The Jus Ad Bellum/Jus in Bello Distinction and the Law of Occupation

Israel Law Review, Vol. 41, pp. 246-301, 2008

Hebrew University International Law Research Paper No. 18-08

57 Pages Posted: 5 Nov 2008

See all articles by Rotem Giladi

Rotem Giladi

University of Helsinki, Erik Castrén Institute of International Law and Human Rights, Faculty of Law

Date Written: November 1, 2008

Abstract

This is a preliminary inquiry into the application to occupation law of the distinction between jus in bello (or IHL) and jus ad bellum. Under current doctrine, the two are mutually exclusive: the former applies irrespective of the "nature or origin of the armed conflict or the causes espoused by the Parties." I argue that occupation law, although generally considered part of IHL, is intrinsically less susceptible to a strict application of the distinction.

Exploring its pedigree, meaning, and rationale, the paper notes the distinction's scant, soft Conventional expression and brief history, but also its fundamental character and the broad scope attributed to it under contemporary IHL. Although the distinction sometimes fulfill important humanitarian functions in occupied territories, occupation law-in regulating overnance of territory-differs from ordinary IHL norms; this and other differences render the strict application of the distinction to occupation law, whose key norms often depend on jus ad bellum references to the "nature, origin and causes" of armed conflict, impossible. The last part of the Paper calls for a more nuanced approach to the application of the distinction to occupation law and identifies some of its contours. Such an approach can enhance the efficacy of occupation law and facilitate fulfillment of the two different functions of occupation law: protection of individuals and the maintenance of international peace and security. The Paper concludes with preliminary observations on the roles and powers, under both jus ad bellum and jus in bello, of the Security Council with regard to occupied territories.

Keywords: IHL, jus ad bellum, jus in bello, occupation law, security council

Suggested Citation

Giladi, Rotem, The Jus Ad Bellum/Jus in Bello Distinction and the Law of Occupation (November 1, 2008). Israel Law Review, Vol. 41, pp. 246-301, 2008, Hebrew University International Law Research Paper No. 18-08, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1293288

Rotem Giladi (Contact Author)

University of Helsinki, Erik Castrén Institute of International Law and Human Rights, Faculty of Law ( email )

Finland

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