The Special Protection For Women from the effects of Armed Conflict in International Humanitarian Law.

Abstract

This thesis will focus on the special protection of women during armed conflict guaranteed by international humanitarian law, most of these being rooted in the Geneva Conventions. The contribution of international humanitarian law regarding protection of women from the effects of armed conflict and the assessment of protection provided, will be discussed. The feminist approach to international law which emphasises the life and experience of women will be discussed. The current situation and any potential violation of international law, even by omission is a key point. If feminist perspectives on international humanitarian law are accepted, it can be surmised that women have suffered a level of discrimination within international law and the alteration of wording of future legislation and increased representation of women as legislators is required to redress this balance.