ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan
UNRCCA convened a session of the Preventive Diplomacy Academy (PDA) Cohort 2026 on “Humanitarian Action and International Humanitarian Law (IHL)” on 9 September, featuring experts from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The session aimed to strengthen the knowledge and practical skills of young professionals from Central Asia and Afghanistan in conflict prevention, preventive diplomacy and international cooperation. Participants explored the role of IHL in regulating armed conflict, protecting civilians and mitigating humanitarian consequences.
Mr. Mihail Rahmanov, Head of the ICRC Mission in Turkmenistan, introduced participants to the ICRC’s humanitarian mandate and operational principles. Mr. Marat Aminov, Legal Advisor at the ICRC Regional Delegation in Central Asia, provided an overview of the origins, legal foundations and contemporary application of IHL, including its incorporation into national legal frameworks in Central Asia and Afghanistan.
The discussion addressed emerging challenges to the implementation of IHL, including urban warfare, cyber operations, autonomous weapons and protracted conflicts, as well as the protection of vulnerable groups and the application of IHL in situations involving non-State armed groups and counter-terrorism operations.
Participants also discussed international efforts to strengthen political commitment to IHL, including the Global Initiative to Galvanize Political Commitment to International Humanitarian Law. Kazakhstan is among the initiative’s six founding States and has supported efforts to advance respect for and implementation of IHL at the international and regional levels.
The session concluded with an interactive dialogue, highlighting the relevance of IHL to humanitarian action, conflict prevention and preventive diplomacy. Through the PDA, UNRCCA continue to support the development of regional expertise and networks among young professionals working on peace and security in Central Asia and Afghanistan.
