This course is particularly useful for professionals working in conflict areas where they may be required to engage with military personnel, armed groups and victims of armed conflict.

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Purpose
The purpose of the course is to provide an opportunity for participants to acquire and refine the necessary professional skills to address humanitarian challenges through the framework of International humanitarian law.
International humanitarian law (IHL) is the body of international law which regulates armed conflict including military occupation.

This course will offer operational training and instruction on IHL and particular focus will be put on the role and responsibility of civil society with regard to IHL.

Interested participants should be
• Mid-career and senior management professionals seeking to benefit from a broader understanding of humanitarian issues and principles;
• Professionals holding positions in organizations or institutions which would allow them to implement the theoretical, policy and operational learning gained from the ATHA course;
• Individuals with prior exposure to the application or theory of humanitarian issues and/or development work.

Content and method
The course of study will encompass lectures, small working groups, simulations and policy discussions. Selected topics will include:
• Introduction to IHL: basic principles, sources of law and applicability
• Interplay between IHL and Human Rights Law
• Implementation, Monitoring and Enforcement of IHL
• Distinction between Civilians and Combatants
• Conduct of Hostilities
• Current Challenges

Application
Professional affiliation with an organization or institution is a requisite for participation in the course. Thus individuals interested in applying to the course are asked to submit applications in conjunction with their employing organization.

Selection of course participants will be based on qualifications related to professional experience and interest in the sphere of humanitarian action, as indicated on the application form. A selection will be made with a view to inviting a diverse and wide range of participants.

All interested applicants should complete the Application Form.

Contact and Inquiries
Questions concerning the content of the course should be addressed to Maja Edfast, ATHA Project Coordinator, e-mail: maja.edfast@sida.se, phone:+46 (0)8-698 40 71 or Eileen Tufay, Project Coordinator HPCR International, e-mail: etufay@hpcr.org.

Administrative questions concerning lodging, venue, meals etc should be addressed to Sara Hurtig Course Administrator, e-mail: sara.hurtig@sida.se, phone +46 (0)8-698 4044