Webster University

12/02/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/02/2024 14:18

Webster Geneva Hosts 29th Annual International Humanitarian and Security Conference

Webster Geneva Hosts 29th Annual International Humanitarian and Security Conference

December 02, 2024

The 29th Annual International Humanitarian and Security Conference (IHSC), organized by the International Relations Program at Webster Geneva, brought together policymakers, academics, humanitarian experts and students to address the theme, "The Resurgence of Conflicts: Challenges to Existing Security, Humanitarian, and Human Rights Frameworks." The event, held at the International Conference Centre Geneva (CICG), sparked critical discussions on some of today's most pressing international challenges.

Conference attendees wait to register at the Geneva International Conference Center.

Exploring the Resurgence of Conflicts

With ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza and other regions of the world, the sessions illuminated the increasing complexities in maintaining global peace and upholding international humanitarian law. Marking the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, speakers reflected on the relevance and efficacy of these pivotal legal frameworks amid modern warfare.

Ryan Guffey, Webster director general for global campuses, welcomes attendees to the 29th Annual International Humanitarian and Security Conference.

The day was structured into four thought-provoking panels alongside keynote addresses by renowned voices in global security and humanitarian studies:

1. The Russia-Ukraine War: Experts debated whether Europe is ready to take its defense responsibilities seriously, given the continent's shifting security landscape.

2. Arms Trade and Trafficking in Conflict Zones: Panelists shed light on the devastating consequences of arms proliferation in the Global South and beyond.

3. International Justice Mechanisms: The efficacy of international courts in addressing genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity was rigorously examined.

4. 75 Years of the Geneva Conventions: A critical assessment of how these foundational agreements have fared in protecting civilians and victims of war.

Panelists Gloria Gaggioli, Chair Ivana Machonova Schellongova, Ian Seiderman, Alain Werner and Shima Esmailian discuss pertinent issues as part of a panel.

Keynote speakers included Rose Gottemoeller, former deputy secretary-general of NATO, Micheline Calmy-Rey, former Swiss Federal Council president, and Elizabeth Tan, director of the Division of Internation Protection at United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Their insights laid a strong foundation for the subsequent panel discussions, providing nuanced perspectives on global security dynamics.

"I think it is great for students to hear from practitioners in a space like this, where practice and academia intersect," shared Tan. "Getting people interested of what is happening in the world, what is being done to try to make the world a better place, is really important."

Panelists Cédric Dupont, Catherine Hoeffler, Panelist Chair Lionel Fatton, Johanna Möhring and Stephan Davidshofer field questions from the audience at the end of their session.

A Platform for Dialogue and Collaboration

The conference stood out for its collaborative spirit, bringing together representatives from international organizations, non-governmental organizations and academia. A highlight was the involvement of the student-led Webster Humanitarian Association (WHA), which continues to play an essential role in fostering discussions on these crucial topics.

The event concluded with reflections on how the international community can address the multidimensional challenges posed by contemporary conflicts. Organizers emphasized the importance of fostering dialogue and rethinking security policies to adapt to new realities, and addressed critical issues like the arms trade, international law and the relevance of the Geneva Conventions. Conference attendees walked away with actionable solutions and opportunities for further dialogue to address global security and humanitarian challenges.

Webster Geneva extends its gratitude to all speakers, participants, and organizers for making this event a success and looks forward to welcoming attendees to the 30th IHSC next year.