Since the Security Council's adoption of resolution 1265 (1999) and other r...

Since the Security Council's adoption of resolution 1265 (1999) and other relevant resolutions, the protection of civilians has remained a major issue in the Council's work. While we note the progress made, it needs to be said that events on the ground show that more attention has to be paid, especially as regards the full implementation of the resolutions adopted to protect civilians caught in conflict situations. Resolution 46/182 adopted by the General Assembly in 1991 places the responsibility for the protection of civilians, first and foremost, with their respective States, which are also expected to facilitate the work of responding organizations in times of conflict. However, it is not unusual to find that the State whose responsibility it is to protect its own populations is the perpetrator of the crimes against civilians. It is thus imperative for the Council to address impunity and ensure compliance with international humanitarian law and improve access for and safety of humanitarian personnel.