The Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries commended the pivotal role played by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and its efforts to provide protection for refugees and life-saving assistance during emergencies, especially in a time when the world is witnessing an increase in forced displacement and crises. This was conveyed in a statement delivered by Second Secretary of Qatar’s Permanent Mission to the UN Sheikha Maha Mubarak al-Thani, on behalf of the GCC member states, before the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly during its 79th session on general discussion of item 60 “Report of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees,” at the UN headquarters in New York. She added that the GCC countries express deep concern over the complexities of conflicts highlighted in the High Commissioner’s report, noting that new and worsening conflicts have displaced millions, and ongoing crises have prevented the return of millions more. By the end of 2023, 117.3mn people remained displaced due to persecution, conflict, violence, and human rights violations, representing an 8% increase compared to 2022. The GCC countries have consistently provided relief and assistance to refugees and have worked to alleviate the suffering of civilians, refugees, and displaced persons, driven by the principles of Islam, which emphasise brotherhood, compassion, and tolerance. She noted that the GCC states continue to provide support through bilateral channels with host countries or via the UN, and remain committed to their humanitarian efforts in partnership with other organisations, supporting all international and regional efforts addressing the root causes of these issues. She added that the Gaza Strip is facing an unprecedented humanitarian disaster due to the escalating Israeli aggression for over a year, which continues to target civilians and enforce policies of starvation and forced displacement. She said that the GCC renewed their condemnation of the severe human rights violations in the occupied Palestinian territories, as well as in Lebanon, which constitute blatant violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law. She also said that the GCC called on the international community to take all necessary measures to end the cycle of violence, reject the forced displacement of civilians in Gaza, and ensure unhindered access to humanitarian aid. She added that resolving the Palestinian refugee issue is an integral part of a comprehensive, fair, and lasting solution to the Middle East conflict. Our countries will continue efforts to find solutions to crises and conflicts in our region, in accordance with international law and international consensus. She stressed that the GCC commends the efforts of all member states supporting, aiding refugees and appreciates the nations that have taken on significant burdens beyond their capacity in hosting refugees and alleviating their suffering. She emphasised the need to focus efforts on providing medical, food support to refugees and forcibly displaced persons through ongoing co-operation with the UNHCR. In conclusion, she noted that peacebuilding worldwide and achieving development requires the international community to find urgent political solutions to conflicts and crises, address their root causes, and intensify international efforts to alleviate the plight of refugees, which also includes enhancing measures and initiatives aimed at building communities where respect, protection, and fulfilment of human rights are at the core. (QNA)
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