This article explains the rationale behind a study on customary international humanitarian law recently undertaken by the ICRC at the request of the International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent. It describes the methodology used and how the study was organized and summarizes some major findings. It does not, however, purport to provide a complete overview or analysis of these findings.

The commentary to the procedural principles and safeguards outlined in this text mentions the different legal sources governing deprivation of liberty for security reasons in international armed conflicts, non-international armed conflicts and other situations of violence.

The commentary to the procedural principles and safeguards outlined in this text mentions the different legal sources governing deprivation of liberty for security reasons in international armed conflicts, non-international armed conflicts and other situations of violence.

The guidelines concerning ICRC action in the event of violations of international humanitarian law have recently been reviewed and supplemented to take account of various developments that have affected the environment in which it works: the proliferation and increasing diversity of those involved in situations of violence, ad hoc international tribunals and the International Criminal Court, changes in the world of communications, etc.

An insight into the ICRC and its unique approach to protecting those deprived of their freedom. This article, originally published in the International Review of the Red Cross, highlights the importance of ICRC visits to detainees as the starting point for a wide range of activities on their behalf. In light of the recent debates surrounding detention, the article explains the historical and legal basis of the ICRC's position and discusses its objectives in this field.