Madam Coordinator,
Cuba reaffirms its commitment to the strict respect for the principles and rules of International Humanitarian Law.
We welcome the recognition in the document that preserving pathways to peace requires, at all times, the effective functioning of the legal, institutional and operational systems that underpin IHL.
Our Constitution and legislation recognize the protection of civilians and the provision of humanitarian assistance as obligations of the State.
Cuba upholds peace as an inalienable objective. We affirm that institutional preparedness in the field of IHL is a reflection of a genuine political commitment to peace.
We support the establishment of robust civil registration systems, mechanisms for tracing missing persons, and safeguards for data protection, as proposed in the document.
The Cuban delegation underscores that humanitarian commitments must form part of any political will for peace. The principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence must be strictly respected and must not be subordinated to geopolitical interests.
We support ensuring that children affected by armed conflict receive comprehensive care, gender- and age-sensitive reintegration programs, guaranteed access to education, and sustained psychosocial support.
Our country maintains that no actor should act with impunity. Accountability for serious violations of IHL, including war crimes, must be ensured regardless of the nationality or power of the perpetrators.
Madam Coordinator,
Cuba will continue to participate constructively in this process, contributing to the defense of the right of peoples and all persons to peace. To that end, Cuba will advocate, both in the Human Rights Council and in the United Nations General Assembly, for the formal recognition of the right to peace as an inalienable human right.
We consider that achieving such recognition would also constitute a meaningful practical contribution to strengthening International Humanitarian Law.
Thank you.