Philippines: Building expertise in international humanitarian law in South-East Asia

MANILA (ICRC-Oct. 13, 2014) – A regional seminar on international humanitarian law–the law applicable in armed conflict–will start today in Manila. The six-day event, jointly organized by the University of the Philippines College of Law and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), will bring together military and police officers, law professors, diplomats and humanitarian workers from 12 countries.

The ninth edition of the South-East and North-East Asian Teaching Session on international humanitarian law will be attended by 45 participants from China, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam.

"The aim is to enhance the participants' knowledge of the law applicable in armed conflict and other situations of violence. The seminar is designed for people who teach international law and policy, or work in related fields and deal with humanitarian issues," explained Evecar Cruz-Ferrer, the ICRC's legal adviser in the Philippines. "Participants will deepen their understanding of legal frameworks and develop their ability to teach and spread knowledge of humanitarian law as well as use it for policymaking."

Specialists in international humanitarian law from the ICRC and law professors from China, South Korea and the Philippines will lecture on a variety of subjects, such as the legal protection afforded civilians, detainees and health services in armed conflict. Some topics, such as the use of force in maritime security operations and how the law applies to new technological advances in warfare, have been specifically adapted to regional concerns and recent developments of international humanitarian law.

As part of its mandate, and in order to protect civilians suffering the effects of armed conflict, the ICRC strives to raise awareness of and promote compliance with international humanitarian law.

For further information, please contact:
Allison Lopez, ICRC Manila, tel: +63 908 868 6884
or visit our website: www.icrc.org

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