The Lesotho Red Cross Society (LRCS), in partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Ministry of Defence, officially launched a four- day Local International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Committee training on 09 June 2025 at Thaba- Bosiu, Maseru.
The training brings together key national stakeholders- among them the Ministries of Defence, Foreign Affairs, Justice, Local Government, and security agencies- as well as the National University of Lesotho and the Lesotho Red Cross Society. This initiative is part of a broader one- year IHL project designed to revitalize Lesotho’s Local IHL Committee and bolster humanitarian diplomacy.
In her opening remarks, the Principal Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, Mrs. Mabataung Khalane, emphasized Lesotho’s unwavering commitment to IHL, stating, “This workshop marks the intention and commitment of the government of Lesotho to observe the international law that regulates relations between states, international organizations, and other subjects that are party to international law.”
She further stressed that “The National IHL Committee must play a pivotal role in educating the nation and be the flag bearer for the protection of the Red Cross and Red Crescent emblems, which are internationally recognised as symbols of peace.” Her remarks reaffirmed the government’s role in ensuring domestic implementation through legislative and administrative measures that uphold IHL obligations.
From the ICRC, Regional Legal Advisor Ms. Sarah Mabeza highlighted the importance of adapting humanitarian law to evolving global realities. “We urge governments to adopt and adapt IHL to changing circumstances,” she said, adding, “We will have the chance to discuss new technologies- how war is adapting and changing, and how the law perhaps needs to keep up with the realities on the ground.”
Highlighting Lesotho’s unique position, she noted: “Even as a peaceful country, Lesotho has shown great passion and leadership in supporting IHL. We are proud to continue our long- standing partnership.”
The training sessions will cover key themes such as the classification of armed conflict, protection of civilians, the role of the IHL Committee, and the intersection between IHL and human rights. It will also feature practical discussions on how to integrate IHL in national frameworks and security doctrine, culminating in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Lesotho Defence Force and LRCS.
This training marks a vital step in strengthening national capacity, ensuring that Lesotho remains a regional advocate for the principles of humanity, neutrality, and the rule of law- even in times of peace.