Theme of the Volume

The main theme of this volume of the Yearbook of International Humanitarian Law is the development and interpretation of international humanitarian law (IHL). It is elaborated upon in several chapters that examine the role of non-state armed groups in the development and interpretation of IHL, the impact of international criminal law on the development of IHL, the notion of external non-international armed conflicts, and the regulation of prolonged occupation under international law.

Targeting in Armed Conflicts

The second theme of this volume is dedicated to targeting in armed conflicts. Specific topics include precautions in attack in urban and siege warfare, the targeting of the Islamic State’s religious personnel in Iraq and Syria, and the targeting of illicit crops through aerial spraying in Colombia. Besides the chapters that address both themes, this volume also contains a Year in Review describing the most important events and legal developments that took place in 2017.

About the Yearbook

The Yearbook of International Humanitarian Law is the world’s only annual publication devoted to the study of the laws governing armed conflict. It provides a truly international forum for high-quality, peer-reviewed academic articles focusing on this crucial branch of international law. Distinguished by contemporary relevance, the Yearbook of International Humanitarian Law bridges the gap between theory and practice and serves as a useful reference tool for scholars, practitioners, military personnel, civil servants, diplomats, human rights workers and students.