International Humanitarian Law at the Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine: A Case of Academic Collaboration

The research paper “Violations of International Humanitarian Law during the Occupation of Kherson Region: Peculiarities of Documentation and Qualification” by Polina Vikhtiuk, a Year 11 student at Kryvyi Rih Lyceum No. 71, was awarded first place in the national competition for student research paper defences organised by the Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine.

Polina was guided in her research by Tymur Korotkyi, Advisor on International Humanitarian Law to the President of the Ukrainian Red Cross. His expert support, combined with the methodological input of Olena Hrodikova, a teacher of ethics, law, and civic education at Lyceum No. 71, contributed significantly to the academic depth of the work. The paper stands out for its legal accuracy, appropriate use of terminology, and strong practical relevance.

“Our collaboration has become a successful example of innovative approaches to promoting knowledge of international humanitarian law among students,” said Tymur Korotkyi, commenting on his mentee’s achievement.

He encouraged Ukrainian teachers of law, civic education, and the subject ‘Defence of Ukraine’ to make greater use of the optional course “Studying International Humanitarian Law”, which is available for pupils in Years 10–12 in general secondary education institutions.

As part of this course, a team of authors, under the editorial supervision of Tymur Korotkyi, IHL Advisor to the President of the Ukrainian Red Cross, developed a dedicated study guide on international humanitarian law.