Most are aware that international humanitarian law exists and is recognized worldwide. About a month ago, the American Red Cross offered an afternoon class that taught the intricacies of IHL. What I didn't know about this universally recognized law, is how respected it is by all countries.
The international red cross and red crescent (ICRC) plays the role of making countries accountable. ICRC delegates visit prisoners of war and detainees to seek prevent disappearances, summary executions, torture and ill-treatment. They restore contact between dispersed or detained family members and trace missing persons. The ICRC provides food and other basic necessities to civilians. They are respected internationally because they remain impartial and do not report any violations of IHL, but instead tell the country in violation how to improve in order to adhere to IHL. Violators may be brought before an international tribunal, as well. The ICRC is recognized by the red shield, red cross, and red crescent, which helps people identify any red cross movement.
So what are the basic rules of IHL?
-civilians are not to be attacked
-Those protected by the law are entitled to fundamental judicial guarantees. No one may be subjected to physical or mental torture, corporal punishment, or cruel/degrading treatment
-Forbidden to kill or injure an enemy who surrenders
-The lives, dignity, personal rights, and religious convictions of those detained in connection with armed conflict must be protected
-The wounded and sick are to be collected and cared for by the party that has them in power.
-Medical personnel, transports, and materials are to be protected
-The protected emblems (red cross, red shield, red cresecent) must be respected
Besides learning what IHL all entails, more than anything I was inspired by all of the volunteers that serve selflessly internationally. It is humbling that so many people are willing to put their safety aside and help those affected by conflict.
Aubrey Houston
The international red cross and red crescent (ICRC) plays the role of making countries accountable. ICRC delegates visit prisoners of war and detainees to seek prevent disappearances, summary executions, torture and ill-treatment. They restore contact between dispersed or detained family members and trace missing persons. The ICRC provides food and other basic necessities to civilians. They are respected internationally because they remain impartial and do not report any violations of IHL, but instead tell the country in violation how to improve in order to adhere to IHL. Violators may be brought before an international tribunal, as well. The ICRC is recognized by the red shield, red cross, and red crescent, which helps people identify any red cross movement.
So what are the basic rules of IHL?
-civilians are not to be attacked
-Those protected by the law are entitled to fundamental judicial guarantees. No one may be subjected to physical or mental torture, corporal punishment, or cruel/degrading treatment
-Forbidden to kill or injure an enemy who surrenders
-The lives, dignity, personal rights, and religious convictions of those detained in connection with armed conflict must be protected
-The wounded and sick are to be collected and cared for by the party that has them in power.
-Medical personnel, transports, and materials are to be protected
-The protected emblems (red cross, red shield, red cresecent) must be respected
Besides learning what IHL all entails, more than anything I was inspired by all of the volunteers that serve selflessly internationally. It is humbling that so many people are willing to put their safety aside and help those affected by conflict.
Aubrey Houston
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