Championing IHL compliance in contemporary armed conflict: the 2024 ICRC Challenges Report
Since 2003, the ICRC has submitted a report on ‘International Humanitarian Law and the Challenges of Contemporary Armed Conflict’ to the International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, where the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions come together with the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement to discuss key matters of humanitarian concern and to make joint commitments.
In this post and drawing from the 2024 Challenges Report, ICRC Chief Legal Officer Cordula Droege presents the ICRC’s analysis of some of the salient legal issues of today’s conflicts, animated, first and foremost, by its desire to achieve greater protection of victims of war from the effects of armed conflicts, and informed by its observation of key humanitarian issues on the ground and its dialogue with parties to conflicts in all parts of the world.
In this report on IHL and the challenges of contemporary armed conflicts, the ICRC sets out its views on some of the most pressing humanitarian and legal issues in warfare. The ICRC has submitted a report like this one – the Challenges Report – to every International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent since 2003.
Explore the debate over AI in military strategy, focusing on its potential to improve decision-making and reduce civilian suffering versus the risks it poses to peacebuilding and legal compliance.
Examine the ethical challenges of AI-assisted decision-support systems in military strategy, focusing on their potential to introduce bias and affect human autonomy and moral responsibility.
Discover insights on internment review procedures for civilians under the Fourth Geneva Convention, emphasizing the essential characteristics of review bodies during international armed conflicts.
📝 Last Call for Emerging Voices!
We are still accepting contributions for our upcoming blog series, "Emerging Voices in International Humanitarian Law, Policy, and Action."
This initiative seeks to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the forefront of humanitarian law and policy discussions. We invite young scholars, new professionals, and passionate voices from traditionally underrepresented regions to contribute their ideas and insights. Contributions should offer novel arguments, challenge conventional approaches, and propose solutions that can influence future debates under IHL.
We welcome submissions in English, Arabic, French, and Spanish. The deadline for submissions is October 31, 2024.
📑 New Case Alert | AMISOM and the Safe Schools Declaration: Protecting Education in Conflict Zones
Our latest case study, published on IHL in Action website, examines the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM)'s 2017 handover of Somali National University back to Somali authorities after ten years of military use. This transition aligns with the Safe Schools Declaration and highlights AMISOM’s role in minimizing the impact of armed conflict on education. While not legally binding, the Declaration provides practical guidelines aimed at protecting education facilities from military use, thus preserving their civilian status and ensuring safety for students and educators during times of conflict.
Respect the Rules of War – A Red Cross Red Crescent Movement Campaign for IHL Compliance
As we mark the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, we face a concerning reality: the universal limits to warfare, which all nations have agreed upon, are increasingly ignored, undermined, or even twisted to justify violence. This global and collective failure to uphold the rules of war must be addressed.
You can help make a difference. Starting today, follow the ICRC channels and tell us which message(s) you want us to pass on to all leaders to #RespectTheRulesOfWar. Your voice will help us protect humanity, even in our worst moments.
“IHL” 3.0 features an improved search engine, more IHL treaties (including historical ones) and documents than ever before, and optimized performance: download it from you App Storeor Microsoft or Google Play!
Explore a publication that showcases the convergence between the Islamic laws of war and IHL, focusing on the protection of healthcare providers and humanitarian personnel, management of the dead, and protection of children in armed conflict.
The IHL summer School and competition was successfully organized by the ICIL and the Türk Kizilay, with the support of the ICRC. Students came from 15 different countries to follow lectures on the law of occupation and participate in role-playing exercises. Read the testimony of a participant.
🔖 Missed any of these?
Revisit the vital role of international humanitarian law and the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions - "The one set of rules we all agree on".
Jointhe ICRC Law & Policy Group on LinkedIn to never miss an update on all things IHL and policy.
For the millions of people in countries reliant on humanitarian assistance, greater support is desperately needed to save lives and avert further suffering. You can help the people you are reading about.
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