THE PROTECTION OF CIVILIANS IN TIMES OF ARMED CONFLICT: CAMEROON

ABSTRACT

This log essay examines the protection of civilians during armed conflict within the context of Cameroon. Civilian protection is of major concern especially during the crisis of the anglophone Cameroon as civilians are faced with lots of challenges such as displacement, sexual harassment, loss of livelihood, death, etc.

The objective of this research is to exploit and analyze the role of conventions and international humanitarian law and domestic law that play a fundamental role towards the protection of civilians during armed conflicts. The research methodology employed in this research involves a comprehensive review of relevant literature, including international humanitarian law, applicability and previous research on the protection of civilians during armed conflict.

Primary data is collected through interviews, surveys conducted with humanitarian workers, NGOs, united nations experts and legal experts to gai insight into their experience and perceptions. The findings of this study reveal that the Geneva conventions 1949 and other humanitarian ad domestic laws play a pivotal role in enforcing the protection of civilian during armed conflict:

However, this research also identifies challenges faced during the application of these laws and by the enforcers in fulfilling their role. These challenges include; cease of application, corruption, poor network and accessibility. Addressing these challenges is crucial to enhance the effectiveness of the civilian protection during armed conflicts and promoting a fair and equitable environment for every civilian in Cameroon.