Rule of Law is examining the evolving legal and institutional arrangements for addressing violations of international humanitarian law (IHL). As part of this ongoing effort, USIP has just produced a guide to training programs in IHL for military personnel around the world.

The implementation and enforcement of international legal norms concerning the conduct of war and accountability for atrocities committed in the course of conflict remain critical challenges for those engaged in conflict resolution and post-conflict peacebuilding. Both the jurisprudence in this area and institutional arrangements for addressing violations of international criminal law continue to evolve and to require creative analysis and input. USIP seeks to contribute to the continuing development of international law relevant to armed conflict as well as the means for marrying law and practice in zones of conflict.

As part of this effort, the Institute has just published a guide to training in international humanitarian law (the law that governs the conduct of war), which is available for military personnel and civilian leaders of militaries around the world. The guide includes practical information regarding how governments can establish their own international humanitarian law training programs, as well as contact information that will enable officials to gain access to training programs and assistance provided by other states.

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By: Fiona Mangan;  Christina Murtaugh with support from Ferdaouis Bagga

Three years after the death of Muammar Qaddafi and the end of the revolution in Libya, security and justice are stalled and elusive despite the proliferation of security providers. The power of the gun prevails over the rule of law. Many see no end in sight. Based on a nationwide survey and drawn from interviews and focus group sessions, this report—supported by the USIP and the Small Arms Survey—tracks security and justice in Libya from before the revolution through today, its realities, and...

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Since the fall of the Taliban in 2002, gains in women’s rights and access to justice in Afghanistan have been remarkable, yet women’s rights remain extremely limited. How do women in Afghanistan seek justice when their rights are violated? What barriers do they face in pursuing justice or receiving a fair outcome? This report draws on interviews and focus group discussions held in Afghanistan in 2011 and 2012 to determine answers to these and related questions and to recommend ways forward. ...

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