John Faulkner (NSW, Australian Labor Party, Vice-President of the Executive Council) Share this | Hansard source

by leave—I move:

That the Senate take note of the statement.

I thank Senator Brandis for his remarks. It is always a positive thing when government, opposition and the whole parliament can join in like-minded support on such an important occasion. The Geneva conventions have been the bulwark of humanitarian principles in times of war for 60 years. They are as necessary today as they ever were. They are a crucial mechanism to make sure humanitarian principles are never forgotten and humanitarian principles are always upheld. However, the conventions themselves would be symbolic but obviously less relevant without the commitment and tireless efforts of individuals and organisations to uphold the values that the conventions embody.

The International Committee of the Red Cross in the past six decades has promoted and encouraged adherence to the conventions and taken impartial action to protect the vulnerable during armed conflict. On this 60th anniversary of the conventions, I certainly think it is appropriate to acknowledge Australia’s ratification of the third additional protocol, which establishes a third neutral emblem: the Red Crystal.

I should, as Minister for Defence, make special mention of the Australian Defence Force and Australian Defence Force personnel. Among Australian citizens, they have a unique connection to the conventions because of their vocation. It is with a great deal of pride that I note the unwavering commitment within Australia’s armed forces to the principles enshrined in the Geneva conventions. The support of the Senate, this parliament, in promoting universal adherence to international humanitarian law also serves to protect our troops and other Australian citizens who are working in foreign conflict zones.

The commemoration of a landmark event such as this by a democratic parliament such as ours is a small but significant way in which we can uphold our commitment to international humanitarian law. I am very happy and pleased to associate the government with the statement that was made by Senator Brandis, with the resolution that was agreed to—which stood in my name earlier this day—and also with the statements made by my colleague the Attorney-General, Mr Robert McClelland.