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Enhancing the Implementation of International Humanitarian Law in Conflict

Zones: A Comprehensive Review

Article · June 2024

DOI: 10.62271/pjc.16.3.1365.1378

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 Pakistan Journal of Criminology
Vol. 16, No. 03, July—September 2024 (1365-1378)
Enhancing the Implementation of International Humanitarian Law in
Conflict Zones: A Comprehensive Review

Mohammad Ahmad Nayef Alakash1,

Haitham M Altaany2, Bassam Abuirmilah3,
Hisham Jadallah Mansour Shakhatreh4,
Nabeel Zaid Suliman Magableh5 &
Abdel Karim Moh'd Suleiman Al daraiseh6
Abstract
This article explores the challenges, case studies, critiques, and
recommendations for implementing International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in
conflict zones. It examines the foundational principles of IHL, including
humanity, distinction, proportionality, and military necessity, which guide parties
involved in armed conflicts. The complex relationship between IHL and state
sovereignty is discussed, emphasizing the need to balance humanitarian norms
with national sovereignty. Case studies of conflicts in Syria, Yemen, Myanmar,
Israel-Palestine, and Iraq are analyzed to illustrate the complexities of
implementing IHL. These conflicts demonstrate widespread violations of IHL,
including attacks on civilians and the use of prohibited weapons, highlighting the
urgent need for greater adherence to humanitarian norms. Critiques of IHL are
examined, focusing on challenges such as the lack of enforcement mechanisms
and the rise of non-state actors. In conclusion, the article stresses the importance
of upholding and enforcing IHL to mitigate the humanitarian impact of armed
conflicts and protect the rights of individuals affected by war. Addressing these
challenges and implementing the recommendations outlined in this article can lead
to a future where humanity, distinction, proportionality, and military necessity are
upheld, safeguarding civilians and combatants from the devastating consequences
of armed conflicts.

1
Assistant Prof. In Political Science, Jadara University – JORDAN, [Link]@[Link],
ORCID No: 0000-0001-7321-8578.#00962796426159
2
Assistant Prof. In Unit of Support Courses, Faculty of Art and Languages, Jadara University-
[Link]@[Link] [Link]
3
Prof. In Administrative Law, Jadara University – JORDAN, brmkl@[Link], ORCID: 0000-
0002-5188-9474
4
Assistant Prof. in law, Jadara University - Jordan, [Link]@[Link], ORCID No: 0000-
0001-8693-5744
5
Assistant prof. in law, Jadara University - Jordan , nmagableh@[Link], ORCID No: 0000-
0002-7791-1182
6
Assistant Prof. In law, Jadara University – JORDAN, D_aldaraiseh@[Link], ORCID No:
0000-0003-4898-2878
1366 Alakash et al.
Keywords: International Humanitarian Law (IHL), armed conflicts,
implementation challenges, state sovereignty, enforcement
mechanisms, conflict resolution.

Introduction
In today's world, armed conflicts continue to ravage communities,
destabilize regions, and inflict immense suffering on civilians and combatants
alike. During these crises, International Humanitarian Law (IHL) serves as a
beacon of hope, offering a framework designed to mitigate the impact of armed
conflicts and protect the fundamental rights and dignity of individuals affected by
war. However, despite the noble principles enshrined in IHL, implementing these
laws in conflict zones remains fraught with challenges and complexities (Bartels,
2018).
Implementing IHL is not merely a theoretical exercise but a pressing
necessity in the face of ongoing conflicts that threaten the lives and well-being of
millions of people around the globe. From the battlefields of Syria to the streets of
Yemen, from the mountains of Myanmar to the occupied territories of Israel-
Palestine, and from the aftermath of the Iraq War to the recent conflicts that have
erupted, the urgent need to uphold and enforce IHL has never been more apparent
(ICRC, 2022).
Understanding the foundational principles of IHL underpin its
implementation in conflict zones is essential. Humanity, distinction,
proportionality, and military necessity serve as the cornerstones of IHL, guiding
the conduct of parties to a conflict and emphasizing the paramount importance of
protecting civilians and minimizing harm during armed conflicts. Humanity
mandates respect for the dignity and worth of all persons, while distinction
requires parties to differentiate between combatants and civilians, ensuring that
civilians are not targeted indiscriminately. Proportionality dictates that the harm
caused to civilians must not be excessive for the military advantage gained, while
military necessity allows for the use of force only to the extent necessary to
achieve legitimate military objectives (Kaja,2019).
Despite the clear principles outlined in IHL, the implementation of these
laws faces significant challenges, particularly in the context of conflicts
characterized by widespread violence, political instability, and disregard for
human rights. The relationship between IHL and state sovereignty further
complicates matters, as states often assert their sovereignty in the face of
international legal obligations, leading to tensions between upholding IHL and
respecting state sovereignty. Moreover, the rise of non-state actors and the
proliferation of emerging technologies pose additional challenges to the
 Pakistan Journal of Criminology 1367
implementation of IHL, as these actors may not be bound by traditional legal
frameworks and may engage in tactics that violate established norms of conduct in
armed conflicts (OHCHR, 2011).
To exemplify the challenges of implementing IHL, this article will
examine conflicts in Syria, Yemen, Myanmar, Israel-Palestine, and Iraq. Despite
their diverse geopolitical contexts, these conflicts share widespread violations of
IHL and humanitarian crises. From Syria's prolonged civil war to Yemen's dire
humanitarian situation, from Myanmar's persecution of the Rohingya minority to
Israel-Palestine's entrenched conflict, and from Iraq's post-war challenges to
reconstruction efforts, these case studies offer valuable insights into implementing
IHL in real-world conflict scenarios.
In summary, Implementing International Humanitarian Law in conflict
zones is complex, requiring sustained international efforts. This article analyzes
IHL principles, conflict case studies, critiques, and recommendations. It aims to
contribute to ongoing discussions on upholding and enforcing crucial laws amidst
contemporary challenges. Ultimately, it seeks to ensure the protection of civilians
and combatants from armed conflict's devastating consequences.

Study Objectives
The objective of this study is to comprehensively examine the challenges,
case studies, critiques, and recommendations related to implementing International
Humanitarian Law (IHL) in conflict zones. By delving into the fundamental
principles of IHL, analyzing diverse conflict case studies, exploring critiques, and
proposing improvement recommendations, the study aims to provide valuable
insights into the complexities of IHL implementation. Ultimately, it seeks to
contribute to ongoing discussions on upholding and enforcing IHL amidst
contemporary challenges. The overarching goal is to mitigate the humanitarian
impact of armed conflicts and protect the rights and dignity of individuals affected
by war.

Literature Review
A. Overview of IHL and its principles:
International humanitarian law (IHL), also known as the law of war or the law of
armed conflict, is a set of rules that seeks to limit the effects of armed conflict on
civilians and combatants. It applies to all parties to a conflict and is derived from
various sources, including treaties, customary law, and general principles of law.
The fundamental principles of IHL are humanity, distinction, proportionality, and
military necessity (Schmitt,2011).
1368 Alakash et al.
Humanity is the principle that requires parties to the conflict to show respect for
the dignity and worth of all persons and to take all necessary measures to protect
them. This includes prohibiting acts of violence, torture, and cruel treatment, and
ensuring that medical personnel and facilities are respected and protected.
Distinction requires parties to the conflict to distinguish between combatants and
civilians and only to target combatants and military objectives. Civilians and
civilian objects are protected and may not be targeted, except under certain
circumstances (Le Moli,2021).
Proportionality mandates that military actions must be proportional to the
military advantage gained, ensuring that harm to civilians and civilian objects is
not excessive. Military necessity permits the use of force for legitimate military
objectives, but only to the necessary and proportionate extent. IHL is an important
aspect of international law, and its principles have been incorporated into various
treaties and conventions, including the Geneva Conventions and the Additional
Protocols. It is also enforced by international criminal tribunals, such as the
International Criminal Court (ICRC, 2010).

Relationship between IHL and state sovereignty:

International humanitarian law (IHL), also known as the law of armed
conflict or the law of war, is a set of rules that aim to protect people who are not or
are no longer participating in hostilities, such as civilians and wounded or sick
combatants. IHL is derived from the principles of humanity, necessity, and
proportionality, and it applies to all parties to an armed conflict, whether states or
non-state actors (Al Aridi, 2016).
The relationship between IHL and state sovereignty is complex, as IHL
seeks to regulate state behavior in times of armed conflict, which is traditionally
considered a core aspect of state sovereignty. However, international law
recognizes that state sovereignty is not absolute and that states have certain
obligations towards the international community, particularly in areas such as
human rights and humanitarian law (Gerard, n.d.).
A core principle of IHL is its universal applicability, extending to all types
of conflicts, whether international or non-international. This implies that states are
bound by IHL rules even when engaged in conflicts against non-state actors or
unrecognized groups. Consequently, IHL acts as a check on state sovereignty
during armed conflicts, imposing restrictions on [Link] is important to note
that states remain the primary actors in the application and enforcement of IHL.
States have the responsibility to respect and ensure respect for IHL, and to hold
accountable those who violate its provisions. In this sense, IHL can also be seen as
 Pakistan Journal of Criminology 1369
reinforcing state sovereignty by recognizing the role of states as the main actors in
ensuring compliance with international law (Zyberi, 2018).
Overall, the relationship between IHL and state sovereignty is tense and
balanced. While IHL seeks to limit state sovereignty in the context of armed
conflict, it also recognizes the importance of state responsibility and enforcement
in ensuring compliance with its provisions (ICRC, 2021).

Case studies on the implementation of IHL in conflict zones:

International humanitarian law (IHL) has been developed to protect
individuals and limit the effects of armed conflict. While it is meant to be
universally applicable, the implementation of IHL has been a challenge in various
conflict zones around the world. and we will examine the case studies of Yemen,
Myanmar, Israel-Palestine, and Iraq to understand how IHL has been implemented
in these conflicts.
 Syria:
The conflict in Syria, which began in 2011 as part of the Arab Spring uprisings,
has evolved into a complex and devastating civil war. Multiple parties, including
the Syrian government led by President Bashar al-Assad, various rebel groups,
extremist organizations, and international actors, have been involved in the
conflict. The humanitarian situation in Syria has been dire, with millions of
civilians displaced, widespread destruction of infrastructure, and egregious
violations of human rights and international humanitarian law (IHL) ( Rasheed &
Beaujouan,2019). The implementation of IHL in Syria has been severely
hampered by the lack of adherence to its principles by all parties involved.
Civilians have borne the brunt of the violence, facing indiscriminate attacks,
sieges, and atrocities such as mass killings, torture, and the use of chemical
weapons. Both government forces and non-state armed groups have been accused
of committing grave violations of IHL, including targeting civilian areas,
hospitals, and schools (Oweis,2018).
The United Nations and humanitarian organizations have been actively
engaged in efforts to promote compliance with IHL in Syria. The UN Security
Council has adopted resolutions condemning attacks on civilians and calling for
humanitarian access to besieged areas. However, these efforts have often been
obstructed by political divisions and the failure of parties to the conflict to uphold
their obligations under international law (Ibold,2019).
The Syrian conflict has also highlighted the challenges of accountability
for violations of IHL. Despite widespread documentation of war crimes and
crimes against humanity, accountability mechanisms have been limited. Efforts to
refer the situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court have been stymied
1370 Alakash et al.
by geopolitical considerations, and domestic accountability mechanisms have
been ineffective (Baraka & Hatay, 2019)
In conclusion, Syria emphasizes the critical importance of upholding IHL
and enforcing accountability in conflict areas. The humanitarian crisis there serves
as a poignant reminder of the dire consequences when IHL principles are
disregarded, highlighting the necessity of respecting human rights and
international law in all conflicts.

 Yemen:
The conflict in Yemen began in 2014 when Houthi rebels overthrew the
government and seized control of the capital, Sanaa. Since then, a coalition led by
Saudi Arabia has been fighting the rebels, resulting in a humanitarian crisis in the
country. According to the UN, the conflict has resulted in more than 233,000
deaths, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence.
The conflict in Yemen has also seen widespread violations of IHL,
including attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, the use of cluster
munitions, and the restriction of humanitarian access.
The UN has played a significant role in promoting compliance with IHL
in Yemen, including through the establishment of a Group of Eminent Experts to
investigate violations of human rights and IHL. Additionally, organizations such
as the Yemeni Coalition for Monitoring Human Rights Violations have worked to
document violations and advocate for accountability. The implementation of IHL
in Yemen has been challenging, with both sides accused of violating the principles
of IHL. The Saudi-led coalition has been accused of indiscriminate bombings that
have killed and injured civilians, while the Houthis have been accused of using
human shields and attacking civilian targets. The UN has called for an end to the
conflict and for all parties to respect IHL (UN,2022).

 Myanmar:
The conflict in Myanmar, also known as Burma, has been ongoing for several
decades, with various ethnic groups fighting for autonomy and independence. The
Rohingya crisis, which began in 2017, has been a major concern for the
international community. The Rohingya, a Muslim minority group, have faced
persecution and violence at the hands of the Myanmar military, resulting in their
displacement and a refugee crisis.
The recent military coup in Myanmar has led to renewed violence and
conflict in the country, with reports of widespread human rights abuses and
violations of IHL. The use of lethal force against peaceful protestors and attacks
on civilians have led to calls for accountability and justice. The UN has
condemned the violence and called for respect for IHL, while non-governmental
 Pakistan Journal of Criminology 1371
organizations such as Human Rights Watch have documented violations and
called for accountability. The implementation of IHL in Myanmar has been
challenging, with the military accused of committing atrocities against civilians,
including rape, murder, and torture. The international community has called for an
end to the violence and for those responsible to be held accountable for their
actions. The UN has also called for the Rohingya to be granted citizenship and for
their rights to be protected (HRW, 2021).

 Israel-Palestine:
The conflict between Israel and Palestine has been ongoing for decades, with both
sides claiming the right to self-determination. The conflict has resulted in
numerous wars and violent clashes, with civilians on both sides suffering the
consequences. The long-standing conflict between Israel and Palestine has been
marked by numerous violations of IHL, including attacks on civilians,
extrajudicial killings, and the use of excessive force. The situation has been
complicated by the occupation of Palestinian territories and the ongoing blockade
of Gaza. Various actors have worked to promote compliance with IHL in the
region, including the UN and the International Criminal Court (ICC). Non-
governmental organizations such as the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights have
also worked to document violations and advocate for accountability. The
implementation of IHL in the Israel-Palestine conflict has been a contentious
issue, with both sides accused of violating the principles of IHL. Israel has been
accused of using excessive force and committing human rights violations, while
Palestinian groups have been accused of using civilians as human shields and
launching indiscriminate attacks. The international community has called for a
peaceful resolution and for all parties to respect IHL (PCHR,2021).

 Iraq:
The conflict in Iraq began in 2003 when a US-led coalition invaded the country,
resulting in the overthrow of Saddam Hussein's regime. Since then, Iraq has been
plagued by sectarian violence and insurgency, with various groups vying for
power. The implementation of IHL in Iraq has been marred by the widespread use
of torture and other forms of mistreatment of prisoners by US and Iraqi forces.
The Abu Ghraib prison scandal in 2004 exposed systematic abuses by US military
personnel, including beatings, sexual assault, and humiliation. Despite
international condemnation and the prosecution of some individuals involved,
many of the perpetrators have not been held accountable, and the incident has
damaged the credibility of IHL. The implementation of IHL in Iraq has been
challenging, with both state and non-state actors accused of committing human
rights violations and violating the principles of IHL. The international community
1372 Alakash et al.
has called for an end to the violence and for those responsible to be held
accountable for their actions. The UN has also called for greater protection for
civilians in the conflict(HRW,2018).

In conclusion, implementing IHL in global conflict zones has proven challenging,

with several factors impacting its efficacy. Case studies from Yemen, Myanmar,
Israel-Palestine, and Iraq illustrate the intricate challenges in IHL implementation,
emphasizing the crucial necessity for all parties to adhere to its principles to
safeguard civilians and mitigate armed conflict repercussions.

B. Critiques of IHL and challenges to its implementation:

1. Lack of Enforcement: A primary critique of IHL is the absence of robust
enforcement mechanisms. While international criminal tribunals exist to
prosecute war crimes, their authority is often constrained by political
factors. Additionally, some nations may resist collaboration with these
tribunals or shield their citizens from prosecution. Consequently,
perpetrators of war crimes and IHL violations may evade accountability,
diminishing the credibility and efficacy of IHL. (ICRC,2019).

2. Lack of Consistency in Interpretation: Another challenge to implementing

IHL is the inconsistency in its interpretation and application. IHL draws
from an intricate framework of treaties, customary rules, and principles,
leading to varying interpretations based on context and actors involved.
This inconsistency can sow confusion and diminish the effectiveness and
legitimacy of IHL (ICRC,2021).

3. Non-State Actors: The emergence of non-state actors, including armed

groups and private military contractors, poses a significant challenge to
implementing IHL. Unlike states, these actors may not be subject to the
same legal obligations and can be elusive to hold accountable for
violations of IHL. Additionally, some non-state actors may intentionally
flout IHL to further their goals, resulting in dire consequences for civilians
and eroding trust in the credibility of IHL. (UNGA,2020).

4. Emerging Technologies: The advent of novel technologies, like

autonomous weapons systems and cyber warfare, poses a challenge to
upholding IHL. These advancements often fall outside the scope of
existing IHL treaties and principles, prompting intricate legal and ethical
debates. For instance, the deployment of autonomous weapons systems
raises concerns regarding accountability and the assurance of IHL
adherence (ICRC,2020).
 Pakistan Journal of Criminology 1373
Methodology
Research Design and Approach:
The methodology adopted for this study is a case study approach, which involves
analyzing the Enhancing of Implementation of International Humanitarian Law in
Conflict Zones. This approach allows for an in-depth analysis of the issue, taking
into account the complex nature of the conflict and the different actors involved.

Data Collection Methods:

The data for this study was collected from a variety of sources, including
academic articles, reports, books, and online resources. The primary sources used
were official documents and reports from international organizations, such as the
United Nations, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and the
International Criminal Court (ICC). In addition, secondary sources, such as
academic articles and books, were used to provide a comprehensive overview of
the issue and to provide a theoretical framework for the study.

Data Analysis Methods:

The data collected were analyzed using a qualitative approach. This involved
identifying themes and patterns in the data, as well as analyzing the data about the
research questions and objectives of the study. The analysis also involved a
comparison of the data with existing literature on the topic and the identification
of any gaps in the literature.

Limitations of the Study:

There are several limitations to this study that need to be acknowledged, Firstly,
the study relies on secondary sources of data, which may not provide a complete
picture of the situation on the ground. Secondly, the study is limited by the scope
of the research questions and objectives, which may not capture all aspects of the
issue.

Results:
The implementation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in conflict zones
around the world is an ongoing challenge marked by complexities and obstacles.
From the fundamental principles of IHL to the critiques and challenges it faces,
understanding its application in real-world scenarios is crucial for addressing the
humanitarian crises that arise during armed conflicts (International Review of the
Red Cross,2019).
IHL, also known as the law of war or the law of armed conflict, is a set of
rules designed to mitigate the impact of armed conflicts on civilians and
combatants alike. Derived from various sources including treaties, customary law,
1374 Alakash et al.
and general principles of law, IHL outlines fundamental principles such as
humanity, distinction, proportionality, and military necessity. These principles
serve as guiding principles for parties to a conflict, dictating their behavior in
times of war (Moore, 2012).
Humanity, the cornerstone of IHL, demands respect for the dignity and
worth of all persons involved in armed conflict. It prohibits acts of violence,
torture, and cruel treatment, and mandates the protection of medical personnel and
facilities. Distinction requires parties to distinguish between combatants and
civilians, ensuring that civilians and objects are not targeted except under certain
circumstances. Proportionality mandates that any military action taken must be
proportionate to the military advantage gained, preventing excessive harm to
civilians. Military necessity permits the use of force to achieve legitimate military
objectives, but only to the extent necessary and proportionate (Robinson, 2012).
Despite the clear principles outlined in IHL, its implementation faces numerous
challenges, as evidenced by case studies in conflict zones such as Syria, Yemen,
Myanmar, Israel-Palestine, and Iraq.
In Syria, the conflict has resulted in widespread violations of IHL, with
civilians bearing the brunt of the violence. Both government forces and non-state
armed groups have been accused of committing grave violations, including
indiscriminate attacks on civilian areas and the use of chemical weapons. The lack
of adherence to IHL principles by all parties involved has severely hampered
efforts to mitigate the humanitarian crisis.
Similarly, in Yemen, the conflict has led to significant violations of IHL,
including attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. Despite efforts by the
United Nations and humanitarian organizations to promote compliance with IHL,
political divisions and the failure of parties to uphold their obligations have
hindered progress.
The situation in Myanmar, Israel-Palestine, and Iraq also highlights the
challenges of implementing IHL in complex conflict scenarios. In Myanmar, the
Rohingya crisis has resulted in widespread human rights abuses and violations of
IHL, with the military accused of committing atrocities against civilians. In Israel-
Palestine, violations of IHL have been documented on both sides, with civilians
suffering the consequences of the ongoing conflict. In Iraq, the widespread use of
torture and mistreatment of prisoners has raised questions about accountability and
compliance with IHL.
Critiques of IHL further underscore the challenges it faces. Lack of
enforcement mechanisms, inconsistencies in interpretation, the rise of non-state
actors, and emerging technologies all pose significant obstacles to the effective
implementation of IHL.
 Pakistan Journal of Criminology 1375
Despite these challenges, efforts to promote compliance with IHL and hold
violators accountable continue. The international community, including the United
Nations and humanitarian organizations, plays a crucial role in advocating for
respect for IHL and addressing violations when they occur.
In conclusion, implementing IHL in conflict zones is complex and
ongoing, with many challenges. Addressing these challenges demands sustained
international efforts to promote compliance, hold violators accountable, and
alleviate humanitarian consequences. Collective action and commitment to IHL
principles are vital for progress towards a more peaceful world.

Discussion
The discussion surrounding the implementation of International
Humanitarian Law (IHL) in conflict zones is critical for understanding the
complexities and challenges inherent in mitigating the humanitarian impact of
armed conflicts. This discussion encompasses various dimensions, from the
fundamental principles of IHL to the real-world challenges and case studies that
underscore the urgent need for effective implementation.
At the core of the discussion are the fundamental principles of IHL,
including humanity, distinction, proportionality, and military necessity. These
principles provide the moral and legal framework for regulating armed conflicts
and protecting the rights and dignity of individuals affected by war. However,
despite the clarity of these principles, their implementation faces significant
challenges, as evidenced by the numerous violations documented in conflict zones
worldwide.
The case studies of conflicts in Syria, Yemen, Myanmar, Israel-Palestine,
and Iraq offer valuable insights into the complexities of implementing IHL in
diverse and dynamic conflict scenarios. These case studies highlight the
widespread violations of IHL, including indiscriminate attacks on civilians, the
targeting of civilian infrastructure, and the use of prohibited weapons. The failure
to adhere to IHL principles by all parties involved exacerbates humanitarian crises
and underscores the urgent need for greater compliance and accountability.
Critiques of IHL highlight its challenges, such as lacking enforcement,
interpretational inconsistencies, non-state actor involvement, and emerging
technologies' proliferation. These critiques question IHL's effectiveness and
relevance in modern conflicts, calling for comprehensive reforms and collective
action to tackle these issues.
Despite challenges, ongoing efforts to promote IHL compliance and hold
violators accountable persist. The international community, including the UN and
humanitarian organizations, plays a pivotal role in advocating for IHL respect and
1376 Alakash et al.
addressing violations. However, achieving significant progress in upholding IHL
principles demands sustained commitment and nurturing a culture of humanitarian
norms and respect.

Conclusion
The implementation of IHL in conflict zones remains a complex and
ongoing process marked by numerous challenges. Addressing these challenges
requires collective action, political will, and a steadfast commitment to upholding
the principles of IHL. Only through concerted efforts can progress be made
toward mitigating the humanitarian consequences of armed conflicts and building
a more peaceful and just world.

Recommendations
To address challenges in implementing International Humanitarian Law (IHL)
in conflict zones, concerted efforts by the international community are crucial.
Here are recommendations to enhance IHL compliance and reduce the
humanitarian impact of armed conflicts:
1. Strengthen Enforcement: Boost the authority and resources of
international criminal tribunals to prosecute war crimes effectively.
2. Enhance Monitoring: Expand the role of organizations like the UN and
ICRC to monitor IHL compliance and report violations promptly.
3. Promote Compliance: Conduct advocacy campaigns and training
initiatives to raise awareness and foster respect for IHL among all parties
involved in conflicts.
4. Strengthen Diplomacy: Utilize diplomatic pressure and mediation to
encourage states to uphold IHL obligations and resolve conflicts
peacefully.
5. Support Conflict Prevention: Invest in conflict prevention initiatives and
address underlying grievances to prevent conflicts from escalating.
6. Build Capacity: Provide technical assistance and resources to enhance the
capacity of states and non-state actors to comply with IHL.
7. Address Humanitarian Needs: Ensure adequate humanitarian assistance
and protection for civilians affected by conflicts.
8. Foster Cooperation: Facilitate international cooperation to coordinate
responses, share best practices, and mobilize resources for IHL
implementation.
Implementing these recommendations can improve IHL compliance,
lessen the humanitarian impact of conflicts, and uphold principles of humanity and
proportionality in conflict zones.
 Pakistan Journal of Criminology 1377
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