The Effectiveness of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) In Preventing and   Mitigating the Impact of Armed Conflict in Sudan

NUWARINDA EMILLY

doi:10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.59550

The Effectiveness of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) In Preventing and Mitigating the Impact of Armed Conflict in Sudan

Author(s)	Ms. NUWARINDA EMILLY
Country	Uganda
Abstract	The conflict that erupted on 15 April 2023 between the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces severely impacted civilians, especially in Khartoum and Darfur. This study examined the effectiveness of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in preventing and mitigating the effects of armed conflict in Sudan. Its objectives were to assess the existing IHL framework, identify its achievements, and highlight its loopholes. A descriptive, qualitative, desktop research design was used, with data collected through documentary review and analysed thematically. The study found that Sudan is a party to key IHL instruments, including Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions, Additional Protocol II, Refugee Law, and Human Rights Law, which collectively provide essential protection to civilians. IHL obliges all parties to protect civilians, restrict methods of warfare, and allow impartial humanitarian assistance. However, these obligations have been poorly implemented in Sudan. Achievements of IHL remain limited. Widespread use of explosive weapons in populated areas, destruction of hospitals, schools, and essential infrastructure, and the placement of military objectives within civilian areas have resulted in extensive civilian harm. Humanitarian agencies face severe access restrictions due to ongoing hostilities. Although IHL requires care for the wounded and sick without discrimination, and mandates free passage of humanitarian relief, these protections have not been fully realized. The study concludes that while IHL provides a strong legal framework, its effectiveness in Sudan has been undermined by non-compliance. It recommends strengthened collaboration among humanitarian actors—particularly local and international NGOs, the ICRC, and the Sudanese Red Crescent Society—to promote respect for IHL and improve civilian protection. Further research was also suggested.
Keywords	International Humanitarian Law (IHL), Civilian Protection, Armed Conflict in Sudan, Humanitarian Access
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 6, November-December 2025
Published On	2025-11-09
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i06.59550

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The Effectiveness of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) In Preventing and Mitigating the Impact of Armed Conflict in Sudan

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