Geneva Call is deeply concerned about the fate of the civilian population in light of the ongoing military operations in North East Syria

Geneva Call reminds all parties involved in the current hostilities, including armed non-State actors signatories of Geneva Call’s Deeds of Commitment on sexual violence and gender discrimination, prohibition of landmines and child protection to ensure respect of their obligations under International Humanitarian Law. It is imperative that all parties respect the rights of the civilian populations and take all necessary measures to prevent or repress IHL violations.

Geneva Call is particularly concerned by the recent displacement of the population observed along the Turkish border – primarily in Tal al Abyad and Ras al Ain – as well as indiscriminate attacks from both parties. Geneva Call urges armed non-state actors (ANSAs) to take positive steps towards the protection of the civilian population on the frontline – such as the recent evacuation of Mabrouka IDP camps following shellings.

Geneva Call has notably met with some of the main commanders of signatory armed non-State actors participating in the operations. Positive actions towards increasing compliance with humanitarian norms were discussed in order to ensure greater protection of civilians. Geneva Call is currently engaging on a regular basis with the main actors involved in the hostilities, making sure that IHL is being respected during fighting.

The Deed of Commitment is a formal humanitarian commitment that armed non-State actors (ANSAs) sign to ensure respect for humanitarian norms. The signature of this commitment does not grant any political or legal recognition to these actors. Geneva Call adheres to the principles of neutrality and impartiality in its work and strictly limits itself to increasing compliance with humanitarian norms by ANSAs in order to ensure greater protection for civilians.

For more information, please contact Frederic Capdevila on: 078 793 53 22