New York: The Holy See has called on the international community to renew its commitment to protecting civilians caught in armed conflicts, warning that millions of innocent people continue to suffer the devastating effects of war across the world.
Speaking during the United Nations Security Council Open Debate on the “Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict” held in New York this week, the Holy See delegation said civilians are paying the highest price in modern warfare through displacement, violence, hunger, and the collapse of essential services.
The delegation stressed that protecting civilians is not only a political or military responsibility but also a deep moral duty shared by all nations and leaders.
Quoting Pope Leo XIV, the delegation reminded the Council that the “principle of humanity” is rooted in the conscience of every person and recognised in international law. It said this principle creates a moral obligation to shield civilian populations from the horrors of war.
The Holy See raised concern over growing attacks on places of worship and religious communities during conflicts. According to the delegation, such attacks damage not only buildings but also the spiritual and social foundations of communities.
It noted that churches, mosques, temples, and other religious centres often become shelters for frightened civilians during times of violence. These places frequently provide food, care, and humanitarian assistance to people forced from their homes.
The delegation said protecting religious freedom and safeguarding places of worship are essential steps toward preserving human dignity and encouraging reconciliation in societies divided by war.
Another major concern highlighted during the debate was the continued targeting of medical workers and healthcare facilities. The Holy See pointed out that even ten years after the adoption of a major UN resolution aimed at protecting healthcare services in conflict zones, attacks on hospitals and humanitarian workers continue in many parts of the world.
The delegation strongly condemned such violence, insisting that wounded and sick people must always receive medical treatment without fear or discrimination. It also stressed that doctors, nurses, aid workers, and humanitarian teams should never become targets in armed conflict.
The Holy See also expressed concern about the growing use of emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence, in warfare. It warned that machines cannot replace human moral judgment when decisions involve human life and death.
According to the delegation, the use of technology without meaningful human control risks distancing leaders and military operators from the real human suffering caused by war. It also warned that excessive dependence on automated systems could weaken accountability for protecting civilians.
The Holy See concluded its intervention with a renewed appeal for respect for international humanitarian law and stronger efforts to prevent conflicts through dialogue and peaceful negotiations.
The delegation said true peace cannot be achieved through fear, destruction, or military force alone. Instead, it said peace is built through trust, encounter, responsibility, and sincere dialogue among peoples and nations.
Again quoting Pope Leo XIV, the Holy See reminded world leaders that peace begins in everyday human relationships, in the way people see, listen to, and speak to one another.