Amman: A specialized workshop on the Justice Ministry's role in implementing international humanitarian law (IHL) at the national level concluded Monday. The National Committee for International Humanitarian Law organized the workshop in cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Ministry of Justice for a group of ministry employees. It aimed to institutionalize knowledge management and strengthen awareness of IHL and its importance.
According to Jordan News Agency, National Committee Chairman Mamoun Khasawneh, during the workshop's opening, emphasized the ministry's pivotal role and legal expertise, which have been instrumental in Jordan's ratification of 14 international treaties and conventions, including the Rome Statute in 2002. He asserted that adherence to IHL principles, human rights, and human dignity is a crucial indicator of a nation's progress. Khasawneh further pointed out the challenges facing international law due to the influence of powerful states and rapid technological advancements, such as cyberattacks.
Khasawneh also underscored the ministry's digital transformation, the judiciary's efficiency, and its involvement in the National Committee for International Humanitarian Law. He lauded the efforts of His Majesty King Abdullah II, whose political acumen has maintained Jordan's security and stability in a region fraught with conflicts. He encouraged participants to thoroughly understand the provisions of IHL.
Hanan Khalaileh, Director of the Ministry of Justice Human Rights Directorate, expressed the ministry's commitment to supporting IHL implementation by aligning national legislation with Jordan's international obligations. She noted the ministry's role in responding to international reports, coordinating with the Foreign Ministry and other agencies, participating in international forums, and following up on recommendations from international human rights mechanisms. Khalaileh advocated for expanded cooperation with the committee to provide IHL training to Justice Ministry employees across all governorates.
International law experts contributed to the workshop by presenting papers on IHL principles, the 1949 Geneva Conventions, their additional protocols, national implementation mechanisms, and the global initiative to enhance political commitment to international law. The workshop also covered the Rome Statute, the International Court of Justice, rules for prosecuting international law violators, and the legal status of international corridors and straits under international law and maritime conventions.
Discussions during the workshop focused on the ministry's role in implementing IHL and the challenges international law faces amid developments in artificial intelligence, cyberwarfare, and technological change. The workshop also highlighted the ministry's commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting justice, equality, transparency, equal opportunity, protecting rights and freedoms, and advancing legislation across justice institutions.