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LAW & POLICY NEWSLETTER
MARCH 2026
LAW & POLICY NEWSLETTER
MARCH 2026
Engaging non-state armed groups on the protection of missing people and their families
Engaging non-state armed groups on the protection of missing people and their families
The ICRC continues to witness unacceptable levels of suffering when the law designed to protect families, prevent people from going missing, and ensure the dignified and respectful treatment of the dead is disregarded. At the same time, we have also documented countless, daily efforts by parties to armed conflict to prevent family separation, clarify the fate and whereabouts of missing people, and treat the dead with dignity and respect. This is a humanitarian imperative, a legal obligation, and a responsibility that should be a priority of any party to an armed conflict.
On the occasion of the publication of this report, the ICRC is hosting a hybrid eventthat will bring together humanitarian practitioners, States, and other experts to discuss practical steps that non-state armed groups can take to prevent family separation, prevent people from going missing, and treat the dead with dignity, in line with their obligations under IHL.
Submit your abstract by 20 March critically assessing whether legal & policy frameworks which prohibit, restrict or otherwise regulate weapons sufficiently engage with & address the human dimension of weapons‑related harm in English, French, Arabic, Spanish, Russian, or Chinese.
💡 In the Spotlight
IHL in Action: New Case Study Explore a newly added case illustrating how the establishment of aNational Information Bureau demonstrates the tangible impact of compliance with IHL obligations governing the collection, centralization, and transmission of information on prisoners of war in real situations.
Reprisals: Another Battlefield of the First World War Read this article that explores different aspects of reprisals during the First World War, the ICRC's response and some reflections on the practice of reprisals in wartime.
55th Summer Session: Human Rights and Spaces of Resistance Join a one-month summer course in Strasbourg (29 June–24 July), organized by the René Cassin Foundation with the ICRC, and deepen your knowledge of IHL, human rights law and criminal law alongside 30 internationally recognized experts.
Join the 2026 edition of REACT, a five-week intensive program by the International University Center for Peace Missions (IUCPM) of Helsinki España. Designed for professionals in human rights, conflict analysis, and peacebuilding, it prepares participants for international missions. It will take place from 25 May–27 June.
🔖 Missed any of these?
Contribute to“Emerging Voices” series: Share your insights and influence the discourse on humanitarian law 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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