Emotional appeal from UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths: “We need this Switzerland now, we need it more than ever”

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UN Emergency Aid Coordinator Martin Griffiths (72) has called on Switzerland to step up its efforts in humanitarian aid and international dialogue. “Switzerland represents the humanitarian hub in Geneva, for global operations. We need this Switzerland now, we need it more than ever.”

He has been dealing with wars for 50 years, Griffiths said in an interview with Tamedia newspapers published on Thursday. “And the world has never been as angry as it is today.” The crises in Sudan, Myanmar, Syria, Gaza and Ukraine showed that humanity’s global values ​​were at stake. “And Switzerland in particular stands for these values,” says Griffiths. “That’s why I say to Switzerland: we need you! We need you as a refuge for peacemaking.”

“Switzerland must stand up and assert itself”

The UN Emergency Relief Coordinator was convinced that Switzerland could do more in its own way than most other countries. “Switzerland is a unique brand and has unique opportunities – because of its values ​​and discretion.” In Geneva, for example, conversations are also possible with ‘shady groups’.

Griffiths said there are now more states than before involved in international mediation, such as Qatar and Turkey. But Switzerland has the “tradition and skills of mediation”. “The fact that more states are active in mediation does not ease the burden on Switzerland. Switzerland must stand up and stand up for itself,” said Griffiths. (SDA)

Source: Blick