(Section-A)
1 Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Today’s wars have little in common with the battles of the 19th century. The fighting has
gradually moved from clearly defined battlefields to populated areas. Traditional war be
tween armies of opposing states is the exception, while non-international conflicts have be
come the norm. Nowadays, civilians bear the brunt of armed conflicts.
International humanitarian law has adapted to this change Appalled by the destruction and
suffering caused by the Second World War, states agreed in the four Geneva Conventions of
1949 on comprehensive protection for those who are not or are no longer participating in
hostilities wounded and sick soldiers, prisoners of war and civilians This comerstone of
international humanitarian law was supplemented in 1977 and 2005 by three additional pro
tocols. The use of certain weapons, such as biological or chemical weapons, cluster
munitions and anti-personnel mines is now widely outlawed. The law has placed barners to
protect the most vulnerable from the brutality of war Its implementation has also seen a
certain amount of progress, such as in the training of soldiers or in the prosecution of the
worst war crimes, thanks in particular to the founding of the International Criminal Court
(ICC).
Nevertheless, regular serious breaches of international humanitarian law are a cause of
suffering Underlying it all is our collective failure. The Contracting States undertook in
Article 1 common to the four Geneva Conventions of 1949 to respect and to ensure
respect for these Conventions in all circumstances. International humanitarian law has, since
its conception, lacked mechanisms for encouraging effective compliance This impotence
has often meant death and destruction for those affected by war
Since the adoption of the first Geneva Convention 150 years ago, international humanitarian
law has become a central pillar of the international legal order Ultimately its provisions
serve to protect our key characteristic as human beings. our humanity. This is an irrevocable
right. It is based on the belief, forged over centuries and in all our cultures, according to
which it is essential to lay down rules if we want to prevent wars from degenerating into
barbarism It is up to our generation to consolidate these achievements and to create an
institutional framework to ensure these rules are respected If it is to be fully effective, the
law needs suitable instruments. Never in the history of humankind have we been closer to a
solution than we are today.
a) Answer the following questions briefly(Do any five). 5x 2 = 10
1. How are today’s wars different from the wars of the 19th century?
2 What was the significant change brought about by the Geneva Conventions of 19497
3. What is the state of its implementation?
4. What is the reason behind the regular breaches of the IHL?
5 How can the law become completely effective?
6. Do you agree with the author that we are closer to a solution today than ever before
Answer:
omg this question is so long please write it short