International Humanitarian Law

International humanitarian law, AKA the law of war, is a set of rules that limits and avoids unnecessary suffering/destruction of persons or places. It is By means of restriction on certain methods and actions during warfare. The rules and regulations developed have been situated in two areas: the responsibility of military commanders and the actions of humanitarian organizations.

Military

  • Fighting must only affect combatants and strategic objectives. Present a clear distinction between military and civilian objectives, between combatants and civilians.

  • Individuals and populations who are not taking part must not be targets and must be treated humanely at all times.

  • Civilian houses and objects may not be targeted or destroyed.

  • Requires that there be a clear chain of responsible command within the armed forces of all parties to the conflict. Must ensure discipline and respect for the rules of armed conflict.

  • Individuals who go against these laws will be hold criminal responsibility. All States commit to cooperating in searching, prosecuting, and punishing the individual.

Humanitarian Orgs

  • Guarantees the individuals' right to the relief and protection that are best suited to their needs and the specific dangers they may face.

  • The receival of relief and protection must be implemented in all situations, for all individuals.

  • Gives humanitarian organizations the right to initiate/suggest any necessary protection and assistance.

  • Activities of humanitarian organizations are not “interference” in the internal affairs of a State.

"what does this have to do with me?"

In action movies, there is always that one scene where the main character HAS to get the answers out the 'hard way'. After getting said answers, the main character saves that day and we are all happy.

so here is a question...
Is it justified for our military to use violence to get some utmost important state secret out of enemy captives?

Many get this question wrong due to their favorite movie saying, "It's Okay, is for the greater good!". Following the International Humanitarian Laws and basic human rights, it is stated that "Captured combatants and civilians under the authority of an adverse party are entitled to respect for their lives, dignity, personal rights and convictions. They shall be protected against all acts of violence and reprisals. They shall have the right to correspond with their families and to receive relief.".

Acknowledging the guidelines of International Humanitarian Law, is not solely for those participating in war or near an ongoing war. Knowing more will guide and change your perspective on humanity and morality.

Statistcs

  • 112 National IHL Committees in the world

  • 240 different events (conferences, panels, discussions, etc.) in 82 countries to mark the 70th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions

  • 39 ratifications/accesions to IHL treaties by 30 states

  • 11 domestic statues adopted/amended by 8 countries, to implement IHL

  • 100+ officers from 75 countries have attended the Senior workshop on International Rules governing Military Ops.

  • 105 military officers from 39 countries recieved ICRC scholoarships to attend IHL courses in Italy

  • In 113 countries, 115,000 military, police, and armed groups took part in over 1,600 IHL-related trainings organized by the ICRC

Test your IHL knowledge w/ people

pt2 coming soon

= this will be something soon =