DOI: https://doi.org/10.36719/2706-6185/46/122-129
Abdellah Drici
University Mohamed El Bachir El Ibrahimi of Bordj Bou Arreridj
https://orcid.org/0009-0000-4305-9529
abdellah.drici@univ-bba.dz
The Role of International Non-Governmental Organizations in Protecting
and Promoting the Rules of International Humanitarian Law and
Human Rights in Non-International Armed Conflicts
Abstract
This paper examines the role of international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) in promoting and protecting international humanitarian law (IHL) and human rights in non-international armed conflicts (NIACs). INGOs play a critical role in monitoring compliance with IHL, advocating for the enforcement of human rights standards, and providing humanitarian assistance. The study explores how INGOs engage with regional human rights mechanisms, including the European, American, and African human rights systems, to address violations and hold perpetrators accountable. Additionally, the research highlights INGOs’ contributions to legal and institutional reforms by providing expertise, publishing shadow reports, and supporting national and international initiatives to strengthen IHL. Beyond legal advocacy, INGOs also play a key role in direct humanitarian intervention. They facilitate prisoner exchanges, medical aid, and civilian protection efforts, helping mitigate the impact of armed conflicts. The paper further discusses INGOs’ efforts in spreading awareness of IHL among military personnel and civilians, emphasizing the importance of legal education and training. Despite these contributions, INGOs face significant challenges, including state resistance, funding limitations, and political constraints that hinder their effectiveness. The findings underscore the necessity of strengthening cooperation between INGOs, national governments, and international institutions to enhance the implementation of IHL and human rights protections. Greater emphasis on education, policy reform, and enforcement mechanisms is essential to ensure broader compliance with legal standards in conflict settings.
Keywords: International non-governmental organizations, human rights, international humanitarian law, armed conflict, legal advocacy, humanitarian assistance