Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel
Group of Friends Joint Statement to the 61st Human Rights Council
11.03.2026
President, Excellencies,
I am honoured to deliver this statement as Co-chair of the Group of Friends for the Declaration on the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel.
We meet amid escalating threats to civilians and to those who work tirelessly to assist them. Humanitarian workers continue operating amid armed conflicts, facing strikes on staff, facilities, and the communities they serve. Already in 2026, 56 personnel have been killed, injured, abducted or detained. Many more face severe access constraints.
International humanitarian law and international human rights law require the protection of humanitarian personnel. States must uphold these obligations, facilitate unhindered humanitarian access and delivery of humanitarian aid, and, where appropriate, investigate and prosecute attacks in line with applicable international law. Yet too often calls for compliance go unanswered. Upholding accountability is essential.
Emerging risks—including urban warfare, misuse of digital technologies, and the spread of mis- and disinformation—further undermine trust and increase vulnerabilities.
We urge all States and parties to conflict to protect humanitarian personnel, facilitate humanitarian access, counter harmful narratives, and ensure accountability.
The Group of Friends remains committed to collective action so humanitarian personnel can work safely and deliver life saving assistance in full respect for human rights and humanitarian principles.
Thank you.