While the main purpose of the Hague Conventions is to stipulate what is and what is not permitted under the rules of war (Law of The Hague), the Geneva Conventions primarily lay down rules for the protection of the wounded, prisoners of war and civilians in armed conflicts (Law of Geneva). The key elements in this process are the Hague Conventions of 18, the four Geneva Conventions of 1949 and the Protocols Additional to the Geneva Conventions concluded in 19. Since the mid-nineteenth century, major efforts have been made to codify these norms – efforts which continue to this day. Modern international humanitarian law dates back to the foundation of the Red Cross in 1863 and the adoption of the first Geneva Convention for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded in Armies in the Field of 1864. Legal norms designed to prescribe moderation in the conduct of war and to alleviate suffering are as old as war itself. Its role is not to address issues such as the grounds or possible justification under international law for engaging in armed conflict. This means it is concerned with the reality of armed conflict around the world. It includes provisions intended both to protect people who are not or no longer taking part in hostilities and to restrict the methods and means used to wage war.Ī primary purpose of international humanitarian law is to limit the suffering caused by war by affording victims the maximum possible protection and support. It endeavours to balance two opposing interests, that is, to take military interests into account and to uphold the principle of humanity. International humanitarian law applies to times of armed conflict. It aims to help reduce the suffering caused by wars by recognising the victims and supporting them as much as possible.
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