Panel Discussion on the Impact of Armed Conflict on the Environment and Human Health

Nov 2, 2015 | The Irish Society of International Law | Irish Red Cross
Dublin, Ireland
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There is a growing acceptance that certain military materials and practices have the potential to cause environmental damage, with the potential to affect civilian health and interfere with post-conflict recovery. While the impact of explosive remnants of war is comparatively well documented and increasingly well managed, less attention has been focused on toxic materials released during military activities. The discussion will also address the contemporary challenges in International Humanitarian Law including the humanitarian imperative to protect and restore the environment. In particular the applications of the Geneva Conventions and the Additional Protocols and customary international law. Finally, it will examine the socio-legal aspects of the relationship between conflict, environment and health, such as issues of State responsibility, financing and coordinating multi-lateral environmental assessment and clean up and the broader regional and social implications of conflict on the environment and human health.

This event will take place on Tuesday 2nd November from 6:30pm - 8pm in Dublin City Centre.

The panel will address the legal and policy issues arising from the armed conflict and war in providing a new system of post-conflict environmental assistance.

The panel discussants are:

-- Dr. James Gallen, School of Law and Government, Dublin City University

-- Mr. Doug Weir, Toxic Remnants of War Project

-- Dr. Tara Smith, School of Law, Bangor University

The event will be chaired by John Roche, Head of International, Irish Red Cross.  Light refreshments to follow.

Attendance at the event is free however it is essential to register in advance as space is limited.  Please contact Gillian at GMcCarthy@redcross.ie to register or to find out more information.