UAE signs UN declaration to protect aid workers

The UAE has signed the Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel, emphasising its determination to upholding international humanitarian law and ensure the safe, immediate and unobstructed delivery of aid to those in need.

It comes ahead of the UAE's participation at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) in New York. 

The declaration, created by a cross-regional coalition of states, aims to translate pledges into practical steps to improve personnel safety in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2730 (2024) that focuses on humanitarian personnel's protection.

“The UAE is proud to join this global effort to protect humanitarian personnel across conflicts around the world,” stated Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation.

"As UNGA80 begins, we reaffirm that humanitarian action is not only a moral commitment but a foundation for sustainable peace," she highlighted, ensuring that the country will protect all personnel and take accountability for any attacks on the workers. 

The UAE will also support the implementation efforts through the newly established Group of Friends for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel in Geneva, which will bring together committed states to promote coordination, share best practices, and uphold international humanitarian law worldwide.

Sultan Al Shamsi, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Development Affairs and International Organisations, participated in the signing of the declaration.