UN Urges Stronger Civilian Protection as 2025 Violence Reaches Record Levels

In 2025, almost 76,500 civilians were killed in armed conflict, the highest death toll since the Rwandan genocide, and more than 56,000 incidents of violence against civilians were recorded, according to ACLED data. State‑led attacks rose from 20 % to 35 % of all civilian fatalities, a three‑fold increase since 2020. In response, the Permanent Mission of Pakistan convened an Arria‑formula meeting on 16 September 2026 to discuss “Upholding International Law in Situations of Armed Conflict.” The briefing highlighted that while international humanitarian law remains rhetorically upheld, the Security Council has struggled to impose sufficient costs on violators, undermining deterrence. Strengthening protection mandates and raising penalties are proposed as key steps to reverse the current trend and safeguard civilians worldwide.