By virtue of Executive Order (EO) 134 in 1999, August 12 had been declared International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Day. The date is designed to commemorate the signing of the 1949 Geneva Conventions.
The Philippine National Red Cross took a step forward and further by declaring the whole month of August as International Humanitarian Law (IHL) month.
This year, the adopted slogan of International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is: "Per Himanitatem Pacerri" which means "From Humanity to Peace."
The Red Cross saw the need to intensify our humanitarian advocacy efforts to promote peace in our country. In intensified armed conflicts, we can always see the "unavoidable collateral damage" to civilians who will be caught in the crossfire.
In this worst-case scenario, there should at least be all-out respect for human rights (HR) and international humanitarian law (IHL), that is, the law on armed conflict (LOAC) which protects civilians and which limits the means and methods of warfare. Even war has limits – not only for the sake of non-combatants but also for the sake of combatants. It has been said that IHL helps pave the road to peace by promoting humanity in time of war (Inter Armas Caritas). By respecting the basic rights and dignity of all, the fighting forces help build mutual trust that enhances the chances for a peaceful settlement.
Let us always hope and pray for peace, not only for our time but for our children and the generations yet to come. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com
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