UN research in different war zones across the world shows that 94% of deaths from explosive weapons were civilians in 2022. The number of civilians facing acute food insecurity is now 258 million. The number of refugees, now 100 million.
UN research in different war zones across the world shows that 94% of deaths from explosive weapons were civilians in 2022. The number of civilians facing acute food insecurity is now 258 million. The number of refugees, now 100 million.
Dire statistics shared by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres highlight just how many innocent civilians were killed and affected by conflicts last year: according to the UN, 17,000 civilians were killed in 2022 across 12 different conflicts. This is a shockingly high 53% rise in the death of civilians compared to the year before.
UN research in the different war zones across the world also shows that 94% of deaths from explosive weapons were civilians in 2022. In addition, more than 117 million people are facing acute hunger caused by war and insecurity. The number of civilians facing acute food insecurity is now 258 million.
In addition, the number of refugees has reached 100 million – forced to flee their homes because of “conflict, violence, human rights violations, and persecution”, stated Guterres.
The terrible truth is that the world is failing to live up to its commitments to protect civilians.
Peace is the best form of protection.
We must intensify our efforts to prevent conflict, protect civilians, preserve peace & find political solutions to war. pic.twitter.com/OZ0jBl8tdn
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) May 24, 2023
Based on these statistics, the world is failing to protect civilians according to Guterres, who also told the Security Council that they need to “live up to its commitments” as enshrined in their duty in international humanitarian law.
“We need action and accountability”, Guterres stated, “and that depends on political will. Peace is the best form of protection.” He also added: “Civilians have suffered the deadly effects of armed conflict for too long. It is time we live up to our promise to protect them.”
While many may applaud Guterres for raising these issues with the Security Council, the reality of political dominance over human rights remains more prominent than ever. With the Security Council and powerful members of the UN continuing their game of ignorance, those most innocent continue to suffer in places like Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, and Palestine with little to no real help from those in power.
