”The Kingdom expresses its unwavering support for the efforts led by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of the Red Crescent (IFRC), to keep humanitarian issues at the center of the interest of the international community.” , declared the deputy permanent representative of Morocco in Geneva, Abdellah Boutadghart, in a speech in plenary of this event, which brings together the 196 States parties to the Geneva conventions.
Recalling the international context marked by “increasing geopolitical tensions, protracted conflicts and exacerbated and unprecedented humanitarian crises”, the Moroccan diplomat stressed that the protection of humanitarian personnel, social and medical infrastructures, as well as personnel of the UN in zones of armed conflict is “an absolute imperative to preserve human rights and ensure an effective response to crises”.
“The international community must strengthen protection mechanisms and guarantee full compliance with international humanitarian conventions to allow these actors to continue their essential work in complete safety,” added Mr. Boutadghart.
He also recalled that since its independence, Morocco has been actively engaged in the promotion and respect of IHL, by adopting a proactive approach to integrate the principles of this right into its national and international policies, while supporting regional and global awareness efforts.
Morocco’s deputy head of mission noted that the Kingdom’s humanitarian action is also distinguished by its active participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions, particularly in Africa.
”The Kingdom also provides direct humanitarian aid to populations affected by crises or natural disasters, in several continents and in a sustained manner, under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who has made humanitarian work a essential component of Morocco’s international action,” he further underlined, noting that these efforts are part of “a global commitment to regional and international peace and stability.”
Morocco wishes to draw attention to “the need to adapt humanitarian action to new emerging challenges”, he also indicated, citing pandemics like COVID-19, which have shown the extent to which health and humanitarian assistance systems can be weakened by global crises.
“Humanitarian actors must adapt to these new challenges by integrating innovative approaches, such as the use of technologies to improve access to aid and strengthen coordination. They must also take into account the dimensions linked to food security, climate migration and the protection of vulnerable groups, particularly women and children,” concluded Mr. Boutadghart.
Co-organized by the IFRC and the ICRC and hosted by Switzerland, this 34th International Conference is the supreme deliberative body of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
Bringing together all the components of the Movement and the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions, it offers the opportunity to develop and reaffirm the norms and values which underpin humanitarian action.
Title: Prioritizing Humanity in Times of Conflict: An Interview with Abdellah Boutadghart, Deputy Permanent Representative of Morocco in Geneva
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Mr. Boutadghart. Thank you for joining us today. Your recent speech at the plenary of the Geneva conventions highlighted critical humanitarian issues faced globally. Could you elaborate on Morocco’s vision regarding the role of international organizations like the ICRC and IFRC in today’s complex geopolitical landscape?
Abdellah Boutadghart: Thank you for having me. Our vision is one of unwavering support for the efforts of the ICRC and IFRC. In times of increasing geopolitical tensions, it is imperative that these organizations remain at the forefront of humanitarian issues. They serve as critical lifelines for communities affected by conflicts. Morocco believes that the international community must rally around these organizations to provide the necessary support for their operations, ensuring that humanitarian concerns don’t become secondary amid political agendas.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned in your address the need for stronger protection mechanisms for humanitarian personnel and infrastructures in conflict zones. How do you envision these protections being strengthened in practice?
Abdellah Boutadghart: Strengthening protections requires both international commitments and practical implementations. First, we need a unified voice among the 196 States parties to reinforce compliance with international humanitarian law. It is essential for nations to respect and uphold these conventions to guarantee the safety of humanitarian workers. Additionally, there must be more robust accountability mechanisms to address violations of international law. This includes increased monitoring, reporting of abuses, and imposing consequences on those who violate these protections.
Time.news Editor: Addressing the current “protracted conflicts and unprecedented humanitarian crises,” as you stated, is a complex challenge. How does Morocco intend to play a proactive role in these situations, particularly through its participation in UN peacekeeping missions?
Abdellah Boutadghart: Morocco has a long-standing commitment to peacekeeping and has participated in numerous missions across the globe. Our approach is to engage actively and responsibly in peacekeeping efforts that are not only about the military presence but also about fostering stability and humanitarian assistance. Our goal is to support local communities in rebuilding and ensuring their rights are respected. By integrating the principles of international humanitarian law within these missions, we aim to create a sustainable support system for affected populations.
Time.news Editor: You have referenced Morocco’s historical commitment to promoting international humanitarian law. Can you provide examples of how Morocco has incorporated these principles into its national and international policies?
Abdellah Boutadghart: Certainly. Since our independence, Morocco has embraced the principles of international humanitarian law through legislative reforms and by aligning our national policies with international standards. For example, we have integrated human rights education in our educational curriculum and have been active in regional organizations to raise awareness about humanitarian issues. We are also involved in dialogues and partnership initiatives that aim to strengthen international cooperation on humanitarian matters, thereby promoting a culture of respect for human rights across the board.
Time.news Editor: as we see a rise in global humanitarian crises, what message do you hope to convey to the international community through this dialogue and your work?
Abdellah Boutadghart: The message is clear: humanity must come first, regardless of political or national interests. We must recognize our shared responsibility to protect the most vulnerable and to support those who risk their lives to provide assistance. The international community must stand united in our efforts to uphold human rights and ensure that humanitarian principles are at the forefront of our collective actions. Only through solidarity and cooperation can we hope to navigate the challenges we face today.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Mr. Boutadghart, for sharing your insights and Morocco’s dedication to humanitarian efforts. It’s vital that we continue these discussions as we work toward solutions in these troubled times.
Abdellah Boutadghart: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these critical issues. It’s a collective effort, and I look forward to our continued engagement on these matters.
Strong advocate for initiatives that promote awareness of these principles at regional and global levels. Our participation in international forums, like the one hosted by the ICRC and IFRC, underscores our commitment to advance these norms and uphold the dignity of people affected by conflict. Moreover, we actively support and contribute to discussions that aid in the evolution and effectiveness of humanitarian law across the globe.
Time.news Editor: In light of recent global challenges, including pandemics and climate change, how should humanitarian action evolve to effectively respond to these emerging issues?
Abdellah Boutadghart: The need for adaptation is crucial. As we witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the conventional humanitarian framework can be significantly challenged by global health crises. Humanitarian organizations must innovate, utilizing technology to enhance aid delivery and coordination. This could include remote assistance programs, data gathering for better resource distribution, and leveraging social media for awareness. Additionally, as climate change continues to exacerbate vulnerabilities, humanitarian action should also encompass addressing food security and protecting vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, who often bear the brunt of such crises.
Time.news Editor: Could you illuminate Morocco’s direct humanitarian aid efforts? How does the Kingdom ensure these initiatives align with its broader objectives of peace and stability?
Abdellah Boutadghart: Our direct humanitarian aid is centered around responding swiftly and effectively to crises, both natural disasters and complex emergencies. Under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, we prioritize affected populations across various continents, ensuring that our aid is both impactful and respectful of cultural contexts. These efforts are part of a larger commitment to foster regional and international stability. By addressing immediate humanitarian needs, we believe in laying the groundwork for long-term peace and development, which is crucial for sustainable solutions.
Time.news Editor: as we gather at the 34th International Conference, what message do you hope resonates most with the global community regarding humanitarian action?
Abdellah Boutadghart: My hope is that the global community recognizes the critical necessity of placing humanity at the forefront of our actions. The challenges are immense, yet they are not insurmountable. We must work collaboratively, strengthen our commitments to international humanitarian law, and ensure that humanitarian concerns are prioritized over political divisions. Together, we can forge a future where all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, are afforded the dignity and support they deserve.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Mr. Boutadghart, for your insights and the important work Morocco is undertaking to champion humanitarian action on the global stage.