Abstract:
The evolution of modern means of warfare has introduced unprecedented challenges to the
effective application of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). As advancements in
technology, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems continue to reshape the landscape
of armed conflict, the traditional frameworks of IHL face a critical test in adapting to these
changes. This abstract explores the multifaceted challenges arising from the development of
contemporary military technologies and their implications for the protection of civilians and
combatants during armed conflicts.
The paper examines into the intricate web of challenges arising from the use of cutting-edge
technologies such as autonomous weapons, cyber warfare, and artificial intelligence on the
battlefield. These developments not only pose unique ethical dilemmas but also strain the
existing frameworks of IHL that were primarily designed for conventional warfare scenarios.
Furthermore, the abstract highlights the difficulties in adapting established legal principles to
address the blurred lines between combatants and civilians, as well as the increasing difficulty
in distinguishing between military and civilian targets. As warfare becomes more asymmetric
and unconventional, there is a pressing need to reassess and reinforce IHL mechanisms to
ensure the protection of non-combatants and the humane treatment of prisoners of war.
Moreover, the abstract scrutinizes the role of state and non-state actors in compliance with IHL,
emphasizing the necessity for international cooperation and accountability. The emergence of
non-state entities and the privatization of military activities pose challenges in enforcing IHL
standards universally.
In conclusion, this abstract calls for a comprehensive reevaluation of IHL in the context of
modern warfare, urging international policymakers, legal scholars, and military strategists to
collaboratively address the gaps and ambiguities that hinder the effective application of
humanitarian principles. As the nature of armed conflicts continues to evolve, adapting and
strengthening IHL is imperative to ensure the protection of human dignity and uphold the
values enshrined in the laws of armed conflict.
