International co-operation in the humanitarian field

The General Assembly,

Noting that one of the purposes of the United Nations set forth in its Charter, is to achieve international co-operation in solving international problems of a humanitarian character,

Guided in particular by the determination expressed in the Charter, to reaffirm faith in the dignity and worth of the human person,

Mindful of the significant contribution to international co-operation in the humanitarian field made by organizations and agencies of the United Nations system,

Recognizing the positive role played by the Independent Commission on International Humanitarian Issues,

Recognizing, in this connection, the importance of the contribution of governmental and non-governmental organizations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross and the League of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies,

Recognizing the significance of the existing workable system to promote, facilitate and co-ordinate humanitarian activities carried out by Governments, the United Nations system and intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations,

Mindful of the importance of promoting universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and of international co-operation in the humanitarian field for improving relations among States and peoples,

Stressing the need for the international community to continue its efforts in the field of humanitarian activities and to provide the resources to develop further activities in the humanitarian field,

Conscious that people want to live in a better, safer and more just world,

1.         Encourages the international community to develop further its co-operation in the field of international humanitarian activities;

2.         Calls upon all States to co-operate for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms and to work together to promote international co-operation in order to solve existing humanitarian problems of international concern;

3.         Encourages the international community to contribute substantially and regularly to international humanitarian activities;

4.         Considers that international co-operation in the humanitarian field will facilitate better understanding, mutual respect, confidence and tolerance among States and peoples, thus contributing to a more just and non-violent world;

5.         Invites Governments, the United Nations system and intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations to develop international co-operation in the humanitarian field on the basis of relevant international instruments;

6.         Decides to consider the question of international co-operation in the humanitarian field under the item entitled "New international humanitarian order".