Conference on “International Humanitarian Law: National and Regional Dimensions”
A conference on International Humanitarian Law (IHL) was held in Kyiv at the initiative of the Ukrainian Red Cross, with support from the Danish Red Cross. This significant event, which began on 25 April 2025, brought together representatives from state authorities, human rights institutions, experts from the Ukrainian Red Cross, humanitarian organisations, community leaders, and members of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
The conference’s topic is more relevant than ever, as a full-scale war continues in Ukraine. International humanitarian law governs the protection of victims of armed conflict and regulates the methods and means of warfare. Organising such events not only helps to raise awareness of the practical application of IHL but also strengthens cooperation between specialists in human rights protection and international humanitarian law.
What Was Discussed at the International Conference on IHL in Kyiv
The event programme included three panel discussions, each addressing different aspects of the application and implementation of international humanitarian law (IHL) at the national level. In particular, Ukrainian and international experts discussed key topics, including:
- The role of local communities in the implementation of IHL
- IHL in action: The implementation of international conventions in Ukraine
- Looking ahead: IHL and current political challenges
In his address to the conference participants, Maksym Dotsenko, Director General of the Ukrainian Red Cross, emphasised:
“The Ukrainian Red Cross is making every effort to promote knowledge of international humanitarian law in Ukraine, playing a vital role in the implementation of IHL at the national level. We conduct large-scale educational activities among the public, provide expert support to state authorities, and supply all necessary information and educational materials. Hosting this international conference with the support of the Danish Red Cross marks another important step in our ongoing efforts in this field.”
The unique format of the event fostered cross-sectoral dialogue between the government, humanitarian organisations, and both national and international experts. This dialogue represents an important step towards ensuring compliance with international humanitarian law in Ukraine. The implementation of such initiatives highlights the Ukrainian Red Cross’s ongoing efforts to disseminate knowledge of international humanitarian law and support the state’s implementation of it.
