Geneva, 4 May 2026 – The Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva, H.E. Mr. Erzhan Kazykhan, held a coordination meeting of the Permanent Representatives of the six founding States of the Global Initiative to Galvanize Political Commitment to International Humanitarian Law with the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Ms. Mirjana Spoljaric.

Opening the meeting, the Permanent Representative of Kazakhstan highlighted the importance of ensuring broad compliance with international humanitarian law against the backdrop of growing international tensions and the humanitarian consequences of armed conflicts. He underlined the significance of the Global Initiative as a neutral and unifying platform aimed at strengthening the protection of civilians.

ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric briefed the participants on the progress of the Global Initiative, and noted the ongoing work to develop substantive recommendations that would confirm the commitment of States to the current IHL standards.

Particular attention was given to the upcoming High-Level Conference in Jordan on 7 December 2026, which is expected to become an important political milestone and provide additional impetus to practical efforts aimed at strengthening commitment to international humanitarian law.

In conclusion, the participants reaffirmed their intention to continue close interaction and coordination of further work ahead of the High-level Conference in Jordan.

For reference: The Global Initiative to Galvanize Political Commitment to International Humanitarian Law was launched in September 2024 at the initiative of the International Committee of the Red Cross, with the support of six founding States – Brazil, China, France, Jordan, Kazakhstan and South Africa.

Its objective is to promote political dialogue among States and develop practical recommendations for the more effective application of existing IHL norms in the context of contemporary armed conflicts. To date, 108 States have joined the Initiative.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-geneva/press/news/details/1215858?lang=kk