Switzerland calls for a redoubling of efforts to aid the victims of the humanitarian crisis in Syria
Bern, 14.12.2016 - Switzerland has issued another humanitarian appeal to tackle the Syrian crisis. The FDFA calls on all parties to the Syrian conflict to fulfil their obligations with respect to human rights and international humanitarian law and to protect the civilian population caught up in the fighting. Immediate and unhampered access for humanitarian relief to the civilian population in all besieged and difficult-to-access areas is also imperative. The situation in Aleppo is catastrophic and particularly worrying in light of allegations of extrajudicial executions and forced disappearances.
As far as FDFA head Didier Burkhalter is concerned, “only a political solution can pave the way to a lasting peace and finally put an end to the suffering of the civilian population.” In order to achieve a just and lasting peace, justice must be guaranteed for all the victims of violations of international humanitarian law. In this regard, it is also essential that national mechanisms instigate criminal prosecutions and that the Syrian situation be referred to the International Criminal Court.
In light of the current situation, Switzerland will step up its humanitarian engagement in the region. According to Mr Burkhalter, “Switzerland must continue its emergency assistance activities and increase its aid in the region to support on a longer-term basis the countries that are hosting refugees, in particular in the areas of training, employment and water. Furthermore, we are making every effort to strengthen our role as a humanitarian facilitator to improve access to the people in need."
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Federal Department of Foreign Affairs
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