The United Nations must allow humanitarian aid to be delivered to Syrian refugees in need “without arbitrary deadlines” and without conditions, the UK has said.
In a statement on Tuesday, James Kariuki, the UK’s deputy permanent representative to the UN Security Council, said needs were higher than ever.
“Humanitarian organisations must be able to deliver lifesaving assistance through the most efficient and effective means, in line with the humanitarian principles,” he said.
The current authorisation for the UN to use the Bab Al Hawa border crossing will again expire in less than 20 days, he said, adding that the cross-border response was a “lifeline” for 4.2 million Syrians in the North-West of Syria in need of urgent assistance.
“We have heard time and time again from humanitarians, including in this Council, that it provides the most efficient, effective, predictable route to people in need,” he said. “We call for access to be granted for as long as is needed, without arbitrary deadlines and without conditions, in line with international humanitarian law.”
He also called for the Syrian government to allow voluntary returns of refugees.
“Our hope is that one day, Syrian refugees will be able to voluntarily return home,” he said. “However, the actions of the Assad regime have so far meant they are unable to do so.”
According to Kariuki, a report released last week by the UN said more than 4,700 returnees had been detained by regime forces since 2014, adding that if returning refugees were not safe, others would not return.
“The enduring humanitarian crisis and continued displacement of Syrians will only be resolved through a comprehensive political settlement in line with Security Council resolution 2254,” he said.
“This month, the Syrian opposition demonstrated their commitment to 2254 during their annual conference, and civil society organisations have continued to offer creative solutions in overcoming the current impasse. We call on the regime to also engage constructively with the UN-facilitated political process, which remains the only viable route to lasting peace in Syria.”