UAE Signs Global Declaration to Protect Humanitarian Workers

Post by :

The United Arab Emirates has taken a major step to support humanitarian workers around the world by signing an important international declaration in New York, just before the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) began.

The signing event saw participation from top UAE officials, including Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, the Minister of State for International Cooperation, and Sultan Al Shamsi, the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Development Affairs and International Organisations. Their participation highlights the UAE’s strong commitment to protecting people who provide humanitarian aid, especially in areas affected by conflicts, disasters, and crises.

By signing this declaration, the UAE has pledged to uphold international humanitarian law, which is a set of rules designed to protect civilians and aid workers during wars or emergencies. This includes ensuring that humanitarian personnel can work safely, receive respect, and carry out their mission without obstacles. It also emphasizes the urgent and safe delivery of aid to people who need it most, without delays or interference.

This declaration is the result of cooperation among countries from different regions of the world, who came together to find practical ways to protect humanitarian personnel. The initiative aligns with the UN Security Council Resolution 2730 (2024), which stresses the importance of the safety and security of humanitarian workers in conflict zones.

Speaking at the event, Reem Al Hashimy said, “The UAE is proud to join this global effort to protect humanitarian personnel across conflicts around the world. As UNGA80 begins, we reaffirm that humanitarian action is not only a moral commitment but a foundation for sustainable peace. The UAE will continue to work with partners to strengthen adherence to international humanitarian law, expand safe and timely delivery of humanitarian aid, and hold accountable those who attack aid workers.”

To support the implementation of this global initiative, the UAE will actively participate in the Group of Friends for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel, which is a new platform based in Geneva. This group will bring together countries committed to humanitarian safety to coordinate actions, share best practices, and uphold international rules that protect aid workers worldwide.

This step by the UAE sends a clear message to the international community: protecting humanitarian workers is not just a legal or moral responsibility, it is also a key part of promoting peace and stability worldwide. By joining this declaration, the UAE has joined a global network of nations that recognize the importance of humanitarian work and the risks that aid personnel face in conflict zones.

Through these measures, the UAE aims to ensure that help reaches the most vulnerable communities quickly and safely, whether it is medical assistance, food, water, or shelter. In times of war or natural disasters, aid workers often face threats, including violence and attacks. By supporting this declaration, the UAE is making a commitment that such workers will receive the protection and support they need to save lives and help rebuild communities.

Experts say this initiative could significantly improve the safety and efficiency of humanitarian operations globally, and encourage more countries to adopt stricter measures to protect aid workers. It is expected to also strengthen international cooperation, promote accountability, and ensure that attacks on humanitarian personnel are taken seriously and punished.

For Dubai and the UAE, this is also an opportunity to showcase leadership on the world stage in supporting humanitarian causes. By taking part in this international effort, the UAE highlights its dedication to peace, cooperation, and human welfare, setting an example for other nations in the region and around the world.

UAE humanitarian aid, UNGA80, humanitarian protection