Find help Donate

Law and Policy

International humanitarian law is a set of rules that seek to limit the effects of armed conflict. 

The ICRC flag whips in the wind on the river Nile.

Limiting the effects of armed conflict

International humanitarian law is a set of rules that seek to limit the effects of armed conflict. It protects people who are not or are no longer participating in hostilities and restricts the means and methods of warfare. The ICRC’s policy and diplomatic engagement complements the law. It addresses challenges to principled humanitarian action, informs operational practice and mobilizes support for people affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence. 

Sources of international humanitarian law

IHL treaties

IHL is based on a number of treaties, in particular the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols, and a series of other instruments.

Treaties, States Parties and Commentaries

Customary IHL

Customary international law consists of rules that come from "a general practice accepted as law" and that exist independent of treaty law.

Customary IHL database

National Practice

The National Practice database includes the manuals, legislation, case law and other national practice collected by ICRC delegations, National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and other partners around the world as part of the mandate bestowed upon the ICRC by the 26th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.

National Practice Database