2024-01-17 13:45:00
From Haiti to Mali, from Ukraine to the Gaza Strip, Yemen, Ethiopia and Karabakh, humanitarian space appears to have shrunk a little more every day throughout 2023. Millions of people around the world have suffered the consequences of violence armed without limits that has often defied the basic norms of international humanitarian law (IHL).
Victims of conflict lose access to water, food and shelter, and see schools and hospitals destroyed. In addition, they are exposed to the permanent circulation of malicious information on social networks and in the media. In this type of hybrid war, as it is often called, the objective is to demonize the adversary. It is about stripping him of all humanity and, ultimately, denying him the right to life.
Humanitarian organizations have also been subject to both physical and virtual attacks. Our commitment to the principle of neutrality, which helps us reach the most vulnerable people regardless of which party they belong to, has been criticized by those who believe we must take sides.
We exist to provide assistance to all victims of armed conflict, and we maintain that mission.
As President Mirjana Splojaric put it, “the ICRC affirms its clear determination to stand on the side of people in times of war, whether civilians or combatants, so that the rights and protections conferred on them by IHL are respected.”
We work to bring vital help where it is needed most, so that life can return to normal and smiles return. Our commitment will continue in 2024.
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