International Human Rights Law (IHRL) and International Humanitarian Law (IHL) are two different branches of the legal system, however, they are complementary in the sense that both deal with the protection of life, health and human dignity. While IHL applies specifically to situations of armed conflict (international or not), IHRL applies in all occasions: whether in times of peace or in times of war. For this reason, it is a priority need to determine and implement appropriate actions so that the principles and norms of IHRL and IHL are adequately incorporated into the military doctrines of the Armed Forces of our Member States.
The Inter-American Defense Board (IADB), as part of the Organization of American States (OAS), has the purpose of “Providing the OAS and its member states with technical, consultative and educational advisory services on topics related to military and defense matters.” in the Hemisphere to contribute to the fulfillment of the OAS Charter.”
In this context, the IADB has the mission of promoting respect for International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights in the Armed Forces and security forces of the hemisphere.
The IADB has sought to lead actions to promote respect for International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights in the Armed and Security Forces of the Hemisphere. In addition, it seeks to promote the exchange of knowledge, inviting Member Countries to provide information on lessons learned in the application of IHL and IHRL in their respective Armed Forces.
Considering the mandates of the OAS related to International Human Rights Law (IHRL) and International Humanitarian Law and the interest that the topic arouses among the Member States accredited to this Board, the IADB works in close collaboration with the OAS, providing technical and advisory advice, promoting awareness and the exchange of practical and legal experiences among countries.
To this end, it seeks to expand its network of contacts and promote the discussion of these issues through the organization, implementation and participation in events (seminars, conferences, workshops, panels and/or meetings), in coordination with the Armed Forces, International Organizations and related entities in the academic field and experts, with the aim of promoting respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law, as well as promoting the dissemination and promotion of this topic.
The Inter-American Defense Board (IADB) is an institution of the Organization of American States (OAS) that promotes cooperation in security and defense among the countries of the Americas, facilitating dialogue and collaboration on military and civil issues.
