Document Type

Blog Post

Publication Date

10-5-2024

Abstract

The resulting devastation of World War II produced a need for rules of engagement and protection of innocent civilians. Nevertheless, an increasing number of armed conflicts are currently being fought in dense urban environments. As a result, the risk of collateral damage and harm to civilians has drastically increased, making it significantly more difficult to adhere to international humanitarian law (“IHL”) and the rules of war.

Ensuring civilians caught in the crossfire get the necessary humanitarian aid and coordinating with all stakeholders is incredibly complex. This process of protecting civilians in active war zones and generally upholding humanitarian law is something I shorthand as “battlefield humanitarianism.” The ongoing Israel-Gaza war has created a sense of urgency in delivering aid in chaotic and dangerous environments, further complicated by reports of Hamas diverting resources and depriving civilians of essential aid. This blog explores the role of Alternative Dispute Resolution (“ADR”) in mitigating humanitarian crises during urban conflicts. Despite the complexities, ADR offers potential pathways for promoting ceasefires and facilitating humanitarian efforts, even as urban warfare intensifies decision-making challenges.

The print edition of the issue has also been released. This post was originally published on the Cardozo Journal of Conflict Resolution website on October 5 , 2024.

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