Hospitals under fire: legal and practical challenges to strengthened protection
Amid the devastation of armed conflict, hospitals stand as fragile sanctuaries, overwhelmed by demand and depleted of essential supplies. Struggling to function under relentless strain, they remain uniquely vulnerable – yet, rather than being protected, they are too often caught in the crosshairs of tactical attacks and political allegations.
In this installment of the Emerging Voices series, Khang Phan and Thao Nguyen, recent graduates of Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, trace patterns in attacks on hospitals in contemporary conflicts. They examine the legal protections in place and the practical challenges that undermine compliance and enforcement. In doing so, they underscore the need for more effective warning systems and stronger communication among stakeholders to ensure hospitals receive the fullest possible protection.
As we launch the "Emerging Voices" series today with its first post, we invite you to join this vibrant platform for new and rising voices in international humanitarian law (IHL) and policy. If you are a young scholar or new professional with fresh ideas and unique insights to share, we encourage you to contribute. Don’t miss the chance to have your voice heard - submit your work and be part of this dynamic dialogue.
Uncover the call for 'rehumanization' in military decision-making, emphasizing the crucial role of human emotions in judgment and the risks of outsourcing high-stakes decisions to machines in contemporary armed conflicts.
Explore the significant strides in protecting civilians from ICT activities in armed conflicts, highlighted by the adoption of the 'first humanitarian ICT resolution'.
The International Review of the Red Cross (IRRC) invites contributions for an upcoming issue on “Mental Health and Armed Conflict.” Armed conflicts, whether international or non-international, have profound consequences on mental health, affecting civilians, humanitarian workers, and military personnel. Exposure to hostilities, displacement, violence, and loss can lead to both immediate and long-term psychological harm. Submissions must include a 500-word abstract and a biography of up to 300 words and be submitted by15 May 2025. Contributions can be submitted in English, French, Arabic, Spanish, Russian, and Chinese.
Children’s lives and futures are irrevocably changed by warfare. This powerful story highlights how respect for IHL protects children in conflict zones, helping reunite them with their families and provide essential support. Watch now and explore IHL in Action to see how respecting IHL has saved lives worldwide.
In the latest statement at the Third Meeting of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) ICRC called on States for full and effective implementation of the treaty, underlying its importance in preventing catastrophic humanitarian consequences.
Explore the ICRC’s Working Paper for the Third Meeting of States Parties to the TPNW, outlining urgent steps to reduce nuclear risks, strengthen disarmament efforts, and address the humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons.
From the 8 to the 15 of February, around 140 students came from all over the world to compete and argue on the application of IHL in fictitious armed conflict scenarios. They played the roles of diplomats, ICRC delegates, military legal advisers, and members of NSAGs to present their knowledge of the law but also exhibit true humanitarian spirit.
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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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