To mark the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the cornerstone of international humanitarian law "The Four Geneva Conventions" Qanun, in collaboration with the Canadian Red Cross, organized a series of four educational sessions led by experts in international humanitarian law. The sessions provided an introduction to the Geneva Conventions, exploring their origins, legal framework, principles, and the roles of relevant international organizations.

In this session, Abouloyoun, an expert in International Humanitarian Law (IHL), provided a focused overview of IHL’s core principles and their application in armed conflicts. The lecture explored IHL’s role in safeguarding civilians, wounded combatants, and medical personnel, emphasizing the law’s humanitarian purpose.

Abouloyoun highlighted key principles that govern the conduct of hostilities—distinction, proportionality, necessity, precaution, and the prohibition of unnecessary suffering. These principles are essential in regulating the use of force, protecting non-combatants, and prohibiting the use of inhumane weapons.

The session also addressed the legal implications of direct participation in hostilities, which can lead to civilians temporarily losing their legal protection. Drawing on contemporary examples, including the conflict in Palestine, Abu Al-‘Oyoun underscored IHL’s relevance in today’s warfare and the critical role of international accountability mechanisms in addressing violations.

Key Topics Covered:

• Distinction
• Proportionality
• Necessity
• Prohibition of Unnecessary Suffering
• Precaution in Attack

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