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RMIT University

International Humanitarian Law for Business

RMIT University via FutureLearn

Overview

Understand the importance of International Humanitarian Law for business

Globalisation has allowed businesses to expand operations into new territories around the world. These include unstable environments affected by, or prone to, armed conflict, which has presented new and unfamiliar risks.

This four-week course from RMIT University will provide you with insight into the importance of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) when conducting business in conflict zones.

Explore how IHL is relevant to modern-day businesses

For responsible modern businesses, acting sustainably and ethically are primary concerns. However, their roles in conflict zones can have a profound and harmful impact.

On this course, you’ll explore the impact of businesses in armed conflict zones through the frameworks of human rights, ethics, and the environment, and work through relevant scenarios and examples.

Discover the rights and responsibilities in doing business in conflict zones

Businesses are often not familiar enough with their responsibilities and the protections afforded to them under IHL. This lack of knowledge is problematic and has caused companies to breach laws in the past, leading to reputational damage, financial loss, and even prosecution.

This course will assist you in understanding the risks, rights, and responsibilities under IHL so you may ensure that your company acts responsibly in situations of armed conflict.

Implement best practices to mitigate humanitarian risks with RMIT University

The educators at RMIT University are experts in their field who aim to disseminate international humanitarian law and embed understanding and respect for these laws into corporations.

With the help of their knowledge and experience, you’ll be equipped with the frameworks and strategies to implement ethical business practices for operations in conflict zones.

This course is designed for learners involved in business, who wish to expand their international humanitarian law knowledge in order to avoid risk and understand the rights and responsibilities involved in doing business in and around armed conflict.

Syllabus

  • Fundamental concepts of international humanitarian law (IHL)
    • IHL and business
    • Basics of IHL
    • Where and when IHL applies
    • Key IHL Principles
    • Why IHL matters to business
  • Doing Business in Armed Conflict
    • Doing business in armed conflict
    • IHL and the broader corporate social responsibility agenda
    • Specific IHL concerns for businesses
  • IHL Risks, Rights and Responsibilities
    • Overview of IHL risks
    • High-risk sectors
    • IHL rights and protections for businesses
  • Implementing IHL Best Practice in business
    • Introducing the 7 indicators of IHL corproate best practice
    • Policy indicators
    • Capacity and capability indicators
    • Operations indicators
    • Transparency and accountability indicators
    • IHL support

Taught by

Fiona Simpson

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5 rating at FutureLearn based on 3 ratings

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