International humanitarian law in the face of contemporary conflicts. Meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

On May 12, a meeting organized by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs took place, dedicated to the role of international humanitarian law (IHL) in contemporary armed conflicts. Representatives from public administration, expert institutions, and the Polish Red Cross, as one of the key partners in humanitarian activities and IHL promotion in Poland, participated in the discussions.

Representatives of the Prime Minister's Office, ministries and central offices, the Polish Institute of International Affairs, and the International Humanitarian Commission for Fact-Finding participated in the meeting.

During the meeting, Cordula Droege, Chief Legal Officer of the ICRC, pointed out that international humanitarian law remains one of the most important tools for protecting life and human dignity during wartime.

She discussed contemporary threats to the enforcement of IHL and possible actions to enhance its effective implementation. The ICRC currently points to over 130 armed conflicts worldwide - more than in previous decades - which, combined with geopolitical changes, the weakening of traditional alliances, and the development of new technologies, increases the risk of further escalation of violence against civilian populations.

The ICRC currently points to over 130 armed conflicts worldwide — more than in previous decades. According to experts, geopolitical changes, the weakening of traditional alliances, and the development of new military technologies increase the risk of escalating violence against civilian populations.

A particularly significant point of reference remains the armed conflict beyond Poland's eastern border. Contemporary military actions, including drone and missile attacks, increasingly affect civilians even far from the front lines, destroying critical infrastructure and deepening the humanitarian crisis.

Over 200,000 cases of military and civilian disappearances related to the conflict have already been reported to the ICRC.

The Polish Red Cross, in collaboration with the ICRC and state institutions, participates in efforts to promote international humanitarian law and support individuals affected by the consequences of armed conflicts.

The activities of the Polish Red Cross include both humanitarian aid and education regarding the protection of civilians and the principles of international humanitarian law.