Teaching IHL, research, Advisory Service and other resources

As a specialized unit of the ICRC, the Advisory Service assists states in implementing IHL at the national level. With a global network of legal advisers, the Service provides guidance to national authorities on specific domestic implementation measures needed to meet their IHL obligations and supports the work of national IHL bodies established to facilitate IHL implementation domestically. Moreover, it supports the exchange of information on national implementation measures. Besides providing legal advice and technical support, it helps with capacity building at the specific request of national authorities and other actors.

The ICRC supports the teaching of humanitarian law and principles, with a view to promoting respect for the life and dignity of people affected by conflict and violence. We emphasize IHL teaching at leading universities to reach tomorrow's decision-makers and opinion-leaders.

“IHL in action: Respect for the law on the battlefield” is a collection of real-life case studies documenting compliance with international humanitarian law (IHL) in modern warfare. These cases, based on publicly available information, have been assessed by academics as demonstrating respect for IHL.