GENEVA, MARCH 9 – As part of the 46th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, Italy addressed an interactive dialogue with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict, Virginia Gamba.
Ambassador Gian Lorenzo Cornado, Permanent Representative of Italy to the United Nations in Geneva, expressed his concern over the serious violations of the fundamental rights of children, victims of armed conflicts, that continue to be perpetrated in many countries around the world. Cornado called on all parties involved in armed conflicts to continue to prevent such crimes.
Ambassador Cornado emphasized how obstacles to education expose children to violence, exploitation and abuse, a dynamic which has been further aggravated by the spread of COVID-19. He also called for the respect of the principles of international humanitarian law contained in the Geneva Conventions and the Safe Schools Declaration.
Ambassador Cornado closed his remarks reiterating Italy’s full support to the mandate of the Special Representative, especially in the promotion and implementation of international law standards, and in ensuring the effective protection of children affected by armed conflict. (@OnuItaly)
