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International Event on Humanitarian Law Underway in Havana.

CUBA, June 21, 2011.- The 5th International Conference: Havana 2011 Summer School on Public International Law and 7th Seminar-Workshop on International Humanitarian Law got underway Monday in Havana.  The event, which gathers experts from 11 countries at Havana’s National Hotel, will run until Friday, June 24th.

High on the event’s agenda are the concept of U.S. national security, U.S. violations of international law, terrorism and the role of the UN Security Council.

The conference is sponsored by the Cuban National Association of Jurists.  The opening lecture was delivered by Dr. Patrick Zahnd, legal advisor for Latin America with the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Zahnd said that international Humanitarian Law must prevail in today’s world, and he especially made reference to new non-international conflicts taking place around the world with an ever-increasing involvement of non-state players such as organized crime groups and private security enterprises or so-called ‘defense contractors’ hired by governments and acting illegally.

He said that “all States should respect Humanitarian Law because it guarantees protection of victims in perilous circumstances.” But he said that despite treaties, duties and signed commitments, violations are constantly being committed by State or “irregular” forces.

Another keynote speaker was the rector of the Havana-based Higher Institute of Foreign Relations, Isabel Allende, who regretted repeated violations of Humanitarian Law by the United States and its allies.

In this regard, she pointed out that Washington tries to maintain its control of the world at all costs and, in doing so, this has lead to wars against Afghanistan and Iraq, and now also against Libya. (Cubaminrex-RHC)

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