Australia

17 June 2011

Video introduction to film on Protection of Civilians [being produced by UNITAR and Australia]

Ban Ki-moon

The protection of civilians is at the centre of the United Nations peace and security agenda.

Our peacekeepers and other personnel are increasingly being asked not only to keep armies at bay, but to protect people who are prey to militias and other combatants.

We are saying “no” to impunity -- and “yes” to accountability for those who commit crimes against humanity and other grave violations of human rights.

The documentary you are about to see explains the roles and responsibilities of the peacekeepers, humanitarian personnel, human rights experts and others who bring protection mandates to life in the world's conflict zones.

The protection of civilians is crucial to the credibility of the United Nations.

The men, women and children who look to us for help must be able to have confidence in our ability to respond quickly and effectively.

We have not always succeeded. The tragedies in Rwanda and Srebrenica are etched forever on our minds.

Today we are determined to use every available tool to protect vulnerable populations.

That requires resources, training and new thinking.

And it demands greater support from the Security Council, which formulates protection mandates.

I hope this documentary will inspire you to do your part. Making a difference is our collective responsibility.