International Committee of the Red Cross

30^th Annual Course on International Humanitarian Law

Warsaw, 27 August – 6 September 2012

Description of the course

As part of its ongoing partnership with European and North American Red Cross Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) organizes, jointly with the Belgian, French, Polish, and Swiss Red Cross Societies, two intensive courses in international humanitarian law (IHL) every year. These courses are open to post-graduate students with a background in public international law, legal practitioners dealing with the consequences of armed conflict, and humanitarian professionals with a demonstrated interest in acquiring knowledge of IHL.

The two courses (English and French sessions are held separately) are part of a global strategy adopted by the ICRC and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement as a whole to promote the principles and rules of IHL. Consisting of lectures, group discussions and practical exercises, the courses expose participants to complex issues and challenges related to IHL and humanitarian action in contemporary armed conflicts.

Since the first sessions of the courses were held in English (1981) and in French (1988), hundreds of participants have gain practical knowledge of IHL, many of whom remain active in the humanitarian sphere. The courses provide a unique opportunity to interact with IHL scholars and practitioners from a wide range of backgrounds. Past sessions have featured renowned academics, military experts, senior professionals from international organizations and tribunals, the ICRC and National Red Cross Societies.

Course methodology

Selected participants are requested to follow the ICRC's Introductory Online Course in IHL prior to their arrival for the on-site course. The Online Course ensures that participants have a common baseline knowledge of the subject and provides a forum allowing participants to get acquainted with one another. Experience has shown that following the Online Course enables participants to benefit more from the lectures and improves the overall learning environment. The on-site courses consist of a series of lectures on IHL, discussions on issues arising in relation to armed conflicts today, and exercises designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice in the field of IHL. A case-study based on a hypothetical but realistic conflict that unfolds during the course is distributed to participants prior to their arrival. On the basis of the case-study, specific IHL-related issues and problems are analysed and solved by participants working in small groups under the guidance of expert facilitators. Theoretical knowledge gained from lectures is thus put into practice and linked to the realities of contemporary armed conflicts.

Topics

● The topics covered will include:

● Scope of application of IHL

● The principle of distinction

● Protected persons

● The principle of distinction

● The protection of the medical mission

● Health Care in Danger

● Human rights in armed conflict

● Conduct of hostilities

● Weapons

● Persons deprived of liberty

● Terrorism & IHL

● Non-international armed conflicts

● Refugees, IDPs and IHL

● Implementation of IHL

● International Crimes

Course details

The price of the course, including materials, accommodation and meals, is 600 euros. Transportation is not included. Participants are responsible for making their own travel arrangements to and from Warsaw, Poland.