International Humanitarian Law Conference

“75 years of Geneva Conventions - A Time to Reaffirm Commitments to the Rules of War”

Background

The prevalence of over 100 armed conflicts worldwide underscores the critical importance of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). IHL establishes minimum standards of protection and a commitment to humanity that has been universally agreed to by the international community of states. IHL plays a pivotal role in reducing the human cost of war by requiring respect for several rules that seek to protect the victims of armed conflict . Respecting, and promoting respect for, IHL can save lives, while neglecting them only amplifies human suffering and obstruct pathways to resolving conflicts and achieving peace.

In Ireland, the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza have captured extensive media and political attention, and stirred significant concern among the public. This heightened visibility of IHL is encouraging albeit it reveals a need to enhance understanding of IHL with regard to its ensuing rights, obligations and protection. The IHL conference will also provide the opportunity to highlight ongoing armed conflicts, such as Sudan and Syria, that receive less attention.

The 75th anniversary of the 1949 Geneva Conventions should serve as a crucial moment to reaffirm the essence of the Geneva Conventions and advocate for respect and enhanced compliance with these universally recognized norms. The increase in the number of armed conflicts and the current challenges with IHL necessitates a recommitment by States and other actors to ensuring compliance with IHL, and a conversation about the role that Ireland and those within different sectors can play in the promotion and implementation of IHL.

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Please note that this event will contain images, videos and discussions on difficult topics which attendees may find upsetting.

This event is kindly sponsored by:

Host or Publisher Irish Red Coss