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This course introduces the foundational concepts and principles of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) within conflict settings.
With a focus on legal literacy, participants explore key treaties, IHL principles (such as distinction, necessity, and proportionality), and the responsibilities of parties to a conflict.
Emphasis is placed on practical applications of IHL to protect civilians and aid humanitarian workers in securing access to affected populations.
The course runs from April to July each year.
It is developed over 8 weeks for non-credit and 11 weeks for those taking the course for credits.
This includes 2 reading weeks, 6 interactive weeks and for those taking the course for credits 3 weeks for finalising assessments.
Most of the course is asynchronous except for a one hour per week webinar. It is designed to be accessible for learners working full time.
Designed and delivered jointly by the Centre for Development and Emergency Practice (CENDEP) of Oxford Brookes University and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
Humanitarian Action and Peacebuilding courses give you an unique access to resources, experts and support
from both institutions.
For those following the credit-rated route, credit from this module can be counted towards
the the PGCert/MA Humanitarian Action and Peacebuilding after completion.
Course content
Course content
The Concepts and Principles of International Humanitarian Law course covers four core themes to establish
a strong foundation in legal principles for humanitarian contexts:
Introduction to IHL Concepts and Principles: Examines the purpose of IHL, including protections for persons and property, and restrictions on methods of warfare.
Sources and Key Treaties of IHL: Explores foundational treaties, such as the Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols, and customary IHL.
Key Provisions and Applicability: Covers principles like distinction, necessity, proportionality, humane treatment, and non-discrimination, focusing on their relevance to humanitarian workers and peacebuilders.
Implications for Humanitarian Action and Peacebuilding: Examines the right to humanitarian assistance, rules governing aid delivery, and obligations to protect civilians and aid workers.
Learning outcomes
Learning outcomes
This course emphasizes practical applications of IHL,
enhancing legal literacy and analytical skills essential for humanitarian professionals in conflict settings.
(Application-Oriented Learning)
Demonstrate legal literacy in IHL concepts and principles, focusing on civilian protection.
Analyse IHL’s applicability to protect affected populations.
Understand key provisions, including principles of distinction, necessity, proportionality, and humane treatment.
Recognise IHL rules concerning the protection of vulnerable groups, emphasising non-discrimination.
Why is this course unique?
Why is this course unique?
Expert Instruction: Led by practitioners, experts and experienced field professionals, the course provides a comprehensive view of IHL principles and their application in conflict settings.
Flexible Learning: Designed for professionals with work commitments, this mostly asynchronous course includes limited, flexible synchronous sessions, coordinated through participant polling to suit varying schedules.
Credit and Non-Credit Options: Can be taken for credit towards the MA in Humanitarian Action and Peacebuilding or as a standalone course. Credit-bearing participation includes assessments and a transcript, while the non-credit route provides a certificate of attendance.
This module is led by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) in cooperation with the Queen’s Award-winning Centre for Development and Emergency Practice (CENDEP) at Oxford Brookes University.
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
This course is for practitioners already working in the humanitarian, conflict transformation
and peacebuilding fields and in related areas (diplomacy, journalism…) who wish to continue their professional development,
and practitioners working in other fields interested in exploring opportunities in these areas.
Course fees
Course fees
For Credit: £1,145
Non-credit: £600
Application deadlines:
Credit rated: January 10th 2025
Non-credit rated (certificate of attendance): March 28th 2025
Cancellation policy
In case the course is cancelled, all registered participants will receive a 100% refund.
In case you need to cancel your booking, the following will apply:
Credit rated: A 50% refund will be issued if the cancellation is made up to and on 10 January. No refund will be provided in case of cancellations made after 10 January.
Non-credit rated: A 50% refund will be issued if the cancellation is made up to and on 28 March. No refund will be provided in case of cancellations made after 28 March.
Contact us
Contact us
If you have any enquiries about the course, please email us at: bpiquard@brookes.ac.uk
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