The Effectiveness of International Humanitarian Law in Protecting Civilians in Syria’s Non-International Armed Conflicts

Abstract

Syria had more than 11 years of conflicts, where armed forces severely violated International Humanitarian Law. The time the law becomes applicable and the lack of sanctions after violating the International Humanitarian Law caused limited compliance with the law. Despite the limitations, International Humanitarian Law is still effective in protecting and encouraging the humanitarian works of the International Committee of the Red Cross and setting the legal framework to limit the degree of conflicts. Based on the limitations, this paper will provide some sound suggestions to improve compliance with the law.