This dissemination session with the Republican Guard was given in French by Abdou Latif Mbacke, ICRC communications delegate in Bangui (left) and translated into Sango, C.A.R’s official language (along with French), by Sébastien Ningando, ICRC Field Officer in Paoua (right). The need to protect civilians from harm, and to treat humanely all those who are wounded, or have been arrested, or have laid down their arms, are key elements of international humanitarian law (IHL), also known as the law of war. Similar messages are passed to all sides during dissemination sessions, be they with rebels, regular armed forces or elite units, as was the case on this occasion.