Current Indo-Pak Armed Conflict and the Role of Geneva Call
Keywords:
Geneva Call, International Humanitarian Law (IHL), Asymmetric Warfare (AW), Armed Conflict, Non-International Armed Conflicts (NIACs), Deed of Commitment, Humanitarian Engagement, Child Protection, Compliance Mechanisms, Humanitarian Norms, Conflict ResolutionAbstract
Around the world, states are increasingly involved in violent confrontations by using means and methods of warfare which are in repugnance with the humanitarian rules both within their own territories and beyond national borders. The recent "Sindoor Operation" of India is the glaring example of it.This evolving landscape of warfare challenges the traditional classification of conflicts under International Humanitarian Law (IHL), which distinguishes between international and non-international armed conflicts. Despite these changes, the fundamental purpose of IHL remains unchanged that is to safeguard civilians and those no longer participating in hostilities, and to minimize unnecessary suffering during armed conflict. The applicability of IHL must be assessed through objective legal standards rather than left to the subjective judgement of the parties involved. This article seeks to highlight the role of Geneva Call regarding the Asymmetric nature of India military attack on Pakistan and assess how the Geneva Call can address and minimize the calamities posed by the Asymmetric Warfare (AW).
