ICRC, UJ launch board game to teach young people rules of war
The aim is to teach participants that even during war, the suffering of people must be limited.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the University of Johannesburg (UJ) have collaborated to launch a board game aimed at teaching young people about the rules of war. Conflicts continue to impact millions globally, and this interactive game seeks to make learning about international humanitarian law engaging and practical.
The game, played by four participants, challenges players to quickly guess international humanitarian legal terms within 30 seconds using small cards. Terms such as war crimes, sanctions, amnesty, and safe zones are among those covered. Bako Jane, representing the ICRC, explained that the game's rapid pace and interactive nature make it an effective tool for understanding complex legal principles.
Academics have praised the game for its ability to transform a serious topic into an accessible and enjoyable experience. Jea-Nicolas Paquet-Rouleau, from the ICRC, emphasized the importance of reaching young people, especially in Africa, where 40% of armed conflicts occur. The game's unique approach brings the learning process outside traditional academic settings, making it a valuable resource for university students and legal practitioners alike.
While the game cannot prevent war, its creators hope it will contribute to a deeper understanding of the rules designed to minimize human suffering during conflicts. As Africa continues to host a significant portion of global armed conflicts, the ICRC and UJ believe this innovative tool can help foster a better grasp of humanitarian law among future generations.
Written by urgent.news from SABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
