Course Details

International Humanitarian Law (IHL) & Human Rights Training Course

INTRODUCTION

In a world marred by conflict and instability, understanding and upholding International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Human Rights Law is paramount. This comprehensive training course equips professionals with the essential knowledge and practical skills to navigate the complex legal landscape governing the protection of individuals in times of war and peace. By exploring the principles, conventions, and application of both IHL and Human Rights Law, participants will be empowered to promote accountability, ensure the humane treatment of all, and contribute to a more just and peaceful world.

This course delves into the core tenets of IHL, examining the protection of civilians, prisoners of war, and the regulation of warfare. Participants will gain a thorough understanding of the Geneva Conventions, Additional Protocols, and other key IHL instruments. Simultaneously, the course explores the foundations of Human Rights Law, covering fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in international treaties and customary law. Participants will learn how these two distinct yet complementary bodies of law intersect and apply in various contexts, including armed conflict, occupation, and situations of internal strife. By mastering these legal frameworks, professionals can effectively advocate for human dignity, ensure compliance with international obligations, and contribute to the development of legal and policy frameworks that protect vulnerable populations.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This course is designed for a wide range of professionals working in fields where an understanding of IHL and Human Rights Law is crucial. This includes:

• Legal Professionals (Lawyers, Judges, Prosecutors)
• Humanitarian Aid Workers
• Military Personnel
• Government Officials
• Policymakers
• Journalists and Media Professionals
• Human Rights Advocates
• Academics and Researchers
• Anyone interested in promoting and protecting human dignity and the rule of law.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

 Upon completion of this training course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the fundamental principles and sources of International Humanitarian Law (IHL).
• Analyze the key provisions of the Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols.
• Identify the rules governing the conduct of hostilities and the protection of civilians in armed conflict.
• Understand the core principles and sources of International Human Rights Law.
• Analyze the key provisions of major human rights treaties.
• Understand the relationship and complementarity between IHL and Human Rights Law.
• Apply IHL and Human Rights Law to real-world scenarios and case studies.
• Identify mechanisms for enforcing IHL and Human Rights Law and promoting accountability.

COURSE MODULES

• Introduction to International Humanitarian Law (IHL):
• Defining IHL and its purpose.
• Sources of IHL: Treaties, customary law, general principles.
• Historical development of IHL.
• Key principles of IHL: Humanity, necessity, proportionality, distinction.
• Scope of application of IHL: International and non-international armed conflict.
• The Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols:
• Detailed analysis of the four Geneva Conventions of 1949.
• Understanding the protection of the wounded and sick, prisoners of war, and civilians.
• Analysis of the Additional Protocols I and II of 1977.
• Protection of victims of international and non-international armed conflict.
• Rules on the conduct of hostilities.
• Conduct of Hostilities and Protection of Civilians:
• Principles governing the conduct of hostilities: Distinction, proportionality, precaution.
• Rules on targeting and the use of weapons.
• Protection of civilian objects and infrastructure.
• Special protection for vulnerable groups (children, women, displaced persons).
• Obligations of occupying powers.
• Introduction to International Human Rights Law:
• Defining International Human Rights Law and its purpose.
• Sources of Human Rights Law: Treaties, customary law, general principles.
• Historical development of Human Rights Law.
• Key principles of Human Rights Law: Universality, equality, non-discrimination.
• Overview of major human rights treaties (UDHR, ICCPR, ICESCR).
• Core Human Rights Treaties and Principles:
• In-depth analysis of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
• Examining fundamental rights: Right to life, freedom from torture, freedom of expression.
• Analysis of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR).
• Exploring economic, social, and cultural rights: Right to health, education, work.
• Understanding the mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing human rights treaties.
• The Relationship Between IHL and Human Rights Law:
• Distinguishing between IHL and Human Rights Law.
• Areas of overlap and complementarity between the two bodies of law.
• Application of Human Rights Law in times of armed conflict.
• The principle of non-derogability of certain human rights.
• Challenges and complexities in applying both legal frameworks.
• Applying IHL and Human Rights Law: Case Studies and Scenarios:
• Analyzing real-world case studies involving violations of IHL and Human Rights Law.
• Applying legal principles to hypothetical scenarios in armed conflict and other situations.
• Examining the role of international courts and tribunals (ICC, ICJ, regional courts).
• Exploring the responsibilities of states and non-state actors.
• Discussing challenges in investigating and prosecuting violations.
• Enforcement and Accountability:
• Mechanisms for enforcing IHL: State responsibility, war crimes tribunals, universal jurisdiction.
• Mechanisms for enforcing Human Rights Law: Treaty bodies, special procedures, national courts.
• The role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in addressing serious violations.
• Promoting accountability for violations of IHL and Human Rights Law.
• The importance of transitional justice and reparations.

CERTIFICATION

• Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate

TRAINING VENUE

• Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.

AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION

• Airport pick up and accommodation is arranged upon request

TERMS OF PAYMENT

• Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com