The recent 34th South Asia Training Session (SATS) on International Humanitarian Law brought together 34 participants from eight countries Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Organized by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) New Delhi Regional Delegation in collaboration with the ICRC Nepal Office, the training marked a return to in-person sessions following a brief hiatus.
Representing Bhutan at the event were Mr. Tshoejab Mepham Delen, Legal Adviser of BRCS; Col. Karma Lodey Samphel from the Royal Bhutan Army; and Mr. Tashi Penjor from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade. They joined foreign ministry officials, defense and national society representatives, academics, and legal professionals across the region.
The training featured 15 thematic sessions facilitated by ICRC legal advisors, thematic experts, and SATS alumni. Through lectures, panel discussions, case studies, group work, and peer-to-peer exchanges, participants developed foundational knowledge of IHL and examined its application to contemporary challenges.
Topics included the conduct of hostilities and use of force, protecting civilians and cultural property, IHLโs relevance in peacekeeping and post-conflict scenarios, and the impact of new technologies on warfare. Participants highlighted the training as an invaluable platform for deepening expertise and fostering dialogue on the evolving role of IHL.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Royal Government of Bhutan
International Committee of the Red Cross
