Significant progress has been made in recent years in the normative and institutional framework with the adoption of important resolutions, most recently resolution 1960 (2010), which established a monitoring, analysis and reporting mechanism on conflict-related sexual violence. However, emphasis must now be placed on progress in enhancing protection on the ground. The worrying recent increase in the number of conflict situations, in particular in countries in North Africa and the Middle East, leaves no doubt that we need to strengthen our efforts so as to protect civilians from the impact of armed conflict and from becoming targets of attacks. We are deeply concerned by the use of force against civilians and by ongoing violations of international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.
The protection of civilians in armed conflict is a priority of the Human Security Network. We highly value the continued attention that the Security Council is giving to that important issue. The holding of informal consultations of the Security Council on protection issues last February was a welcome step to address the three pillars of the protection architecture — namely, the protection of civilians, children and armed conflict, and women and peace and security — in a comprehensive and coherent manner.