SEMINAR ON PROTECTION OF CIVILIANS AFFECTED BY ARMED CONFLICTS

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 10 (Bernama) -- Key issues involving the challenges and
strategies of humanitarian agencies in providing protection and assistance to
vulnerable groups would be discussed in a seminar here jointly organised by
Islamic Outreach-ABIM and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

ICRC Communication Officer Chin Li Li said the seminar on Wednesday would
also explore the basic needs and legal perspectives in situations of complex
emergencies and armed conflict, as well as the challenges faced by humanitarian
relief workers in such situations.

"Armed conflict has persisted as a frighteningly common feature of the
international system well into the 21st century, and has engendered more than
its fair share of tragic consequences.

"Ranging from the growing number of casualties among innocent civilians to
issues arising from the displacement of populations fleeing conflict zones, its
complexities underscore the necessity for increasing humanitarian dialogues and
coordination between important stakeholders, including government,
inter-governmental and regional organisations and training institutions, among
others", she said in a statement Friday.

She said the resource persons during the seminar included International
Committee of the Red Cross for the Middle East and North Africa Legal Advisor Dr
Ameur Zemmali, Assistant Prof Mohd Hisham Mohd Kamal from the International
Islamic University of Malaysia, Che Moin Umar from the National Security Council
and Head of Legal Affairs of Maritime and International Law Branch, Royal
Malaysian Navy Captain Azhari Abdul Aziz.

-- BERNAMA