Statement by H.E. Ambassador MIKANAGI Tomohiro, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, at the Arria-Formula Meeting on Upholding International Law in Situations of Armed Conflict

Thank you, Mr. Chair. I also thank the briefers for their remarks.
 
First of all, Japan emphasizes that the international community should not give up its efforts to prevent the occurrence of armed conflict, and in cases when it happens, achieve an early end of hostilities. Therefore, conflict prevention, mediation and the peaceful settlement of disputes are to be regarded as priorities.
 
Having said that, unfortunately, armed conflicts continue to occur in many parts of the world, and some of them persist for long periods. Even in times of hostility, compliance with international humanitarian law is essential to maintaining the minimum standard of the rule of law in the international community.
 
Among the rules of international humanitarian law, the principle of distinction is particularly important, as set forth in Article 48 of Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions. In this regard, it is worrisome that in today’s armed conflicts, the distinction between military objectives and civilian objects is becoming increasingly blurred. It should be stressed that civilian populations and civilian objects must not be targeted.
 
Furthermore, ensuring that humanitarian personnel can carry out their work unhindered is of the utmost importance for protecting civilian populations. Article 71 of the Additional Protocol stipulates the protection of humanitarian aid workers.
 
In September last year, Japan, together with eight like-minded countries, issued the Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel during the High-level Week of the General Assembly. In the declaration, we committed to take actions in four areas including allowing and facilitating humanitarian access in accordance with international law obligations. Japan also supported the adoption of Security Council Resolution 2730 on the protection of humanitarian personnel and United Nations and associated personnel in 2024 during our term on the Council.
 
Furthermore, we have been providing opportunities for practitioners from a number of countries to study international law including international humanitarian law. Since 2023, Japan has been organizing an international law training programme for practitioners through the “Tokyo International Law Seminar.”
 
While we should not spare our efforts to prevent and stop armed conflicts, to ensure the minimum standard of rule of law, it is important to secure compliance with the rules designed to protect innocent civilians and guarantee humanitarian assistance. Japan is committed to upholding the rule of law, including in times of conflict.
 
Thank you.