International Law in Armed Conflict

About

International Law in Armed Conflict

The Essex Human Rights Centre and the Essex Armed Conflict and Crisis Hub are once again presenting their successful practical development course in 2026, taught by leading practitioners in the field of international Human Rights and Armed Conflict.

Dates: Monday 3 to Friday 7 August 2026
Time: Monday lunchtime and finishing Friday lunchtime with the sessions Tuesday to Thursday running between 9am to 5pm (lunch and refreshments are provided)
Format: In-person at University of Essex, Colchester Campus

The content of the course is suitable for practitioners - from the humanitarian and human rights world as well as staff from government and international bodies - intending to gain an understanding of the legal frameworks for regulating armed conflict.
It is also suited to post-graduate students and academics seeking knowledge in this field. A law degree is not required, but some familiarity with international law is recommended.

All sessions will include an interactive approach combining presentations, discussion, and case-studies.

What you'll gain

 Overview of legal frameworks and bodies
 International and Non-International Armed Conflicts
 Targeting and Conduct of Hostilities
 Protection of Civilians and Detainees
 Refugees and Displaced Persons
 International Criminal Law
 Implementation and National Investigations
 Human Rights in Armed Conflict
 Current & Future Challenges

For more information and how to apply then please see our webpage https://www.essex.ac.uk/short-courses/international-law-in-armed-conflict

For any enquires please contact the Summer Schools and Short Courses Hub on summerschoolsandshortcourses@essex.ac.uk

Target group

The content of the course is suitable for practitioners - from the humanitarian and human rights world as well as staff from government and international bodies - intending to gain an understanding of the legal frameworks for regulating armed conflict.

It is also suited to postgraduate students and academics seeking knowledge in this field. A law degree is not required, but some familiarity with international law is recommended.

The course is delivered entirely in English. Thus, you are required to be highly competent in English.

Course aim

In taking this course participants will:

 learn the underlying legal principles and frameworks regulating armed conflicts
 acquire insight into the challenges of implementing these rules in practice
 become familiar with the rules governing conduct of hostilities, including distinction, proportionality, and use of weapons
 gain an understanding of the protections provided to detainees, civilians in occupied territory, and other affected populations
 learn about the legal frameworks and bodies providing protection to refugees and internally displaced persons
 understand how implementation and enforcement mechanisms seek to ensure accountability at national and international levels
 learn about current and future challenges to regulating armed conflict arising from technologies such as cyber operations and artificial intelligence

Fee info