The session is organised in collaboration with Red Cross Netherlands and the Legal Mobilization Platform
Aid workers and civilians under fire. Attacks on essential infrastructure such as hospitals and schools. Blocked humanitarian action. Withdrawal from international agreements and institutions. International Humanitarian Law (IHL) is under pressure, and it is strongly affecting the operations of humanitarian organisations. Compliance with and enforcement of IHL is often said to be declining. Its application is subject to allegations of double standards/selection and interpretation. Often, ongoing diplomatic efforts to re-state commitments and obligations under IHL – do not meaningfully improve adherence, or the operational reality for aid organisations. This raises a fundamental question: are current challenges primarily about compliance and enforcement, or do they point to deeper structural tensions within the IHL system?
Humanitarian organisations are taking the initiative to strengthen IHL. To support this action, it helps to deepen the understanding of what IHL is, its origins, and what it is for. Since law reflects power dynamics, it matters to look at what is codified as law and which interests are weighed in that process. Critical reflection is needed on how IHL has historically been shaped within prevailing power structures. Also, where and how has IHL worked for whom, and for whom has it not? This session will reflect on these foundational dimensions, as well as on how this strategically informs the responses of NGOs.
Humanitarian professionals are invited to join in a critical exchange that also explores possible futures for IHL. The session will unpack who holds which responsibilities for the application of IHL and how international, governmental and civil society actors can be held accountable. IHL experts will present on what is known from historical events about what works for strengthening IHL. Participants will interrogate how speaking out has been impactful, or where there has been a role for silent diplomacy. The session will not just offer reflection, but will also be about getting to work, to common response strategies.
This session aims to enhance the understanding of the origins, politics and purpose of International Humanitarian Law, to inform responses to challenges affecting humanitarian organisations.
IHL experts from academia and humanitarian policy and practice, to be confirmed.
