In an effort to bolster comprehension and adherence to International Humanitarian Law (IHL), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) initiated a collaborative workshop with the Fiji military.
The two-day joint workshop aimed to equip 30 personnel from the RFMF, Fiji Police Force, and Fiji Corrections Service with comprehensive knowledge of IHL and its application in conflict and law enforcement scenarios.
Participants delved into the fundamental principles of IHL and explored practical examples of its integration into operational planning and execution.
Highlighting the pivotal role of IHL in mitigating the impact of armed conflicts and violence, Katherine Stewart, ICRC delegate for Armed and Security Forces Programmes (Japan and the Pacific), emphasised the significance of equipping security personnel with a nuanced understanding of diverse legal frameworks.
“Militaries like the RFMF are often tasked with diverse roles, ranging from conflict preparation to peacekeeping missions, necessitating adept navigation of both international humanitarian law and human rights law,” she said.
“This workshop aimed to empower military, police and corrections personnel with the requisite knowledge to navigate the multifaceted legal landscape, thereby minimising harm to affected individuals.”
The initiative emphasised Fiji’s commitment to upholding international humanitarian law and safeguarding civilians during conflict and security operations.
It reflected the ICRC’s broader mission to support nations in ensuring the dignity and wellbeing of all individuals impacted by armed conflict and violence.
