ACMC convened a Protection of Civilian (POC) course to examine how to safeguard human lives and dignity in situations of armed conflict.
The two-day course in Canberra featured presentations from Australian and international presenters including Lieutenant General (Ret) John Frewen AO, RedR CEO Dr Helen Durham, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Australian Red Cross, the University of NSW and the United States Civilian Protection Center of Excellence.
The course built participants’ awareness of core POC principles and frameworks and included sessions focussed on the Laws of Armed Conflict, socially inclusive protection approaches, cultural property protection and the implications of climate change for POC.
“Even in conflict, civilians are entitled to safety and humane treatment. It’s important that we discuss the rules and frameworks under International Humanitarian Law, and think of how they might be applied in future scenarios. ACMC courses provide a unique opportunity for policy and operational staff from across government and beyond to discuss these issues together,” said ACMC Executive Director Nicola Rosenblum.
The course culminated in a simulation exercise facilitated by RedR Australia that tested participants on how they would respond to organising an evacuation of civilians affected by war.
For further information on ACMC’s commitment to advancing POC: visit https://acmc.gov.au/why-were-here/protection-of-civilians
