International Humanitarian Law

Tentative Topic Proposal (400-800 words)

1. Working Title
   A tentative title that reflects your case study and the angle you plan to take.
2. Case Study Selection
   Choose one specific example from the Eastern Mediterranean or the Middle East (e.g., U.S. involvement in Lebanon, Iraq, Palestine, Syria, etc.). Briefly explain why this case is relevant. Pick a topic where the U.S. is a central actor or where U.S. power shapes interpretation/enforcement.
3. Research Question or Thesis (1–2 sentences)
   Clearly state your central research question or tentative thesis.
   Example: "This paper will examine how U.S. policy during the Syrian Civil War both invoked and undermined the application of IHL, revealing structural barriers to enforcement."
4. Historical Context (2–3 sentences)
   Provide a short overview of the conflict or event: time period, key actors, relevant international treaties or institutions.
5. Digital Interactions
   Specify which digital platform/ reference you are planning to use in your final paper. Provide a short description of the “digital arena” you’re studying: How does that platform shape argument (character limits, algorithms, virality, outrage incentives, visuals, memes, threads, duet culture, etc.)?

???? Format:

• Length: 400–850 words
• Font: 12 pt, Times New Roman
• No citations required at this stage 
• ???? Further Suggestions for Topics: 
• As you craft your proposal, consider engaging with relevant contemporary dilemmas and emerging issues that test the boundaries of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in the 21st century. Here are some suggested areas of focus:
  ???? Artificial Intelligence and Automated Warfare
  
  • Explore how autonomous weapons systems (e.g. drones, lethal autonomous weapons) raise challenges for the principles of distinction, proportionality, and accountability in IHL.
  • Example: U.S. drone operations in the Middle East and questions about civilian targeting and legal responsibility.
  • ???? Social Media, Disinformation, and Civilian Protection
    
  • Analyze the role of social media in shaping global responses to humanitarian crises and violations of IHL, addressing both tools of empowerment and methods of amplifying disinformation
  • Example: The controversy of the Gaza Genocide as presented in platforms like X, TikTok, or Instagram.
    ???? Environmental Destruction and IHL
    
  • Investigate how warfare exacerbates environmental degradation, and whether ecocide could or should be classified as a crime under IHL.
  • Example: The U.S. bombing of oil infrastructure or water systems in the Gulf Wars.
  • ???? Climate-Induced Displacement and War
    
  • Discuss how IHL and refugee law address (or fail to address) the forced migration by the combination of environmental crises and war.
  • Example:  The migration crisis in Europe and the U.S.