The manifesto below was sent to the press and over 30 political leaders, including the President of the Swiss Confederation, Viola Amherd.
As the world watches the massacre of the Palestinian people, we, humanitarian workers, find
ourselves unable to adequately respond and assist the millions of civilians caught in the crossfire.
Despite the International Court of Justice (ICJ) demanding Israel to "immediately halt its military offensive" in Rafah and facilitate humanitarian access, and urging Hamas to release the hostages taken on October 7, Switzerland remains disturbingly silent.
Globally, students, lawyers, legislators, and civil society are mobilizing. Now, it's time for Non-Governmental organizations to unite and demand that the Swiss Federal Council and Parliament:
- Take a strong stand for an immediate and sustainable ceasefire and the release of all
hostages. - Ensure unrestricted humanitarian access throughout the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
- Enforce a halt to the sale, transfer, and diversion of arms, ammunition, and other military
equipment to Israel, in line with the Human Rights Council resolution passed on April 5,
2024. - Actively work towards ending the Israeli occupation and seeking a political resolution to
the Palestinian question.
Our mission is to uphold and enforce international humanitarian law while advocating for the principles of multilateralism. We aim to protect and save lives, particularly those of children, and to alleviate human suffering. We need more support !
Considering its reputation and historical commitment to peace, Switzerland must strive to ensure the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolutions 242 and 2735. Only a diplomacy committed to a more peaceful world, grounded in the Geneva Conventions, can bring an end to the horrors faced by Palestinian families.
It is crucial for Switzerland to firmly commit to justice and human dignity, in harmony with its values and international obligations.
Signed by: