GENEVA CALL

Our strategy is based on humanitarian engagement, a sustained and constructive process of interaction with AGDAs that can take various forms and uses different commitment tools.

First, we begin talking with armed groups and de facto authorities (AGDAs) that often are responsible for violating the norms – then we keep the conversation going.

Over time we work to persuade them that the norms – which are based on international humanitarian law (IHL) and international human rights law (IHRL) – exist for good reason. They benefit everyone and protect the most vulnerable, particularly women, children, and marginalized groups most at risk. Many of these norms are already reflected in local customs and values and making the connection to international humanitarian principles is very important to cement the IHL training as long-term behavioral change.

We engage with AGDAs strictly in humanitarian terms. We talk with them about their obligations under international humanitarian law and relevant international human rights law [see below for more detail]. Even if sometimes we facilitate their entry into mediation processes, our work in no way changes the legal status of AGDAs.

We engage with them in a process that can take years of discussions to build trust. That’s why our dedicated staff is on the ground in several countries around the world. We also lead by example, and the diversity of our dedicated staff ensures we build trust with a diverse range of stakeholders.