Press release no. 006
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, June 03, 2026.
- Experts, diplomats, and international organizations examined the challenges posed by the use of information and communication technologies during armed conflicts as part of the Global IHL Initiative.
As part of international efforts to strengthen the protection of civilian populations in situations of armed conflict, the fourth edition of the Protection of Civilians Meeting was held today in Addis Ababa under the theme “Upholding International Humanitarian Law in the use of information and communication technologies during armed conflict.”
The event, organized by the Embassies of Switzerland, Ghana and the Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Ethiopia, forms part of the Global Initiative to Galvanize Political Commitment to International Humanitarian Law (Global IHL Initiative), launched in 2024 by the ICRC and six States, including South Africa.
The discussion focused on one of the Initiative’s seven thematic workstreams: the use of information and communication technologies in situations of armed conflict.
The high-level panel brought together representatives from the African Union, Luxembourg, Mexico, and the Global IHL Initiative. Participants underscored the growing importance of this issue in light of the rapid digitalization of societies and contemporary operational environments, which presents new challenges for ensuring the effective protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure in the digital domain.
During his remarks, Ambassador Alejandro Estivill Castro emphasized that Mexico believes this process can serve as a bridge between international law and the operational realities faced by States across all regions of the world. He further noted that “the Initiative has the potential to consolidate itself as a mechanism for South-South cooperation between Africa and Latin America, built on mutual trust and the pursuit of shared responses to common challenges”.
The session brought together a broad range of government representatives, experts, academics, and members of international organizations, who engaged in a dynamic exchange of views both in person and virtually.
The successful convening of this event reaffirms the importance of strengthening multilateral dialogue on emerging humanitarian challenges associated with digital transformation. Through its participation, Mexico reiterates its commitment to protecting civilians and promoting collective action based on shared responsibility and international cooperation.
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