The role of parliamentarians in implementing International Humanitarian Law

Members of parliament are instrumental in ensuring that international humanitarian law (IHL) is properly implemented under their domestic legal system. Parliamentarians play a unique role in adapting national legislation to give effect to a State's international obligations. Through their oversight responsibilities, parliaments and parliamentarians can ensure that the military and security forces are properly trained and knowledgeable on IHL. Through their leadership and advocacy, they can also raise greater awareness of IHL among the public. Parliamentarians, as political leaders and representatives of the people, must be in the vanguard of efforts to ensure IHL is faithfully applied.