The Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949 are 75 years old. Ratified by 196 States, the conventions were negotiated in the aftermath of World War Two to ensure ‘rules of fair conduct in war’ and to ensure the principal of humanity prevailed. Long upheld, they have become increasingly challenged on the modern ‘battlefield’ and often shamelessly disregarded. Are the Geneva Conventions still fit for purpose? What actions can States take to ensure their effective implementation or accountability for serious violations?
Join us on September 5 to discuss the history and relevance of the Geneva Conventions, 75 years later, with John Packer (HRREC) and Fanny Dagenais-Dion (CRC).
John Packer is Neuberger-Jesin Professor of International Conflict Resolution in the Faculty of Law and Director of the Human Rights Research and Education Centre at the University of Ottawa. Over his academic career (Essex Law, Fletcher/Tufts, KSG/Harvard, Lauterpacht/Cambridge), following 20 years as an intergovernmental official (UNHCR, ILO, OHCHR, UNDPPA, OSCE), Prof Packer has investigated and reported upon serious violations of human rights in several countries (notably Afghanistan, Burma/Myanmar, Iraq), advised conflict actors in over fifty countries notably in situations of intense inter-community disputes including genocides or risks of genocide, and contributed to the development of international instruments and mechanisms to address, prevent, resolve and repair harms. In recent years, he has contributed to major reports on the genocides against the Rohingya, Uyghurs, Ukrainians, and Tigrayans and commented publicly on other situations including testimonies before a number of parliaments. Since 2014, he has served as the Director of the University of Ottawa’s annual Summer School on International Humanitarian Law.
Fanny Dagenais-Dion is a lawyer registered with the Quebec Bar. She currently works in the International Humanitarian Law Unit at the Canadian Red Cross. In this role, she contributes to the dissemination of IHL, particularly among the Canadian Armed Forces and the academic community. Fanny is also pursuing a master’s degree in international law at the UQAM, focusing her research on the military commanders’ legal responsibility to prevent sexual violence in armed conflict. Before joining the Red Cross, Fanny also worked in Guatemala with a local human rights organization, representing victims of armed conflict.
Moderated by Ruby Dagher
Ruby Dagher is Chair of the G78 Peace and Security Working Group. Besides being a member of the Board and Executive Committee of the G78, Ruby is an assistant professor (replacement) on the faculty of the School of International Development and Global Studies. Her research interests encompass the Middle East, Development Economics, War and Peace Studies, and legitimacy in post-conflict states, among other topics. Ruby obtained her Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration from Carleton University in 2017. She has worked in the private sector, the public sector, and academia. Our event takes place on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at the University of Ottawa and is an IN PERSON EVENT only. As there is limited seating, registration is REQUIRED to attend. Please follow the link below to register.