Delivered by: Salma Al Dhaheri, Attache’
Madam Chair,
The United Arab Emirates emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the ongoing process on the protection of persons in the event of disasters leads to a clear and applicable legal framework that strengthens international cooperation and responds to the needs of affected individuals. In this regard, my country reaffirms its readiness to actively participate and contribute constructively to the United Nations Conference of Plenipotentiaries, scheduled to be held in Bangkok from 25 January to 12 February 2027, pursuant to General Assembly resolution 80/169. We also appreciate the preparatory work undertaken during this year, including the preparation of a consolidated text bringing together the draft articles and proposals submitted by governments.
My country believes that the next phase should focus on issues that make protection more effective on the ground. We reiterate our support, in principle, for the continued development of international legal frameworks that clarify the rights of affected persons, the responsibilities of States, and the principles governing cross-border humanitarian assistance.This work must be based on respect for State sovereignty, due consideration of national laws, and the strengthening of States’ capacities to coordinate disaster response efforts, ensuring that assistance reaches those in need promptly and effectively.
Madam Chair,
The UAE’s “Principles of the 50,” which outline its strategic vision for the next fifty years, affirm that humanitarian assistance should be provided without discrimination based on religion, race, color, or culture, and that political differences should not stand in the way of providing relief to those affected.
In discussing the draft articles, the provisions relating to cooperation and its forms, as well as the facilitation of external assistance, provide a basis for examining how solidarity can be translated into practical action. This includes reviewing national procedures governing the entry of relief teams and their equipment, visa requirements, and customs clearance, which are matters addressed in draft article 15.
Examining these issues helps identify obstacles that may delay the delivery of assistance and ways to address them within the framework of the national laws of affected States.
In this context, clear channels of communication between affected States and assistance providers, as well as the exchange of information on needs and available capacities, are essential. Effective coordination helps avoid duplication of efforts and ensures that rescue teams and humanitarian assistance are directed to the areas most in need.
In this context, clear communication channels between the affected State and assistance providers, as well as the exchange of information on needs and available capacities, are essential. Effective coordination helps avoid duplication of efforts and ensures that rescue teams and humanitarian assistance are directed to the areas most in need
My country also emphasizes the need to take into account the different needs of affected persons, with particular attention to those most severely affected. In this context, we stress the importance of ensuring the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women at all stages of disaster management, and drawing on their knowledge of their communities’ needs in preparedness, response, and recovery. We also emphasize the importance of strengthening awareness and preparedness among youth, families, and communities, thereby contributing to building their resilience.
Madam Chair,
My country emphasizes the need to take into account the different needs of affected persons, with particular attention to the most vulnerable groups. In this context, we stress the importance of ensuring the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and girls at all stages of disaster management, and drawing on their knowledge of their communities’ needs in preparedness, response, and recovery. We also emphasize the importance of raising awareness and strengthening preparedness among youth, families, and communities, thereby enhancing their resilience.
In conclusion, the United Arab Emirates looks forward to continuing constructive dialogue with all delegations, building on the draft articles and proposals submitted by States, with a view to strengthening mutual understanding of the issues under consideration. Ultimately, the success of this process will be measured by the ability of States to protect lives and preserve human dignity in the event of disasters, in accordance with international law.
Thank you, Madam Chair.