International humanitarian law (IHL) is currently facing significant challenges due to widespread noncompliance, according to Mirjana Spoljaric, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). In her recent speech, which commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, Spoljaric expressed serious concerns about what she referred to as “overly permissive interpretations” of IHL. These interpretations contribute to various violations, particularly in war zones, such as attacks on schools and hospitals, obstacles to humanitarian aid delivery, and the increasing number of humanitarian workers being killed in the field. This speech can be read in full on the ICRC website.
Spoljaric has called on states to reinforce and properly implement IHL, urging all parties involved in armed conflicts to recommit to the Geneva Conventions. She emphasized the need for states to rectify existing treaties and ensure that new warfare technologies comply with IHL through robust regulatory frameworks. Enacted in 1949, the four Geneva Conventions, along with their three Additional Protocols, are key treaties that establish legal standards for wartime conduct, aiming to protect civilians, medics, aid workers, and those who are wounded, sick, or captured. More information on these conventions and their commentaries can be found here.
The speech has prompted reactions from multiple organizations. For example, Germany’s Foreign Office highlighted the enduring relevance of the Geneva Conventions, tweeting that “war is not lawless” and expressing continued support for the ICRC’s vital work. Likewise, Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), shared on X (formerly Twitter) that member states have failed to ensure compliance with the conventions. These responses can be viewed here and here.
Concluding her remarks, Spoljaric praised the Geneva Conventions for embodying universal values and serving as a crucial foundation for humanity, especially during conflicts. She described any deviation from these norms as a “betrayal of the commitment” made post-World War II.
The broader implications of Spoljaric’s speech suggest an urgent need for the global community, especially legal professionals involved in international and humanitarian law, to revisit and reinforce these critical frameworks to ensure they remain effective amidst evolving warfare dynamics.
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