Khartoum, Sudan — In a UN Security Council Arria-formula meeting held on May 5, 2026, the European Union (EU) emphasized the urgent need to enhance protection for medical care in conflict zones. This call comes as attacks on healthcare facilities and personnel have reached record levels, doubling the number of deaths in 2024. Ambassador Hedda Samson, representing the EU delegation at the meeting, highlighted the alarming trend of attacks on medical facilities, such as hospitals in Gaza and Lebanon, systematic targeting of health infrastructure in Ukraine, and the collapse of health systems in Sudan.
These incidents reflect a normalization of such attacks, which are unacceptable under international humanitarian law.
The EU stressed the importance of respecting and protecting medical facilities, ambulances, and medical personnel in all circumstances. It also expressed concern over the misuse of medical centers for military operations, which endangers the safety and security of medical workers and patients.
In response to these challenges, the EU launched the Protect Aid Workers (PAW) programme in 2023, providing support to humanitarian workers worldwide.
The program currently aids over 500 aid workers and their dependents.
The EU and Ireland are also set to organize an International Conference on the Protection of Humanitarian Aid Workers in Brussels later this year.
Furthermore, the EU supports the Global Initiative to Galvanize Respect for International Humanitarian Law (IHL), including efforts to protect hospitals in armed conflict.
The EU calls on all states to join this initiative and uphold humanity in war.
The meeting marked the tenth anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 2286, which aims to safeguard medical care in conflict zones.
The EU’s commitment to adapting strategies for protection reflects a broader humanitarian perspective and a dedication to the principles outlined in Resolution 2286.
As conflicts evolve and present new challenges, the focus on safeguarding medical care remains a critical priority for the international community.
The EU’s call for enhanced protection of medical care in conflict zones underscores its dedication to humanitarian values and the principles of Resolution 2286.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: European Commission
