Global conflicts pushing humanitarian law to breaking point, report warns

Al JazeeraCenterEN 6 min read 100% complete by Simon Speakman CordallFebruary 3, 2026 at 06:22 PM

AI Summary

long article 6 min

A new report by the Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights warns that international humanitarian law is under unprecedented strain due to ongoing global conflicts. The "War Watch" report, covering July 2024 to December 2025, examined 23 conflicts and found widespread violations, including attacks on civilians, murder, torture, and rape. Conflicts in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, Myanmar, and other locations demonstrate a disregard for laws designed to protect vulnerable populations. The report highlights a perceived lack of willingness among warring parties to limit violence against civilians and a retreat by the United States from its role in upholding these laws, contributing to the erosion of humanitarian protections.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Nigeria 40% Haiti 40% Ethiopia 40% Yemen 40% Myanmar ×250% United States 60% Sudan 60% Ukraine ×260% Palestinians ×270% Gaza ×380% Israel ×380% Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights ×390%

Keywords

international humanitarian law 100% armed conflict 80% civilian targeting 80% geneva academy 70% human rights 60% war crimes 60% gaza 50% genocide 50% impunity 50% ukraine 40%