Hanoi – A specialized training course focusing on International Humanitarian Law for Vietnamese peacekeepers opened on November 27, coordinated by the Vietnam Department of Peacekeeping Operations in collaboration with the Ministry of National Defence and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
According to Vietnam News Agency, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Department of Peacekeeping Operations, the four-day training course is designed to equip 156 trainees with fundamental knowledge of International Humanitarian Law. The course covers topics such as the conflict environment, protected persons under the law, and the nature of violations. This initiative marks the first training session for participants in Vietnam’s Level-2 Field Hospital Rotation 6 and Engineering Unit Rotation 3, who are preparing for United Nations peacekeeping missions in South Sudan and Abyei.
Colonel Canh highlighted the importance of understanding the conflict environment and international principles of humanitarian and human rights in adequately preparing Vietnamese peacekeepers for their roles. The training course also aims to strengthen cooperation between Vietnam and the ICRC in the realm of United Nations peacekeeping.
Lloyd Gillett, a senior expert on armed forces from ICRC Bangkok, emphasized that the training includes learning about the law on military operations and the application of International Humanitarian Law in peace support activities. It also covers commanders’ responsibilities and issues related to sexual violence in conflicts. Gillett pointed out that International Humanitarian Law is not merely a set of rules to be followed but a crucial tool for commanders at all levels to develop military plans.
Since 2015, the ICRC has supported the Vietnam Department of Peacekeeping Operations in organizing similar training activities. The two sides have consistently worked to maintain these important training activities, even during challenging periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic.