The International Humanitarian Fact-Finding Commission completed its Annual Meeting in Geneva on the 13th of February.
The Commission is established pursuant to the First Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions for the protection of the victims of armed conflicts. Its statutory function is to conduct inquiries where there are allegations of violations of the Conventions and the Protocol. In fulfilling the role entrusted to it by the Protocol, it has reviewed current armed conflicts and noted with regret and dismay the numerous allegations of violations of international humanitarian law.
The Commission reiterates its conviction that the clarification of the facts concerning alleged violations of the law remains necessary, would contribute to a restoration of respect for international humanitarian law and could be conducive to the re-establishment of confidence between the parties. Thus, such clarification would facilitate the return to peace. The Commission reminds all actors concerned that it is at their disposal to fulfil this important humanitarian task.
