[Al Jazeera] UNHRC Stalls on Long-Term Yemen Strategy

As the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) enters the third day of its four-day summit, delegates from across the world continue deliberations on the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, but face criticism for failing to discuss long-term strategies. 

Little progress on devising concrete solutions to sustainably alleviate the crisis in Yemen raises concerns about the Council’s ability to move beyond immediate relief efforts towards sustainable development. With experts warning about an escalation of the situation in Yemen, human rights advocates urge the United Nations to quickly reach a consensus that facilitates delivering aid to vulnerable populations. 

Technological innovation and foreign aid: a double-edged sword

A significant part of the debate has centered around discussing technology in aid delivery. The Republic of Korea and Kenya have endorsed the use of drones to deliver supplies, with Spain also advocating for aerial methods. However, concerns about privacy and data protection, particularly from the Netherlands, underscore tensions between calls for innovation and the protection of the human rights of marginalized people.

The delegation of Romania has proposed the use of Copernicus satellites for tracking civilian casualties in real time, a move supported by China, which backs a satellite- and drone-based monitoring system. But critics warn of over relying on technological tools, noting that technology alone cannot address the deep-seated structural and political challenges facing Yemen and in fact, may exacerbate Yemen’s dependence on foreign intervention rather than pave the way for a self-determined, peaceful future.  

The delegation of Spain, a key donor, highlighted recent challenges in grain delivery, citing the disruption of humanitarian corridors through Ukraine. In response, it proposed a new coalition with the United States and France to revive food programs. Meanwhile, the Netherlands’ delegate emphasizes the need to assess the long-term feasibility of such programs since sustained funding cannot be guaranteed.

First steps towards sustainable development

On a more positive note, France strongly advocated for gender equality as a cornerstone of long-term peace, calling for investment in women’s education and empowerment. Ethiopia echoed this call, seeking collaboration with Yemen to uplift women as a first step towards sustainable solutions. While the delegation of Ethiopia disclosed their inability to offer financial support, they asserted their intention to forge trade relations with Yemen.

China reminds the delegates of the importance of agriculture, stating that collectively investing in Yemen’s agricultural sector would not only tackle famine but also boost the Middle Eastern nation’s economy and relieve corruption, a concern addressed earlier today. This statement garnered widespread support from other members, with the Netherlands calling for further discussions on agriculture during informal discussions (Unmoderated Caucus). 

For many representatives, the shift towards building capacity and social infrastructure represents a crucial improvement after initial debates centered on members’ responsibilities in tackling the crisis instead of advancing collective action. With just one day left, the UNHRC has yet to reach consensus on a long-term strategy. Moving forward, concrete action points need to be formulated to deliver tangible solutions.