Sierra Leone has participated in two urgent debates held during the 61st Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, addressing escalating international security concerns and the protection of civilians, particularly children, in armed conflict.
During the first urgent debate on 25 March 2026, convened at the request of Bahrain on behalf of the Cooperation Council for Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) and Jordan, the Council discussed the repercussions of military operations launched on 28 February 2026 against several Gulf States.
Delivering Sierra Leone’s statement, His Excellency Samuel U.B. Saffa Esq., Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, expressed deep concern over the loss of civilian lives and the destruction of infrastructure. Sierra Leone underscored the importance of respecting international law, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the protection of civilians, while calling for an immediate ceasefire and renewed diplomatic engagement. The resolution arising from the debate was adopted by consensus.
On 27 March 2026, the Council convened a second urgent debate on the protection of children and educational institutions in armed conflicts, focusing on reported aerial attacks on the Shajareh Tayyebeh Girls’ School in Minab, Iran.
Sierra Leone noted that, if confirmed, such incidents would raise serious concerns under international humanitarian and human rights law. Sierra Leone welcomed confirmation that the matter is under investigation and supported ongoing ceasefire discussions aimed at de-escalation.
As a signatory to the Safe Schools Declaration, Sierra Leone reaffirmed the importance of protecting schools, students, and educators from attacks and military use. Drawing from its own post-conflict experience, Sierra Leone emphasized that protecting children and ensuring access to education are essential to sustainable peace.
Sierra Leone also highlighted the wider global economic consequences of the conflict, including disruptions to energy supply chains affecting developing countries through fuel shortages and rising living costs.
Across both debates, Sierra Leone reiterated its commitment to multilateralism, peaceful dispute resolution, and full respect for the Charter of the United Nations and international law.
