Peacekeeping Operations and Humanitarian Law
Expert-defined terms from the Global Certificate Course in Humanitarian Law, Ethics, and Human Rights course at London School of International Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Peacekeeping Operations #
Peacekeeping Operations
Peacekeeping operations are a way to help countries torn by conflict create cond… #
These operations are overseen by the United Nations and involve the deployment of military, police, and civilian personnel to help countries navigate the complex path from conflict to peace. Peacekeeping operations are typically deployed in response to a ceasefire agreement or peace agreement and are designed to maintain peace, protect civilians, and support the implementation of peace agreements.
Humanitarian Law #
Humanitarian Law
Humanitarian law, also known as the law of war or the law of armed conflict, is… #
These rules are designed to protect those who are not or are no longer taking part in hostilities, such as civilians, aid workers, and prisoners of war. Humanitarian law is based on the principles of humanity, distinction, proportionality, and necessity. It governs the conduct of parties in armed conflict and aims to minimize the suffering caused by war.
United Nations #
United Nations
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945 after W… #
It has 193 member states and is headquartered in New York City. The UN is responsible for maintaining international peace and security, promoting sustainable development, protecting human rights, upholding international law, and delivering humanitarian aid. It plays a crucial role in global governance and works to address a wide range of issues, from climate change to poverty alleviation.
Conflict Resolution #
Conflict Resolution
Conflict resolution is a process of resolving disputes or disagreements between… #
It involves communication, negotiation, mediation, and dialogue to find mutually acceptable solutions to conflicts. Conflict resolution aims to prevent violence, promote understanding, and build sustainable peace. It can be used at the interpersonal, community, national, or international levels to address a wide range of issues, from personal conflicts to armed conflicts between states.
International Humanitarian Law #
International Humanitarian Law
International humanitarian law (IHL) is a set of rules that seek to limit the ef… #
It is also known as the law of war or the law of armed conflict. IHL is based on the principles of humanity, distinction, proportionality, and necessity. It governs the conduct of parties in armed conflict and aims to minimize the suffering caused by war. IHL applies to both international and non-international armed conflicts.
Peacebuilding #
Peacebuilding
Peacebuilding is a process of promoting sustainable peace in societies emerging… #
It involves a range of activities, such as strengthening institutions, fostering reconciliation, promoting human rights, and supporting economic development. Peacebuilding aims to address the root causes of conflict, build trust among conflicting parties, and create conditions for long-term peace and stability. It is a comprehensive and long-term approach to peace that goes beyond the immediate resolution of conflicts.
International Criminal Law #
International Criminal Law
International criminal law is a body of law that deals with serious crimes of in… #
It aims to hold individuals accountable for these crimes and ensure justice for the victims. International criminal law is based on treaties, customary international law, and the statutes of international criminal tribunals, such as the International Criminal Court. It complements international humanitarian law by providing a framework for prosecuting individuals responsible for grave violations of the law.
Human Rights #
Human Rights
Human rights are fundamental rights and freedoms that every person is entitled t… #
They are based on the principles of dignity, equality, and non-discrimination. Human rights include civil and political rights, such as the right to life, liberty, and a fair trial, as well as economic, social, and cultural rights, such as the right to education, health, and work. Human rights are protected by international law, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and various human rights treaties.
Conflict Prevention #
Conflict Prevention
Conflict prevention is a proactive approach to identifying and addressing the ro… #
It involves early warning, diplomacy, mediation, and other preventive measures to reduce tensions, build trust, and promote peaceful resolution of disputes. Conflict prevention aims to address the underlying drivers of conflict, such as poverty, inequality, discrimination, and competition over resources. It is a crucial aspect of peacebuilding and can help avert the devastating consequences of armed conflict.
International Humanitarian Assistance #
International Humanitarian Assistance
International humanitarian assistance is the provision of aid, protection, and s… #
It includes food, shelter, medical care, clean water, sanitation, and other essential services to meet the basic needs of affected populations. International humanitarian assistance is guided by principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence. It is provided by governments, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and other actors to alleviate human suffering and save lives in times of crisis.
Peacekeeping Mission #
Peacekeeping Mission
A peacekeeping mission is a specific operation deployed by the United Nations or… #
Peacekeeping missions involve the deployment of military, police, and civilian personnel to maintain peace, protect civilians, and support the implementation of peace agreements. They are typically deployed in response to a ceasefire agreement or peace agreement and operate under a mandate from the Security Council or other relevant authorities. Peacekeeping missions play a crucial role in preventing the outbreak or recurrence of armed conflict.
International Criminal Court #
International Criminal Court
The International Criminal Court (ICC) is a permanent international tribunal est… #
It is based in The Hague, Netherlands, and operates independently of the United Nations. The ICC complements national legal systems by providing a forum for prosecuting individuals when national courts are unable or unwilling to do so. It aims to ensure accountability for grave violations of international law and promote justice for the victims of such crimes.
Rule of Law #
Rule of Law
The rule of law is a principle that no one is above the law and that laws should… #
It is based on the idea that laws should be clear, predictable, and accessible, and that legal processes should be fair, transparent, and impartial. The rule of law is essential for upholding human rights, promoting justice, and preventing abuses of power. It underpins democratic governance, respect for the law, and the protection of fundamental freedoms. Upholding the rule of law is critical for building peaceful, inclusive, and just societies.
Non #
State Armed Groups
Non #
state armed groups are organized groups that are not part of the official armed forces of a state but engage in armed conflict against state forces or other armed groups. These groups can include rebel movements, insurgent groups, terrorist organizations, and militias. Non-state armed groups often operate outside the law and may commit serious violations of international humanitarian law, such as targeting civilians, recruiting child soldiers, and using prohibited weapons. Addressing the activities of non-state armed groups is a major challenge for peacekeeping operations and humanitarian actors.
Gender Mainstreaming #
Gender Mainstreaming
Gender mainstreaming is a strategy to promote gender equality and empower women… #
It involves integrating a gender perspective into the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of policies, programs, and projects. Gender mainstreaming aims to address the different needs, priorities, and experiences of women and men, and to promote equal opportunities and rights for all. It is essential for promoting sustainable peace, preventing conflicts, and building inclusive societies. Gender mainstreaming is a key principle of the United Nations and other international organizations.
Protection of Civilians #
Protection of Civilians
The protection of civilians is a core objective of peacekeeping operations and h… #
It involves taking measures to prevent harm to civilians, including women, children, and vulnerable groups, and ensuring their safety, well-being, and dignity. The protection of civilians includes providing physical protection, monitoring human rights violations, and addressing the specific needs of affected populations. It is guided by principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence. Protecting civilians from harm is a fundamental responsibility of peacekeepers, humanitarian workers, and other actors in conflict-affected areas.
Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration #
Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration
Disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) is a process to disarm comb… #
DDR programs aim to reduce the threat of violence, promote security, and support sustainable peace. They include collecting and destroying weapons, helping former fighters transition to civilian life, providing vocational training, and promoting reconciliation. DDR is a crucial component of peacebuilding efforts and can help prevent the recurrence of conflict. It requires coordination among governments, international organizations, and civil society.
International Refugee Law #
International Refugee Law
International refugee law is a branch of international law that governs the righ… #
It is based on treaties, conventions, and customary international law, including the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol. International refugee law defines who is a refugee, their rights to protection, assistance, and non-refoulement, and the obligations of states towards refugees. It aims to ensure that people fleeing persecution or violence receive international protection and are treated with dignity and respect. International refugee law is essential for addressing forced displacement and protecting the rights of refugees.
Humanitarian Principles #
Humanitarian Principles
Humanitarian principles are a set of core values that guide the work of humanita… #
The four main humanitarian principles are humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence.
- Humanity: Humanitarian action must be carried out with the goal of saving live… #
- Humanity: Humanitarian action must be carried out with the goal of saving lives, alleviating suffering, and protecting human dignity.
- Neutrality: Humanitarian actors must not take sides in conflicts or engage in… #
- Neutrality: Humanitarian actors must not take sides in conflicts or engage in political, military, or other activities that compromise their impartiality.
- Impartiality: Humanitarian aid must be provided based on need, without discrim… #
- Impartiality: Humanitarian aid must be provided based on need, without discrimination or favoritism, to ensure that assistance reaches those most in need.
- Independence: Humanitarian organizations must act independently of political,… #
- Independence: Humanitarian organizations must act independently of political, economic, or military interests to maintain their credibility, integrity, and effectiveness.
Child Protection #
Child Protection
Child protection is a priority in peacekeeping operations and humanitarian assis… #
It involves preventing and responding to violations of children's rights, such as recruitment and use of child soldiers, sexual violence, child trafficking, and separation from families. Child protection measures include identifying and registering children at risk, providing psychosocial support, reuniting families, and promoting education and recreation. Protecting children from harm is a fundamental responsibility of peacekeepers, humanitarian workers, and other actors in conflict-affected areas.
Humanitarian Coordination #
Humanitarian Coordination
Humanitarian coordination is the process of bringing together humanitarian actor… #
It involves planning, information sharing, resource mobilization, and decision-making to address the needs of affected populations. Humanitarian coordination aims to avoid duplication, identify gaps, and maximize the impact of humanitarian assistance. It is facilitated by humanitarian coordination mechanisms, such as clusters, working groups, and coordination forums, at the global, regional, and country levels.
Humanitarian Access #
Humanitarian Access
Humanitarian access is the ability of humanitarian actors to reach and assist pe… #
It includes physical access to affected areas, security guarantees for humanitarian workers, and legal and administrative permissions to provide assistance. Humanitarian access is essential for delivering aid, protecting civilians, and monitoring human rights violations. It is often constrained by insecurity, restrictions on movement, bureaucratic obstacles, and attacks on humanitarian workers. Ensuring humanitarian access is a key challenge for peacekeeping operations and humanitarian actors in conflict-affected areas.
Gender #
Based Violence
Gender #
based violence is violence that is directed against a person based on their gender identity, gender expression, or perceived gender. It includes physical, sexual, psychological, and economic violence, such as domestic violence, rape, sexual harassment, and trafficking. Gender-based violence is a pervasive human rights violation that disproportionately affects women and girls, but can also impact men and boys. It is often used as a tool of control, intimidation, and discrimination in armed conflict, displacement, and other crisis situations. Preventing and responding to gender-based violence is a priority for peacekeeping operations and humanitarian actors.
Humanitarian Needs Assessment #
Humanitarian Needs Assessment
Humanitarian needs assessment is the process of identifying, analyzing, and prio… #
It involves collecting data on the most pressing needs, vulnerabilities, and capacities of affected populations to inform the design and delivery of humanitarian assistance. Humanitarian needs assessment includes quantitative and qualitative methods, such as surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, and participatory approaches. It aims to ensure that humanitarian responses are evidence-based, context-specific, and responsive to the needs of affected communities. Conducting timely and accurate needs assessments is essential for effective humanitarian action.
Humanitarian Principles #
Humanitarian Principles
Humanitarian principles are a set of core values that guide the work of humanita… #
The four main humanitarian principles are humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence.
- Humanity: Humanitarian action must be carried out with the goal of saving live… #
- Humanity: Humanitarian action must be carried out with the goal of saving lives, alleviating suffering, and protecting human dignity.
- Neutrality: Humanitarian actors must not take sides in conflicts or engage in… #
- Neutrality: Humanitarian actors must not take sides in conflicts or engage in political, military, or other activities that compromise their impartiality.
- Impartiality: Humanitarian aid must be provided based on need, without discrim… #
- Impartiality: Humanitarian aid must be provided based on need, without discrimination or favoritism, to ensure that assistance reaches those most in need.
- Independence: Humanitarian organizations must act independently of political,… #
- Independence: Humanitarian organizations must act independently of political, economic, or military interests to maintain their credibility, integrity, and effectiveness.