International Humanitarian Law Compliance – Geneva Call

March 2022 - Geneva Call (GC) is a neutral impartial and independent humanitarian organization working to improve the protection of civilians by strengthening respect for the law of armed conflict by armed non-state actors (ANSAs). With support from GAC and other donors Geneva Call is working on influencing behavioural change among ANSAs to promote the protection of civilians including respect for and compliance with international humanitarian law (IHL) humanitarian principles and human rights. Funding under this project ($1.5M - 2022-2024) will support GC’s activities to strengthen engagement with ANSAs on the protection of healthcare including improved access and the prevention of attacks and violence in conflict affected areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Mali. Project activities include: (1) training ANSAs on foundational humanitarian norms and principles including human rights and IHL rules on the protection of medical personnel and facilities; (2) producing and installing information panels emblems and signposts to enhance the visibility of medical missions in conflict zones; (3) strengthening the operational capacity of health workers and structures in conflict zones through the provision of basic medical equipment such as stretchers first aid kits medical coats and lit vests; (4) community engagement campaigns to enhance awareness of IHL and strengthen the capacity of community stakeholders to collect data and report on IHL violations attacks and violence on healthcare; and (5) supporting global outreach advocacy in diplomatic and humanitarian hubs through public events to raise awareness and share findings trends and recommendations to address protection of healthcare challenges in armed conflict settings.

The expected outcomes for this project include: (1) enhanced protection for medical workers their equipment transport and infrastructure; (2) strengthened operational capacities to provide healthcare based on humanitarian principles; (3) ANSA commitment to changes in policy and behaviour through Unilateral Declarations Deeds of Commitment bilateral agreements or other tailored agreements on the protection of healthcare; (4) improved and safer access to life-saving healthcare services for the most vulnerable particularly the sick wounded elderly persons with disabilities women and girls in conflict zones and areas controlled by ANSAs; and (5) strengthened coordination and cooperation among humanitarian actors to tackle the protection of the medical mission and healthcare. The expected ultimate outcome is lives saved suffering alleviated and human dignity maintained for the populations in countries experiencing humanitarian crises.