Riyadh: A high-level session titled "Humanitarian Diplomacy in Conflicts: The Future of Humanitarian Response" was held today as part of the 4th Riyadh International Humanitarian Forum (RIHF).
According to Saudi Press Agency, the session featured prominent global humanitarian leaders, including Advisor at the Royal Court and Supervisor General of King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Rabeeah. Additional key participants included International Organization for Migration (IOM) Director General Amy Pope, World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the International Committee of the Red Cross Pierre Kr¤henbhl, Director-General of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation Ambassador Patricia Danzi, and the Director-General of the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations Maciej Popowski.
Discussions during the session focused on the role of humanitarian diplomacy in influencing decision-makers and fostering relations with both state and non-state actors to improve humanitarian outcomes. Panelists explored strategies for negotiating access to populations affected by crises and ensuring the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and effective communication in these efforts.