Albares at the Paris Peace Forum: “International humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions are not optional”

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, José Manuel Albares, reaffirmed at the Paris Peace Forum Spain's commitment "to the full respect of international humanitarian law in a determined and coherent manner, regardless of the context or actors involved". Speaking on the panel "Safeguarding International Humanitarian Law", the minister stated that "international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions are not optional".

Against a backdrop of widespread violations of international law in several conflicts, where humanitarian principles are under threat and humanitarian actors face challenges in providing assistance, the minister called for renewed efforts to ensure the protection of civilians, humanitarian workers, and medical personnel. "We are witnessing this in Gaza, where the work of UN agencies, particularly UNRWA, is restricted", he recalled. "We must ensure that humanitarian aid can enter the Gaza Strip impartially and independently".

Spain contributes to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) global initiative to promote political commitment to international humanitarian law, co-chairing the working group dedicated to the protection of hospitals Spain's contribution to the ICRC increased by more than 12% in 2025. In 2024, the ICRC received more than €12 million in support.

​The minister emphasised that Spain supports all efforts to combat impunity for international crimes. "We firmly back the work of the International Criminal Court, whose action is, unfortunately, more necessary today than ever. The Court must be able to fulfil its mandate without interference or threats", he said.

The minister also recalled that Spain has increased its financial contributions to the International Criminal Court, providing €1.1 million in 2025 and €2 million in 2024, in order to reinforce its work. "The fight against impunity for international law crimes is essential to guarantee justice, protection, and reparation for victims. Perpetrators of violations of international humanitarian law cannot go unpunished".

In his address, Albares mentioned Spain's offer to deploy the START field hospital operated by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) in Jamaica, in response to the medical needs expressed by the country following Hurricane Melissa, as well as in Gaza as soon as possible.

For images of the event, click here.

-NON OFFICIAL TRANSLATION-​