INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW: ISSUES AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

International Humanitarian Law (IHL), often called the law of armed conflict, is a vital set of international rules. It aims to limit the harm from war by protecting people who aren't fighting or have stopped like civilians, wounded soldiers, and prisoners and by setting limits on how wars are fought. Despite its foundational role in upholding human dignity during war, IHL faces numerous challenges in today’s complex global landscape. This Article examines the key issues confronting IHL, including the changing nature of warfare such as the rise of non-state armed groups, cyber warfare, and autonomous weapons as well as the persistent problem of non-compliance and accountability gaps. The role of international institutions, including the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross, is analysed in the context of enforcement and advocacy. Furthermore, the paper explores the tension between state sovereignty and humanitarian intervention, the impact of asymmetric warfare, and the difficulties in applying IHL in internal armed conflicts. Through a critical analysis of case studies and legal instruments, this study underscores the urgent need for stronger mechanisms of implementation, enhanced international cooperation, and legal reform to address the evolving nature of modern armed conflicts.