British Red Cross Summer School on International Humanitarian Law

Applications are now closed for the 2025 British Red Cross Summer School on International Humanitarian Law.

The next edition of the course will be taking place in September 2026.

Course details

This four-day course is held at Magdalene College, Cambridge, and is intended to provide a general understanding of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and its practical application.

Topics covered in the Summer School include: 

• the history and development of IHL and its basic principles
• protected groups, prisoners of war and detainees
• the conduct of hostilities
• human rights and IHL
• the application of IHL in non-international armed conflicts
• implementation and enforcement
• contemporary topics in IHL
• the work of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The course features sessions led by experts from across the armed forces, government, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and academia.

Participants apply their learning through activities including case studies, scenarios and group discussions.

Intended audience

This course is intended for individuals with an interest in international humanitarian law, particularly those working in relevant professional fields.

Past participants have included armed forces personnel and government officials, as well as staff of non-governmental organisations (NGOs), volunteers and staff of National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, journalists and university lecturers and students.

In the event that the course is oversubscribed, priority for places will be given to professionals who are likely to encounter IHL in the course of their work. 

Fees

The fee for the British Red Cross Summer School on International Humanitarian Law is £500. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer scholarships or financial assistance to support attendance at the course.

The Summer School is offered on a residential basis, with course materials, accommodation and meals at the college included, though travel costs are not covered.

Visas

If you are planning to apply from overseas, please consider the visa requirements to enter the UK. 

Full details can be found via the UK Government website: Check if you need a UK visa.

If you receive a place on the course and will require a visa to attend, it is important that you apply for your visa as soon as possible so that the process is completed well in advance. The British Red Cross will provide a letter of invitation in support of your visa application.