Challenging Preconceptions About International Humanitarian Law

13 November 2024

At the 34th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, we recently hosted a booth in the Humanitarian Village together with Geneva Call and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway.

Through an interactive quiz titled ‘Universality in Question(s),’ we invited participants to reflect on their understanding of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), particularly its unique universal nature.

IHL is framed as an international legal framework embodying values recognized by the global community. The rules, aimed at limiting the effects of armed conflict, are fundamental. However, their universality is sometimes debated. This quiz highlighted how the principles of IHL, while formalised in modern times, trace back to the practices of ancient civilizations. By presenting historical facts and similar wartime rules across cultures, we illustrated the universal resonance of IHL principles. The goal was to emphasise that these foundational ideas predate the Geneva Conventions and foster broader adherence through shared human values of refraining from atrocities in wartime.

This activity opened discussions between attendees and representatives from our two organisations present at the booth. It allowed the Academy to showcase its work in both research and education, through which it supports the humanitarian community and promotes greater respect for international humanitarian law.

MORE ON THIS THEMATIC AREA

ECOSOC Panel United Nations News

Dr Erica Harper Warns of Dangerous Global Conflict Surge at UN ECOSOC Panel

23 June 2025

Our Head of Research and Policy Studies, Dr Erica Harper, spoke at a United Nations Economic and Social Council panel on June 16th, focused on Humanitarian Aid Under Siege.

Read more

IHL in Focus Spot Report News

Water Wars: How Sudan’s Conflict Weaponizes a Basic Human Need

4 August 2025

Our latest spot report explores how the targeting of water infrastructure is contributing to what is now considered the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, affecting 30 million people.

Read more

Iraq, Mosul. View of the west bank after the war. Project

IHL in Focus

Started in January 2024

As a yearly publication, it keeps decision-makers, practitioners and scholars up-to-date with the latest trends and challenges in IHL implementation in over 100 armed conflicts worldwide – both international and non-international.

Read more

Computer screen with warning: civilian infrastucture: do not attack Project

The Digitalization of Armed Conflict

Started in September 2020

This project will explore humanitarian consequences and protection needs caused by the digitalization of armed conflicts and the extent to which these needs are addressed by international law, especially international humanitarian law.

Read more

Cover of the 2023 Geneva Academy Annual Report Publication

Annual Report 2024

published on July 2025

Read more