The Omission and Inclusion Conundrum: UN Chief’s Controversial ‘List of Shame’

UN Chief’s ‘List of Shame’ Adds Russia, Omits Israel: Mixed Message Sent About Abuses Against Children in Armed Conflict

The UN’s Accountability Dilemma

The recent addition of Russia to the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s annual “list of shame” for grave violations against children in armed conflict has sparked controversy. While the inclusion of Russia is a step in the right direction, the glaring omission of Israel from this list raises questions about the UN‘s commitment to holding powerful governments accountable for their actions.

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, hundreds of Ukrainian children have been killed in attacks on civilian structures. Russian forces were responsible for over 480 attacks on schools and hospitals in 2022, resulting in the killing or maiming of 658 children. The report also attributed the killing or maiming of 255 children to Ukrainian forces. Globally, the UN has verified over 24,000 instances of violations against children, including sexual violence, abduction, recruitment as soldiers, and attacks on schools and hospitals. Israel/Palestine, along with other conflict zones, has seen a significant number of these violations.

Israel’s Omission: A Grave Disservice to Palestinian Children

The omission of Israel from the list of shame does a grave disservice to Palestinian children who have suffered the consequences of Israeli actions. According to the Secretary-General’s report, Israeli forces were responsible for 975 child casualties and 110 attacks on schools and hospitals in 2022. Additionally, between 2015 and 2020, Israeli forces have been attributed to over 6,700 Palestinian child casualties. The failure to hold Israel accountable for these massive violations puts many children at risk and sends a message that powerful governments can act with impunity.

It is worth noting that Palestinian armed groups, while also not listed, have also committed violations against children and should be held accountable. However, the focus here is on the UN’s failure to include Israel, despite its significant and well-documented record of violations.

The Influence of Aggressive Lobbying and UN Blackmail

The omission of Israel from the list of shame raises questions about the undue influence of aggressive lobbying and UN blackmail on this decision. Israel, along with other countries, have resorted to lobbying and other tactics to avoid being listed as one of the worst violators. The “list of shame” carries significant stigma, and countries go to great lengths to avoid being on it. The only credible way off the list is to sign and implement a concrete action plan with the UN to end violations.

Accountability for All, Regardless of Power

The UN, and particularly the Secretary-General, must remain impartial in holding all governments accountable for their violations against children, regardless of their power. While Israel’s inclusion on the list would undoubtedly be met with resistance and controversy, it is crucial to prioritize the protection of children and the enforcement of international laws and norms.

The omission of Israel also undermines the credibility and effectiveness of the “list of shame.” The Secretary-General and the UN must recognize that accountability is a principle that goes beyond political considerations and should be applied consistently and impartially.

Conclusion: Upholding the Rights of Children

The UN‘s “list of shame” is a vital tool in raising awareness and holding governments accountable for their actions in armed conflict. The inclusion of Russia is a step forward, but the omission of Israel undermines the credibility and effectiveness of the list. The Secretary-General must prioritize the protection of children and ensure that all governments, regardless of their power, are held accountable for their violations. Only through consistent and impartial accountability can we work towards a world where children are protected from the horrors of armed conflict.