principles of humanitarian law has made humanitarian work almost impossible, as highlighted by many United Nations agencies, and has thwarted the efforts of donor countries. As unarmed civilians continue to suffer in Gaza, we stress the Kingdom’s significant appreciation of and support for the justified and important step taken by the Secretary- General in invoking Article 99 of the Charter of the United Nations. We reiterate the urgent call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire that would pave the way for a serious and credible peace. The world, and our region in particular, have witnessed multiple challenges this year, including natural disasters and armed conflicts, which have heightened the need for humanitarian assistance. Based on its global humanitarian responsibility, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has promptly responded to humanitarian crises around the world, regardless of their kind and causes. The Kingdom continues to stand with the brotherly people of the Sudan in their ongoing difficulties. We look forward to a sustainable political solution to the current conflict, which portends a more prosperous and peaceful future for the people of the Sudan. The Kingdom stands ready to continue supporting and sponsoring the political solution. Since the beginning of the crisis in the Sudan in April and the exacerbation of humanitarian needs there, the Kingdom’s humanitarian response has included three important factors: first, the urgent evacuation of foreign citizens to Jeddah, which saved the lives of nearly 8,500 people from 110 countries, including United Nations staff; secondly, establishing a humanitarian zone for the World Food Programme in Jeddah to store and send humanitarian assistance to the Republic of the Sudan and crisis- affected neighbouring countries by coordinating with the United Nations; and thirdly, the Kingdom has provided $100 million of direct humanitarian support and launched a popular relief campaign. Supporting the brotherly people of Yemen is a humanitarian priority for the Kingdom, whether by providing humanitarian and development assistance or by supporting the Central Bank of Yemen. Our total support has exceeded $25 billion over the previous years. My country continues to implement quality humanitarian projects in Yemen, including the Project Masam demining initiative, which has cleared more than 414,000 mines since 2018. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reaffirms that humanitarian work is one of our key priorities. My country continues to work tirelessly to promote and coordinate international humanitarian efforts. We appreciate our effective partnership with multiple international humanitarian organizations through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre. The Kingdom also hosted the third Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum this year, as it believes in the importance of addressing concerns related to humanitarian work. Women and children are the most affected by disasters and are the most in need of relief. It is therefore important to focus on those categories when designing humanitarian responses. Assessments of humanitarian needs should include the voices of women in targeted communities. We look forward to launching the 2024 Global Humanitarian Overview next week. However, we express concern at the ongoing and growing gap between humanitarian needs, on the one hand, and relief and humanitarian assistance provided, on the other. We stress the importance of finding practical and sustainable solutions to bridge that gap, based on scientific and professional foundations. In conclusion, my country stresses once again the importance of promoting and coordinating international efforts associated with humanitarian assistance. It is important to work hand-in-hand with the United Nations to alleviate the suffering of all those affected by various disasters all over the world. We reiterate our full cooperation towards achieving that goal.

The events of 2023 have devastated lives and livelihoods around the globe. Multiple intersecting and complex crises are stretching humanitarian organizations to their limits. The ongoing conflict in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories has claimed a harrowing number of civilian lives, including those of United Nations and humanitarian workers. Australia reaffirms calls for the protection of civilian lives. Australia reaffirms the call for safe, unimpeded and sustained humanitarian access to enable life-saving assistance to reach affected civilians, including food, fuel, water, medicine and other essential supplies. In the year ahead, we will continue to face ever compounding challenges, acute food and water insecurity, fragility, record levels of displacement and the impacts of climate change, including increasingly intense disasters. It is a deeply challenging prospect and will require sustained and increased humanitarian assistance. Australia remains committed to working in partnership with the United Nations and others to provide life-saving assistance to those most in need. But the system is under immense pressure and humanitarian assistance alone is not the solution. We, the humanitarian community, must collaborate with others and embrace new and better ways of working. We must ensure that our responses are fit for purpose, right-sized and better coordinated and that they help local communities build back better. We must invest in a multi-hazard, cross-sectoral approach to disaster risk reduction preparedness and resilience-building. We must respond in a way that protects development gains and helps deliver prosperity and stability, and in doing so ensure that gender equality and disability inclusion are at the heart of our efforts. We must find political solutions, hold warring parties to account for violations of international humanitarian law, and develop more joined-up solutions that focus on addressing the root causes of conflicts and crises. I conclude today with Australia’s thanks to the humanitarians around the world, who continue to work relentlessly in the back offices and on the front lines to deliver urgent assistance to millions of people in need.

The United States is pleased to co-sponsor the humanitarian omnibus safety and security and natural disasters draft resolutions. The humanitarian work of the United Nations and other humanitarian agencies is unfortunately needed now more than ever. The United States remains a steadfast leader in responding to humanitarian needs, giving nearly $15 billion in humanitarian assistance in fiscal year 2023. However, we are deeply concerned by the continuing gap between funding required and actual support to meet growing needs. Humanitarian agencies are working to address a myriad of crises, including helping the people of Ukraine survive winter, assisting Afghan returnees, and addressing repeated shocks in Haiti and the Horn of Africa, food insecurity in the Sudan and devastating natural disasters in Syria, Türkiye, Morocco, Pakistan and Libya. They are also doing what they can under dire conditions in Gaza to provide life-saving aid to Palestinian civilians. To enable their work to save lives, we must promote the safety and security of humanitarians on the ground. Too often, we see them counted among the casualties. We offer our deepest condolences to all the families, friends and colleagues of staff members of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) who have lost their lives since 7 October. Humanitarians must be protected, consistent with international humanitarian law. We are proud to be the largest single donor to UNRWA, and for that reason once again we will join consensus on the draft resolution on assistance to the Palestinian people (A/78/L.22), despite its outdated language. Our support for Israel’s right to self-defence, exercised in compliance with international humanitarian law, has not changed. We support calls to renew an extended humanitarian pause, during which hostages could be released and further aid could be surged into Gaza, but not calls for an immediate ceasefire. Since 7 October, President Biden has pressed to get as much aid as possible into Gaza. We welcome Israel’s commitment to opening Kerem Shalom for inspecting goods and the Israeli Government’s recent decision to supply the amount of fuel required for daily operations in Gaza. We also have been clear that Palestinian civilians and humanitarian personnel must be protected. Far too many civilians have been killed. We are working tirelessly to expand aid and also restore basic services, particularly additional water and fuel supply. Across our humanitarian work globally, we are engaging with partners to develop new approaches to more effectively reach people in crises. In 2022, we brought together partners to craft a roadmap for global food security that seeks to tackle one of the most consequential challenges of our time — ever-increasing rates of food insecurity. Last year, we were proud to have championed, together with Ireland, Security Council resolution 2664 (2022), which established a humanitarian carveout across United Nations-sanctions regimes to facilitate the delivery of aid to the most vulnerable. During the General Assembly’s recent high-level week, the United States joined the World Economic Forum to call on humanitarian and development organizations, donors and host Governments, development finance institutions, foundations, investors and corporations to join forces to mobilize $10 billion in investment capital for humanitarian relief by 2030. Much work remains to be done, especially in promoting protection for the most vulnerable, such as survivors of gender-based violence and persons with disabilities. The United States remains committed to promoting women’s leadership and supporting the prevention of gender-based violence and survivor- centred humanitarian programmes from the very beginning of a crisis. We also continue to champion disability inclusion as a cross-cutting requirement in humanitarian programming and to support disability-related organizations to respond to the underlying causes of inequality that are worsened by humanitarian emergencies. For further details on our positions, we refer Members to our general statement, delivered on 3 November.

Norway shares the greatest concern about the sharp increase in the number of people in need of humanitarian assistance. Unfortunately, there are no signs that this trend will be reversed anytime soon. The gap between needs and available financial resources is expected to be even greater next year. In that dire context, we must strengthen our efforts and ensure that as many as possible are provided with necessary protection and assistance. We must work smarter, and we must work better. We need a coordinated humanitarian response that puts people affected by crisis at the centre, where gender-responsive protection and assistance are vital. I would like to highlight four issues. First, the protection of civilians in armed conflict and ensuring compliance with international humanitarian law are key priorities for Norway. Protecting civilians from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas is vital. A milestone was reached in Dublin last year when the Political Declaration on the Humanitarian Consequences of the Use of Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas (EWIPA) was adopted by 83 States. The scale of the destruction we are witnessing in Gaza now clearly demonstrates the relevance of the EWIPA Declaration, which addresses what international humanitarian law means for urban warfare and recognizes the obligations on us all for the protection of civilian lives and civilian objects. In April next year, we will host a conference to follow up on the implementation of those commitments. The aim is to broaden support and find practical measures to enhance the protection of civilians in urban warfare. Secondly, as the number of people in need of food assistance is record high and continuing to rise, combating food insecurity and hunger remains another key priority for Norway. That campaign will involve contributing to climate-robust food production, including by smallholders, and the development of local value chains and markets. Thirdly, Norway will continue to strive to break the downward spiral that is turning protracted, complex crises into new norms in several regions. Closer collaboration among humanitarian efforts, long-term development assistance and peacebuilding is necessary to prevent human suffering and reduce humanitarian needs. We are pleased to see progress globally in that regard. Fourthly, crises and conflicts arising from climate change are on the rise. It is urgent to address the humanitarian consequences of climate change, as well as the interlinkage between our humanitarian and climate efforts. Climate funding must reach the people most affected by climate change. Currently, too little of it does so. We need to act sooner and more efficiently ahead of crises to reduce their negative impact on people. We need to make prevention more effective. Anticipatory action must become the preferred option where it is possible to predict a crisis. Lives will be saved, people’s dignity will be upheld and the need for humanitarian support will be reduced. That is why Norway supports the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund as an effective mechanism advancing anticipatory approaches. Flexible and multi-year funding is key for humanitarian organizations to be able to act fast and according to changing needs on the ground, Norway provides predictable, flexible and long-term humanitarian funding. We hope that this can be the norm for all donors. I take this opportunity also to acknowledge the relentless efforts and dedication of humanitarian first-line responders. Many of them are from the crisis-affected areas themselves and too many make the ultimate sacrifice. We are concerned about the increasing trend of disinformation campaigns and misinformation that undermine trust in the United Nations and humanitarian organizations and that put humanitarian personnel and United Nations and associated personnel at risk. Humanitarian workers must be protected.

Every year, we meet here to reflect on global humanitarian needs. Yet again, we are faced with a sobering picture. Some 258 million people do not know where their next meal is coming from; 1 in 5 children is living in or fleeing from conflict; 1 in 73 people is displaced, a number that has doubled in the past 10 years. We are simultaneously witnessing dire humanitarian situations in Israel and Gaza, the Sudan, Syria and Ukraine, alongside many more across the world. The levels of need are overwhelming the humanitarian system. We all have a role and a stake in reversing those worrisome trends. On 20 November, our Prime Minister launched the United Kingdom’s international development white paper. This sets out our commitment to getting the Sustainable Development Goals back on track, and it includes a strong commitment to protecting the most vulnerable in the face of ever-growing needs driven by conflict and climate. We will deliver this in three key areas. First, we will invest in an effective humanitarian system. We will contribute $1.2 billion to humanitarian assistance from 2024 to 2025, and we will also establish a United Kingdom humanitarian crisis response fund for specialist technical expertise, search and rescue, and emergency medical teams. We call on all Member States, including new and emerging donors and partners, to step up their support. Secondly, we are shaping a system that is accountable to the people it serves. The United Kingdom is proud to have supported the Start Network from its inception to deliver rapid, early and locally led humanitarian action around the world. We will invest more in local leadership on humanitarian action and will explore how our engagement, terminology, delivery and approach can change to support local partnerships. Thirdly, we will help build a system that can anticipate shocks and act early. That is proven to mitigate the impacts of disasters, save more lives and deliver value for money. We will continue to champion the scale-up by the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund of a system-wide approach to early action, including through our contribution of a further $65 million to the fund this year. Finally, we must prevent today’s problems from turning into tomorrow’s crises. That will need a whole-of-system response, in partnership with the United Nations, civil society, the international financial institutions and, increasingly, the private sector. That is why, alongside our humanitarian efforts, we are supporting initiatives that will reduce need and prevent humanitarian caseloads. We will scope a separate fund alongside our humanitarian funding to build in climate resilience and adaptation, alongside our humanitarian relief. That will reduce the impact of future disasters and help communities to prepare for and adapt to crises that we can anticipate, and we will continue to advocate for compliance with international humanitarian law and for sustainable and inclusive ends to conflicts, which remain the greatest blocker to development and prosperity. We look forward to working with all to deliver this.

Since the outbreak of the current round of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the Palestinian people, especially the women and children of Gaza, have been killed and displaced in large numbers. We have seen social and economic collapse, severely damaged infrastructure and more than 2 million people of Gaza plunged into a desperate situation. The international community should promote with the utmost urgency a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire, take more pragmatic and vigorous action to protect the lives of civilians, especially those of women and children, and fully restore humanitarian access as soon as possible. Here, the Chinese delegation expresses its condolences over the civilians and United Nations staff members who have lost their lives in the Gaza conflict and other humanitarian disasters, and extends its sympathy to their families. We also pay tribute to those who are engaged in humanitarian efforts around the world, especially those who risk their lives in conflict areas, including Palestine. China supports the General Assembly in adopting the four draft resolutions before it today, including on the strengthening of the coordination of emergency humanitarian assistance of the United Nations. Currently, the global humanitarian situation is extremely grave. Multiple, fierce armed conflicts have placed a large number of people on the brink of disaster. Frequent natural disasters caused by climate change have exacerbated the crisis of survival for the affected. We call on the international community to act in the humanitarian spirit to strengthen solidarity and cooperation, jointly help countries in humanitarian disasters to overcome difficulties and challenges, and bring care and hope to people in humanitarian distress. Regarding future humanitarian assistance, China would like to emphasize the following points. First, humanitarian principles should be upheld. Humanitarian assistance should conform to the Charter of the United Nations and resolution 46/182; adhere to the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, independence and international humanitarian law; respect the sovereignty of recipient countries; and refrain from interfering in their internal affairs. Safe and unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance should be provided, while the politicization and weaponization of humanitarian issues should be avoided. A few countries, under the banner of democracy and human rights, have cut or even suspended humanitarian assistance to such countries as Afghanistan. Such practices run counter to the humanitarian spirit. Secondly, humanitarian input should be maintained. The current global international situation is facing un­ precedented challenges, with some 364 million people in need of humanitarian assistance worldwide, requiring $55.9 billion in humanitarian resources, while donors have provided only $18.3 billion, which is only 32.7 per cent of the total requirements. Developed countries, as major donors with historical responsibilities, should hon­ our their pledges in a timely manner and in full to effec­ tively make up for the shortfall in humanitarian funds. Thirdly, efforts should be made to address the root causes of the problem. We should stay committed to resolving conflicts by peaceful means and strive to defuse conflicts through dialogue, consultation and political negotiations. Humanitarian efforts and development should be advanced in an integrated manner. The realities on the ground and the urgent needs of the countries in humanitarian crisis should be taken into account as we strive to combine short-term assistance with long-term development and the provision of emergency humanitarian assistance, with increased investment in development so as to promote the gradual transition from relief to recovery and reconstruction in the countries and regions concerned and ultimately set them on the path of independent development to fundamentally reduce humanitarian needs. Fourthly, capacity-building should be strengthened. The international community should consolidate and deepen United Nations-led international cooperation in disaster prevention and reduction and join hands in responding to major disasters and incidents. Developed countries should increase financial, technological and capacity support to disaster-prone developing countries so as to effectively help them enhance their disaster prevention and mitigation capabilities. Developed countries should effectively fulfil their historical responsibilities and honour their commitments to addressing climate change, including by expeditiously honouring their commitment to providing $100 billion in assistance a year. The unilateral coercive measures adopted by a few countries against the developing countries concerned should be revoked as early as possible to avoid aggravating local humanitarian crises. China has always been a defender of world peace and the promoter of common development. It is committed to promoting the building of a community with a shared future for humankind. China attaches great importance to and actively participates in global humanitarian affairs, and supports the United Nations in playing an organizational and coordinating role in international humanitarian relief. We have actively participated in major international humanitarian relief operations and provided timely and effective support and assistance to developing countries in difficulty. Since the outbreak of the current round of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, China has worked tirelessly for peace and to save lives, and has repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire to end the fighting and ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access. The Security Council adopted resolution 2712 (2023) under the Chinese presidency in November, initiating steps to promote a ceasefire. China has also provided Gaza with $1 million in cash and in-kind assistance worth ¥50 million. Since the beginning of this year, China has provided emergency cash assistance and several batches of material assistance to countries and regions hit by natural disasters, including Nepal, Afghanistan, Libya, Türkiye and Syria. The Chinese Government and civil society organizations have also sent a number of rescue teams and medical teams to participate in earthquake relief efforts in Türkiye and Syria. Going forward, China is ready, to the best of its ability, to work with the international community and to continue to participate actively in bilateral multilateral humanitarian relief operations and to provide support and assistance to countries in need.

Poland aligns itself with the statement delivered by the observer of the European Union and would like to add a few remarks in its national capacity. This year’s session is taking place within an increasingly challenging context for the humanitarian system. As emphasized in the report of the Secretary- General (A/78/73), the number of people in need of humanitarian assistance and protection has reached unprecedented levels. According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, more than 114 million people globally have been forced to flee war, violence, persecution and discrimination. That is the highest figure on record. At the same time, hunger and food insecurity are also at unprecedented levels. Against that backdrop, I would like to address four points. First, we must take all necessary steps to uphold international humanitarian law. International law, respect for humanitarian principles and accountability are the core rules that make the humanitarian system reliable. Poland supports efforts towards ensuring full compliance with international humanitarian law by all parties to armed conflicts, and would like to see concrete measures taken by the Security Council in that regard. Secondly, the ever-bigger problem of mines, unexploded ordinance and all explosive remnants of war must be effectively addressed by the international community. Demining is a key step to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid. Poland strongly believes that mine action is crucial for the achievement of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and plays a crucial role in assisting affected communities in regaining safe and dignified lives. As the European Union facilitator of the biannual General Assembly resolution on that crucial topic, Poland has demonstrated its commitment to promoting collective efforts regarding the demining action. Poland has for many years continuously supported the United Nations Mine Action Service UNMAS through voluntary contributions, in particular the UNMAS emergency response in Gaza. Thirdly, promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities remains a priority area of our engagement both internally and in international forums. Poland played a pivotal role in facilitating the adoption of Security Council resolution 2475 (2019), the first ever on the protection of persons with disabilities in conflict situations, during our non-permanent membership of the Council in 2019. Let me take this opportunity to announce that Poland plans to mark the fifth anniversary of the adoption of that resolution in June 2024, and we invite all delegations to work with us and actively participate in the effort to further promote protection of persons with disabilities in conflict situations. Fourthly, we need to accelerate efforts aimed at conflict prevention and the maintenance of international peace and security. Many humanitarian crises around the world are caused by natural disasters or are climate change-induced. More often now than ever, they are inevitable but also unpreventable. Enormous resources are needed to mitigate them and bring relief to the affected populations. We should do our utmost to reduce the number and scale of conflict-related crises so that we can focus on the others. We should also engage the necessary resources in prevention and resilience-building. We must remember that humanitarian aid can never be a substitute for political and economic solutions. Being a member of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Donor Support Group since 2012 and a devoted partner of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Poland will continue its active engagement in various places in the world to help bring relief to all those in need for humanitarian assistance. Strongly supporting the activities of the World Food Programme (WFP), last year Poland contributed $1 million to the WFP to support food security in Africa. In recent years, we have also contributed to WFP actions in Lebanon, Yemen, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Syria and Kenya. Moreover, we have joined actions focused on providing assistance to those affected by climate change and natural disasters, such as ICRC activities in response to flooding in Libya and OCHA activities in Syria after devastating earthquakes of February. The international cooperation can count on Poland’s support in that respect.

Colombia thanks the authors of the draft resolutions under consideration today. Their relevance is indisputable, especially in the current circumstances. Colombia reiterates its historical support for a peaceful, definitive and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian question, based on the solution of two States living side by side within secure borders, in accordance with the provisions of the relevant resolutions of the General Assembly and the Security Council. In turn, my country reiterates the call for compliance with and the full implementation of the relevant United Nations resolutions, as well as the importance of respect for human rights and international humanitarian law on the part of all parties involved. We deeply regret the chilling escalation of deaths and injuries that we have witnessed in the past two months, which has disproportionately affected women and children, who are in a particularly vulnerable situation, as well as the continued violations of the laws of war. We welcome the efforts of different countries to achieve a truce between the parties to stop the violence and guarantee access of humanitarian aid to Gaza to those who urgently need it, and we reiterate our call for respect for international humanitarian law and the protection of life. Colombia urges the Organization and its Member States to redouble our efforts to achieve a definitive cessation of hostilities with a view to stopping the unprecedented loss of innocent lives, forced displacement and the destruction of vital infrastructure to provide essential services to the civilian population. Finally, we call for future iterations of draft resolution A/78/L.22, on assistance to the Palestinian people, to develop substantive discussions and include provisions related to the work of the specialized agencies of the system, such as UNICEF, to carry out an analysis of humanitarian needs and levels of vulnerability of children, so that humanitarian assistance is provided effectively, responding to their real needs.

Japan is pleased to co-sponsor and join consensus on the four draft resolutions under agenda item 72, reaffirming the United Nations vital role in meeting global humanitarian needs. From Asia to the Horn of Africa, the Sahel, the Middle East and Latin America, the world continues to experience unprecedented levels of humanitarian need. Persistent challenges such as food shortages, the impacts of climate change, conflicts, political turmoil, migration, displacement and the lasting impacts of the coronavirus disease pandemic often intertwine, exacerbating vulnerabilities and amplifying humanitarian needs. Russia’s aggression against Ukraine has caused a humanitarian crisis in that country, with global implications. Japan re-emphasizes the need to adhere to humanitarian principles and international humanitarian law, ensuring the protection of civilians, including women, children and those with disabilities, and guaranteeing full, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access. Acknowledging the twentieth anniversary of the attack on the Canal Hotel, the United Nations headquarters in Iraq, Japan expresses its profound gratitude to humanitarians globally for their tireless, brave efforts in aiding those in need, despite increasing risks and threats. Japan remains committed to ensuring their safety and security. Japan has co-sponsored draft resolution A/78/L.22, on assistance to the Palestinian people. Japan will continue to support Palestine based on the three pillars of political dialogue, confidence-building and economic assistance, from the viewpoint of supporting a two-State solution. Japan expresses its deepest concerns over the ever-worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Since the resumption of fighting, Israeli airstrikes and ground operations, including in the southern Gaza Strip, have resulted in very high civilian casualties. All possible efforts must be accelerated to promptly arrive again at a humanitarian pause in order to secure the release of more hostages and to allow for the continued vital supply of humanitarian aid into Gaza. We must stop further deterioration. All parties must act faithfully, based on Security Council resolution 2712 (2023), and comply with international law, including international humanitarian law. As part of our humanitarian assistance efforts, Japan has decided to provide a total of approximately $75 million. In light of growing needs, Japan has unveiled a new Development Cooperation Charter this year, renewing our commitment to humanitarian endeavours. Under the Charter, Japan commits to flexible, high-quality contributions, including exploring cash transfers via international organizations and non-governmental organizations for more efficient aid. Accordingly, Japan intends to double its contribution to the country- based pooled funds of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in 2024. We also aim to accelerate decision-making and enhance collaboration with various non-governmental partners, especially in emergency humanitarian aid, to ensure faster, more reliable aid delivery, even in challenging intergovernmental contexts. We are committed to delivering more prompt and effective emergency humanitarian assistance, including international aid during natural disasters and other emergencies. Furthermore, we will tackle the causes of conflict and instability, offering continuous support for peacebuilding. Our approach links humanitarian aid, development and peace initiatives to ensure human security. Japan also prioritizes the women and peace and security agenda in humanitarian settings. For example, Japan is committed to actively pursuing measures that support women’s and girls’ empowerment in emergency relief and humanitarian assistance, particularly in countries facing crises or instability from conflicts or disasters. We will continue to advance gender- mainstreaming in this regard. With the staggering number of displaced individuals surpassing 114 million, the upcoming second Global Refugee Forum in Geneva next week presents a crucial platform for the international community to address the issue of forcibly displaced people. Japan, as one of the co-convenors of the Forum, has launched a multi-stakeholder pledge focused on the humanitarian- development-peace nexus. Our objective is to engage a wide spectrum of contributors, harnessing their strengths to address humanitarian and refugee crises through a comprehensive, whole-of-society approach. We welcome all interested parties to participate in that collaborative endeavour. In conclusion, as one of the world’s largest humanitarian donors, Japan has provided over $1.4 billion in humanitarian assistance in 2023. We remain committed to addressing the financial needs of humanitarian agencies. I wish to reaffirm Japan’s steadfast pledge to join forces with Member States, the United Nations system and other stakeholders striving to elevate our humanitarian coordination and endeavours.

The Philippines is one of the most-disaster prone countries in the world, with an annual average of 22 tropical cyclones, of which around six cause significant damage. Those cyclones also result in flooding that destroys properties not already ruined by the cyclones. On top of that, earthquakes are a common occurrence. Just four days ago, a 7.4 magnitude offshore earthquake struck the southern Philippines, which triggered a tsunami warning. More than 26,000 people in coastal communities needed to evacuate to higher ground. More than 700 aftershocks of the earthquake were recorded, causing further damage to infrastructure. While the Philippine Government is adept at responding to such disasters, we recognize and appreciate the important role of humanitarian workers who stand on the front lines, ready to brave tremendous dangers and difficulties to provide life-saving aid to those most in need. We value the work of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and other actors, including the Red Cross and Red Crescent movements. We are gravely concerned about the deaths of humanitarian workers in ongoing conflicts. As one of the four countries in the world that implements the Emergency Relief Coordinator’s Flagship Initiative, the Philippines partners with humanitarian teams to explore and develop innovative approaches to achieve tangible outcomes and solutions that respond more effectively and sustainably to affected populations priorities. Those approaches and measures are designed to address protection risks, contribute to community resilience and improve access to basic services and sustainable livelihoods. Humanitarian initiatives should be in support of the Government’s plans and programmes. They should be able to utilize the Government’s existing machinery to deliver aid. The aid delivery system itself should recognize the people’s role not as passive recipients, but as agents with authority over humanitarian decisions that impact the lives of their families and communities. Humanitarian action should also be context-specific, driven by the priority needs of the people and built upon their capacities and representation. It should involve civil society, including representative organizations of women, youth and persons with disabilities. We cannot overemphasize the crucial need for anticipatory action to reduce the impact of crises. The Philippines has been continuously strengthening its capacity to prepare for and mitigate the negative impacts of climate change. The Philippine Development Plan incorporates disaster resilience and underscores several anticipatory actions to ensure the effective management of multidimensional risks. The Philippines develops and adopts technology to support anticipatory actions. It continues to strengthen its multi-hazard, impact-based forecasting and early warning action systems as bases for developing rights-based and gender-responsive social protection programmes. The Central Emergency Response Fund has piloted an anticipatory action framework in the Philippines and allocated $7.5 million for the programme during the 2023 typhoon season. Interventions include pre-emptive evacuation procedures, cash assistance to strengthen dwelling structures and support for renting safe and secure places to shelter farming and fishing tools and livestock. Aligning ourselves with the statement of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, delivered by the representative of Indonesia, the Philippines expresses its readiness to share good practices and lessons learned in anticipatory action with other countries facing the same challenges. We remain committed to complying with our obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Paris Agreement on Climate Change and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030, as well as to doing more towards achieving the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.