Human Shields and the regulation of armed conflict: key issues and challenges

The phenomenon of human shields has long been one of the most controversial topics in the regulation of armed conflict. This panel of international experts seeks to delve deeper into this issue and clarify the debates surrounding it. Questions discussed will include: Which party – the attacker or the defender – has the greater responsibility to avoid casualties among the human shields? Is the distinction between voluntary and involuntary human shields practically realistic and legally relevant? How is the proportionality rule affected by the use of human shields? The panel will present their analysis and views on these and other aspects of the phenomenon, followed by a question and answer sessions with the audience.