Changing Nature of Conflicts

This lecture examines the changing nature of conflict. It addresses the increasing occurrence of conflicts in urban areas, posing challenges in the application of essential principles of IHL. The lecture also explores the rising prevalence of NIACs in comparison to IACs and the complexities arising from this shift. Furthermore, it investigates conflicts that extend into neighboring states and the associated legal ramifications. Additionally, it discusses the role of cyberspace in modern warfare, including challenges related to attribution and proportionality. Finally, it scrutinizes the contentious topic of Lethal Autonomous Weapons and their potential implications.

  • Crawford, ‘Unequal before the Law: The Case for the Elimination of the Distinction between International and Non-International Armed Conflicts’ (2007) Leiden Journal of International Law 441.
  • Haque, The United States is at War with Syria (according to the ICRC’s New Geneva Convention Commentary), EJIL Talk! (8 April 2016).
  • The Public Committee against Torture in Israel v The Government of Israel, HCJ 769/02, 11 December 2005, 2007 ILM 375, paras 1–2, 16–23 
  • Kress, ‘Some Reflections on the International Legal Framework Governing Transnational Armed Conflicts’ (2010) JCSL 245 
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