Guyana calls for immediate action to address humanitarian crisis in Ukraine

Guyana has expressed deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, urging for immediate international action to safeguard civilians and ensure compliance with international humanitarian law. During a briefing on the Maintenance of Peace and Security of Ukraine, Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations (UN), Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, condemned the continued suffering of civilians caught in the conflict, reiterating the grave impact on the most vulnerable populations.

Rodrigues-Birkett emphasised the alarming statistics that underscore the heavy toll the war has taken on civilian lives. Despite repeated calls for adherence to international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, precaution, and proportionality, civilians continue to be subjected to indiscriminate attacks, and critical infrastructure is being destroyed. The ongoing destruction of energy infrastructure, in particular, has raised significant concerns, with the possibility of more power outages during Ukraine’s harsh winter months, further impacting access to essential services for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, low-income households, people with disabilities, and displaced persons.
“We call for immediate action to ensure full, unhindered humanitarian access, including in occupied areas, and urge the international community to exert pressure on all parties to comply with their obligations under international law,” said Rodrigues-Birkett, emphasising the need for urgent intervention to halt the devastating effects of the conflict.
Guyana also voiced its serious concern about the precarious situation surrounding the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP). Rodrigues-Birkett condemned recent attacks against the plant and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) staff and vehicles. She called for all parties to ensure the safety and security of IAEA personnel and safeguard the integrity of the plant to prevent catastrophic consequences.
Rodrigues-Birkett emphasised the need for both sides to commit to a serious political and diplomatic process aimed at ending the war and bringing lasting peace to the region.
“Guyana stresses the urgency of resolving this conflict through peaceful means. The longer it continues, the greater the risks of even more severe consequences for all involved,” she said.
In closing, Guyana reiterated its unwavering support for the efforts of the United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) and other partners working toward peace. The country remains committed to doing its part in the international community’s push for an end to the suffering of millions of people caught in the conflict.
“We must prioritise the welfare of civilians and the rule of law,” concluded Rodrigues-Birkett.