This part of the Database catalogues practice underlying existing rules of customary international humanitarian law identified in 1. Rules.
There are three views:
Translations into English of source material from non-English speaking countries are, unless otherwise indicated, unofficial translations. The authoritative version of any material translated for the Database is the original version of the document, available on the ICRC library website or upon request.
We have organized the practice recorded under each rule into 12 categories of source material. The quick navigation button gives direct access to any of the 12 categories of material on a given rule.
In both Chapter and Rule views, there is a link to the corresponding rule(s) in the left-hand column.
Although comprehensive, the Database cannot purport to be exhaustive nor to be devoid of mistakes. If you know of any pertinent practice that is missing or any mistakes in the Database, please contact us using the Feedback button at the top right-hand corner of each page.
We are regularly updating this part of the Database, with the most recently incorporated practice marked in green.
Original Customary IHL Study and completed updates: