LEGAL, OPERATIONAL, TECHNOLOGICAL CHALLENGES IN MARITIME SAR

IMRF Webinar

As part of the IMRF and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) work on armed conflict and the impact on maritime search and rescue (SAR) operations, the IMRF will be represented on a panel discussion convened by ICRC.

As contemporary conflicts evolve, the uncertainties at the intersection of international law applicable to armed conflict at sea and operational reality are widening. This panel discussion will dive into the legal, operational, and technological implications of conducting search and rescue (SAR) in complex maritime environments during modern armed conflict. Our experts will explore systemic threats to maritime SAR systems that affect the implementation of core IHL obligations to search, collect and evacuate at sea and protect medical and rescue vessels, while highlighting the unforgiving nature of the ocean can be as perilous as the adversary itself. 

Following on from the 3rd all-state consultation, which addresses the protection of the wounded, sick, shipwrecked, dead and detained, our expert panellists will examine how to fortify the humanitarian response to armed conflict at sea by establishing a common understanding of international law regarding the wounded, sick, shipwrecked, dead and detained. Participants will explore how States can practically implement their legal obligations and improve coordination between neutral and belligerent parties, and define good practices for the protection of SAR capabilities, including vessels, personnel, and infrastructure, as well as of the wounded, sick, shipwrecked and dead and detained.