Evolution of International Humanitarian Law and War: Crime in International Proportions

Abstract

The involvement of States in dispute over power, the ethnic, cultural and religious diversity of the human element that composes these States, the terrorist threat, as well as economic and technological development, underpin and imply an increase in the destructive power of armed conflicts, a cruel and sad reality of the history of humanity. Wounds, mutilations, displacements and suffering of people, destruction of the environment and goods shock the world. Thus, at first, this study presents the historical bases that determined the creation of humanitarian law. After, it makes considerations about its framework and some scores on the sad consequences of the war. Humanitarian law must be considered fundamental to any legal system, even overlapping with the internal norms of States, which shows the recognition of the link between the internal plan and the international reality. It is necessary to understand that a society free from impunity, based on a culture of responsibility and committed to the construction of truth and justice, establishes solid pillars in the search for fulfillment and respect for humanitarian law and human rights.