3 Review(s)

quick, readable notes for IGNOU's BLE 35 course, Understanding International Humanitarian Law, involves summarizing key concepts and principles related to the laws governing armed conflict and the protection of civilians and combatants. Here's a concise study guide with essential points you may find helpful:Introduction to International Humanitarian Law (IHL):Definition of IHL as a set of rules and principles regulating the conduct of armed conflict and mitigating its effects on civilians and combatants.Objective of IHL to protect life, alleviate suffering, and ensure respect for human dignity during times of war.Sources of International Humanitarian Law:Main sources of IHL include international treaties (e.g., Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols), customary international law, and principles of humanity and military necessity.Principles of International Humanitarian Law:Core principles of IHL include distinction (between civilians and combatants, and between military objectives and civilian objects), proportionality (balancing military necessity and humanitarian concerns), and necessity (restricting the use of force to what is strictly required).Protection of Civilians:Obligations under IHL to protect civilians from direct and indiscriminate attacks, including prohibitions on targeting civilians, attacks on civilian objects, and the use of weapons causing unnecessary suffering or harm.Protection of Combatants:Rights and obligations of combatants, including the requirement to distinguish themselves from civilians, respect for medical personnel and facilities, and humane treatment of prisoners of war.Treatment of Wounded, Sick, and Shipwrecked:Rights and protections afforded to wounded, sick, and shipwrecked persons under IHL, including access to medical care, humane treatment, and respect for medical personnel and facilities.Protection of Cultural Property:Obligations to protect cultural property during armed conflict, including monuments, sites of cultural or religious significance, and objects of historical or artistic value.