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News | 12-08-2024 | 13:35
Today, the Geneva Conventions are 75 years old. The rules of the humanitarian law of war remain relevant and the world must cherish them. This is the view of the Humanitarian Law of War Platform. Representatives from the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Red Cross attended.
The horrors of World War II brought the world’s nations together to develop rules that they hoped would reduce suffering during armed conflict.
The 75th birthday may be a milestone, but there is no reason to celebrate, the platform said. This is because of the human suffering in current conflict zones. Some parties are ignoring the rules of the treaty. Nevertheless, the consultative body stressed the importance of the so-called Geneva Convention. Its existence holds violators accountable. Many of the rules in the treaty are indeed followed.
Wounded and/or sick soldiers
This suggests that warring parties can take actions that are militarily necessary to win the war. But humanity must be at the center. This means that vulnerable groups are protected during combat. This concerns wounded and/or sick soldiers, prisoners of war, and civilians.
The rules still apply. For example, to protect prisoners of war in the war between Ukraine and Russia. Or to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. Compliance with the treaty requires knowledge and discipline of the troops and good leadership. There is also a system to investigate any violations of the rules and prosecute them if necessary.
Dutch soldiers receive instruction in the humanitarian laws of war. This takes place, among other things, at the Netherlands National Defence Academy.
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