Mandates of States to Implement International Humanitarian Law

Abstract

A major part of international humanitarian law is contained in the four Geneva Conventions of 1949, which have been adopted by all nations in the world. The Conventions have been developed and supplemented by two further agreements: the Additional Protocols of 1977 relating to the protection of victims of armed conflicts, and the 2005 Additional Protocol III, relating to the adoption of an additional distinctive emblem. Along with the Hague Conventions of 1899 and 1907, IHL forbids the use of weapons and tactics that cause unnecessary suffering to combatants and non-combatants alike. IHL reflects the basic principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution