Join the call for a UN Special Envoy for Civilians in Armed Conflict

Civilian lives are torn apart in the midst of conflicts around the world. Yet, there is no single, high-level advocate focused on this global phenomenon. From Darfur to Afghanistan ordinary civilians are trying to go about their lives amidst devastation, consistently bearing the brunt of armed warfare.

War victims need someone to speak for their needs during the fighting and after the smoke clears. Campaign for Innocent Victims in Conflict (CIVIC) invites you and your organization to join the call for a UN SPECIAL ENVOY FOR CIVILIANS IN ARMED CONFLICT.

This position will go a long way toward promoting the specific and urgent needs of this often overlooked and unheard group. A UN Special Envoy for Civilians in Armed Conflict shows commitment to the needs of civilians in conflict and provides them the attention they deserve within the international community and among warring parties.

What would a Special Envoy do?
- Travel to war zones, have intimate knowledge of conflict’s impact on civilian populations and how best to coordinate aid on the ground;
- Ensure warring parties are abiding by the Laws of War: avoiding harm to civilians by all feasible means and functioning under the rule of proportionality;
- Speak for the specific needs of war victims;
- Identify best practices used around the world to recognize civilian losses, provide aid to those suffering and make amends to victims;
- Raise awareness of this global issue in the policy arena and public eye particularly through first-hand narratives of civilians suffering.

What can YOU do to make this happen?
Sign your organization on as a supporter. We aren’t asking you to commit any additional time or resources, just the power of your voice in support of civilians in conflict. To set up an in person meeting for you and your staff, or to sign on, contact Angela Gasparetti via angela@civicworldwide.org

If you are an individual wishing to participate, please click here to sign our petition calling for a UN Special Envoy for War Victims.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Click here to read the FAQs and learn more about how a Special Envoy for Civilians in Armed Conflict will help shine the spotlight on the human cost of war and help make positive change in the lives of civilians in conflict zones.

Click here to read the Fact Sheet with furhter information on what a Special Envoy for Civilians in Armed Conflict would do and what qualities an ideal candidate for such a position should have.