RDF AND ICRC CONVENE SYMPOSIUM ON INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW AND CIVILIAN PROTECTION

Kigali, 21 October 2025

The Rwanda Defence Force (MOD/RDF), in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), today held a one-day International Humanitarian Law Symposium in Kigali under the theme “International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and the Protection of Civilians in Contemporary Conflicts.”

The symposium brought together  participants from national institutions, including the MOD/RDF, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MINAFET), Ministry in Charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA), National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), Rwanda National Police (RNP), Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS), the Dallaire Institute, and various academic and humanitarian organisations.

The Head of Operations in the Rwanda Defence Force, Brig Gen Cooper Mike Mujuni, speaking on behalf of the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, commended the strong collaboration between the ICRC and MOD/RDF. He noted that “This partnership stands as a remarkable example of how cooperation between national defence institutions and humanitarian organisations can foster peace, stability, and respect for human dignity. It reflects the RDF’s commitment not only to safeguarding national security but also to upholding international humanitarian law and protecting vulnerable populations during conflict or crisis.”

The Head of Mission for the ICRC in Rwanda, Ms Katia Sorin, expressed appreciation to the Rwanda Defence Force for organising the event, noting that it reflects the strong partnership between the ICRC and the Government of Rwanda—built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to humanity.

Ms Sorin reminded participants that the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols form the cornerstone of International Humanitarian Law, protecting those not taking part in hostilities; such as civilians and health workers; as well as those no longer participating, including the wounded, sick, shipwrecked soldiers, and prisoners of war.

She encouraged participants to explore practical ways of working together to limit harm to civilians and safeguard the most vulnerable during armed conflicts.