New york: The United Arab Emirates signed the Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel at a high-level event in New York ahead of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80). Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, and Sultan Al Shamsi, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Development Affairs and International Organisations, participated in the signing of the declaration, reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to upholding international humanitarian law, including the obligation to respect and protect humanitarian personnel and ensuring the safe, immediate, and unobstructed delivery of aid to those in need.

According to Emirates News Agency, the Declaration is driven by a cross-regional coalition of states, aiming to translate pledges into practical steps to improve the safety and security of humanitarian personnel. This initiative aligns with UN Security Council Resolution 2730 (2024). Reem Al Hashimy expressed the UAE’s pride in joining the global effort to protect humanitarian personnel across conflicts around the world. She emphasized that as UNGA80 begins, the UAE reaffirms that humanitarian action is not only a moral commitment but a foundation for sustainable peace. The UAE will continue collaborating with its partners to strengthen adherence to international humanitarian law, expand the immediate, safe, and unobstructed delivery of humanitarian aid, and ensure accountability for attacks on workers in this field.

Furthermore, the UAE will support the implementation efforts through the newly established Group of Friends for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel in Geneva. This platform will unite committed states to promote coordination, share best practices, and uphold international humanitarian law worldwide.