The recent happening of the Russia-Ukraine war has brought into focus ‘humanitarian corridors,’ a specific and demilitarized zone, created for a limited time during an armed conflict. The purpose of these corridors is to provide relief and refuge to civilians caught in the midst of conflict. This article presents an overview of humanitarian corridors, their necessitation, function, and required international conventions, along with the challenges associated with them.
Understanding Humanitarian Corridors
Humanitarian corridors are typically agreed upon by both warring sides and are considered as one form of temporary pause in armed conflict by the United Nations. They are essential when civilian populations are cut off from basic provisions such as food, water, and electricity during times of siege.
These corridors not only enable the provision of food and medical aid to contested areas but also facilitate the evacuation of civilians. However, their accessibility is determined by the parties involved in the conflict, usually limiting it to neutral actors, UN representatives, Red Cross or aid organizations. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and journalists may also have access to these areas where potential war crimes might be occurring.
Historical Context and International Conventions
Before gaining recognition from international organizations, humanitarian corridors were employed in World War II, facilitating the evacuation of Jewish children from Nazi-controlled territories. These corridors became officially recognized in a 1990 resolution by the UN’s General Assembly, which highlighted their importance in reinforcing civilians’ rights to aid during armed conflicts.
The Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols of 1977 also recognize the role of humanitarian corridors. Furthermore, in 1992, the International Institute of Humanitarian Law from Sanremo, Italy, offered more precise definitions for these corridors and underlined the necessity of their respect and protection by concerned authorities and the UN. Some notable uses of these corridors include during the Syrian civil war, Libyan civil war, and the Gaza war.
Challenges Associated with Humanitarian Corridors
While humanitarian corridors offer crucial relief in times of conflict, their implementation is not without issues. They can be difficult to enforce as their establishment requires the agreement of all warring parties. For instance, several calls for the setup of these corridors have been futile in conflicts like the Yemen war.
Another major concern is the potential misuse of these corridors for smuggling purposes, thereby further fuelling the conflict. Weapons and other forms of assistance can be smuggled into besieged cities, posing both political and military risks.
The Way Forward
As global stakeholders, it is vital for us to encourage a ‘humanitarian pause’ along with the construction of these corridors. A temporary cessation of fighting can protect civilians and ensure their safe passage through these corridors. Although these measures are not a solution to the conflict, they offer a glimpse of hope amidst the chaos and devastation, safeguarding innocent lives caught in the upheaval.