Amid rising conflict globally, respect for humanitarian law is critical

Displaced Sudanese, who fled the Zamzam camp, gather near the town of Tawila in North Darfur on February 14, 2025. [Photo by AFP]

Those who do not learn from history, said philosopher George Santayana, are bound to repeat it. This means it is critical to learn from our past mistakes to avoid making them again. The history of the Geneva Conventions of 1949 is rooted in awareness of the devastating effects of war. During times of armed conflict, civilians sadly bear the greatest brunt of hostilities. While the theatres and methods of wars may change, this sad truth remains the reality of conflicts.

Yet, the universal ratification of the Geneva Conventions is a strong indicator of a global consensus that even wars have limits. They emphasise that despite the circumstances, we must always be guided by humanity and respect for human dignity.