International humanitarian law violations should not be normalised, ICRC warns, noting 120 global conflicts
In today’s world, conflicts and violence seem to be an unfortunate reality. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has recently issued a warning, highlighting the alarming number of global conflicts and the need to prevent the normalisation of violations of international humanitarian law.
According to the ICRC, there are currently around 120 conflicts happening around the world. These conflicts vary in scale and intensity, ranging from large-scale wars to localized violence. Regardless of their size, these conflicts often result in severe humanitarian consequences, including the displacement of millions of people, loss of lives, and destruction of infrastructure.
International humanitarian law (IHL) is a set of rules that aim to protect civilians and combatants who are no longer taking part in hostilities, such as prisoners of war and the wounded. It also establishes guidelines for the conduct of armed forces during conflicts. However, despite the existence of IHL, violations continue to occur, and the ICRC is deeply concerned about the normalisation of these violations.
Normalising violations of IHL is a dangerous trend that undermines the very essence of human rights and the principles of humanity. When violations become commonplace and accepted as a part of conflict, it becomes increasingly difficult to hold perpetrators accountable and ensure justice for the victims. This normalization also erodes the trust in the international legal framework and hampers efforts to prevent future violations.
The ICRC emphasizes the importance of upholding IHL and ensuring compliance with its provisions. It calls on all parties involved in conflicts to respect the rules and take necessary measures to protect civilians and other vulnerable groups. The ICRC also urges states to strengthen their legal frameworks and ensure that those responsible for violations are held accountable.
In addition to the immediate consequences of violations, the ICRC highlights the long-term impact on societies affected by conflicts. When violations of IHL become the norm, it perpetuates a cycle of violence and hinders the prospects for peace and stability. It also creates a culture of impunity, where perpetrators believe they can act without consequences.
To address this alarming situation, the ICRC proposes several measures. First and foremost, it calls for increased awareness and education about IHL among all stakeholders, including armed forces, non-state armed groups, and the general public. By promoting a better understanding of the rules of war, it is hoped that violations can be prevented.
The ICRC also stresses the importance of strengthening the legal frameworks and institutions responsible for enforcing IHL. This includes providing adequate resources and training to judicial systems, as well as supporting initiatives that promote accountability and justice for victims of violations.
Furthermore, the ICRC highlights the need for increased diplomatic efforts to prevent and resolve conflicts. By addressing the root causes of conflicts and promoting dialogue and negotiation, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of violations and create an environment conducive to peace.
In conclusion, the ICRC’s warning about the normalisation of violations of international humanitarian law should serve as a wake-up call for the international community. With 120 conflicts currently ongoing, it is crucial to take immediate action to prevent the erosion of human rights and ensure accountability for violations. By upholding IHL, promoting awareness, strengthening legal frameworks, and pursuing diplomatic solutions, we can work towards a world where conflicts are resolved peacefully, and the rights of all individuals are respected.