New York: Minister of Transport Alexis Vafeades emphasized the critical moral and legal importance of protecting civilians during wartime at the United Nations Security Council debate on the Protection of Civilians. Representing the Republic of Cyprus, Vafeades spoke in New York, underscoring the historical commitment made in the UN Charter to prevent the devastation of war.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Minister Vafeades affirmed Cyprus’s alignment with the EU’s stance on civilian protection and recalled the global promise made 80 years ago in the UN Charter to protect future generations from war. He expressed concern that severe violations of international humanitarian and human rights laws continue to occur worldwide, including in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Vafeades criticized the rise in attacks on civilians and infrastructure, highlighting the disproportionate impact on women, children, humanitarian workers, medical personnel, journalists, and UN staff. He pointed out the increasing issues of forced displacement, violated property rights, and the growing number of missing persons, noting Cyprus’s own experiences with foreign aggression and the human costs involved.
He called on the Security Council to move beyond rhetoric and take decisive action. Vafeades stressed the need for renewed commitment to international law and the UN Charter, urging the Council to utilize all available tools to ensure civilian protection.
The Minister outlined four areas where progress could be achieved by 2025, noting the upcoming 20th anniversary of the World Summit Outcome Document. He called for improved early warning capabilities and concrete support for states, emphasizing the importance of these measures for fulfilling obligations to protect civilians.
In reference to Security Council Resolutions 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, and 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security, Vafeades argued that sustainable peace is contingent on the protection and inclusion of all civilians in peace processes. He also highlighted Cyprus’s ongoing challenges with missing persons, advocating for stronger international cooperation to address this humanitarian issue.
Vafeades noted the record number of aid worker casualties in 2024, applauding the adoption of Resolution 2730 (2024) and stressing the necessity of its full implementation. He emphasized the importance of ensuring rapid and safe humanitarian access in conflict areas.
He concluded by commending humanitarian efforts worldwide, particularly the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) for their humanitarian work in providing relief and facilitating normal living conditions.
The Minister called for genuine resolve from all UN Member States to protect civilians in armed conflicts and beyond, urging the Security Council to fulfill its mandate while enhancing its methods and relationship with the General Assembly as outlined in the Pact for the Future.