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Learner Reviews & Feedback for International Humanitarian Law in Theory and Practice by Universiteit Leiden

4.8
stars
1,986 ratings

About the Course

“International Humanitarian Law in Theory and Practice” is the first MOOC of the Kalshoven-Gieskes Forum on International Humanitarian Law, which is the platform within the Grotius Centre for International Legal Studies of Leiden University for the research, teaching and dissemination of international humanitarian law (IHL). In this course, Prof. Robert Heinsch, Dr. Giulia Pinzauti and Dr. Emma Irving will give you a deep insight into the rules that govern armed conflict, and aim to mitigate human suffering on the battlefield. You will explore the why and how of IHL, followed by the different types of conflict. In no time you will find out which rules apply to the civil war in Syria, the military intervention in Ukraine and the occupation of the West Bank. During this course, you will learn how hostilities should be waged: Which weapons can be used by combatants and other fighters? And, who should never be a target during military operations? We will also look into the concept of protected persons, and you will find out how IHL affords protection to the sick and wounded, medical personal, detainees, children, journalists and other persons who are not - or not anymore - fighting. At the end of this course, you are introduced to the different implementation and enforcement mechanisms that aim to increase respect for IHL. Here, you are invited to think critically whether IHL works! Throughout this course you will benefit from a mix of theory and practice, which is at the heart of the vision and mandate of the Kalshoven-Gieskes Forum. You can participate for instance in an ongoing case study where drones are flying over the fictitious country Arfula, and detainees are locked up in tiny cells. Or, you can join our discussions about IHL success stories and the major IHL challenges we face today, with distinguished speakers from the International Committee of the Red Cross and US Naval War College! This course is free to join and to participate in. There is the possibility to get a verified certificate for the course, which is a paid option. If you want a certificate, but are unable to pay for it, you can request financial aid via Coursera....

Top reviews

AS

Dec 15, 2018

this course is helpful in basic understanding of IHL and in understanding the difference between Human rights laws and IHL enforcements . Teaching Faculty clarified simplified the overview very well.

VS

May 31, 2019

A really very wonderful, articulate and helpful course. The Professors were great with their knowledge and presentations. The practical insight given by the guest-speakers were just priceless.

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226 - 250 of 449 Reviews for International Humanitarian Law in Theory and Practice

By Ntsako C [

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Oct 4, 2023

It was a very good course which introduced me into the world of IHL

By Dragana D

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Aug 4, 2019

Interesting topics for further research applicable in ongoing cases

By Md L R L

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Apr 5, 2021

It was a great experience! The resources were really informative!

By Oleksandra V

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Sep 3, 2020

Thank you a lot, it was an interesting and useful course for me!

By Gabriele P A

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Jun 16, 2020

Useful and interesting I am happy I had the chance to finish it.

By agalassou a

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Jul 11, 2019

it was very interesting , now I understand IHL and i can move on

By Carl A

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Dec 5, 2018

Excellent integration of video, discussion, reading and quizzes.

By Samwel O

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Feb 12, 2025

Loved it, and would wish to join a fully online program on IHL.

By Taimoor R

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Sep 15, 2024

Exceptional way of delivering and organization. Thank you a lot

By Edésio 1

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Feb 7, 2023

The course is very comprehensive and has good quality material.

By Сергей J

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Apr 10, 2020

Such courses certainly make the world a better and safer place.

By Dania P P

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Jan 24, 2023

Muy buen curso. Mucha información muy útil. Muy buenas fuentes

By Daniel V M

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Apr 19, 2025

Excelente curso para conocer como debe de ser aplicado el DIH

By Toby F

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Nov 28, 2018

An excellent introduction and refresher - highly recommended!

By Justine D S

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Mar 22, 2024

I find this course helpful with my work in the armed forces.

By Jim P

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Nov 22, 2021

I enjoyed taking this course. Very informative and relevant.

By Martha O A

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Feb 27, 2021

This course gave me more insight to what IHL really entains.

By Sarah N

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Sep 4, 2020

The videos were great and the readings extremely informative

By Joshua C N

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Mar 13, 2025

The course refreshed and broadened my understanding of IHL.

By Jesus C

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Apr 3, 2022

An excellent course. Very informative and well developed.

By Elie A

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May 6, 2021

An excellent course indeed at all levels. Thank you again.

By David J

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Jan 31, 2025

Very informative if not a bit outdated on current events.

By Farangis Z

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Feb 10, 2022

A very well designed course. I believe you will enjoy it!

By Assumpta I

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Mar 29, 2021

I really enjoyed this course and it was also challenging.

By suman s

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Nov 10, 2024

Very helpfull to understand practical humanitarian laws