The general theme of this volume of the Yearbook of International Humanitarian Law
is armed groups and the challenges arising from the participation of such groups in
contemporary armed conflicts. It is elaborated upon in several chapters, addressing
the organisation criterion, respect for and compliance with international humanitarian
law and international human rights law, targeted sanctions and accountability issues,
among other things. Besides these chapters that can be connected to the general theme,
the book also contains a chapter dedicated to the 'knock on the roof ' practice, a Year in
Review, describing the most important events and legal developments that took place in
2016, as well as the final report from the ILA Study Group 'The Conduct of Hostilities
Under International Humanitarian Law - Challenges of 21st Century Warfare'.
The Yearbook of International Humanitarian Law is the world's only annual publication
devoted to the study of the laws governing armed conflict. It provides a truly international
forum for high-quality, peer-reviewed academic articles focusing on this crucial
branch of international law. Distinguished by contemporary relevance, the Yearbook
of International Humanitarian Law bridges the gap between theory and practice and
serves as a useful reference tool for scholars, practitioners, military personnel, civil
servants, diplomats, human rights workers and students.
