3 days ago
CHR urges stronger PH enforcement of Int'l Humanitarian Law
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Wednesday called on the government and stakeholders to strengthen the enforcement of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) as persons displaced by armed conflicts now face evolving threats.
In a statement, the CHR stressed that conflict situations are becoming increasingly complex with changing technology and new modes of warfare. Addressing the issue, the CHR said, is a "shared responsibility."
"The CHR calls on the government, policymakers, and non-government partners to adapt the implementation of IHL to local contexts while also ensuring stronger enforcement," the CHR said.
Tangible actions are needed, the CHR said, including strict application of the law, prosecution of violators, and enhanced training for military and police personnel.
"The Commission urges the government to reassess the situation of persons displaced by armed conflicts. Protection is only one step. Ensuring access to basic needs, restoring livelihoods, and safeguarding dignity are equally critical," it added.
"The CHR calls for full accountability from all parties in upholding IHL, so that justice and protection become lived realities for every civilian affected by armed conflict," the Commission said.
Taking concrete steps on the IHL, also known as the law on conflict situations, is front and center of CHR's observance of IHL Month this August. This year's theme is, "Galvanizing Commitment to International Humanitarian Law: Challenges and Opportunities in the Asia Pacific Region."
The CHR recognized that the country is hosting a four-day Asia Pacific Regional Conference on IHL from August 11 to 14.
The conference is a vital opportunity for the country to strengthen its role, the CHR said, as a "champion of IHL, especially in addressing emerging challenges, such as cyber operations, and autonomous weapons systems."
While it clamored for stronger IHL enforcement, the CHR nonetheless commended the government's "active commitment" in advancing the IHL.
According to CHR, this was evident in the enactment of Republic Act (RA) 9851, or An Act Defining and Penalizing Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity; and RA 11188, or The Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict Act.
It also acknowledged the Marcos administration's declared intent to seek a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in 2027-2027 as this "further underscor[es] the country's commitment to global peace and security grounded in humanitarian principles." — Mariel Celine Serquiña/ VDV, GMA Integrated News
