Item 3: General debate on the promotion and protection of all human rights, civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development
Statement of Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration and Geneva International Centre for Justice
55th Session of the Human Rights Council
18th March 2024
Delivered by Sofya Losikova / GICJ
Thank you Mr. President,
As we gather to discuss the promotion and protection of human rights, every 10 minutes a child dies in Gaza. More children have been killed in the 5 months since October 7th, than altogether in 4 years of conflict worldwide. The people of Gaza, predominantly children, endure severe human rights violations, whilst having to confront direct threats to their lives when seeking assistance.
According to the World Health Organisation, prior to October 7th, wasting in the Gaza Strip was uncommon, affecting just 0.8% of children under 5. Currently, the majority of minors in Gaza suffer from starvation, with at least 23 children having died from severe acute malnutrition and dehydration. Additionally, infants in Gaza under one are bearing the brunt of this man-made humanitarian crisis, with nearly half experiencing malnutrition.
Furthermore, the allocation of billions of dollars in military assistance by the United States and its western allies to Israel stands in contrast to the poor humanitarian relief promised to the Palestinian people. This inconsistency undermines efforts for lasting peace, further adding to the genocidal campaign by the occupying power.
Association Ma’onah and Geneva International Centre for Justice urgently demand a ceasefire and an end to impunity for Israel’s actions. Establishing an international accountability mechanism is imperative. Mere promises of aid are insufficient. We cannot allow these innocent lives to be disregarded and forgotten as mere statistics.
Thank you.
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