International Humanitarian Law

International humanitarian law (IHL), or laws of war, regulates armed conflicts and protects non-combatants like civilians and medical staff. It aims to lessen war's suffering by imposing rules on warfare methods and ensuring humane treatment for all. IHL is founded on treaties, mainly the Geneva Conventions, and customary law, evolving from humanitarian efforts over centuries. By defining rights and obligations, IHL seeks to uphold human dignity amid conflict's brutality.