The New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO unequivocally condemns the ongoing attack on Ukraine, which is in direct contravention of the UNESCO Constitution and the Organisation’s fundamental aim to contribute to peace and security.
UNESCO has called for respect for international humanitarian law, noting that the violation of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine is inconsistent with the Charter of the United Nations.
The National Commission shares UNESCO’s concerns about the violation of human rights in Ukraine resulting from Russia’s invasion.
The interruption to education, threats to the safety of citizens, including significant risks to journalists and media professionals, and potential damage to cultural heritage are all preventable.
We stand together with the Ukraine people.