What we do

Building respect for the law

In fulfilment of its mission to protect the lives and dignity of victims of war and other situations of violence and to provide them with assistance, the ICRC seeks to ensure the respect of the rights of people affected. In that endeavour, it reminds authorities and other actors of their legal obligations enshrined in international humanitarian law and international human rights law. Read full overview.

Highlights

Selected Topics

Dialogue with weapon bearers

The ICRC maintains a dialogue with all weapon bearers so as to promote respect for the rules of IHL, notably to ensure protection for civilians, the wounded and prisoners, and to facilitate access for humanitarian aid.
Education and outreach

Recognizing the importance of reaching out to tomorrow's decision-makers and opinion-leaders, the ICRC emphasizes IHL teaching at the university- and secondary-school levels.
Advisory service on international humanitarian law

Promoting and implementing IHL is primarily the responsibility of States. The ICRC has always pressed for effective implementation and the Advisory Service on IHL exists to assist States to fulfil their obligations.

Reference documents

In images More images

Publications More publications

Human rights and humanitarian law in professional policing concepts: highlights from the book "To serve and to protect"

This brochure intended for audiences involved in law-enforcement functions addresses the principles and rules of human rights and humanitarian law relevant to professional law enforcement in democratic contexts.
The domestic implementation of International Humanitarian Law (CD version)

International Review of the Red Cross More articles

Red Cross Red Crescent Magazine

For better, for worse : How does the Movement relate to the military?
On the eve of the 150th anniversary of Henry Dunant’s work at Solferino, members of the Movement and soldiers talk about a relationship that has been variously described as ‘fundamental’, ‘privileged’ and ‘a dilemma’. Article published in the Red Cross Red Crescent Magazine, No 3, 2008
More

All related pages

Latest News

Chile: incorporating human rights into all aspects of police training

18.01.2012
Syria: needs mounting rapidly

29.12.2011
Jakarta students win moot court competition

13.12.2011
More

Events

Related sections

Document printed from the web site of the ICRC
/eng/index.jsp

© International Committee of the Red Cross

Last update: 02-02-12