Fundamental Principles & International Humanitarian Law Guo Yang, Senior Political Advisor, ICRC Beijing 22 October 2015, Beijing China

Outlines Origines of Fundamental Principles Connotations of FPs; FPs and IHL; Safer Access Framework; FPs and SAF; Conclusion: FPs and effective humanitarian actions

FPs: Origins 1859: Solferino battlefield – neutral & impartial assitance; 1875: 4 basic working principles – foresight, solidarity, centralization, mutality; 1921: ICRC Statute: -impartiality, independence, universality, equality; 1946: Federation – Declaration; 1965 – 20th Intl’RC Conference;

FPs: Connotations Humamnity; Impartiality; Neutrality; Independence; Voluntary service; Unity; Universality;

FPs & IHL Reference: Art. 44, GCI & Art.81, API; Designation: Art.9,10 of GC I,II,III & IV; Comm.Art.3 to GCs. Requirements: CIHL rules: 55 & 56

Attention to operational relevance of FPs Lack of in-depth knowledge and training; Inconsistent application; External challenges;

SAFER ACCESS Increasing acceptance, security and access to people and communities in need PRACTICAL RESOURCE PACK

Eelements of Safter Acess Framwork

“How to use the Fundamental Principles is to live them”

Effective humanitarian aid Perception Action Programmes Acceptante Authorities, arms carriers, beneficiaries Access Reaching beneficiaries

Thank you!