Topic: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests
Q4. “Targeting civilian infrastructure during conflicts undermines the norms of international humanitarian law.” Examine this assertion. Assess the challenges in enforcing such norms. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: NIE
Why the question
Rising instances of attacks on civilian infrastructure in contemporary conflicts like West Asia highlight concerns over weakening international humanitarian norms and enforcement gaps.Key Demand of the question
The question requires examining how targeting civilian infrastructure violates core principles of international humanitarian law and then assessing the practical challenges in enforcing these norms globally.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly highlight evolution and significance of international humanitarian law and relevance in modern warfare.Body
- Violation of IHL principles: Show how attacks undermine distinction, proportionality and protection of civilian objects.
- Enforcement challenges: Bring out issues like weak global mechanisms, geopolitical interests, legal ambiguities and technological complexities.
Conclusion
Provide a forward-looking line on strengthening accountability and reinforcing a rules-based global order.
