International Humanitarian Law

3 credits

This course explores the legal frameworks governing armed conflict, focusing on the principles and rules designed to limit the effects of war on individuals and property. Topics include the origins and development of international humanitarian law (IHL), the distinction between combatants and civilians, the prohibition of certain weapons, and the accountability mechanisms for war crimes. Students will critically analyze the ethical and practical challenges in applying IHL in modern conflicts through theory and case studies, including contemporary examples. The course emphasizes both the theoretical foundations and the practical implications of IHL in addressing global humanitarian issues.