Advancing implementation of the Declaration
As the risks faced by humanitarian personnel continue to grow, the Group of Friends for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel convened an expert-level meeting on 8 June 2026, to examine how political commitments can be translated into stronger protection on the ground. The discussion brought together Member State signatories to the Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel and humanitarian experts to share experiences, review progress and identify practical steps to strengthen protection in conflict and crisis settings.
Representing the Co-Chairs, H.E. Ms Emily Roper, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of Australia, and Mr Mohammad Al Aqeel, Minister Plenipotentiary of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, emphasised the importance of maintaining momentum behind implementation of the Declaration.
The meeting demonstrated continued engagement across the Group of Friends. It provided an opportunity for members to take stock of progress since the launch of the Group, exchange practical experiences, and identify further ways to support implementation of the Declaration.
Aligning protections
A central focus of the discussion was the need to align protections for humanitarian personnel across international, national and local levels. Participants noted that national and local humanitarian workers account for the vast majority of those affected by attacks and security incidents, underscoring the need to translate legal and policy commitments into practical protection measures.
Members were briefed by Dr Tristan Ferraro, Senior Legal Adviser at the International Committee of the Red Cross, on the protections afforded to humanitarian and medical personnel under international humanitarian law. Dr Ferraro highlighted the importance of strengthening awareness, implementation and compliance, including through clearer national frameworks, operational guidance, training, incident reporting and support for affected personnel and their families.
Sharing good practice
The discussion highlighted the different ways in which implementation of the Declaration is already taking shape. Member States shared examples of measures undertaken since joining the Declaration, including:
- strengthening support for humanitarian personnel and families affected by attacks;
- improving the monitoring, reporting and documentation of incidents;
- enhancing security awareness and preparedness;
- reinforcing coordination among relevant actors;
- promoting awareness and implementation of international commitments, including UN Security Council resolution 2730; and
- supporting advocacy, legal assistance and other practical protection measures.
The exchanges reinforced the role of the Group of Friends as a platform for maintaining momentum, sharing experience and promoting cooperation. By identifying practical approaches and lessons learned, members demonstrated how the Declaration can support stronger protection for humanitarian personnel in conflict and crisis settings.