International Humanitarian Law. It is supposed to be a set of rules to limit civilian casualties during periods of conflict. But in practice, we seem to be hearing more about fighters and their commanders transgressing these laws than adhering to them. Is this truly the case? How can we ever hold those accountable that don’t uphold it? And how does international law even work?
In What’s the Point of International Law in War? dr. Marieke de Hoon will give us an introduction to international humanitarian law and the options that international law and international criminal law provide for accountability. Using recent examples from the current conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, she will explain how it works and why it matters. What, for example, can be assessed without access to military intelligence? How do arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court work? How is the occurrence of genocide determined by judges? And: what is the point of it all if time and again, atrocity crimes keep on victimizing innocent civilians?
Marieke de Hoon is Associate Professor of (International) Criminal Law at the University of Amsterdam (UvA). In her research and teaching she focuses on international law, international criminal law, national prosecution of international crimes and human rights. She is also Director Netherlands Office and Senior Counsel at the Public International Law & Policy Group, where she provides pro bono legal assistance in (post-)conflict situations. And honorary Appeals Prosecutor at the Dutch Public Prosecution Service.
This program is organized by Studium Generale
