At the U.N., Amb. Antonio Lagdameo Stresses Need to Protect Civilians in Conflicts

Permanent Representative Antonio M. Lagdameo reaffirms PH’s commitment to the protection of civilians in armed conflict at the UN Security Council. (Photo credit: UN Web TV)

NEW YORK — Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the United Nations Antonio M. Lagdameo stressed that respect for International Humanitarian and Human Rights Law is crucial to prevent further suffering in conflict situations at the UN Security Council Annual Debate on “Ensuring the security and dignity of civilians in conflict: addressing food insecurity and protecting essential services.”

Ambassador Lagdameo emphasized that a people-centered New Agenda for Peace should promote and enhance the protection of civilians in armed conflicts, supported by strong adherence to International Humanitarian Law and the UN Charter. 

He added that the Security Council’s open debate and the week-long protection of civilian side events are important avenues to discuss key issues and trends, share best practices, and reflect on required policy and normative changes to ensure civilians are protected in times of conflict.  “We can really do more by working hard together,” the Ambassador stressed. 

(Photo credit: UN Web TV)

On peacekeeping operations, Ambassador Lagdameo said that “The Philippines believes that success in peacekeeping operations must be measured by how well we protect civilians and how effective we ensure the sustainment of the environments for peace to flourish.”

Ambassador Lagdameo shared the Philippines’ goal “to further enhance our active participation in the protection of civilians affected by armed conflicts with the projected increase of Filipino peacekeepers on the ground.”

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres briefed the Security Council, along with Mirjana Spoljaric, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, and a civil society representative.

The UN Security Council Open Debate was convened by Switzerland as the President of the Council for the month of May. Swiss President Alain Berset presided over the meeting. The debate commemorated the fifth anniversary of the adoption of the landmark Security Council resolution 2417 (2017) on the Protection of Civilians. 

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