Civilian Harm

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Palestinians watch smoke billowing during Israeli strikes upon arrival on a coastal path

International Lawyers Unite in Joint Statement on Gaza

An eight-point statement signed by 270 international law scholars demonstrates a convergence of views on Gaza and international law.
An infantry recruit of the 28th Seperate Mechanized Brigade runs from a simulated drone attack during a basic training course at an undislosed location in eastern Ukraine on October 11, 2025. (Photo by ED JONES/AFP via Getty Images)

Drones are Changing How Wars Harm Civilians

Drones are rapidly changing war. Without urgent, collective action, their use will lead to greater civilian harm in conflicts.
A man stands in front of military vehicles

As Europe Rearms, Learn from the Pentagon’s Efforts to Modernize Civilian Protection

European militaries can adapt and operationalize civilian protection as they increase defense spending to protect themselves against Russia.
Brazilian indigenous people and others take part in a demonstration called by Stop Ecocide International (SEI) for the recognition of ecocide as an international crime, on October 20, 2022 outside the European Council in Brussels where EU leaders were gathered for a summit. (Photo by KENZO TRIBOUILLARD/AFP via Getty Images)

Attacks on Nature, Atrocities Against People: The Case for Environmental Harm as a 12th Crime Against Humanity

Addressing the global environmental crisis requires urgent action, and this new treaty offers States an unprecedented opportunity to confront it directly and decisively.
Military justice image

US Servicemembers’ Exposure to Criminal Liability for Lethal Strikes on Narcoterrorists

Analysis by former career judge advocate officer and former court-martial prosecutor.

The United States’ Dirty War on “Narco Terrorism”

By Professor Ben Saul, the Challis Chair of International Law at University of Sydney and United Nations Special Rapporteur.
Crew members of the US Navy warship USS Sampson (DDG 102) are pictured at the Amador International Cruise Terminal in Panama City on September 02, 2025. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on September 1, 2025, that eight US military vessels with 1,200 missiles were targeting his country, which he declared to be in a state of "maximum readiness to defend" itself. (Photo by MARTIN BERNETTI/AFP via Getty Images)

Using Labels, Not Law, to Justify Lethal Force: Inside the Venezuelan Boat Strike

Applying a new label to an old problem does not transform the problem. Nor does it grant the U.S. president or the U.S. military expanded legal authority to kill civilians.
Yemeni rescuers transport the bodies of victims pulled from the rubble of a building hit in US strikes in the northern province of Saada on April 28, 2025. Huthi media in Yemen said on April 28 that US strikes targeted a migrant detention centre in Saada, killing at least 68 people. (Photo by -/AFP via Getty Images)

In Preparing for Large-Scale Conflicts, States Neglect Lessons on Civilian Protection at Their Peril

A new assessment shows that, among the U.S., the U.K., and the Netherlands, none are prepared for the challenges of protecting civilians.
The Just Security Podcast

The Just Security Podcast: Ukraine’s Resistance to Russia’s Invasion — The Other Mobilization

As millions of Ukrainians face the devastation of their communities, volunteers—especially women—have stepped up to support the nation’s survival. 
Palestinians walk carrying sacks of flour

הזמן אזל: הרעבה המונית בעזה וחובתו של העולם

הזמן אזל: הרעבה המונית בעזה וחובתו של העולם
cloud of smoke erupting following Israeli bombardment on a building

“Lies, Damned Lies, and Statistics”: The Legality of Statistical Proportionality

Israel's practice of statistical proportionality should be considered to violate the legal duty to take feasible precautions in attacks.
Palestinians walk carrying sacks of flour

Time Has Run Out: Mass Starvation in Gaza and the Global Imperative

It is time for comprehensive, full-spectrum, sustainable, and coordinated humanitarian action. States globally must act without delay on that imperative.
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