By: Manuel Galvis Martinez, ICMD Coordinator and Thematic Leader of International Humanitarian Law, RWI
The Raoul Wallenberg Institute (RWI) is pleased to share that Kajsa Ollongren, the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for Human Rights, has expressed her support for the International Humanitarian Law Compliance Monitoring Database (ICMD). The ICMD is an initiative led by RWI to strengthen accountability and compliance with international humanitarian law (IHL) worldwide.
In a letter to RWI following a recent meeting, EUSR Ollongren emphasised the importance of promoting understanding and respect for IHL at a time when it is increasingly challenged—both in ongoing conflicts and by emerging technologies. She noted that a clearer picture of compliance with, and alleged violations of, IHL is needed in order to tailor political support and improve implementation.
“The ICMD, by providing updated and reliable data on alleged IHL violations, from a broad variety of sources, can help identify trends and patterns if any, inform public policies, refine training programmes, improve military strategies and operations as well as humanitarian action. It can also support compliance, justice and accountability efforts globally.”
EUSR Ollongren underlined that her office has been following the ICMD project since its inception, and welcomed the opportunity to continue cooperation. RWI welcomes this expression of support from the European Union’s senior human rights envoy as a meaningful step in strengthening multilateral efforts to protect civilians, promote compliance with international law, and reinforce the rules-based international order.
Launched in October 2024, the ICMD is a collaborative initiative designed to bolster international efforts to safeguard civilians in armed conflict. RWI continues to work closely with governments, international organisations, and civil society to ensure the database remains an innovative, impartial, and globally relevant resource for IHL compliance and accountability.
For more information about the ICMD, visit https://www.icmd.se/