Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Let me begin by expressing my deepest sympathies for the many humanitarian personnel who have been injured or killed while carrying out their work.
The world is at a historic turning point: wars and rivalries between major powers are reshaping our certainties. The law of the strongest has returned to center stage.
There are currently more than 120 armed conflicts ongoing around the world. Violence is rising and sometimes directed on purpose against people who dedicate their lives to saving the most vulnerable.
This must stop.
Switzerland strongly condemns all attacks on all humanitarian workers, including national and locally recruited staff. We call on all States to respect and ensure respect for international humanitarian law in all circumstances.
During its UN Security Council membership, my country introduced Resolution 2730 on the protection of humanitarian and UN personnel - addressing this alarming trend.
The resolution was adopted with the support of 99 UN Member States.
This was not only a strong signal but a concrete step forward.
Another such step is being taken today, with the launch of the Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel.
Excellencies
Our commitment to the present Declaration is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure a minimum level of humanity amid the horror of war.
Our commitment is rooted in the obligation we took on more than 75 years ago with the Geneva Conventions.
I am deeply grateful to Australia for its leadership.
The time has come for us to take responsibility and translate this commitment into concrete action.
Thank you.