Speaker Farrugia Re-elected to Key Humanitarian Role
Speaker Anġlu Farrugia of Malta has been unanimously re-elected as the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Committee to Promote Respect for International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The re-election took place during the 151st Assembly of the IPU, held in Geneva, Switzerland, from October 19-23, 2025. His renewed mandate underscores a continued commitment to advancing humanitarian values and safeguarding human dignity in times of conflict.
Advocating for Humanity in Times of War
During his intervention at an event focused on 'protecting humanity in times of war' at the 151st IPU Assembly, Speaker Farrugia stressed the paramount importance of respecting international humanitarian law, particularly amidst ongoing global conflicts. He highlighted the dire state of humanitarian crises worldwide, citing figures from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) that indicate over 300 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance in 2025.
Speaker Farrugia also drew attention to the significant risks faced by aid workers, noting that in 2024, a record 383 aid workers were killed, with an additional 308 wounded and 125 kidnapped. He urged parliamentarians to play a crucial role in ensuring the protection and safeguarding of humanitarian action within their respective countries and internationally, emphasizing that his sole agenda is to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable populations.
Acknowledging the Red Cross's Vital Role, Including in Gaza
In his address, Speaker Farrugia specifically commended the Red Cross for its dedicated efforts and delicate role in conflicts globally. He particularly acknowledged their work in facilitating the return of refugees during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The 151st IPU Assembly's overarching theme, 'Upholding humanitarian norms and supporting humanitarian action in times of crisis,' was set against a backdrop of 120 ongoing conflicts and 310 million people requiring humanitarian assistance, as documented by organizations like the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The severity of the situation in Gaza has been underscored by statements from the ICRC President, Mirjana Spoljaric, who in June 2025 described Gaza as 'worse than hell on Earth,' asserting that 'humanity is failing' there and that the world is witnessing 'a type of warfare that shows utmost disrespect for civilians.'
The 151st IPU Assembly's Broader Focus
The 151st IPU Assembly convened in Geneva with a focus on galvanizing parliamentary action to safeguard international humanitarian law, defend the independence of relief efforts, and reinforce multilateral commitments. Discussions also centered on the needs of the most vulnerable populations in conflicts, including:
- Displaced persons
- Women and youth
- Minorities
- Those affected by food insecurity and disease
5 Comments
Muchacho
Focusing on Gaza is important, but what about the countless other forgotten conflicts and humanitarian crises?
Bermudez
What about accountability for those violating IHL? Speeches won't stop the violence or protect the vulnerable.
Africa
Speaker Farrugia's dedication to humanitarian law is clear and appreciated, however, the political will from member states to truly uphold these principles seems to be the biggest, most persistent obstacle.
Rotfront
Acknowledging the risks faced by aid workers is crucial for awareness, but without stronger mechanisms for accountability and protection, these tragic statistics will sadly continue to rise unchecked.
Mariposa
The IPU's focus on humanitarian norms is vital for global discourse and setting standards, but the gap between parliamentary resolutions and the harsh realities of conflict zones remains a significant hurdle to overcome.