United Nations Security Council Meeting on Ukraine – Humanitarian

Mr. President,

At the outset, let me thank USG Griffiths and High Commissioner Filippo Grandi for the very sobering briefings, which unfortunately confirm the images we are seeing on the media.
Ghana expresses serious concerns about the unfolding humanitarian situation in Ukraine. The briefings highlight the indiscriminate attacks in civilian populated areas, which have spread fear and panic among the population who have also been forced into shelters and subways. Children and new-born babies have not been spared of this regrettable situation. Thousands of people have also been internally displaced, including Ghanaians and other nationals, with more than 500 thousand forced to flee to neighbouring countries as refugees.

Ghana calls for the immediate and unconditional cessation of the hostilities, which have resulted in the current humanitarian crises and urges the parties to refrain from further attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in accordance with international humanitarian law. We strongly call on the parties to grant unfettered access to humanitarian agencies and to guarantee their protection and safety. We also call for the safe passage of all civilians caught up in the war and who desire to leave Ukraine. In this regard, Ghana encourages neighbouring countries of Ukraine to facilitate the free passage of persons fleeing the war, without discrimination, and provide them with humanitarian assistance, including medical care in line with the principles of
humanity, neutrality and impartiality.

We continue to urge the parties to accept the path of peace and seek an early resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.

I thank you Mr. President.