The UN refugee chief, Filippo Grandi, on Monday sharply criticized the UN Security Council for its repeated failure to prevent and stop wars, stating that violence has become the defining characteristic of the modern era.
Addressing the Security Council, Grandi lamented, “This is a season of war. This is a time of crisis,” citing conflicts from Sudan and Ukraine to the Sahel and Myanmar.
Grandi asserted that upholding peace and security is the Security Council’s primary duty, a responsibility he stated the body has “chronically failed to live up to.”
He expressed concern over the disregard for international humanitarian law, evidenced by the immense loss of life in the pursuit of power.
Regarding Gaza, Grandi noted the increasingly desperate situation of civilians due to the cutoff of humanitarian aid.
He also highlighted a “spark of hope” for Syria, urging the council to ease sanctions and support recovery efforts to encourage the return of displaced populations.
Grandi further warned of the “fatal consequences” of dwindling humanitarian aid, emphasizing that “aid is stability.”
He raised alarm about potential deep cuts to the UNHCR’s capacity due to reduced funding from donor countries, which are already impacting essential programs like education and healthcare.
Grandi implored the council members to fulfill their responsibility to end war and bring peace.