India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, highlighted the critical importance of safeguarding civilians in conflict situations. Speaking at the Annual UN Security Council Open Debate on “Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict” on May 20 in New York, Parvathaneni reaffirmed that the protection of civilians is central to maintaining international peace and security.

During his address, Parvathaneni extended congratulations to China for assuming the presidency of the UNSC for the month. He expressed gratitude to the Secretary-General for his report and acknowledged the contributions of the briefers during the session. The ambassador noted that civilian safety must be a priority in conflict zones, reflecting a commitment to humanitarian principles.

Recent Trends in Civilian Casualties

Parvathaneni presented statistics indicating a decline in recorded civilian deaths in 2025 after three years of increases. He mentioned over 37,000 civilian casualties across twenty armed conflicts during this period. While this decline is welcomed, he stated that the overall figures remain alarmingly high, underscoring the continued risks faced by civilians, including displacement and destruction of vital infrastructure.

The ambassador pointed out that attacks on key facilities such as hospitals and schools remain a significant concern. He reiterated India’s commitment to zero tolerance regarding civilian casualties, stressing the need for all parties involved in armed conflict to ensure safe access for humanitarian efforts and adhere to international humanitarian law.

Parvathaneni also referenced the long-standing UNSC Resolution 2286 and remarked on the ongoing attacks against civilian and humanitarian resources, which signify a troubling disregard for established norms of protection. He advocated for the issue to be critically addressed to maintain the safety of medical personnel and aid workers.

Concerns Over Emerging Technologies in Warfare

The ambassador voiced apprehensions regarding the increasing use of drones to deploy explosive weapons in urban environments. Parvathaneni noted that such tactics, along with other explosive weapons in populated areas, pose significant risks to civilian safety. He stressed that the deployment of emerging technologies in warfare must comply with international laws to mitigate unintended civilian harm.

Parvathaneni emphasised that protecting civilians should not rely solely on humanitarian responses. He asserted that political agendas leading to targeted violence against civilians, including terrorism, require comprehensive solutions. Addressing these challenges effectively will be crucial to establishing a secure environment for all individuals.

Further, he condemned the ongoing issue of cross-border terrorism, highlighting India’s experience as a persistent victim of such assaults. Parvathaneni expressed India’s deep dissatisfaction with the threats posed by terrorism, which jeopardises regional stability and worldwide security principles.

Accountability and the Fight Against Terrorism

The ambassador called for states that support or harbor terrorists to be held accountable for their actions. He remarked that no political cause could justify attacks against innocent civilians. India’s stance on terrorism is that it remains one of the most severe threats facing global communities today.

Parvathaneni concluded his address by reaffirming India’s determination to work actively within international frameworks to promote the protection of civilians and address the overarching concerns of terrorism and conflict-related violence. The need for urgent solutions to these pressing issues remains critical to safeguarding human lives and promoting lasting peace.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share