About the project

About IHL in Action

“IHL in action: Respect for the law on the battlefield” is a database of real case-studies documenting compliance with international humanitarian law (IHL) in modern warfare. The database is hosted by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) with a view to encourage the reporting, collection and promotion of instances of respect for IHL. The cases shall not be construed as reflecting the views of the ICRC.

By gathering examples of “IHL success stories”, the authors aim to recall that the reality of armed conflict is more nuanced than what is generally reported in the media and by NGOs. Despite numerous violations of the law, compliant behaviour shows that existing rules are adequate and can significantly reduce human suffering. The project hopes to foster a change in the way we, teach, research and talk about IHL.

The cases are intended to encourage practice-oriented thinking on the ongoing relevance of IHL in contemporary conflicts and to identify elements, both legal and non-legal, that foster respect for the rules of war in armed conflicts.

Methodology

Based on publicly available information, these cases are assessed by academics as demonstrating positive application of IHL. Emory University School of Law, Leiden University, Reichman University (formerly known as Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya) and Roma Tre University have contributed to the project so far. All cases undergo independent peer review.

The cases should not be seen as ignoring the suffering of victims of armed conflicts, both by attacks which do not violate IHL and by violations of IHL, committed by the same party whose respect is mentioned in the cases reproduced. 

How to use the database

The case-studies can be searched by country – on a clickable map – or by topic (conduct of hostilities; protection of persons and objects; combatants and POWs; implementation mechanisms). Each case study begins with a summary of the situation and a selection of public and official documents on IHL. This is followed by a discussion section, which raises thought-provoking questions on the case at hand.

Collaborating Partners