Next Century Foundation’s Research Officer Ksenia Ryadnova addresses the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council on the severe toll of the war between Ukraine and the Russian Federation on civilians, highlighting the growing economic insecurity and child poverty it has caused and calling for an independently monitored armistice as a first step toward structured peace negotiations and reconstruction.

Transcript of Intervention

The Next Century Foundation is deeply concerned about the severe impact of the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and the Russian Federation on civilians. The war has generated economic insecurity, military escalation and rising child poverty. It’s become one of the deadliest conflicts in Europe, and an immediate move towards a peace settlement is in Ukraine’s best interest to prevent further casualties.

Neither nation has the sustainable resources to prolong this conflict. We find that an armistice is the optimal resolution for ending the war diplomatically. While there is no guarantee of resolving territorial disputes, this approach must be considered an essential first step to prevent further breaches of international law that are designed to protect civilians. By establishing this, Ukraine would have a greater chance at the social, economic and environmental reconstruction it urgently needs.

Civilian protection has been neglected in favour of economic and territorial interests. Ukraine’s human resources are limited, and it cannot withstand the Russian Federation’s onslaught much longer. Without decisive action, there is little prospect that this conflict will end soon or on mutually agreed terms.

We encourage the international community to support efforts in securing an armistice, monitored by independent actors and followed by structured peace negotiations. This will lead to prioritising civilian protection, reconstruction planning, and diplomatic engagement aimed at achieving a lasting peace.

Thank you.