Successful Conclusion of the 48th Sanremo Round Table on IHL

The 48th edition of the Sanremo Round Table on current issues of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) took place from 10 to 12 September 2025 at Villa Ormond, offering a key opportunity to reflect on IHL compliance and the challenges posed by contemporary armed conflicts.

Organized by the Sanremo Institute in collaboration with the ICRC, the event brought together over 200 delegates from 45 countries, including legal experts, academics, military personnel, diplomats, humanitarians, and government representatives. The Round Table’s success was also reflected in extensive media coverage, with Italian newspapers, TV channels, and international blogs highlighting the event.

This year’s theme, “From Peace to War and Back: Putting IHL at the Center” shaped in-depth discussions on how IHL applies, or should be applied, before, during, and after armed conflict. Participants explored the role of IHL in preventing violent escalation and protecting civilians, addressing the complexities of modern warfare, and examining how respect for IHL, together with post-conflict accountability, can contribute to peacebuilding efforts.

While the Institute continues its work on the renowned Proceedings, a reference publication for the global IHL community set to be released in early 2026, this year’s Round Table will also produce the very first “Sanremo Call to Action for IHL”. This concise report will represent an additional effort by the Sanremo Institute, transforming the insights of the Round Table into a compelling call for respect of IHL rules and principles.