A Decade of Despair and Hope: Italy's Enduring Commitment to Yemen
Distinguished colleagues, esteemed delegates,
Ten years. For a decade now, the Yemeni people have endured a seemingly never-
ending conflict, their resilience tested beyond measure. Today, I stand before you on
behalf of Italy, a nation deeply concerned by this ongoing tragedy.
Imagine a land steeped in rich history and vibrant culture, now reduced to rubble.
Imagine children robbed of their childhood, families torn apart, and millions clinging
to the hope of a brighter future. This is the grim reality for the Yemeni people, a
reality that casts a long shadow on our hearts.
The human cost of this conflict is devastating. Over 24 million Yemenis face food
insecurity, with millions on the brink of famine. Malnutrition weakens children's
bodies and scars their minds, while collapsing healthcare systems leave countless
vulnerable to preventable diseases.
The economic impact is equally destructive. Livelihoods lie shattered, infrastructure
crumbles, and the economy remains in tatters. The future of a generation hangs in
the balance, their potential dimmed by the harsh realities of war and poverty.
Yet, amidst the despair, there is a flicker of hope. The Yemeni people yearn for
peace. They dream of a future where they can rebuild their lives, educate their
children, and live without fear.
Italy stands firmly with the Yemeni people in their quest for peace. We remain
committed to working alongside the international community to:
Demand an immediate ceasefire and a return to UN-led peace negotiations. A
political solution, not continued bloodshed, is the only path to lasting peace.
Ensure unimpeded humanitarian access. Millions of Yemenis rely on humanitarian
aid for their survival. We must guarantee aid reaches all those in need, regardless of
location or affiliation.
Support efforts to rebuild infrastructure and revive the economy. Rebuilding Yemen's
infrastructure and reviving its economy are essential for creating jobs, fostering
development, and providing hope for the future.
Hold accountable those responsible for war crimes and human rights abuses. Justice
and accountability are crucial for deterring future violations and building a sustainable
peace.
We urge all parties to the conflict to lay down their arms and engage in meaningful
dialogue. The suffering of the Yemeni people must end. It is time for peace to
prevail.
Italy's unwavering commitment to Yemen is rooted in our shared values of humanity,
solidarity, and a belief in a better future for all. Our support has evolved over the past
decade, reflecting the changing needs of the crisis.
2014-2016: Focused on immediate humanitarian relief, providing food, water, and
medical supplies.
2017-2019: Expanded support to include infrastructure rehabilitation, education
initiatives, and peacebuilding efforts.
2020-present: Prioritized long-term development projects, aiming to address the root
causes of conflict and foster sustainable recovery.
In 2023, Italy pledged €250 million in humanitarian aid to Yemen, focusing on food
security, healthcare, and protection for vulnerable populations. We are also actively
supporting UN-led peace efforts and advocating for increased international
engagement in the crisis.
We recognize that the road to peace in Yemen will be long and arduous. But we are
determined to walk this path alongside the Yemeni people, offering our unwavering
support and unwavering commitment to a brighter future.
Let us not stand by as a nation bleeds. Let us be the generation that brings peace to
Yemen.
Grazie.
References:
United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA): Yemen
Situation Report [https://reliefweb.int/report/yemen/yemen-monthly-situation-report-
october-2023]
World Bank: Yemen Economic Monitor [https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-
release/2023/10/26/yemen-economic-monitor-highlights-ongoing-challenges-amid-
renewed-hope]
Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Italy's Cooperation with Yemen [<invalid URL
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