According to Buddhism, mental defilements are at the root of conflicts. In this article, Ven. Kosgama Muditha, Ven. Koralegama Gnanawasa and Ven. Kirindiwela Pagngnawansa argue that, from the viewpoint of Dhamma, awareness of these defilements is imperative for international humanitarian law (IHL) to be effectively implemented. They examine the utility of Buddhist teachings in ensuring humane treatment, without adverse distinction, of those caught up in war through the development of self-control, self-discipline and responsibility. They argue that the Vepacitti Sutta describes the ideal mental qualities that are required to do this, and highlight the practical implications of those qualities, as explained in the Mahācattārīsaka Sutta, particularly with respect to non-combatants.

Ven. Kosgama Muditha earned his BA degree in Pali studies from the University of Peradeniya (2018), was a temporary lecturer (2020–2021) in the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies at the University of Peradeniya and is currently reading for his master’s degree at the Centre of Buddhist Studies at the University of Hong Kong.

Ven. Koralegama Gnanawasa earned his BA degree in Buddhist studies from the University of Peradeniya (2018) and is currently reading for his master’s of philosophy in the Postgraduate Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Peradeniya.

Ven. Kirindiwela Pagngnawansa earned his BA degree in Buddhist studies from the University of Peradeniya (2018) and is currently reading for his master’s of philosophy in the Postgraduate Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Peradeniya.

Please read the article here.