Executive Master of Advanced Studies in International Law in Armed Conflict: What Participants Say – Mohamed Shehab
Mohamed Shehab, Humanitarian and Protection Specialist with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), tells about his experience taking our Executive Master of Advanced Studies in International Law in Armed Conflict.
Could you tell us about your background and your current role?
I am a humanitarian and protection specialist with more than 14 years of field experience with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). My work has taken me to Libya, Nigeria, South Sudan, Tunisia, Georgia, Syria, and Jordan, where I have led programs on protection of family links, missing persons and detention, always with a focus on supporting vulnerable communities and strengthening local capacities. I am currently serving as a Protection of Family Links Team Leader for the ICRC Syria Support Unit, based in Amman.
What motivated you to join this programme?
My true passion has always been humanitarian action. I am committed to human rights and international law, which makes me especially honored to be part of this programme and a student at the Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights.
In light of what is happening in the world today, I have at times questioned the relevance of studying international law. However, I have come to believe that this is precisely the most important moment to do so. We are living in a time when global practices often deviate from established norms and values, making international law more essential than ever as a framework to uphold these principles and remind the world of the rules that should guide it.
How IS your experience with the professors?
My experience with the professors at the Geneva Academy has been truly outstanding so far. The level of expertise is top-notch, with each professor bringing not only deep academic knowledge but also rich and diverse professional experience from the field of international law.
What stood out most was the dynamic balance between theory and engaging practical discussions. Sessions were not limited to lectures; they actively encouraged discussion, critical thinking, and reflection on both what works in practice and what could be improved. This approach made the learning process highly engaging and relevant.
The discussions were lively and insightful, creating an environment where participants felt comfortable exchanging perspectives and challenging ideas. This interactive atmosphere significantly enhanced the overall learning experience and deepened my understanding of complex legal frameworks.
How DO you balance the programme with your professional life?
Balancing the programme with my professional life was undoubtedly my biggest challenge, particularly during the first months. It had been a long time since I was last in an academic setting, and at the same time, I was going through a very difficult personal period. My father fell seriously ill just as the course began and sadly passed away a few months later. The beginning was indeed very tough. However, I was able to continue thanks to the strong support I received from my colleagues and from the administration at the Academy, who kindly arranged for me to postpone my exams during that period.
I worked on building a structured routine, dedicating at least two hours each day to studying. This also meant prioritizing my time more carefully, including cutting back on less productive activities such as watching football games or going out for shisha. Over time, this discipline helped me regain balance and stay on track with both my professional and academic commitments.
How has it contributed to your career?
The ExMAS programme has strengthened my ability to connect the work we carry out on a daily basis with its legal foundations. It has deepened my understanding of legal concepts and enhanced my ability to explain them clearly and in simple terms to both authorities and the beneficiaries we serve.
It has also provided answers to many legal questions I had for a long time, allowing me to build my actions and make better decisions based not only on practice, but also on solid legal reasoning.