International Humanitarian Law

International Humanitarian Law (pronounced in-ter-na-shuh-nl hyoo-muh-ni-ter-ee-uhn law) is a set of rules which seek, for humanitarian reasons, to limit the effects of armed conflict. It is also known as the law of war or the law of armed conflict. International Humanitarian Law is part of International Law, a broader concept that includes other areas such as international human rights law and international criminal law.

Etymology

The term "International Humanitarian Law" originates from the concepts of "international", referring to relations between nations, and "humanitarian", pertaining to the alleviation of suffering. The "law" part of the term refers to the legal frameworks and treaties that govern these principles.

Related Terms

Geneva Conventions: A series of international treaties that dictate the standards of international law for humanitarian treatment in war.
War Crime: A serious violation of the laws and customs of war giving rise to individual criminal responsibility.
Human Rights: The basic rights and freedoms to which all individuals are entitled.
International Criminal Court: An intergovernmental organization and international tribunal that sits in The Hague, Netherlands, with the jurisdiction to prosecute individuals for the international crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression.

International Humanitarian Law

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