The opening session will set the tone for collective reflection and action. The session will include an overview of the main outcomes of the Global Protection Update (GPU), highlighting global protection trends and the persistence and evolution of protection risks and threats across crises. The session will include a panel discussion focused on the challenges in upholding international humanitarian law and protecting civilians and opportunities for collective responsibility and action towards addressing protection risks and threats.
Speakers:
- Pierre Apraxine, Head of Protection of Civilian Population Unit, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
- Abdoul Aziz Thioye, Deputy Director Global Operations, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
- Alma Taslidzan, Disarmament and Protection of Civilians Advocacy Manager, Humanity and Inclusion
- Kifaya Khraim, International Advocacy Officer at the Women’s Centre for Legal Aid and Counselling, Palestine
- Sandrine Lusumba, Executive Director, Solidarité Féminine pour la Paix et le Développement Intégral (SOFEPADI), Democratic Republic of Congo
- Cathrine Andersen, Special Representative for the Protection of Civilians, Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The session will also include opening remarks from:
- Sweden
- Ramesh Rajasingham, Head and Representative of OCHA Geneva
- Josep Herreros, Global Coordinator, Global Protection Cluster
Interpretation will be provided in English, French, Spanish and Arabic.
