UN General Assembly Amherd deplores serious violations of international law at the UN

The heavy toll that the civilian population is paying in the current crises and conflicts strengthens Switzerland's resolve to continue to regard international humanitarian law as an absolute priority. President Viola Amherd emphasized this at the UN.

By joining the UN in 2002, Switzerland expressed its willingness to assume responsibility and participate in international politics in a spirit of solidarity. "The world has changed since then - but our principles have not," said Amherd at the UN General Debate in New York on Tuesday.

Do not divide the world into blocs

She observed with concern that tensions were intensifying worldwide and new conflicts were emerging. "We are observing gross violations of international humanitarian law from Myanmar to Ukraine, from the Middle East to Sudan," said the President of the Swiss Confederation, who also noted "a blatant disregard for internationally recognized borders".

Making the decision to work better together, regardless of political regimes, economic structures and cultural differences, was a start, said Amherd. "The world must not be divided into blocs."

The Geneva Conventions, whose 75th anniversary is being celebrated this year, regulate the legal basis of war and therefore also the protection of civilians. "However, the latest figures from the United Nations paint a catastrophic picture of the international community. The population and civilian infrastructure are not adequately protected and are even repeatedly exposed to attacks," criticized Amherd.

Ukraine, Gaza and Sudan in focus

The President of the Swiss Confederation recalled the high-level peace conference for Ukraine, which Switzerland hosted this summer on the Bürgenstock with around 100 states and international organizations. "Our aim was to provide an initial impetus for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine," said Amherd. The 94 states that signed the joint communiqué of the Bürgenstock Conference had reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter.

Switzerland had also worked hard to ensure that the Security Council adopted resolutions for a ceasefire, particularly on Gaza and Sudan. It is urgently necessary that these are now implemented and adhered to. "Peace is too valuable to become a playground for particular interests," said the Federal President.

Climate change and disinformation as challenges

Amherd also mentioned climate change and the loss of biodiversity as challenges for humanity, which would have existential consequences for more and more people. Many international environmental agreements were not being implemented or were being implemented inadequately, said Amherd, who called for courageous steps to find solutions.

Finally, the President of the Swiss Confederation expressed concern about the increase in disinformation, which undermines the free formation of opinion based on facts. "Disinformation is a poison. We want to counter it by better distinguishing between freedom of opinion and the manipulation of facts; by exposing unlawful influence, promoting open and fair debates and providing transparent and objective information as governments and international organizations," concluded Amherd.

SDA