Geneva 2012 Thematic Workshop on the Protection of Civilians in Internal Conflicts

The Thematic Workshops on IHL address critical challenges of International Humanitarian Law in current conflict situations. The two-day workshops complement the Core Professional Trainings on Humanitarian Law and Policy. Participants in the Thematic Workshops are expected to have completed the Core Professional Training in Humanitarian Law and Policy (or an equivalent multi-day training).

 

The December 2012 Thematic Workshop will be offered by PHAP in cooperation with the Program on Humanitarian Policy and Conflict Research at Harvard University. It will follow directly a three-day standard Core Training on Humanitarian Law and Policy in the same location.

 

Summary Description: 

 

The Thematic Workshop on The Protection of Civilians in Internal Conflicts is designed to introduce humanitarian professionals to the particular legal and policy challenges inherent in developing protection strategies in the context of non-international armed conflicts and situations of violence short of armed conflict.

 

The Workshop first provides an intensive review of the relevant bodies of law as they apply in the context of internal conflicts, in particular international humanitarian law and international human rights law. The Workshop then looks into the particular legal frameworks for engagement with non-state actors. The first day concludes with a session on the theory behind the development of protection strategies in internal conflicts. The second day of the Workshop takes up several specific challenges and issues, such as the negotiation of access, protection of IDPs, and women in internal conflicts. The Workshop concludes with a case study and practical exercise in the design of a protection initiative, drawing on the knowledge and skills that participants have developed.

Core issues to be examined include the following:  

• International Humanitarian Law in Internal Conflicts
• International Human Rights Law in Internal Conflicts
• Legal Frameworks for Engagement with Non-State Actors
• Emerging Counterterrorism Norms and Their Impact on Humanitarian Action
• Negotiation of Access in Internal Conflicts
• Protection of Internally Displaced Persons
• Strategic Planning of Protection Initiatives in Internal Conflicts

The sessions are developed in close cooperation with the Program on Humanitarian Policy and Conflict Research (HPCR) at Harvard University. They are presented by internationally-recognized experts and instructors in humanitarian law and policy.

Agenda │ Reading List │ Logistics Information

Please note that participation to the Thematic Workshops requires prior participation to a standard Core Professional Training on Humanitarian Law and Policy.

Please also note that, starting in the 2011 calendar year, all participants to Advanced Professional Trainings must be members in good standing of PHAP. (See Member Benefits and Dues.) There is no need, however, to apply separately for PHAP membership and for the trainings. Non-members may apply for trainings directly, and their applications will simultaneously be entered into the review process for PHAP membership.
 

How to apply for the Thematic Workshop: