In response to the Foreign Affairs Select Committee’s report on ‘Global Britain: The Responsibility to Protect and Humanitarian Intervention’, George Graham, Save the Children’s Director of Humanitarian Advocacy said:

“Today’s report shines a much needed spotlight on the plight of civilians caught up in conflict worldwide, 357 million of whom are children.

“Save the children has been protecting children in conflict and changing futures for almost 100 years. As warfare becomes more urbanised, we have witnessed the horrific impact of explosive weapons in populated areas in countries such as Syria and Yemen. Children are particularly at risk from explosive weapons and have a higher chance of sustaining severe injuries.

“The report’s call for the UK Government to update its protection of civilians strategy and include measures to reduce the impact of explosive weapons in populated areas is hugely welcomed.

“The UK Ambassador to the UN’s recent statement that the Government intends to update its protection of civilians strategy is also a positive step.

“Britain has a proud history of enhancing civilian protection. This is an opportunity to continue championing this cause by protecting children and their families in conflict.”