Deputy Speaker Champions Humanitarian Norms at IPU Assembly

By: Fatou Krubally

Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Seedy SK Njie, has reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to upholding humanitarian principles.

Hon. Njie was speaking at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, from October 19 to 23, 2025. The Assembly focused on the theme, “Upholding Humanitarian Norms and Supporting Humanitarian Actions in Times of Crisis.”

Addressing parliamentarians from around the world, Njie emphasized the importance of compassion, solidarity, and decisive action in addressing global crises. “Our humanity endures when we choose compassion over indifference, solidarity over silence, and action over despair,” he said.

Njie highlighted The Gambia’s efforts to embed humanitarianism within national law and practice. The country has domesticated international instruments such as the Geneva Conventions, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. He noted that these frameworks guide the nation in protecting vulnerable populations, responding to emergencies, and ensuring accountability through institutions like the independent National Human Rights Commission.

Citing recent examples, Njie pointed to The Gambia’s response to the 2022 floods, which displaced thousands, and the country’s support for refugees fleeing conflict in neighboring Casamance, Senegal. “Every life mattered, and every person found dignity in their hour of need,” he said, underlining the nation’s proactive approach to humanitarian crises.

On international issues, Njie reiterated The Gambia’s principled stance on the plight of the Palestinian people. He condemned acts of aggression, targeting of civilians, and obstruction of humanitarian aid, stressing that a just peace must uphold human rights, sovereignty, and self-determination.

Njie also recalled The Gambia’s historic advocacy at the International Court of Justice in defense of the Rohingya people, underscoring that moral leadership is measured by courage and integrity, not wealth or power. He urged the IPU Assembly to strengthen global mechanisms that safeguard humanitarian principles, ensure impartial delivery of aid, and hold governments accountable for protecting civilians in conflict.

Concluding his speech, Deputy Speaker Njie called on the international community to act as the “conscience of humanity,” stressing that upholding humanitarian norms is a moral obligation that preserves the dignity and lives of all people.

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 By: Fatou Krubally Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Seedy SK Njie, has reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to upholding…
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