Higher education lecturers from Ukraine’s Ministry of Internal Affairs system complete IHL training

The Ukrainian Red Cross delivered international humanitarian law (IHL) training for academic staff from the National Academy of Internal Affairs and Lviv State University of Internal Affairs. The training aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of the rules of warfare, the protection of civilians and accountability for violations of international law.

Participants explored how IHL applies in international and non-international armed conflicts, the legal status of parties to an armed conflict, the protection of civilian objects and the rules governing the conduct of hostilities. Particular attention was paid to the relationship between international humanitarian law, international human rights law and Ukraine’s national legislation.

The training was delivered by Ukrainian Red Cross volunteer trainers Khrystyna Duda and Maksym Kovaliuk, who combined theoretical material with practical exercises and professional discussions.

Practical work, including case studies and scenario-based exercises, was an important part of the training. Using specific examples, participants examined how IHL rules apply in practice and discussed complex legal issues that arise during armed conflicts.

Participants also learned about the work of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, its Fundamental Principles and its role in protecting people affected by armed conflict. This session was led by Yehor Astapenko, an IHL specialist at the Ukrainian Red Cross.

Training lecturers who will pass on their knowledge of IHL to future legal professionals and law enforcement officers is an important part of quality professional education. Understanding the rules of warfare, accountability for violations and the principles of protecting human dignity helps foster a professional approach to law and the rule of law, even in the most challenging circumstances.