Saudi Arabia has marked a historic milestone by hosting the 18th Senior Workshop on International Rules governing Military Operations (SWIRMO) in Riyadh, demonstrating the Kingdom’s growing leadership in promoting international humanitarian law (IHL). The prestigious event, inaugurated by Chief of General Staff Lieutenant General Fayyad Al-Ruwaili and ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, brings together 125 senior military officers from 90 countries.
Context and Background
The workshop, organized by the Ministry of Defense’s National Defense University in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), represents Saudi Arabia’s first time hosting this globally significant event. This milestone reflects the Kingdom’s deepening engagement with international military law and humanitarian principles, building on its long-standing commitment to the Geneva Conventions.
Saudi Arabia’s IHL Leadership
During his opening address, Lieutenant General Al-Ruwaili emphasized the Kingdom’s comprehensive approach to implementing IHL principles. He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s pioneering role as one of the earliest signatories to the four Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, demonstrating the nation’s enduring commitment to humanitarian principles in military operations.
The General Staff Chief detailed how the Ministry of Defense has integrated IHL principles into its military education curricula and training programs, ensuring that all armed forces personnel are well-versed in international humanitarian standards. This integration aligns perfectly with Islamic Sharia’s teachings on mercy and justice, even during conflicts.
International Impact and Cooperation
ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger emphasized the workshop’s crucial timing, noting the increasing global challenges to civilian protection in conflict zones. The gathering of representatives from 90 nations in Riyadh underscores the international community’s shared responsibility in upholding IHL principles.
The Kingdom’s humanitarian commitment extends beyond military aspects, as evidenced by the significant work of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center in providing assistance to conflict and disaster-affected regions worldwide.
Vision 2030 Alignment
This landmark event aligns seamlessly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives of enhancing the Kingdom’s global leadership role and fostering international cooperation. By hosting SWIRMO and demonstrating its commitment to IHL, Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its position as a responsible global actor and a champion of humanitarian principles, while building bridges with military institutions worldwide.