This e-learning module provides an introduction to the laws governing health care services in armed conflict, and explains why health-care workers need protection.

Using cartoons, interactive case studies and exercises, this free online course allows learners to understand the main legal principles governing health care, and become familiar with common dilemmas faced by health-care personnel. The module was created by legal, medical and training specialists for a wide audience, with or without a background in law.

This online course is currently available in English and French.

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About the Training Centre

The ICRC Training Centre centralizes on-site training and e-learning modules on international humanitarian law (IHL) and other areas of the ICRC’s work. It reinforces the ICRC’s capacity to reach actors who have an influence on the fate of people affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence, be they arms carriers, civil servants, judges, lawyers, humanitarian practitioners, students, university professors or National Societies.

The online training modules are available to anyone as self-paced courses and are provided free of charge.

The Training Centre offers a modular approach. The foundation course on the basic rules and principles of IHL is complemented by a growing number of thematic modules on specific humanitarian issues.