As world leaders gather for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, multiple crises around the world demand urgent action. From Israel and Gaza to Sudan, Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Haiti, Myanmar, and Ukraine, civilians are suffering due to conflicts fueled by inaction and external powers supplying weapons.
In Israel, Western states continue to provide arms that enable the ongoing offensive in Gaza, leading to civilian casualties and unlawful attacks on medical facilities. The United Kingdom and Canada have taken some steps to suspend arms licenses, but more needs to be done to prevent further harm.
In Sudan, conflict has displaced millions and is exacerbated by external powers supplying modern weapons to warring factions, violating embargoes and perpetuating violence. Measures must be taken to cut off arms to warring parties in Israel, Gaza, Myanmar, Sudan, and to address human rights violations in Afghanistan, Haiti, Burkina Faso, and Ukraine.
The international community must establish a civilian protection mission in Sudan, enforce arrest warrants for alleged perpetrators of atrocities, and ensure accountability for war crimes. Despite the challenges posed by the UN Security Council’s veto power, history shows that alternative actions can be taken to protect civilians and promote peace.
Efforts by South Africa and Gambia at the International Court of Justice have led to provisional measures against Israel and Myanmar, highlighting the importance of global solidarity in addressing genocide and human rights abuses. As the UNGA theme focuses on leaving no one behind, it is essential for world leaders to unite and take decisive action to prevent further suffering and promote peace and human dignity.
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