International humanitarian law (IHL) MCQ Quiz in தமிழ் - Objective Question with Answer for International humanitarian law (IHL) - இலவச PDF ஐப் பதிவிறக்கவும்

The correct answer is 'It regulates the use of conventional weapons that may cause excessive suffering'

Key Points

• 1980 Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW):
  • The CCW is an international treaty that seeks to limit the use of specific types of conventional weapons that are deemed to cause unnecessary or unjustifiable suffering to combatants or to affect civilians indiscriminately.
  • The convention includes several protocols that address various categories of weapons, such as landmines, booby traps, incendiary weapons, and blinding laser weapons.
  • The primary aim of the CCW is to balance military necessity with humanitarian considerations, ensuring that the means of warfare are not inhumane or disproportionately harmful.

Additional Information

• Prohibits the use of chemical weapons:
  • This is incorrect because the prohibition of chemical weapons is covered under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) of 1993, not the CCW.
  • The CWC specifically bans the development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons.
• Bans the use of landmines and cluster munitions:
  • This is partially incorrect. While the CCW does address the use of landmines and booby traps under Protocol II, the comprehensive ban on anti-personnel mines is covered by the Ottawa Treaty (Mine Ban Treaty) of 1997.
  • Cluster munitions are addressed separately under the Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) of 2008.
• Establishes the rights of combatants to use any weapons in conflict:
  • This is incorrect as the CCW aims to restrict certain types of weapons rather than grant unrestricted rights to use any weapons.
  • The convention seeks to mitigate the humanitarian impact of warfare rather than expand the rights of combatants.

The correct answer is 'To regulate the use and protection of the world's seas and oceans.'

Key Points

• 1982 Law of the Sea Convention:
  • The 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is an international agreement that defines the rights and responsibilities of nations concerning their use of the world's oceans.
  • It establishes guidelines for businesses, the environment, and the management of marine natural resources.
  • The convention aims to balance the rights of states over their territorial waters and exclusive economic zones (EEZs) with the principle of freedom of the seas.
  • It covers various aspects including navigation rights, territorial sea limits, economic jurisdiction, legal status of resources on the seabed, and conservation of marine life.

Additional Information

• To establish a global ban on fishing:
  • This option is incorrect because the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention does not seek to impose a global ban on fishing. Instead, it regulates fishing activities to ensure sustainable use of marine resources.
• To set international trade regulations:
  • This option is incorrect as the UNCLOS does not primarily focus on international trade regulations. While it may impact trade by establishing maritime boundaries and jurisdiction, its main focus is on maritime law and ocean governance.
• To establish the rights of sovereign states over land territories:
  • This option is incorrect because the convention deals with maritime territories and not land territories. It defines the rights of states over maritime zones like territorial seas, contiguous zones, and exclusive economic zones.

The correct answer is 'A zone where coastal states control the exploration and exploitation of marine resources up to 200 nautical miles'

Key Points

• Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ):
  • The EEZ is a sea zone prescribed by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
  • It extends up to 200 nautical miles from the baseline of a coastal state.
  • Within this zone, the coastal state has exclusive rights to exploit and manage natural resources, both living and non-living, in the waters, seabed, and subsoil.
  • Coastal states have the authority to regulate economic activities like fishing, mining, oil exploration, and marine research within their EEZ.
  • The EEZ is significant for coastal states as it enhances their control over valuable marine resources, contributing to their economic development.

Additional Information

• A maritime zone where no national control exists:
  • This is incorrect as the EEZ specifically grants control to coastal states over marine resources.
  • Areas with no national control are typically international waters or the high seas.
• An area within 12 nautical miles of a coastal state:
  • This refers to the territorial sea, not the EEZ.
  • The territorial sea is a separate maritime zone where the coastal state exercises full sovereignty.
• A zone governed by international fishing laws:
  • While international fishing laws may apply, the EEZ is broader in scope, covering various economic activities beyond just fishing.
  • The primary purpose of the EEZ is to allow coastal states to manage and exploit marine resources comprehensively.

Protocol I (1977) of the Geneva Conventions addresses the protection of victims of international armed conflicts.

Key Points

• Protection of victims of international armed conflicts:
  • Protocol I was adopted in 1977 as an amendment to the Geneva Conventions of 1949.
  • It aims to protect victims of international armed conflicts, including civilians, medical personnel, and combatants who are hors de combat.
  • The protocol expands on the rules regarding targeting, differentiating between combatants and non-combatants, and prohibiting attacks on civilian objects.
  • It also includes provisions for the protection of cultural objects and places of worship.
  • The protocol stresses the importance of humane treatment for all persons affected by conflict and prohibits acts of violence, terror, and discrimination.

Additional Information

• Protection of victims of non-international armed conflicts:
  • This is covered under Protocol II (1977), which addresses the protection of victims in internal conflicts such as civil wars.
  • Protocol II focuses on humane treatment and the protection of civilians and those who are not actively participating in hostilities.
• Establishment of the Red Crystal emblem:
  • The Red Crystal emblem was established under Protocol III (2005) to provide an additional symbol of protection alongside the Red Cross and Red Crescent.
  • The emblem is used in regions where the Red Cross or Red Crescent might not be culturally acceptable.
• Prohibition of chemical and biological warfare:
  • This is addressed under other international treaties such as the Chemical Weapons Convention (1993) and the Biological Weapons Convention (1972).
  • These treaties aim to eliminate the use and production of chemical and biological weapons globally.

The correct answer is 'Protection of civilian persons during war'

Key Points

• Protection of civilian persons during war:
  • The Fourth Geneva Convention, adopted in 1949, focuses primarily on the protection of civilian persons during times of war.
  • It outlines the rights of civilians and the obligations of warring parties, particularly in occupied territories.
  • Key provisions include the humane treatment of civilians, protection against violence, and ensuring basic needs such as food and medical care.
  • The convention prohibits taking hostages and ensures the protection of property and family rights.

Additional Information

• Treatment of prisoners of war:
  • This is covered under the Third Geneva Convention, not the Fourth. The Third Convention outlines the humane treatment, rights, and duties of prisoners of war.
• Protection of the wounded and sick at sea:
  • The Second Geneva Convention deals with the protection of wounded, sick, and shipwrecked members of armed forces at sea.
• Prohibition of chemical weapons:
  • This is not specifically covered under any of the Geneva Conventions. The prohibition of chemical weapons is addressed by other treaties, such as the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).

The correct answer is 'Protection of the wounded and sick on the battlefield.'

Key Points

• First Geneva Convention (1949):
  • The First Geneva Convention primarily focuses on the protection of wounded and sick soldiers on the battlefield.
  • It ensures that these individuals receive medical care without any discrimination.
  • The Convention establishes the obligations of medical personnel, the protection of medical units and establishments, and the emblem of the Red Cross or Red Crescent to identify protected entities.
  • It also includes provisions for the humane treatment of the wounded and sick, regardless of their nationality or role in the conflict.

Additional Information

• Protection of civilians in occupied territories:
  • This is addressed by the Fourth Geneva Convention, not the First.
  • The Fourth Convention focuses on the protection of civilian persons in times of war, particularly those in occupied territories.
• Treatment of prisoners of war:
  • The Third Geneva Convention specifically deals with the treatment of prisoners of war.
  • It outlines the standards of humane treatment and the rights of POWs, including their accommodation, food, medical care, and correspondence with their families.
• Prevention of chemical warfare:
  • The prevention of chemical warfare is covered under different international treaties and protocols, such as the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
  • The Geneva Conventions do not specifically address the use of chemical weapons, though the principles of humane treatment can be applied to their effects.

The correct answer is 'To protect civilians and noncombatants during armed conflict'

Key Points

• International Humanitarian Law (IHL):
  • IHL is a set of rules which seek, for humanitarian reasons, to limit the effects of armed conflict.
  • It protects persons who are not, or are no longer, participating in the hostilities and restricts the means and methods of warfare.
  • The primary purpose is to protect civilians, prisoners of war, the wounded, and other noncombatants during times of armed conflict.
  • It aims to minimize human suffering and maintain some humanity in the conduct of war.

Additional Information

• Regulate international trade:
  • This pertains to the rules and regulations governing trade between countries, including tariffs, trade agreements, and international trade laws.
  • It is not related to the humanitarian aspects of armed conflict.
• Create global economic laws:
  • This involves the development of international regulations and policies to manage economic activities across the globe.
  • It focuses on economic stability, growth, and international economic cooperation, not on humanitarian protection during conflicts.
• Govern state sovereignty in times of war:
  • This refers to the principles that determine the rights and responsibilities of states during wartime.
  • Although related to wartime conduct, it does not specifically focus on the humanitarian protection of individuals.

The correct answer is 'Convention on the prohibition of chemical weapons'

Key Points

• Geneva Conventions:
  • The Geneva Conventions are a series of treaties on the treatment of civilians, prisoners of war (POWs), and soldiers who are otherwise rendered hors de combat, or incapable of fighting.
  • They form the core of international humanitarian law (IHL), setting the standards for humanitarian treatment in war.
  • The Conventions have been ratified by all 196 states and are universally applicable.
• Convention to improve the conditions of the wounded and sick in armed forces in the field:
  • This is the first Geneva Convention and was adopted in 1864. It focuses on the protection and care for wounded and sick soldiers on the battlefield.
  • It ensures that medical personnel and facilities are protected from attack and that the wounded are treated humanely.
• Convention on the treatment of prisoners of war:
  • This is the third Geneva Convention, adopted in 1929 and revised in 1949. It deals with the humane treatment of prisoners of war.
  • It ensures that POWs are treated with dignity, provided adequate food, shelter, and medical care, and protected against violence, intimidation, and public curiosity.
• Convention for the protection of civilian persons in time of war:
  • This is the fourth Geneva Convention, adopted in 1949. It focuses on the protection of civilians during wartime.
  • It ensures that civilians are protected from murder, torture, and deportation, and that they receive adequate care and conditions if detained.

Additional Information

• Convention on the prohibition of chemical weapons:
  • This is not one of the Geneva Conventions. It is covered by the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which was adopted in 1992 and came into force in 1997.
  • The CWC aims to eliminate chemical weapons and prohibits the development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, retention, transfer, or use of chemical weapons by states parties.
  • While it addresses a significant aspect of international humanitarian law, it is separate from the Geneva Conventions, which focus on the treatment of persons during wartime.

The correct answer is 'Martial Law, Public and Private property of the enemy, Deserters, Partisans, Spies'.

Key Points

• Introduction to the Lieber Code:
  • The Lieber Code, also known as General Order No. 100, was a document that provided instructions for the conduct of Union soldiers during the American Civil War.
  • It was drafted by Francis Lieber and issued by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. It is considered a pioneering document in the field of the laws of war.
  • The code was divided into sections, each dealing with specific topics such as martial law, treatment of civilians, prisoners of war, and other wartime conduct.
• Correct Order of Sections in the Lieber Code:
  • (A) Martial Law: This section outlines the principles and rules governing the imposition of martial law, its scope, and its application during war.
  • (B) Public and Private Property of the Enemy: This section deals with how soldiers should treat the property of the enemy, distinguishing between public and private assets.
  • (C) Deserters: This section addresses the issue of soldiers who abandon their posts or switch sides, including how to handle such individuals.
  • (D) Partisans: This section discusses irregular fighters and their treatment under the laws of war.
  • (E) Spies: This section outlines the rules for identifying and dealing with spies during wartime.

Additional Information

• Explanation of Incorrect Options:
  • Option 2 (B, C, D, E, A): This order incorrectly places "Public and Private Property of the Enemy" first and "Martial Law" last, which does not align with the structure of the Lieber Code.
  • Option 3 (C, D, E, A, B): This order begins with "Deserters" and ends with "Public and Private Property of the Enemy," which is not the correct sequence in the Lieber Code.
  • Option 4 (D, E, A, B, C): This order starts with "Partisans" and "Spies," incorrectly prioritizing these sections over "Martial Law."
• Significance of the Lieber Code:
  • The Lieber Code was groundbreaking because it formalized the rules of military conduct and influenced subsequent international humanitarian law, including the Hague and Geneva Conventions.
  • It emphasized the humane treatment of prisoners, the protection of civilians, and the distinction between combatants and non-combatants.

The correct answer is 'Option 1: (C), (A), (B), (D)'

Key Points

• Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees (C):
  • This convention was adopted in 1951 and is one of the foundational international treaties concerning the rights of refugees.
  • It defines the term "refugee" and outlines the rights of individuals who are granted asylum, as well as the responsibilities of nations that grant asylum.
  • The 1967 Protocol further expanded its scope by removing geographical and temporal restrictions.
• Additional Protocols to the Geneva Conventions (A):
  • The Geneva Conventions, which form the core of international humanitarian law, were first adopted in 1949. The Additional Protocols were later introduced in 1977.
  • The two protocols strengthen the protections for victims of international and non-international armed conflicts.
  • They emphasize the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring humane treatment during warfare.
• International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of all Migrant Workers and Members of their Families (B):
  • This convention was adopted in 1990 by the United Nations General Assembly.
  • It aims to protect the human rights of migrant workers and their families, emphasizing equal treatment and access to justice.
  • Despite its significance, relatively few countries have ratified this convention.
• Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization (D):
  • The WTO agreement was signed in 1994 and came into effect on January 1, 1995.
  • It serves as the framework for international trade and trade-related issues, replacing the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT).
  • The agreement focuses on reducing trade barriers and ensuring fair competition globally.

Additional Information

• Option 2 (A, C, B, D):
  • This option incorrectly places the Additional Protocols before the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.
  • The Geneva Conventions' Additional Protocols were adopted much later, in 1977, while the Refugee Convention was adopted in 1951.
• Option 3 (B, C, D, A):
  • This option incorrectly places the Migrant Workers Convention before the Refugee Convention.
  • The Migrant Workers Convention was adopted in 1990, significantly later than the Refugee Convention (1951).
• Option 4 (D, C, B, A):
  • This option incorrectly places the WTO Agreement before the Refugee Convention.
  • The WTO Agreement was adopted in 1994, whereas the Refugee Convention dates back to 1951.