This course examines international humanitarian law (IHL) - the law that regulates the conduct of hostilities once the decision to resort to force has been taken. This course will deal with fundamental concepts of IHL, including the Geneva Conventions, the Protocols thereto, and customary international law. Basic legal concepts that will be discussed include State and individual responsibility, the distinction between combatants and civilians, and the principles of discrimination and proportionality. The course will also examine topics such as weaponry, international and non-international conflicts, gender-specific issues in armed conflict, and the enforcement of IHL. The course will take a critical look at whether (and how) IHL remains relevant and adequate in the contemporary and future theatres of warfare. Note: This course does not deal with the jus ad bellum, or the rules relating to the general prohibition on the use of force in international law.