Ministry Statements & Speeches:
Madame President
New Zealand would like to thank the Group of Eminent International and Regional Experts for their oral update on Yemen.
New Zealand remains deeply concerned about the conflict in Yemen and the grave human rights situation.
We are disturbed by the use of landmines, reports of sexual violence against women, and the recruitment of child soldiers. It is critical that all parties break the cycle of violence and abuse against women and children.
We are concerned by the significant escalation in hostilities around Marib and the risk this violence poses to internally displaced persons and other civilians in the region, especially women and children.
We are also concerned by reports of regular attacks on civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities and the 30 December attack on Aden airport. We reiterate our call for all parties to abide by their obligations under international law including to refrain from indiscriminate attacks on civilian infrastructure.
We would like to thank the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, for his ongoing efforts to find a political solution to the conflict. We urge all parties to cease hostilities and engage in a peace process that is inclusive of women, youth and religious minority communities, including adherents to the Baha’i faith.
I have a question for the Group of Experts: We would be interested in understanding from you what steps need to be taken to better protect Yemeni children from being recruited as child soldiers?
Thank you, Madame President