This intensive 5-day training course provides a comprehensive exploration of the fundamental principles, sources, and application of both International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and International Human Rights Law (HRL). Participants will gain a thorough understanding of the legal frameworks that govern armed conflict and the protection of individuals, exploring the interplay and potential tensions between these two crucial bodies of law. The course will equip attendees with the knowledge necessary to navigate complex legal and ethical challenges in various operational contexts.
The training will cover key topics such as the history and sources of IHL and HRL, the core principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution in armed conflict, the protection of civilians and other non-combatants, the treatment of prisoners of war, the prohibition of specific weapons, fundamental human rights and their limitations, the application of HRL in situations of armed conflict and occupation, accountability mechanisms for violations of IHL and HRL, and the role of international organizations and national actors in enforcing these legal frameworks. Practical sessions will involve case studies, scenario analysis, and discussions to deepen understanding and application of the legal principles.
Who should attend the training
- Military personnel
- Humanitarian aid workers
- Legal advisors
- Policymakers
- Diplomats
- Civil society representatives
- Journalists covering conflict zones
- Academics and researchers
Objectives of the training
- Develop a strong understanding of the foundational principles and sources of IHL and HRL.
- Analyze the relationship and potential overlaps and divergences between IHL and HRL.
- Apply the core IHL principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution in practical scenarios.
- Understand the legal protections afforded to civilians, prisoners of war, and other vulnerable groups during armed conflict.
- Identify prohibited weapons and methods of warfare under IHL.
- Gain a comprehensive knowledge of fundamental human rights and permissible limitations.
- Analyze the application of HRL in situations of armed conflict and occupation.
- Understand the mechanisms for accountability and redress for violations of IHL and HRL.
- Explore the roles of various actors in promoting respect for and enforcing IHL and HRL.
Personal benefits
- Enhanced knowledge of the legal frameworks governing armed conflict and human rights.
- Improved ability to analyze complex legal and ethical issues in conflict situations.
- Increased capacity to apply IHL and HRL principles in professional roles.
- Greater awareness of the rights and protections afforded to individuals in various contexts.
- Contribution to promoting respect for international law and humanitarian principles.
Organizational benefits
- Improved understanding of legal obligations under IHL and HRL.
- Enhanced capacity to operate within legal and ethical frameworks in conflict zones.
- Strengthened compliance with international legal standards.
- Improved decision-making in situations involving armed conflict and human rights concerns.
- Enhanced credibility and reputation through adherence to international law.
Training methodology
- Interactive lectures and presentations on key legal principles and concepts
- Case studies and real-world examples illustrating the application of IHL and HRL
- Group discussions and debates on complex legal and ethical dilemmas
- Scenario-based exercises and simulations to apply legal frameworks
- Practical session: Analyzing a case study involving violations of IHL
- Practical session: Applying the principles of distinction and proportionality in a simulated armed conflict scenario
- Practical session: Examining the application of HRL in a situation of occupation
- Practical session: Identifying potential violations of IHL and HRL in a given scenario
- Practical session: Developing a strategy for ensuring compliance with IHL and HRL in a specific context
Trainer Experience
Our trainers are leading experts in international law with extensive academic and practical experience in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights Law. They have worked with international organizations, governments, and civil society, bringing a wealth of knowledge and real-world insights to the training.
Quality statement
We are committed to providing high-quality training that reflects the most up-to-date legal developments and best practices in the fields of IHL and HRL. Our course materials are comprehensive, and our trainers are dedicated to fostering a deep understanding of these critical legal frameworks.
Tailor-made courses
We offer customized training programs to address the specific needs of organizations working in diverse contexts. Our team can develop tailored curricula focusing on particular aspects of IHL and HRL relevant to your operational environment and objectives.
Course Duration: 5 days
Training fee: USD 1300
Module 1: Foundations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL)
- History and sources of IHL: Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols
- Core principles of IHL: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence
- Scope of application of IHL: international and non-international armed conflicts
- Fundamental rules governing the conduct of hostilities
- Practical session: Identifying the relevant IHL treaties applicable to a specific conflict
Module 2: Core Principles of International Human Rights Law (HRL)
- History and sources of HRL: Universal Declaration of Human Rights and core treaties
- Fundamental human rights and freedoms: civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights
- General principles of HRL: universality, indivisibility, interdependence, and interrelation
- State obligations under HRL: respect, protect, and fulfill
- Practical session: Analyzing a case involving alleged violations of fundamental human rights
Module 3: The Relationship and Interplay Between IHL and HRL
- Areas of convergence and divergence between IHL and HRL
- Application of HRL in situations of armed conflict and occupation
- The principle of lex specialis and its application to IHL and HRL
- Complementary application of IHL and HRL in protecting individuals
- Practical session: Examining a scenario where both IHL and HRL are applicable
Module 4: Protection of Persons and Objects under IHL
- Protection of civilians and civilian objects
- The principle of distinction between combatants and civilians
- The principle of proportionality in the use of force
- Precautions in attack and the obligation to minimize civilian harm
- Practical session: Applying the principles of distinction and proportionality to a military operation scenario
Module 5: Treatment of Persons Hors de Combat under IHL
- Protection of prisoners of war (POWs) and their rights
- Treatment of wounded and sick combatants and civilians
- Protection of medical personnel and facilities
- Rules governing occupation and the treatment of the population
- Practical session: Analyzing the legal obligations concerning the treatment of POWs
Module 6: Prohibited Weapons and Methods of Warfare under IHL
- Prohibition of indiscriminate weapons
- Restrictions on the use of certain conventional weapons
- The prohibition of chemical and biological weapons
- Cyber warfare and the application of IHL
- Practical session: Identifying prohibited weapons under IHL in a given context
Module 7: Fundamental Human Rights and Their Limitations
- The right to life and the prohibition of arbitrary killing
- The prohibition of torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment
- The right to liberty and security of person
- Freedom of expression, association, and assembly
- Practical session: Analyzing permissible limitations on human rights in specific situations
Module 8: Application of HRL in Situations of Armed Conflict and Occupation
- The right to self-determination and its relevance in occupation
- Protection of economic, social, and cultural rights during conflict
- Addressing gender-based violence in conflict situations under HRL
- The rights of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs)
- Practical session: Examining the human rights situation in a specific conflict zone
Module 9: Accountability and Redress for Violations of IHL and HRL
- Individual criminal responsibility for war crimes and crimes against humanity
- The role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and other international tribunals
- State responsibility for violations of IHL and HRL
- Reparations and other forms of redress for victims
- Practical session: Analyzing the accountability mechanisms for violations of IHL in a specific case
Module 10: Enforcement and Implementation of IHL and HRL
- The role of international organizations (e.g., ICRC, UN) in promoting respect for IHL and HRL
- Obligations of states to implement and enforce IHL and HRL at the national level
- The role of civil society organizations in monitoring and advocating for compliance
- Challenges and opportunities in ensuring effective enforcement of international law
- Practical session: Developing strategies for promoting respect for IHL and HRL by national actors
Requirements:
· Participants should be reasonably proficient in English.
· Applicants must live up to Armstrong Global Institute admission criteria.
Terms and Conditions
1. Discounts: Organizations sponsoring Four Participants will have the 5th attend Free
2. What is catered for by the Course Fees: Fees cater for all requirements for the training – Learning materials, Lunches, Teas, Snacks and Certification. All participants will additionally cater for their travel and accommodation expenses, visa application, insurance, and other personal expenses.
3. Certificate Awarded: Participants are awarded Certificates of Participation at the end of the training.
4. The program content shown here is for guidance purposes only. Our continuous course improvement process may lead to changes in topics and course structure.
5. Approval of Course: Our Programs are NITA Approved. Participating organizations can therefore claim reimbursement on fees paid in accordance with NITA Rules.
Booking for Training
Simply send an email to the Training Officer on training@armstrongglobalinstitute.com and we will send you a registration form. We advise you to book early to avoid missing a seat to this training.
Or call us on +254720272325 / +254725012095 / +254724452588
Payment Options
We provide 3 payment options, choose one for your convenience, and kindly make payments at least 5 days before the Training start date to reserve your seat:
1. Groups of 5 People and Above – Cheque Payments to: Armstrong Global Training & Development Center Limited should be paid in advance, 5 days to the training.
2. Invoice: We can send a bill directly to you or your company.
3. Deposit directly into Bank Account (Account details provided upon request)
Cancellation Policy
1. Payment for all courses includes a registration fee, which is non-refundable, and equals 15% of the total sum of the course fee.
2. Participants may cancel attendance 14 days or more prior to the training commencement date.
3. No refunds will be made 14 days or less before the training commencement date. However, participants who are unable to attend may opt to attend a similar training course at a later date or send a substitute participant provided the participation criteria have been met.
Tailor Made Courses
This training course can also be customized for your institution upon request for a minimum of 5 participants. You can have it conducted at our Training Centre or at a convenient location. For further inquiries, please contact us on Tel: +254720272325 / +254725012095 / +254724452588 or Email training@armstrongglobalinstitute.com
Accommodation and Airport Transfer
Accommodation and Airport Transfer is arranged upon request and at extra cost. For reservations contact the Training Officer on Email: training@armstrongglobalinstitute.com or on Tel: +254720272325 / +254725012095 / +254724452588
