Geneva, Switzerland – On 20 September 2024, in a significant effort to shed light on the human rights repercussions of the ongoing armed conflict between Israel and Gaza, the Geneva Centre, in collaboration with the Geneva Press Club, presented its latest research paper titled ‘Vortex of Pain: Human Rights Implications of the Israel-Gaza Armed Conflict’. The event, hosted at the Geneva Press Club, was held on the margins of the 57th session of the Human Rights Council.
The event featured a panel of distinguished experts, including Prof. Surya Deva, UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Development; Prof. Claire Somerville, Director of the Gender Centre at the Geneva Graduate Institute; and Prof. Mara Tignino, Senior Lecturer at the University of Geneva and Deputy Director of the Platform for International Water Law at the Geneva Water Hub.
The research paper released by the Geneva Centre examines the human rights implications of the Israel-Gaza conflict in response to escalating violence since October 7, 2023. It addresses a wide spectrum of human rights violations, including the right to life, the right to an adequate standard of living, and the adverse effects on freedom of movement, food security, and access to essential services.
Dr Umesh Palwankar, the Executive Director of the Geneva Centre, delivered brief remarks, emphasizing the Centre’s commitment to offering an unbiased and thorough analysis of the human rights situation on the ground. It aims at providing a better understanding of the broader impact on the affected population and the need for effective and enforceable international mechanisms to deliver justice and accountability.
The discussions examined the broad range of human rights impacted by the conflict, including severe threats to civilian life, the destruction of vital infrastructure; long-term consequences on the access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and clean water; and the adverse impacts on development prospects and the environment.
The event brought together a diverse audience, including Permanent Missions, NGOs, academia, media representatives, and other key stakeholders, creating a space for valuable discussions on the human rights impact of the ongoing conflict.
The Geneva Centre extended its most sincere thanks to all participants and speakers for their involvement and contribution, underscoring the need for genuine dialogue and cooperation to tackle one of today’s most pressing human rights emergencies.
Download the full research paper here