January 2004 - present
While the non-binding Rules of Air Warfare, dating from 1923, have had considerable impact on customary international law, the strategic use of aerial and missile technology has evolved tremendously since that time. In recognition of the disparity between the legal framework and contemporary practice, this academic research project aims to conduct a methodical survey of existing law.
The project draws from existing models for legal codification, including the successful effort to restate the law of sea warfare that culminated in publication of the San Remo Manual in 1995. The ultimate product of this project will be a manual on air warfare restating customary international law governing air and missile warfare.
Driven by a series of expert working group meetings, the project also seeks to engage independent experts, governments and other stakeholders, as well as policy and academic centers working on issues related to the application of international humanitarian law. Dr. Yoram Dinstein serves as senior academic advisor of the initiative.
| Partnerships: | Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, Switzerland; Ministry of Defence, Norway; Ministry of Foreign Affairs, The Netherlands; Max Planck Institute for Comparative Public Law and International Law; Fritz Thyssen Foundation |
| Website: | International Humanitarian Law in Air and Missile Warfare |