On June 12 2024, the ICRC Brussels delegation organised an “Introductory Training on International Humanitarian Law” (IHL) for the European Commission’s Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO). Following the success of the first session in 2023, this one-day training saw enthusiastic participation from around 70 DG ECHO staff members, both in-person and online, representing various levels from desk officers to heads of units and field offices.
The primary goal of the training was to equip DG ECHO staff with a robust understanding of the international legal framework that governs armed conflicts. The training aimed to enhance their ability to integrate IHL principles into their daily work and reaffirm the ICRC’s role as the leading authority on IHL.
The day commenced with an insightful presentation outlining the ICRC’s mission, mandate, and operations, along with its collaboration with the European Union. The comprehensive IHL sessions covered essential topics including the concept, purpose, and sources of IHL, the classification of armed conflicts, rules governing hostilities, and the protection of civilians and medical missions. The sessions also delved into the protection of humanitarian personnel and ensuring humanitarian access.
A special segment titled “IHL in Action” focused on the practical implementation of IHL, discussing initiatives like the Support Relationships in Armed Conflicts Initiative, prevention and repression of IHL violations, and the role of the International Humanitarian Fact-Finding Commission.
Participants had the opportunity to tailor the training to their needs by indicating areas of interest beforehand. This led to the inclusion of contemporary topics such as the applicability of IHL in cyberspace, protection against digital threats, safeguarding medical personnel, the use of IHL in humanitarian negotiations, and dialogues with armed groups.
The interactive format of the training encouraged active participation through questions, case studies, and discussions during sessions and breaks. The training was well-received, with many attendees expressing their appreciation and interest in making it a recurring event.
Overall, the training not only strengthened the participants’ understanding of IHL but also reinforced the collaborative efforts between DG ECHO and the ICRC in promoting humanitarian principles and actions.
Respecting and ensuring respect for IHL is a universal obligation and a shared responsibility. States and international organizations as the EU have a unique role to play in this regard by using their influence to put an end to violations, but also first and foremost to help prevent such violations,
Pauline Warnotte, ICRC Senior Legal Adviser
The event was also an occasion to emphasize the ICRC’s role as the primary expert on IHL-related matters for the European Union.
We work globally with @eu_echo to promote #IHL and reduce the suffering caused by conflicts and violence.
This week, we trained their staff to better mainstream IHL in their work, and ensure that it remains, and becomes even more, a global political priority. pic.twitter.com/qF2CcmD32c
— ICRC Brussels (@ICRC_bxl) June 13, 2024
Source : Icrc
