Annual report 2019 3 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA CALL © Geneva Call

Foreword

As this annual report is published in the the Quran that reflect the main International develop compelling pedagogical materials middle of a worldwide pandemic on a scale Humanitarian Law (IHL) rules that should that can be disseminated online, via radio unknown in recent times, I would first like be respected by combatants. This has al- or through poster campaigns. These tools, to wish all our readers, partners and donors lowed our teams to initiate humanitarian just as much as the direct involvement with sound health, courage and determination engagements, based on trust, with several community leaders, have proved to be an in confronting these challenging times. radical ANSAs on the respect for IHL. In the important way to open doors and allow Geneva Call’s headquarters staff has been DR Congo, our team was able to convince a direct access to the very ANSAs themselves. working remotely since March 16th 2020, powerful ANSA to remove its outpost from but our field work could continue thanks the vicinity of a field hospital, as civilians 2019 has also been a year of consolida- to our field structures that we have kept and medical staff were too afraid to access tion of Geneva Call’s business model with strengthening throughout 2019. Without the medical structure due to its presence. a streamlining of all internal policies. A our colleagues based in the field, Geneva In Yemen, we obtained from the leadership particular effort has been made by the Call’s work would have been greatly dimin- of a major ANSA the signature of 3 Deeds of finance department to establish sound ished and damaged by the global pandemic. Commitment (Deeds) on prohibition of sexual internal control systems that have borne violence, child protection and prohibition of fruit in 2019 as highlighted in this report. In 2019 Geneva Call concluded its 2017-2019 use of anti-personal landmines. Following In November 2019 the Board approved the multiyear strategy. Most of the objectives the signature, training started on the various next global strategy which is the result of fixed have been achieved and only a few topics with strong engagement from field a wide consultation involving staff, ANSAs, partially achieved, mainly due to field access commanders to respect the commitments partners and donors and that will run from difficulties. The overall situation in the zones taken by their leadership. In Syria, Geneva 2020-through 2023. of conflict has remained complicated, with Call developed health protection campaigns constant breaches of humanitarian rules and trained the combatants of an ANSA I would like to address my special thanks across the world. Geneva Call has engaged signatory to our Deed in the middle of heavy to our donors who have remained faithful 96 Armed Non-State Actors (ANSAs) during fighting. These are a few concrete examples to Geneva Call’s mission throughout 2019 the year and significantly contributed to a of achievements throughout the year. and continue being so in the challenging decrease of abuses in 15 specific contexts. times of today. Within these, in several very tense contexts Geneva Call’s staff has shown a high level we have developed contextualized training of creativity in order to get in direct con- Alain Délétroz

Cover: © Shutterstock material in local dialect and with verses from tact with difficult to reach ANSAs and to Director General GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 4 5 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA CALL

Countries of operations 2019 Geneva Call Mission

Vision Geneva Call works in situations of armed Geneva Call engages ANSAs on specific conflict or armed violence where there thematic IHL and IHRL-related areas such During situations of armed conflict human- are one or more armed non- State actors as the ban on anti-personnel mines and itarian norms and principles are respected, (ANSAs) fighting government armed forces cooperation in mine action, the protection and civilians are protected. or other ANSAs, whose practices may have of children from the effects of armed con- a direct negative impact on the protection flict, the prohibition of sexual violence in Mission of civilians. During conflict, fighters must situations of armed conflict and towards comply with humanitarian norms enshrined the elimination of gender discrimination. In situations of armed conflict, Geneva Call, in international humanitarian law (IHL) Furthermore, it has recently developed as a neutral, impartial and independent and in relevant international human rights its thematic humanitarian engagement international humanitarian organization, law (IHRL) sources. Geneva Call engages efforts on the protection of cultural her- endeavours to strengthen the respect of ANSAs to encourage them to comply with itage in armed conflict, the protection of humanitarian norms by armed non-State these norms. health care, and the prohibition of forced actors, in order to improve the protection displacement. of civilians. Since Geneva Call began its work 20 years ago, it has developed a unique methodology 65 ANSAs have signed an innovative instru- Ukraine Values to increase awareness of, and respect for ment known as the Deed of Commitment IHL and IHRL by ANSAs. In fact, Geneva (Deed). The Deed is a mechanism developed Lebanon • Humanity Call is the only organization in the world by Geneva Call to enable ANSAs to pledge Syria Iraq Afghanistan • Neutrality focused exclusively on creating lasting to respect IHL and relevant norms of IHRL • Impartiality behaviour change among ANSAs and is and to be held publicly accountable for Libya • Independence widely recognised as such. It has managed their commitments. Myanmar • Accountability to engage 158 key ANSAs in 25 countries, Mali Yemen • Dedication many of which have taken active steps Geneva Call subscribes to the humanitarian The Philippines • Respect and made formal commitments to respect principles of neutrality, impartiality and South Sudan specific humanitarian norms. independence, and ensures transparency Colombia by informing stakeholders, including the

Democratic Republic States concerned, of its engagement ef- of the Congo forts with ANSAs.

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Table of Contents Progress towards strategy

Progress towards strategy 2017-2019 7 2017-2019

Thematic area 10 International Humanitarian Norms and Principles 10 Child protection and education 11 Geneva Call is the only international human- perspectives on International Humanitarian Sunni and Shia), Sahel and Asian contexts. Gender 12 itarian organization that works exclusively Law (IHL) is still ongoing. During 2019, trust has been built with the Landmines and explosive weapons 13 with armed non-State actors (ANSAs) to leadership of these groups, leading to the Displacement 14 improve their adherence to international Throughout the last period (2017-2019), signing of Deeds of Commitment, reviews of Cultural heritage 15 humanitarian norms in order to enhance Geneva Call continued to provide support internal codes of conduct and the adoption Protection of health care in armed conflict 16 the protection of civilians in situations of in enhancing the capacity of the humani- of unilateral declarations (signature of armed violence and armed conflict. tarian community to engage with ANSAs three Deeds of Commitment and the adop- Near and Middle East (NAME) 18 by conducting multiple training sessions tion of unilateral declarations in Yemen, Near and Middle East: regional approach - Regional Support Unit 19 During the last decade, the evolution of for humanitarian organizations working Syria, Myanmar, the DRC, and Iraq). Iraq 22 conflict patterns worldwide highlighted in conflict-affected areas. A clear shift in Lebanon 23 the need for Geneva Call to adapt as an paradigm happened during this period: In all the countries where Geneva Call is Syria 24 organization in order to have a deeper from a remote implementation and man- active, it seeks to deepen its engagement Yemen 25 impact in more situations. Following this agement approach, mostly led by HQ in with ANSAs, increasing its monitoring trend, Geneva Call has therefore expanded the past, the organization transitioned capacities, making sure that ANSAs are Latin America 26 its themes of engagement and its geograph- to a field-based operations management tangibly committing to improving the pro- Colombia 27 ical reach over the past years to the benefit approach. At the end of the period, Geneva tection of civilians. of conflict-affected civilians in those areas Call has expanded its geographic coverage Africa 28 where ANSAs are active. The organization and is fully operational with its teams on In parallel, important efforts were made Africa: regional approach 29 continuously strived to strengthen its sys- the ground in a total of 15 countries world- to increase the organization’s capacities. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) 30 tems and procedures to be more effective wide. During this period, the evolution of Several processes aiming at strengthening Libya 31 and efficient while retaining a clear sense conflicts throughout the regions led to an Geneva Call’s staff skills and knowledge Mali 32 of its values of humanity, neutrality, im- operational repositioning of interventions were successfully implemented, along South Sudan 33 partiality, independence, accountability, and priorities. While the interventions in with development and/or improvement dedication and respect. some countries reduced throughout the of tools and guidelines. While specific Asia and Europe 34 years (e.g. India, Iran, Western Sahara, efforts and investment were dedicated to Asia and Europe: regional approach 35 Sudan), other countries saw an increase in strengthening the staff’s planning, moni- Afghanistan 37 Strategic Objective 1 – Consolida- operations and field presence, such as the toring, evaluation and learning capacities, Myanmar 38 tion and concentration of action Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), other supporting and guiding tools were The Philippines 39 Libya, Ukraine, Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan improved and produced, i.e. operational Ukraine 40 Geneva Call’s operations are concen- & Pakistan. guidelines, ANSAs engagement guidelines trated in 10 priority contexts of armed (and disengagement strategies), evaluation Operational Support 41 conflict and focused on those ANSAs of the Deed of Commitment tool, gender Policy and legal unit 41 having the most severe impact on Strategic Objective 2 – Devel- evaluation. Communication 42 civilian populations; it has developed opment of engagement and the- Administration and Finance 42 its tools for engagement and for pro- matic and programme-related In addition, in 2018 Geneva Call devel- Human Resources 43 moting the respect of humanitarian innovations oped its fourth Deed of Commitment for norms; and it has consolidated the the protection of health care in armed Financial Report 44 assessment of its results and impact. Within a renewed and gradually de- conflict. The tool was successfully used Geneva Call is thankful to its donors and supporters 48 centralized operational framework, during 2019 in several contexts, where Support us 48 Geneva Call has initiated dialogue ANSAs endorsed the concept by signing Board of Trustees 50 Throughout 2019 Geneva Call has pursued with “new generation” ANSAs and/ the Deed or expressing willingness to abide. Directorate 50 the consolidation and optimization of its or ANSAs that are difficult to access; presence in the field by strengthening the it has innovated with the adoption Overall, 80% of the results expected in the country teams and offices, e.g. in Libya, of new themes and subjects and the strategy were achieved. South Sudan, Yemen, Afghanistan & Paki- launch of pilot programmes to support stan. While financial challenges have led to its engagement efforts with ANSAs. a reduction of headquarters (HQ) staff and field staff in several underfunded missions/ regions, particular efforts have been made Geneva Call’s operations are concentrated to strengthen the existing capacities within in those areas where ANSAs have the great- the teams by enhancing their expertise and est impact on civilians in countries such as skillsets through specific capacity building DRC, Syria, etc. Geneva Call successfully training sessions. In parallel, a specific engaged “hard-to-reach” ANSAs notably research project on ANSAs’ practices and groups in the Near & Middle East (both of focus have been defined: been have focus of areas key following The 2020-2023. period and implemented during the next strategic has been produced which will be finalised strategy advocacy Call’s Geneva of A draft humanitarian norms. virtual reality clips on key international of aseries e.g. audiences targeted gage using latest technologies to better en videos and animations were produced the evolution of the organization. New designed website that better portrays material and notably the launch of a newly with the updating of all external visibility in 2018, was implemented further in 2019 adopted identity visual new Call’s Geneva 2019. in operational being and with new joining members the structure structure Board anew and values and ment adoption of Geneva Call’s mission state successfully resulted in the revision and leadership implemented during 2017-2018, ance change, along with the transition of The process of management and govern ANNUAL REPORT 2019 CALL GENEVA • influence among priority audiences. priority among influence which promotes acceptance its and organization, the in changes the to strategy, andcation advocacy suited Geneva Call has an overall communi influence and cation and appeal for acceptance Strategic Objective 4 – Communi of objectives its and activities. governanceits the suits development and leadership anew to transition the Geneva Call has successfully achieved governance of of leadership and consolidation Strategic Objective 3 – Transfer

tion of civilians. in their strategies for protec ANSAs, engage all especially armed actors, atically insist on the to importance system to stakeholders key Urging ------during A the period. implementation con 2019 for budget its amend to Call Geneva of DG ECHO were requiring withdrawn, the Framework Agreements Partnership whereby NGOs non-EU for Union European the with arrangements to changes by cated compli 2018 further was closing when tion The challenging situation of the organiza expenses. operational its and income its increased Call 2019, Geneva During teams reviewed their respective planning: partners). The operations and geographical the stakeholders (current donors and local with taken engagements the to respond to and launched already activities of level the maintain to able be to was response The main objective of the programmatic 2019. March of as funding acquired Call’s Geneva to close budget approachservative was adopted, with a he volume of activities and the field field the and activities of volume he • • • • its staff. its anteeing the motivation and of skills and operational changes and by guar istrative management to structural andadmin financial its by adapting 50% by staff its and 33% by budget its strategy, Geneva Call has increased the of period three-year the Over management of growth Strategic Objective 5 – Successful

T mitments ( mitments cluding through training, public com in IHL, of ownership take to conflict Highlighting the need for to parties legislation. are protected from counter-terrorism they that sure making ANSAs, engage who outfits humanitarian for funding to Urging stakeholders to facilitate access groups on IHL does not legitimize them. Stressing that engaging with armed behaviour change. outcome); negotiated (high potential for positive being and/or acquired funding the to according were re-adapted presence Deeds …) and monitoring ------of HR management strategies and tools. and strategies management HR of through development and endorsement en the human resources department (HR) strength to place in put been have efforts 2019. of Particular end the by employees 80 of total a to amounted staff overall the and years three last the during income organization’s the in 52% of increase an was There organization. the of growth acontinuous by marked was Call Geneva theOverall, 2017-2019 strategic period for been in undertaken September. another budgetopportunities, review had situation and based on also the fundraising financial the on up follow close of result a As • •

in South Sudan. South in mission the of deployment new the pansion was downsized, except for ex geographic of scale foreseen The level). headquarters’ the at gions trans-re and level field the at resources trans-projects/countries for the human of existing resources (re-organization, activities realized via an optimization the implementation of projects and The headcount was also reduced, with 8 - - -

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International Humanitarian Norms Child protection and education and Principles What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019?

According to Save the Children, 415 million children worldwide are living in conflict © CICR © settings, including 149 million children The four Geneva Conventions entered their Geneva Call’s operations target ANSAs • In the Philippines, Geneva Call launched living in high-intensity conflict zones. They seventieth anniversary, since they were having the greatest impact on civilians as a booklet on 15 Key Rules for Fighters are being killed and maimed, abducted and adopted by their signatories. As stated well as initiating contacts with “hard-to- in Non International Armed Conflict raped, recruited and used in hostilities. in the conventions, those who are not or reach” ANSAs. Efforts in building trust with integrated Islamic references and no longer taking a direct part in hostili- with the leadership of these groups, has in Maguindanaon dialect. Moro Islamic Of the parties that are listed as perpetra- ties must be protected and their life and led to the signing of Deeds of Commitment, Liberation Front (MILF) expressed its tors of grave violations against children in dignity upheld without adverse distinc- reviews of internal codes of conduct and support and proposed to integrate the the last report of the UN Secretary-General tion. Nevertheless, continued violations the adoption of unilateral declarations. In content of the booklet to the madaris on children and armed conflict, most are of international humanitarian norms by addition, Geneva Call has strived to share its curriculum in Bangsamoro Autonomous ANSAs. parties to armed conflict had a devastat- experience and expertise with the human- Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). ing effect on the civilian population. The itarian community through conferences, The disruption of education is another core of Geneva Call’s work is to improve research, training and other activities. • Together with the Geneva Academy of major concern. According to the Global the protection of civilians during armed International Humanitarian Law and Coalition to Protect Education from Attack conflicts by engaging ANSAs to respect • In the Democratic Republic of the Human Rights, Geneva Call launched a (GCPEA), between 2013 and 2017, there international humanitarian norms – IHL Congo, the Alliance des Peuples pour major research project on the practice were attacks on schools in 74 countries. and international human rights law (IHRL), un Congo Libre et Souverain (APCLS) and interpretation of IHL and human In addition, the use of education facilities in particular on the thematic areas listed issued a unilateral declaration commit- rights norms by ANSAs. Drawing on for military purposes not only creates a risk in the following sections. The possibility ting to facilitate humanitarian access to the database www.theirwords.org for the students and teachers but also has of impartial humanitarian organizations areas under its control. Another ANSA, and case studies, the project aims to an impact on their access to education. engaging all parties to the conflict is pro- the Nduma Défense du Congo-Renové increase knowledge of ANSAs’ views vided for in Common Article 3 of the 1949 (NDC-R) shared its Code of Conduct and inform strategies to promote their On the other hand, the denial of human- Geneva Conventions. This work in no way for revision by Geneva Call’s policy and compliance with international law. itarian access has also led to devastating affects the legal status of ANSAs. legal unit. Two ANSAs nominated focal In 2019, Geneva Call conducted field consequences for children, who were, points to improve cooperation with missions to interview ANSAs and other in some cases, denied food, shelter and humanitarian workers and facilitate key stakeholders in Myanmar, Colom- medical care. humanitarian access to areas under bia, Mali, the Philippines and Somalia/ their control. Somaliland. Preliminary results were Geneva Call has been working on the pro- presented in a Research Brief and at tection of children and education in armed Leaders of four affected local commu- a side-event during the 33rd Interna- conflict since 2010. To date, 29 ANSAs have nities made public declarations about tional Conference of the Red Cross and signed the Deed of Commitment for the • In November 2019, the Restoration • In February, Geneva Call briefed the their wish to facilitate humanitarian Red Crescent in December. Protection of Children from the Effects of Council of Shan State (RCSS) in Myan- UN Security Council during an open access in their areas. These declara- Armed Conflict and have taken measures mar signed the Geneva Call’s Deed of Arria-Formula meeting on the protec- tions have a signal effect on ANSAs • In October, Geneva Call organized a to implement them, such as the demobili- Commitment for the Protection of Chil- tion of children during armed conflict. in their zones. 2-days thematic workshop on engaging zation of child soldiers. Other ANSAs have dren from the Effects of Armed Conflict. ANSAs for humanitarian protection, in undertaken similar pledges. The RCSS has also committed to install • In May, Geneva Call participated in the • In Mali, as a result of the humanitarian collaboration with the International an age verification mechanism to avoid III International Conference on Safe engagement and training sessions, Association of Professionals in Hu- • Through regular dialogue with the accidental recruitment of children. Schools, where it advocated for the several ANSAs have taken initiatives manitarian Assistance and Protection Southern Transnational Council (STC) in need to engage ANSAs on the protec- to increase their respect for IHL, such (PHAP). The workshop, which combined Yemen, Geneva Call took a significant • In the DRC, as part of its continued tion of education. as displaying key rules in their camps, lectures with role-playing, exercises step to bring the STC’s policies and dialogue, the APCLS proactively in- conducting refresher sessions and set- and group discussions, reviewed the in- behaviour in line with international formed Geneva Call of several children • Geneva Call drafted an academic article ting up internal training on the topic of ternational legal framework applicable standards by signing Geneva Call’s leaving other ANSAs and waiting to be to be published in the International Re- respect of the norms. ANSAs have also to non-international armed conflicts Deed of Commitment for the Protection referred to specialized organizations. view of the Red Cross. The piece is based requested additional training on IHL and the normative basis for humani- of Children from the Effects of Armed on Geneva Call’s experience engaging by Geneva Call and training materials tarian engagement with ANSAs. It also Conflict in July 2019. • In Myanmar, following humanitarian ANSAs in Myanmar, the DRC and Syria that they can share internally. One addressed key concepts, methods and engagement with Geneva Call, the Chin on the prohibition of recruitment and ANSA also shared its code of conduct challenges associated with engaging National Front/Chin National Army use of children in hostilities. with Geneva Call requesting a review with ANSAs on protection issues. (CNF/CNA) shared its revised Code and legal input. of Conduct which notably included provisions on the minimum age of re-

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Gender Landmines and explosive weapons What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019?

The 2019 Landmine Monitor reveals that • As a result of a regular dialogue with • Geneva Call briefed the 22nd Interna- 59 States were contaminated by anti-per- the STC in Yemen, Geneva Call took tional Meeting of Mine Action National sonnel mines (AP) as of October of that a significant step to bring the STC’s Directors and United Nations Advisers

© Geneva Call same year. These weapons have particularly policies and behaviour in line with during a side-event on how to engage grave consequences for civilians. Of the international standards by signing ANSAs on the prohibition of AP mines, 6,897 casualties of landmines and other Geneva Call’s Deed of Commitment for with a focus on the case of the Polisario explosive remnants of war (ERW) recorded Adherence to a Total Ban on Anti-Per- Front in Western Sahara. by this report in 2018, civilians represented sonnel Mines and for Cooperation in the vast majority of casualties. In addition Mine Action. to the human cost, AP mines and other explosive weapons hamper the delivery • In Myanmar, direct humanitarian en- of essential services, such as health and gagement with ANSAs covering the education. Their presence also severely issue of AP mines continued with the hinders the delivery of humanitarian re- Karen National Union (KNU) and Ka- lief, the return of displaced people and ren National Liberation Army (KNLA). economic development. As a result, the group has enforced policies on mapping the location of The same report states that ANSAs used mines, with only military targeting AP mines in at least six countries: Afghani- being permissible. stan, Myanmar, India, Nigeria, Pakistan and Yemen. There were unconfirmed allegations of new uses of AP mines by ANSAs also in Cameroon, Colombia, Mali, Libya, the Philippines, Somalia and Tunisia. Moreover, some ANSAs also have effective control over territories that are affected by AP mines and ERW. Communities living in such areas often receive little or no humanitarian assistance.

Geneva Call has been working on landmine In terms of gender and sexual violence, specifically on the prohibition of sexual • Geneva Call participated in a series issues since it was set up in 2000. To date, the 2019 report of the UN Secretary-Gen- violence and working towards the elimi- of international conferences and 54 ANSAs have signed the Deed of Com- eral on conflict-related sexual violence nation of gender discrimination, Geneva workshops with a view to highlight mitment for Adherence to a Total Ban on lists ANSAs suspected of committing Call addresses sexual violence and the the importance of engaging ANSAs Anti-Personnel Mines and for Cooperation conflict-related sexual violence in eight differentiated impact of armed conflict on conflict-related sexual violence in Mine Action and have taken measures countries (Central African Republic, Dem- on women, girls, men and boys as part of and their policies and practices that to implement them such as stockpile de- ocratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq, Mali, its other thematic topics. discriminate against women and girls, struction. Other ANSAs have undertaken Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, and Syria). including in terms of access to services similar pledges. Moreover, in recent years, In addition, certain aspects of ANSAs’ • In Myanmar, following humanitarian and participation in decision-making Geneva Call has also addressed the use policies or practices are discriminatory, engagement with Geneva Call, the Chin processes. of explosive weapons in populated areas notably regarding women’s access to ed- National Front/Chin National Army by ANSAs. ucation, health and other services and/or (CNF/CNA) shared its revised Code participation in decision-making processes, of Conduct which notably included • Following a long engagement with the such as peace negotiations. provisions on the prohibition of sexual Central Division, an active ANSA operat- violence. ing in north west Syria, the group signed Geneva Call has been working on gender the Deed of Commitment for Adherence issues since 2012. To date, 25 ANSAs have • Geneva Call has established and main- to a Total Ban on Anti-Personnel Mines signed the Deed of Commitment prohibiting tained a regular dialogue with the STC and for Cooperation in Mine Action. sexual violence in armed conflict and towards in Yemen. As a result, the targeted the elimination of gender discrimination and ANSA has signed the Deed of Commit- have taken measures to implement them. ment prohibiting sexual violence in armed Other ANSAs have undertaken similar conflict and towards the elimination of

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Displacement Cultural heritage What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019?

According to the United Nations High Com- • At the regional level in Near and Middle • Geneva Call developed a series of new missioner for Refugees (UNHCR), by the East, a regional workshop organized training and dissemination materials to end of 2019, an unprecedented 70.8 million with the participation of Shia religious engage ANSAs on displacement during people around the world were forced from leaders at the Islamic University of times of armed conflict, including an their homes by armed conflict, persecution Najaf on “Islam and the Protection of illustrated booklet, a short animated or violence. Direct attacks and ill-treat- IDPs” has resulted in issuing a common video and an immersive video tailored ment, the loss of property, the increased declaration on the prohibition of forced towards discussing in training sessions

danger of families being torn apart and displacement of civilians and the pro- with ANSAs the prohibition of forced © UN photo / Marco Dormino of children being separated from other tection of displaced persons during displacement under IHL, unless the family members, a greater risk of sexual armed conflicts and beyond (https:// safety of the civilians or imperative mili- violence, and restricted access to health www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-xh2M- tary reasons require such displacement. care and other essential services are among rNRfw). the common threats to displaced persons. • Geneva Call participated in a series of As they struggle to meet their essential international conferences and work- needs, they are placed in further jeopardy shops to share the lessons learned by tensions with their host communities from its 2018 pilot engagements with (who are very often themselves affected ANSAs on forced displacement during by armed conflict and lack of access to basic armed conflict. services), forced recruitment (especially children), settlement in unsafe locations, and their forced return to unsafe areas. Moreover, displacement also affects the communities from where people flee.

ANSAs may contribute to internal dis- placement in several ways. First, in some instances, ANSAs have forcibly displaced people themselves or prevented displaced persons from returning home. Second, the failure to respect IHL in general indirectly fosters internal displacement in many con- temporary armed conflicts. ANSAs also play a role in allowing humanitarian access and facilitating assistance for internally displaced people (IDP) and refugees living in the territories they control. Armed conflicts also threaten cultural Geneva Call started to engage ANSAs on a basis of reconciliation and stabilisa- Geneva Call started to engage ANSAs on heritage. On the one hand, some ANSAs un- the protection of cultural heritage in armed tion. Several ANSAs were specifically displacement issues in 2017. dertook deliberate and systematic attacks conflict in 2018. engaged on this theme, and efforts against cultural heritage, most famously supported to locate certain manu- • In Iraq, the general context during the attacks against the World Heritage • Geneva Call developed a series of new scripts in ANSAs’ possession. 2019 was deeply affected by the dis- Town of Timbuktu in Mali in 2012 or the dissemination materials to engage placement and forceful return of IDPs various acts of destruction by the Islamic ANSAs on the protection of cultural • Geneva Call participated in a series of in conflict affected areas. Responding State group carried out in Syria and Iraq heritage in armed conflict, including international conferences and events, to this situation, Geneva Call provided since 2014. On the other hand, cultural an illustrated booklet and a short, an- notably at the British Institute of Inter- several training sessions with particu- heritage may become damaged or lost imated video. national and Comparative Law and the lar focus on displacement to Popular during hostilities, in particular due to a Hague University, to share the findings Mobilization Forces (PMF) and Yazidi failure to take adequate precautionary • In Mali, an animated video specifically of its landmark report “Culture under Forces as well as civil society organi- measures for the protection of cultural focusing on the protection of the di- fire: armed non-State actors and cultural zations and IDP leaders. Geneva Call property. Moreover, the illegal excavation verse national cultural heritage was heritage in wartime” published in 2018. facilitated dialogue between inter- of archaeological sites, looting of museums produced for local needs and promoted national organizations (i.e. IOM) and and illicit trafficking of cultural objects via an extensive social media campaign. major PMF groups on the return of further endanger cultural heritage during The video campaign also addressed

IDPs in Diyala governate. Development DFID-UK-Department © International for times of armed conflict. the protection of cultural heritage as © Boris Niehaus Ukraine andUkraine Yemen. Sudan, South Central Republic, African the Afghanistan, Syria, in facilities health has against MSF referred continuous attacks 2018. Similarly, in countries 23 in care health ofdocumented violence incidents against report latest Coalition’s Conflict in Health ground isThe Safeguarding unequivocal. the on reality the lacking, is data worldwide Although comprehensiveunder attack. andmedical personnel facilities to come forsituations common in conflict armed In recent it years, has become increasingly others. before members own their treat and treatment free provide to staff medical forced and facilities care health looted have Additionally, orpersonnel patients. they medical killed also have ANSAs threats, Although many of these consisted of mere care. health against violence of cidents in in involved been often have ANSAs ANNUAL REPORT 2019 CALL GENEVA What did Geneva achieve Call in2019? in armed conflict care Protection health of - ANSAs have undertaken similar pledges. ANSAs taken measures to implement Other them. of health care in armed conflict Deed of Commitment for the protection the signed have ANSAs 2 To 2018. date, in conflict armed in care health of tection pro the on work to started Call Geneva • •

health care in armed conflict. conflict. armed in care health of Commitment for the protection of the signed has APCLS the result, a As years. the over topics of variety awide on Kivu North in ANSAs main the substantial dialogue and relations with developed has Call Geneva DRC, the In conflict. armed in care mitment for the protection of health Com of Deed Call’s Geneva the signed operating in west north Syria, the group ANSA active an Division, Central the Following a long engagement with In addition, and have and Deed Deed - - • •

and at the Geneva Peace Week. Peace Geneva the at and Partnerships Week, at Chatham House, ing and at the Humanitarian Networks on the protection of health care, includ on the importance of engaging ANSAs Geneva Call spoke at different events on medical personnel and facilities. wounded and the prohibition of attacks on the collection and evacuation of the cussing in training sessions with ANSAs immersive video tailored towards dis animatedbooklet, a short, video and an illustrated an including care, health of protection the on ANSAs engage to training and materials dissemination new of aseries developed Call Geneva ahospital. of vicinity the in ed relocate base a that military was locat and dismantle to accepted NDC-R the following Geneva Call’s intervention, 16 - - -

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Near and Middle East (NAME) Near and Middle East: regional approach - Regional Support Unit

What were the regional develop- ments?

Given the current protection crisis in the Near and Middle East region and the over- Shutterstock © whelming lack of respect for IHL from parties to the various on-going conflicts, there is an increasing need for humani- tarian engagement with ANSAs. Recent developments in the region predict an inevitable spiral of violence proving this line of action’s continued relevance. In northern Syria, fighting has intensified Lebanon Syria between the Turkish military and their Iraq proxies on one hand and Russian-backed government forces and Kurdish ANSAs on the other. In Yemen, the humanitarian situation is deteriorating beyond measure prompting the UN’s emergency food relief agency, to suspend aid to areas controlled Yemen by Houthi opposition forces as a last resort, given failed attempts to channel aid to populations in need. In the north, fighting was reinvigorated between Houthi forc- es and the Saudi-led coalition, whereas tensions in the south remain between the Hadi government and various ANSAs. What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? • Provision of support to Geneva Call’s In Iraq, the U.S. operation leading to the field operations in the region: Geneva killing of Iranian general Soleimani and Geneva Call has developed a more struc- Call’s knowledge of conflict actors and Iraqi militia commander Mohandisi caused tured approach to the transnational ANSAs dynamics was consolidated through U.S.-Iran tensions to soar and aggravated in the region. The approach targets the specific mappings and research on tensions between U.S. Forces and Irani- main and/or complex, yet well-organized transnational humanitarian issues, an backed PMF groups in Iraq. When it and sophisticated ANSAs. It addresses ANSAs, and influential regional actors, comes to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the changing dynamic of conflicts with culminating in the development of the White House’s Middle East peace plan a clear tendency to transnationality and engagement strategies. was met with anger and rejection by the cross-conventional borders activities. By Palestinian leadership, undermining already consolidating Geneva Call’s experience and • Regional Advocacy: Geneva Call en- dim prospects for peace with potential capitalizing on its regional knowledge, ex- gaged with influential regional stake- consequences in the Palestinian refugee pertise and stakeholder relationships, more holders to increase support for en- camps in Lebanon. Furthermore, several targeted and result-oriented approaches gagement with ANSAs and its work waves of anti-government protests have and strategies are being developed and put in the region. It held meetings with erupted in the region namely in Iran, Iraq in place. The regional unit project’s purpose religious leaders to further the protec- and Lebanon with clashes – ranging from is to help establish backing strategies for tion of civilians and gathered expert violent to deadly – occurring between engagement with ANSAs at a transnational humanitarian actors to discuss the protesters and security forces. level through offices established in Beirut challenges faced when working with and Erbil. The project has been focusing and around ANSAs. on advocacy and capacity building work as well as indirect engagement with region- al/transnational stakeholders, while the ANSA engagement itself takes place at a country program level. Several meetings, roundtables and capacity building seminars have been successfully implemented since the launch of the regional office. GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 CALL GENEVA • • •

Call established the foundation for 2019, In Geneva region: the in norms building on humanitarian Capacity challenges. these actors to overcome operational facilitate communication between to and ANSAs of engagement the to humanitarian actors when it comes a more informed discussion among generate to expertise this use to able been has Call Geneva Yemen. and Iran, Turkey, Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, in society civil of members influential as well as range of political and armed actors wide a with levels different at engage successfully to possible it made has longstanding experience in the region Geneva actors: Call’shumanitarian Provision support of to ad-hoc other beyond. and conflicts armed during the protection of displaced persons of forced displacement of civilians and common declaration on the prohibition a of issuing the in resulted has IDPs” of Protection the and “Islam on Najaf ofleaders at University the Islamic the participation of 23 Shia religious A regional organized workshop with care. health cultural and heritage displacement, (EW), weapons /explosive mines (AP) child protection, gender, anti-personnel including core such topics thematic as region, the in IHL for respect improve to disseminated and developed were Relevant training and research material ther dissemination at the field level. totraining methodology enable fur and IHL on staff local and partners of organization further built the capacity The reporting. sensitive conflict and IHL building of on journalists the capacity - structure accordingly. continuous improvement and adapt the for opportunities the identify and ence acquired viaunderstanding the experi and knowledge the capture to process Geneva Call has a launched lessons-learned programming. cross-country as well as units field and HQ of matrix the involving ongoing coordination across for Geneva Call posed new challenges structure regional a such of up setting The context? this in face What challenges did Geneva Call - 20

© Geneva Call pon a request of UN OCHA, Geneva Geneva OCHA, UN of arequest pon 2019? in achieve Call Geneva did What duly planned process. Nineveh, and Salahdin Anbar without any of governorates the in camps the merge or close to decision the after exacerbated ther groups. The humanitarian situation was fur mentioned the and Forces US the between aggravated militias, theIran-backed tensions theal-Mhandes, deputy commander of PMF Revolutionary Guard Corps, and Abu Mahdi Qasim Suleimani, major general in the Islamic groups and Shia communities. The killing of Shia tensions between Iranian backed PMF intra of dynamics new created has violence of wave current The reported. been have Kirkuk and Diyala Ninveh, Salahdin, Anbar, of Mobilization Forces (PMF) in the governorates attacking Iraqi Security Forces and Popular Sincetions. 2018, several of ISg incidents popula large of in control themselves find representing only of the parts population, since armed the actors outside region, or security, and stability long-term the to threat communal which lines, poses an imminent vided along religious sectarian, ethnic, and di severely is society The group(ISg). State Islamic of resurgence the and refugees IDPs, to related issues other of aplethora faces also Iraq as vulnerable more situation the ofintensity the demonstrations are making fragilelitias, government and the growing The presence of political and religious mi situation? conflict the was What Iraq ANNUAL REPORT 2019 CALL GENEVA • •

U certain camps. camps. certain resumption access of humanitarian to the facilitated and Nineveh in PMF 30 Brigade of commanders engaged Call Geneva Call`s relations with PMF. with relations Call`s Geneva Forces, which contributed to reinforcing groups in Sunni Baghdad, and Yazidi PMF influential and Shia with Trainers of Training as such year, the throughout capacities: knowledge & ANSAs’ Strengthened assessments. support in conducting return related his pledged governor the aresult, As Diyala. in IDPs of return the on groups PMF major and IOM between facilitated access: tarian Enhanced engagement for humani activities were activities implemented important dialogue important was - - - - - • •

society society organizations and IDP leaders. tovided and Yazidi PMF civil Forces, sessions on displacement were pro on protection of Several IDPs. training Najaf resulted in signing a declaration withworkshop Shia religious leaders’ in with Another transnational ANSAs. studies on engagement strategies contributed in developing research issues This engagement. and ANSA was organized in Erbil, on humanitarian shop gathering humanitarian experts Regional Support Unit (RSU), a work Consolidated awareness: signed indeclaration December 2018. on complying with the humanitarian the Ezidkhan Yazidi Forces from Sinjar, and their forces in including Sulemaniya, (PUK) Kurdistan of Union Patriotic the training for sessions, commanders of Peshmerga, accompanied by follow up the Code of Conduct of of the Ministry was provided to the development of Support declarations. humanitarian in their willingness to sign unilateral groups PMF resulted with relations itarian commitments: ofDeeds Commitment and other human the consolidated consolidated the through the - - - TOTAL tarian norms. actors within the framework of humani engagement with Shia and other armed discussed the of importance continued lateral meetings with various donors and bi of aseries through advocacy strong challenging to obtain. The team developed proved forces armed Shia with gagement Stakeholder support for humanitarian en context? this in face What challenges did Geneva Call Expenditure 449 CHF

057 22 - - -

© CICR – Adnan Sherkhan Mohammed Al Genkw, Ibrahim

© Geneva Call increased risk of exploitation and abuse. and exploitation of risk increased an at are children and women especially context, the vulnerable population and this In refugees. of influx the by fragilized been further has that control and powers ever-delicate balance of and sectarian tribal south, the north and the Beqaa; with the the in especially disruption, and violence tensions can trigger and armed escalations accessible throughout the country. Rising still deteriorate quickly, with arms easily may situation the writing, of time the at economic Despite crisis. the relative calm amidstgripping a the country spiraling lent times protest with anti-government turbu 2019 of saw end The violations. of risk growing at security and rights human put in Palestiniancamps, the especially tensionsRecurring and armed clashes, situation? conflict the was What 23 Lebanon - What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? in achieve Call Geneva did What • •

actors from the Palestinian society. society. Palestinian the from actors jointly establish a roadmap with key aboutdiscussions to the necessity Hilweh, Geneva broad Call launched in mechanisms Ain al- de-escalation and mediation of lack the identifying study a previous on Based region. the sions with Shia actors in Lebanon and have been used for deepening discus religious structures. The outcomes enabling a of deeper understanding ential Religious Actors was conducted, civilians: Enhanced engagement on protection of tarian situation in the camps. humani the improve to ways discuss enabled relevant players to interact and with Palestinian factions. This tradition 3 its held Call Geneva 2019. May, In March in (PNSF) Forces Security for the Palestinian National a crowned with the official adoption of bodieswas security affiliated their and factions Palestinian the with ment humanitarian engage the long-term policies: Strengthened internal ANSA Code of Conduct and a Code of Ethics Ethics of a Code and Conduct of Code A mapping of Lebanon’s Influ Lebanon’s of mapping A rd annual Iftar annual Iftar - - - - TOTAL Expenditure turbulent region. and communitiesdone in with ANSAs this negative consequences on all the work withdrawal of Geneva Call would have the stakeholders, key with follow-up and uous efforts to maintain minimalpresence programme in the region. Despite contin standing longest Call’s 2019, May by Geneva context resulted in having to close Lebanon, The challenges in securing funding for the context? this in face What challenges did Geneva Call • •

ness: Consolidated and broadened aware sessions. the during tackled were care) health culturalEW, heritage, displacement, (children/education, gender, AP mines/ Furthermore, core topics thematic Law. Sharia with convergence their and principles IHL on Authority, Sunni official the al-Ifta’, Dar with nership raising, directly or through the part awareness via continued Beqaa the and Akkar, Tripoli, north, the in efforts leaders’ knowledge & capacities: and community Strengthened religious discussions. discussions. ian and Syrian actors joined the public Palestin as well as country the of parts Society Organizations (CSOs) from all political parties andpractitioners, Civil Academics, region. the and Lebanon challengesrary of IHL compliance in region – shed the light on contempo replicated in other countries in the 2017 in and Call Geneva by launched GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA The Friends of IHL Network – Friends Network of The IHL 141 The The CHF

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Syria Yemen

What was the conflict situation? In 2019, intense fighting occurred in both • Deeds of Commitment: Following a What was the conflict situation? north east (NES) and north west Syria (NWS), long engagement with the Central Syria continues to be a context where including Idlib, Aleppo countryside, and Division - active in NWS, Geneva Call The current conflict in Yemen is a mosaic of

civilians are exposed to major protection eastern Deir-Ez-Zor Governorates. The hos- achieved the signature of two Deeds complex local, regional and international © Geneva Call issues in various areas. The country is af- tilities led to massive human losses and of Commitment: power struggles. The situation has dete- fected by multiple armed conflicts, both maiming, as well as damage to property riorated since 2015 when President Abdo non-international and international. The and cultural heritage and negative impact – Deed of Commitment for the protec- Rabbu Mansour Hadi was forced to flee involvement of foreign states, with their on other necessary services to daily life. tion of health care in armed conflict to Saudi Arabia by Ansar Allah/Houthis conflicting agendas, further complicates rebels. In response, a Saudi-led coalition the picture. What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? – Deed of Commitment for Adherence was mobilized aiming to reinstate the Hadi to a Total Ban on Anti-Personnel government. The Houthi group has a strong Attacks on medical facilities and schools • Enhanced dialogue for humanitarian Mines and for Cooperation in Mine grip on Sana’a, while the STC seized power remain a hallmark in the crisis. The UN es- access: Geneva Call developed a new Action. in Aden in 2019. timates that almost half of these facilities partnership with the Humanitarian are either fully or partially not functional Relief Foundation (IHH), having for the • Consolidated awareness: Geneva Call Since the start of the conflict, two major as a result of hostilities. Moreover, attacks first-time access to NWS, enabling the held its first training session on sexual peace agreements were signed: on schools were constantly reported, pre- team to directly engage with active violence and gender discrimination for venting children from pursuing their edu- Syrian CSOs and Community Based the Educated Woman Association. In • ”Stockholm Agreement”, between the cation. The effects of new and protracted Organizations (CBOs) in the area. collaboration with its partner, Afaq Government of Yemen and the Houthi displacement also resulted in the use of Academy, over 30 training sessions group in 2018. collective shelters, including schools for IDP, • Strengthened ANSAs knowledge & ca- were conducted, including awareness putting civilians in dire living conditions. pacities: Geneva Call conducted its first raising to local CSOs, CBOs and ANSAs. • Riyadh Agreement, between the Gov- In addition, women and girls continue to training on the protection of medical ernment of Yemen and the STC under • Enhanced engagement for humanitar- tarian norms. Geneva Call reached local face gender-based violence risks and a high care for key ANSAs operating in NWS. During the intense fighting involving the patronage of Saudi Arabia in No- ian access: Due to regular contacts, NGOs and civil society organizations, number of children used in hostilities has ANSAs in north east and north west vember 2019. sustainable and confidential dialogue contributing to enhance the respect of been reported by all sides. A significant achievement was the Syria, Geneva Call conducted an IHL with two of the main ANSAs in Yem- international humanitarian norms, via release of 30 recruited children from training session with ANSAs directly Yemen continues to be the world’s worst en, Geneva Call continued playing a the Friends of International Humanitar- the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) participating in the hostilities. During humanitarian crisis, driven by conflict, central role in facilitating effective ian Law Network, a unique innovative contingent. the same period, Geneva Call launched economic collapse and the continuous humanitarian access for humanitarian initiative developed first in Lebanon. a two-week radio and internet broad- breakdown of public institutions and ser- organizations on the ground. cast, disseminating audio messages on vices. The escalation of the conflict has What challenges did Geneva Call the general rules of IHL. dramatically aggravated protection risks • Strengthened ANSAs’ knowledge & face in this context? for millions of civilians. Over 410,000 people capacities: Geneva Call strengthened What challenges did Geneva Call were displaced during 2019. Despite global the ANSAs’ knowledge on IHL through The security situation is volatile, any ten- face in this context? attention and political talks, immense suf- training sessions targeting high-rank- sion is often coupled with restricted access fering persists across the country. ing officials within the STC. Thematic to security forces and the ANSAs to be Despite the access gained in NES, Geneva sessions focused on the protection of trained. The increase in conflict in August Call’s activities remained constrained, limit- What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? children and the prohibition of their 2019 resulted in several months of delay ing direct training to ANSAs and were imple- recruitment, the prohibition of use of in the implementation of planned activi- mented through its partner, Afaq Academy. • Deeds of Commitment: through careful AP mines, and ERW near highly popu- ties. In the north, the National Authority The dialogue with the Syrian government and sustained dialogue with the STC, lated areas. for the Management and Coordination of remains very limited, despite the efforts to three Deeds of Commitment were Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Recov- access Syrian government-held areas. The signed in 2019: • Consolidated awareness: Key influential ery (NAMCHA) and the Supreme Council fluidity of Syrian ANSAs (changing alliances, community stakeholders in different for The Management and Coordination of dissolving to reappear under new ones) – Deed of Commitment for Adherence governorates representing more than Humanitarian Affairs (SCMCHA) have not jeopardizes Geneva Call’s work. Moreover, to a Total Ban on Anti-Personnel 35 CSOs/CBOs, traditional/religious and yet accepted Geneva Call’s work which the volatile situation provoked difficulties Mines and for Cooperation in Mine political leaders, media workers and resulted in the lack of approval to register recruiting new staff at the field level. Action; local NGOs, increased their awareness there. Despite the authorization to work on international humanitarian norms. through local partners this complicates – Deed of Commitment for the Pro- the monitoring of activities. tection of Children from the Effects Despite significant challenges in the of Armed Conflict; and north, Geneva Call successfully imple- mented awareness-raising activities Expenditure – Deed of Commitment prohibiting in Sana’a, leveraging its proximity to Expenditure sexual violence in armed conflict and local organizations, working with and CHF CHF towards the elimination of gender through them to organize activities and TOTAL 765 772 TOTAL 977 830

© Geneva Call discrimination disseminate key messages on humani- GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 26 27 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA CALL

Latin America Colombia

What was the conflict situation? EW, displacement, cultural heritage, What challenges did Geneva Call health care). CBOs/CSOs were pro- face in this context? Following the “Final Agreement to End the vided with comprehensive training on Armed Conflict and Build a Stable and Lasting the above-mentioned thematic issues The difficulties raising funds for the con- Peace” signed between the Revolutionary and more than 95 journalists deep- text provoked the temporary closure in Armed Forces of Colombia – People’s Army ened their knowledge of humanitarian December 2019 of one of Geneva Call’s (FARC-EP) and the Colombian State, the norms and reporting skills related to first programmes. Despite continuous withdrawal of the FARC-EP, along with the IHL violations. efforts to maintain a minimal presence power vacuum created, triggered compe- and follow-up with key stakeholders, the tition among other actors for the control • Consolidated and broadened aware- withdrawal of Geneva Call would have of territories and illegal economies. This ness: For the first time in Colombia, negative consequences on all the work led to the reconfiguration of ANSAs such two media campaigns were launched done with ANSAs and communities in this as the ELN, the Popular Liberation Army to raise awareness among the broader particular context. (EPL), the Gaitanist Self-Defence Forces of civilian population on the basic prin- Colombia (AGC) and paramilitary groups, ciples of IHL and the importance to and the emergence of new and numerous respect them, as well as to reach those local, smaller armed groups. These new committing the violations. The first Expenditure developments have dramatic consequences campaign was called “During wartime, CHF for the civilian population as it means the not everything is permitted!”, whereas TOTAL 231 682 continuation of armed violence and even in the second one, more culturally-an- some case its exacerbation. Indeed, three chored, was launched with the headline years after the signing of the Agreement, “Neither in matter of war nor in matter Colombia the UN Verification Mission and the UN Se- of love everything is acceptable, there curity Council describe the current context are limits!”. as both very serious and “more complex” than before the Agreement, calling for “the full implementation of the Agreement”. The implementation is seen as much too slow, in particular with regards to the land tenure and rural reforms (report UNSG, 4 October 2019).

What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019?

• Enhanced engagement on protection of civilians: Geneva Call organized work- shops with ELN members detained in the women’s prison of Bucaramanga (Santander department) as well as in the high security detention centre of Valledupar (Cesar department). Al- though, no official statement has been made by the ELN to commit themselves to respect international humanitarian norms, the participants showed great interest in the thematic issues tackled and willingness to pursue the work.

• Strengthened community, civil society, media and traditional/religious leaders’ knowledge & capacities: The efforts in the most affected departments (Chocó, Cauca, Nariño, Putumayo, Arauca and Norte de Santander) continued via awareness-raising seminars on IHL principles and core thematic topics

(children/education, gender, AP mines/ © Geneva Call GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 28 29 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA CALL

Africa Africa: regional approach

What were the regional develop- Representatives also intervened during In Sudan, in the two areas (Blue Nile and ments? the Children and Armed Conflict Pan Af- South Kordofan, in the eastern part of rican Conference, organized by Save the Sudan), the two branches of the SPLM-N Africa has the largest number of conflicts Children in Addis Ababa in October 2019. (Malik Agar and El Hilu) remained active and in the world. Most of these conflicts have Geneva Call stressed the challenges of still controlled stockpiles of AP mines. In transnational aspects and therefore do not addressing IHL violations against children, 2019, Geneva Call therefore maintained its only affect national stabilities but more and notably child recruitment in the DRC. relationship with the group, and with the broadly regional balances, as is the case in For instance, it was emphasized that not Malik Agar branch in particular. When the Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, or DRC and all ANSAs know that the use of children political situation in the country drastically Burundi. All these conflicts are different is prohibited, therefore highlighting the changed, Geneva Call facilitated the dia- in nature and involve local grievances, but crucial need for substantive humanitarian logue between SPLM-N and humanitarian they have a common feature: the threat engagement of these actors. Likewise stakeholders, on humanitarian issues. The that ANSAs pose to states’ presence and it was also stressed that often children goal was to allow safe deployment of hu- Libya deployment. This phenomenon, as well lack suitable educational and professional manitarian agencies in SPLM-N held areas, as conflict at large, reduce the civilian perspectives leading them to join ANSAs with a specific focus on the mine issue. population’s access to basic and essential on their own initiative. Mali services, which in turn feeds the cycle of In Western Sahara, on 6 January 2019, enrolment, and more broadly, of violence, Geneva Call also actively participated in the Geneva Call monitored the destruction of South Sudan exposing civilian populations to increasing EU Initiative called “Protect medics, Save 2,485 stockpiled AP mines by the Sahrawi violations of international humanitarian lives”, through its activities with ANSAs in Mine Action Coordination Office (SMACO) norms. Africa is also hosting more and more the field (South Sudan, DRC), and provided in accordance with Geneva Call’s Deed of Democratic Republic ANSAs qualified as “radical”, which tend input to the design of the “Digest on the Commitment for Adherence to a Total Ban of the Congo to operate through cross-border set-ups. Attacks on Health Care in the DRC”, released on Anti-Personnel Mines and for Coopera- during the 33rd International Conference tion in Mine Action, signed by the Polisario What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? of the Red Cross and Red Crescent. Front in 2005. This marked the eighth and final such destruction since the Polisario In 2019, a high-level of analysis relating The organization and its operations in Front signed the Deed of Commitment, to cross-regional and cross-continental Africa were introduced and there was an bringing the total number of stockpiled

issues affecting the African continent has exchange on contextual analysis of the AP mines they have destroyed to date to been maintained, in order to identify and region with the United States Africa Com- 20,493. Proceeding with this destruction target the most suitable interlocutors for mand (AFRICOM) in Stuttgart in November phase, the Polisario Front has fulfilled all its advocacy for increased respect of IHL. 2019. This allowed Geneva Call to present its obligations under the Deed. Geneva Call This was done through close monitoring its work in Africa, globally as well as to gain therefore reduced its level of monitoring. of the regional developments as well as a better understanding of the functioning Geneva Call also shared its experience in regular exchanges with various political of AFRICOM. Western Sahara with the humanitarian and humanitarian stakeholders. community in February 2019, through a A round table on the theme “Operating in side event to the 2019 yearly meeting of Geneva Call presented its activities and violent extremism and counter terrorism the directors of national demining centres, specifically those implemented in Africa environments” was co-organized with the in Geneva. This event was organized with during its participation in an OCHA event Norwegian Refugee Council and the Global the participation of Norwegian People’s organized in Montreux in May 2019, on the Protection Cluster in Geneva in November Aid, as well as the SMACO. issue of “behavior, norms and standards”. 2019. Participants were provided with an The importance of engaging with ANSAs in-depth analysis of counter terrorism on humanitarian norms and their respect mechanisms and of the impact they have to ensure better civilian protection was on humanitarian action, with a specific highlighted. emphasis on protection work in the Sa- helian region as well as in central Africa (Nigeria, Chad).

The Africa Unit at HQ continued to over- see operations in contexts where no field structure is in place, such as in Sudan and Western Sahara. GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 30 31 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA CALL

Democratic Republic Libya of the Congo (DRC) What was the conflict situation? What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? What challenges did Geneva Call face in this context? 2019 was marked by the escalation of the • Enhanced knowledge and multiplication What was the conflict situation? conflict around Tripoli. The Libyan Arab efforts: Geneva Call conducted an IHL Geneva Call’s major challenge in 2019 was Armed Forces (LAAF), who had already training for Libyan influencers who in the conflict escalation from April 2019, and In December 2018, the presidential and launched an offensive to take control of turn will go back to Libya to organize the ongoing armed violence ever since.

general elections took place after two © Geneva Call Southern Libya in early 2019, mobilized to awareness raising sessions for armed Given the conflict intensity in and around postponements. National and international capture Libya’s capital in April. The conflict actors affiliated with the Government Tripoli, Geneva Call had difficulties to reach observers have reported several irregulari- also involved external stakeholders from the of National Accord. Geneva Call held an out and maintain dialogue with armed ac- ties across the country, including, members subregion and beyond, therefore increasing IHL training session with three Libyan tors who were heavily involved in fighting, of armed groups allegedly forcing some the complexity of the conflict itself. Many CSOs which, following the training, and less available to participate in dialogue voters to cast their vote for candidates IHL violations were reported during the conducted awareness raising sessions and training sessions. of the Front Commun pour le Congo. In fighting, including targeting of civilian in- with teachers in Sabratha, with journal- January the victory of Felix Tshisekedi was frastructure, such as a migrants detention ists in Tripoli and with jurists and civil Due to the conflict dynamics institutional announced, but his presidency has been center and the airport. This conflict also society activists in Benghazi. polarization has also increased, impact- contested to this day by the runner-up resulted in a high number of IDPs in need ing Geneva Call’s registration and thus its Martin Fayulu and the National Episcopal of humanitarian assistance. This escalation • Deepened engagement: Geneva Call ability to implement activities in-country. Conference of Congo. halted the ongoing UN attempt to find a maintained engagement on IHL and However, this challenge was overcome by political solution to the conflict. The National held three awareness raising sessions an increase of partnerships with Libyan Nevertheless, a new government has been Conference, which was supposed to bring with one Libyan armed actor in Beng- CSOs from all over the country. formed leading to a change in the conflict together all actors relevant to the Libyan hazi, who expressed interest in receiv- dynamics in North Kivu. New alliances conflict and was planned to be held only a ing in-depth training on IHL. have emerged, including between the few days after, was cancelled. Ever since, Congolese national forces (FARDC) and the political process has severely stagnated. • Increased awareness: Right after the the Nduma Defense of Congo – Rénové This volatile situation deeply impacted the military escalation around Tripoli in April (NDC-R), an ANSA engaged by Geneva humanitarian community and its ability to 2019, Geneva Call launched a new phase Call. Other ANSAs with whom Geneva Call implement in-country and in safe conditions. of the IHL “Fighter not Killer”-Campaign Expenditure was in dialogue have surrendered. ANSAs intervention, the NDC-R accepted to What challenges did Geneva Call Despite the very challenging environment, on Facebook which reached more than CHF have also relocated to other provinces, dismantle and relocate a military base face in this context? Geneva Call managed to rapidly adapt its 660 000 individuals. Comments from the TOTAL 367 404 bringing additional protection risks to that was in the vicinity of a hospital. logic of intervention and to implement ac- viewers were globally very positive and the new host communities. Therefore, Following the presidential elections, the tivities directly in Libya, both in the eastern allowed Geneva Call to adapt its focus despite political change, the population of • Policy change towards respecting IHL: ANSA landscape has significantly changed and western parts of the country. to issues identified as most relevant by North Kivu still faces a wide range of IHL The APCLS signed the Deed of Commit- in North Kivu and Geneva Call has lost the communities. violations and protection needs remain ment for the protection of health care in touch with one of them, due to its reloca- high, not the least related to education armed conflict. The group also issued tion out of Geneva Call’s operational area. and health care which remained affected a unilateral declaration committing to On a positive note, however, Geneva Call by the tenth Ebola epidemic. facilitate humanitarian access to areas was able to initiate dialogue with other under its control. The NDC-R shared its ANSAs that showed an interest in further What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? Code of Conduct for revision by Geneva engagement on IHL. Call’s Policy and Legal Unit. • Behavior change towards better pro- Due to limited funding, Geneva Call has tection: The Alliance des Peuples pour • Increased knowledge: Geneva Call main- been unable to strengthen its field office in un Congo Libre et Souverain (APCLS) tained an engagement with 6 ANSAs Goma which impacted the level of follow-up proactively informed Geneva Call of and trained 150 of their officers on that the organization would like to apply several children leaving other ANSAs different thematic priorities. to its work with ANSAs and communities. and needing to be referred to special- ized organizations. The APCLS also • Community-led advocacy efforts: As a requested Geneva Call to contribute result of Geneva Call’s training sessions to the evacuation of a wounded com- and focus group discussions with close to batant to a secure health facility and, 900 community members, four communi- following Geneva Call’s advocating, ties in the Masisi and Rutshuru territories accepted to release a woman who was made public declarations about their Expenditure taken hostage. Two ANSAs nominated wish to facilitate humanitarian access in CHF focal points to improve cooperation their areas. Moreover, following Geneva TOTAL 446 197 with humanitarian workers and facili- Call’s intervention, three communities tate humanitarian access to areas under put in place a space for dialogue with

their control. Following Geneva Call’s ANSAs controlling the zone. © ECHO Libya GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 32 33 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA CALL

Mali South Sudan

What was the conflict situation? with Burkina Faso and Niger (in Liptako • Serving the humanitarian community: What was the conflict situation? Gourma), an increase of violence affecting Geneva Call published a study about Throughout 2019, the political instability in civilians has also been observed. Malian endogenous protection norms Despite the Revitalized Agreement on Mali has persisted and insecurity deterio- which was shared and well received by the Resolution of the Conflict in South rated. The centre and north of the country What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? the wider humanitarian community; Sudan (R-ARCISS) signed in September experienced attacks that were directed the study served as a base for an aca- 2018, parties failed to implement some key against both national and international • Concrete steps towards respecting demic article published in the Journal provisions on security arrangements and © CICR – Seriex, Florian regular armed forces as well as civilians, IHL: As a result of the humanitarian of International Humanitarian Legal the number of states and their boundaries, causing a heavy toll in casualties. In Menaka, engagement and training sessions Studies (February 2020, Brill, Leiden). which led to two postponements of the Ansongo, Koro and Bankass, deliberate targeting 253 representatives, several beginning of the transition period. Inter- attacks against civilians, the recruitment ANSAs have taken initiatives towards a • Increased awareness: More than 1 mil- national pressure put on the parties to be and use of minors and children among better respect of IHL, such as displaying lion people were reached through a able to close the pre-transitional period many groups as well as the use of AP mines key rules in their camp, conducting video campaign, based on culturally was to no avail in 2019. Hostilities between and the prevalence of explosive remnants multiplication sessions and setting up adapted IHL messages and original an- the two main signatories -Sudan People’s of war, are serious issues affecting the internal training sessions on the topic. imations, in Mopti, Gao, Timbuktu and Liberation Movement In Opposition In population. Moreover, the protection of ANSAs have also requested additional Bamako. The high number of viewers Government (Taban Deng); Sudan People’s health care and humanitarian access at training sessions on IHL by Geneva Call and positive comments indicate that Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (Riek large is becoming an additional point of and training materials that they can the messages on protection of civilians Machar) - nevertheless decreased. concern. On a more global perspective, share internally. One ANSA shared resonate with the audience and echo the ANSA landscape remained very fluid, its code of conduct with Geneva Call their experiences and concerns. The However, fighting continued between the including reshuffling in the preexisting requesting a review and legal input video campaign also addressed the army and armed groups that were not part alliance systems. protection of cultural heritage as a of the agreement (NAS), mainly in Central • Increased reach to ANSAs: Thanks to basis of reconciliation and stabilisa- Equatoria and Upper Nile. Intercommunal The presence of international armed forces Geneva Call increased visibility and tion. Several ANSAs were specifically clashes, often ethnically based, also in- has not provided a clear military advantage reputation, ANSAs, including pow- engaged on this theme. creased, leading to a total rise of nearly and various observers state that in fact erful self-defense militias, started to 200% in the civilian casualties compared this pressure has rather increased the local proactively reach out to Geneva Call in • Local ownership and multiplication to 2018. rooting of “radical armed movements”. It order to gain knowledge about and to efforts: Following the outreach to and should be noted that beyond the borders improve their respect of IHL the training of 195 representatives Armed actors continued to commit seri- of civil society and the media, several ous abuses such as indiscriminate attacks on the prohibition of sexual and gen- • Reinforced conflict-monitoring and organizations conducted dissemination against civilians including aid workers, der-based violence, which continues community outreach: Geneva Call es- activities on their own: the Communal unlawful killings, beatings, arbitrary deten- to be a main concern for the civilian tablished a partnership with the Centre Youth Council of Gao held three ses- tions, torture, sexual violence, looting and population of South Sudan. for Strategic Conflict Analysis (CESCA) sions for its members on the protection destruction of property. All sides restricted in order to monitor the conflict situa- of civilians and set up of dedicated sup- access provided to United Nations, ceasefire • Strengthened knowledge: Geneva Call tion on the ground and to implement port cells; radio Annuya in Gao hosted monitors, and aid workers. conducted a workshop on IHL and its awareness raising and training sessions a question & answer programme on 15 main rules to 12 ANSA officers in targeting the communities. the 15 rules of IHL; and radio Saghan This situation led to additional internal Juba. The participants were drawn in Mopti staged a contest based on displacement, jeopardizing even further from the Sudan People’s Liberation What challenges did Geneva Call child protection norms. the already very fragile leaving conditions Movement-in-Opposition (Riek Machar face in this context? of the affected civilian population. branch), the South Sudanese Public What challenges did Geneva Call Defence Forces, the South Sudan Op- Following the signature of the Revitalized face in this context? What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019 position Alliance (SSOA) and other Agreement R-ARCISS, the status of certain overall? signatory armed actors to the R-AR- armed groups is ambiguous and poses Because ANSAs considered as “radical” are CISS, the Ministry of Humanitarian challenges with respect to the form of difficult to reach, Geneva Call developed • Increased awareness: Geneva Call Affairs, National security and the South appropriate engagement. strategies to convey protection-related raised awareness on the protection Sudanese National Disarmament Demo- messages in an indirect way. of civilians in armed conflicts using bilization Reintegration Commission. ‘Fighter Not Killer’ campaign posts As a result, Geneva Call was invited to on Facebook. The campaign included conduct training sessions at field level video scripts on protection of medical in 2020 and engagement with parties Expenditure mission which reached 33 752 viewers; that are not R-ARCSS signatories was CHF prohibition of sexual violence (54 719 initiated. Expenditure TOTAL 413 413 viewers) and prohibition of child re- CHF cruitment and protection of education TOTAL 106 085 (50 494 viewers). Comments from the

© Geneva Call viewers clearly showed a deep interest GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 34 35 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA CALL

Asia and Europe Asia and Europe: regional approach © Geneva Call

Ukraine

Afghanistan

Myanmar

The Philippines

What were the regional develop- aside digging conflict lines. In Thailand, ments? as peace negotiations resume, targeted military operations affect civilian safety Peace processes are ongoing in most of and fragilize peace dividends. These trends Geneva Call’s Eurasian operational contexts, highlight that some parties to the conflict fostering some hope, but also giving way may increase violence to strengthen their to frustration and uncertainty about the negotiating position, inflicting further future. In Myanmar, while some progress unnecessary suffering on civilians, hinder- may be observed in areas under the con- ing peace negotiations and transitional trol of the ANSAs who were signatories justice efforts. This trend of ‘fighting and to the nationwide ceasefire agreement, talking’ stresses the need to strengthen hostilities are considerably on the rise in compliance by ANSAs with humanitarian the north of the country, where engaging norms to contribute to effective peace pro- with ANSAs is severely criminalized. In cesses, overall stability and early recovery. Ukraine, despite presidential elections and Following the significant expansion in its prisoner exchanges, the political stance is countries of operations in Eurasia, Geneva solidified, and violation of the ceasefire Call has gained a strong reputation as a is sustained, fragilizing hope for a unified humanitarian actor with the capacity to country. In Afghanistan, while the USA engage ANSAs on humanitarian norms and the Islamic Emirates of Afghanistan and the protection of civilian populations negotiate, the Afghan Government is put in difficult to reach areas. GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 36 37 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA CALL

Afghanistan

What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? Peace processes are ongoing in most of Geneva Call undertook a baseline survey to What was the conflict situation? Peace talks between the USA and the Is- • Extending outreach: Geneva Call led Geneva Call’s Eurasian operational contexts, assess the perception of three categories of lamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) took a series of indirect humanitarian en- In 2019, Geneva Call continued to use a fostering some hope but also giving way affected people: Civilians affected by armed The armed conflict in Afghanistan remains place in 2019 and were abruptly halted in gagement sessions with ANSA con- multi-pronged approach, combining direct to frustration and uncertainty about the conflict; ANSAs; and State Officials. The -sur extremely volatile, with civilians being September 2019. The breakdown in talks stituencies, including political parties, engagement with ANSAs, trust-building ef- future. Indeed, in several contexts, fighting vey was conducted with 316 respondents in exposed to high levels of violence. The led to an increase in ANSA-initiated hostil- religious and tribal leaders and jour- forts with central authorities to secure and parties increased violence to strengthen Afghanistan; 236 respondents in Myanmar; combined use of suicide and non-suicide ities. The talks seemingly resumed by the nalists to advance awareness of inter- preserve access to non-governmental-con- their negotiating position, inflicting further 170 respondents in the Philippines; 144 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) was end of the year. In September, presidential national humanitarian norms. These trolled areas, indirect engagement with unnecessary suffering on civilians. respondents in Pakistan; 45 respondents the leading cause of civilian casualties, elections took place, which increased at- sessions opened direct humanitarian ANSAs via local opinion leaders, strong local in Thailand; and 35 respondents in Ukraine. followed by ground engagement and aerial tacks from ANSAs and triggered political engagement with ANSAs focusing on partnerships and local capacity building, as Geneva Call continued to work closely The objective of the survey was to provide operations. The security situation is signif- rivalries amongst presidential candidates the protection of education. well as complementary awareness-raising with CSOs/CBOs in communities affect- a baseline on their awareness, knowledge icantly deteriorating, armed conflicts are mass media campaigns. ed by local insurgencies. This proximity and practices related to the protection reaching a concerning threshold, humani- What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? • Engagement initiated: Geneva Call enhanced Geneva Call’s understanding of civilians in order to better ensure that tarian norms are being blatantly violated, presented its approach to support As Geneva Call operates in environments of their protection needs, as well as the Geneva Call’s programme interventions civilians suffer from inhumane treatment, • Deepened engagement: Geneva Call the ban on AP Mines to two ANSAs by where multiple ANSAs intervene, the organ- factors driving insurgents to transgress or address their needs. and humanitarian work and assistance are developed direct humanitarian en- promoting the Deed of Commitment for ization focused on developing arguments comply with humanitarian norms. Geneva under constant threat. More than a dozen gagement with two ANSAs, with the Adherence to a Total Ban on Anti-Per- to support compliance with humanitarian Call’s inclusive approach ensures that com- The key findings of the survey are summa- ANSAs control about half of the country objective of increasing its acceptance sonnel Mines and for Cooperation in norms that are accepted by all. With this munities both support and contribute to rised in the table below: and operate inside the whole country. Civil- as a reliable and neutral actor promot- Mine Action. aim, Geneva Call developed tools, approach- humanitarian engagement. ians and civilian infrastructures, including ing humanitarian norms. Geneva Call es and messages that use non-normative schools, medical facilities and personnel, managed to build relations of trust • Adapting to the context: Geneva Call in- language and are rooted in religion and are being directly targeted in hostilities, and mutual understanding and secured itiated the development of educational local customs. putting lives and livelihoods at risk. In order access to non-government-controlled materials to be used during training ses- to increase the focus towards preventing areas (NGCA). sions and awareness raising campaigns. civilian casualties, UNAMA recommended These include the contextualization training sessions for fighters on IHL. of Geneva Call’s ‘Fighter, not Killer’ mobile app and linking the 15 rules for fighters in internal armed conflict to relevant Islamic references.

What challenges did Geneva Call Key Findings face in this context?

The unprecedented level of intensity of AWARENESS KNOWLEDGE POLICY PRACTICE hostilities has limited humanitarian access and narrowed the space for humanitarian • Awareness among fighters • General lack of knowledge • Few ANSA members • Responses indicate a high work. Geneva Call has adopted a low-profile on the importance of of international can specific concrete level of insecurity among approach and moved cautiously to ensure protecting civilians in humanitarian norms measures/policy the civilian population. access to NGCA from both State and non- conflict is strong. amongst ANSA members. commitments their group State stakeholders. The approach of ‘talk- is taking on protection of • High numbers of civilians ing and fighting’ made it challenging for • Responses reflect a • Knowledge is strongest civilians. indicate being exposed Geneva Call to get interest from its main general acknowledgement on protection of religious to daily conflict-related interlocutors involved in the presidential of the principle of sites. • In several countries, violence. elections or in peace talks. Geneva Call had distinction. responses indicate low to develop tangible arguments to convince • Respondents note that acceptance among fighting • Few civilian respondents ANSAs that the respect of humanitarian rules/obligations derive parties on the need to believe that fighting norms during hostilities could generate from religion rather than strengthen compliance parties currently respect a positive effect in ongoing peace-talks. international law. with humanitarian humanitarian norms. norms through policy development and engagement. Expenditure

CHF TOTAL 387 748 © Geneva Call © Geneva Call crossfire and endure gross human rights and endure crossfire gross rights human nities are warring parties’ caught between go unpunished. Conflict-affected commu continuous humanitarian norm breaches ated fertile conditions where growing and cre have law of rule weak and instability civilian casualties. Conflict, associated several with State, Shan northern in ians civil impact to continues mines AP of use has grown accordingly. Fighting and the recent years, and impact its on civilians ern Myanmar has been sharply rising in level and incident of violence in north remainof elusive. The peace settlement form lasting any find to efforts Further areas. certain in intensified have and ue in 2019,nouncements contin hostilities an ceasefire and unilateral Agreement the adoption of the Nationwide Ceasefire ment-backed Notwithstanding militias. includingactors, state forces and govern armed other numerous as well as ANSAs violence involve an exceptional number of sis. Subnational withconflicts communal marked by a protracted cri humanitarian entrenched in generations of conflict, communities innic Myanmar minority is The impact of armed violence on eth situation? conflict the was What Myanmar ANNUAL REPORT 2019 CALL GENEVA ------What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? in achieve Call Geneva did What areas. home their in education to access safe no or little with trends, harmful these by affected most those among been have asalso displaced persons abroad. Children violations and abuses in the country, but •

accidental recruitment of recruitment children. accidental avoid to mechanism verification age Conflict. of Children from the Effectsof Armed Deed of Commitment for the Protection the signed ANSA the access, manitarian to child education, protection and hu access and of protection the discuss to commission education (RCSS)’s State with the Restoration Council of Shan Moreover, following direct meetings targeting being permissible. military only with mines, of location the ping has(KNU) enforced policies on map Union National Karen The violence. cruitment and the prohibition of sexual provisions on the minimum age of re of Conduct which notably included Code revised its shared (CNA) Army with Geneva Call, the Chin National Following humanitarian engagement Policy changes towards respecting IHL: It also committed to set up an an up set to committed also It - - - TOTAL to slowly extend activities and operations. local civil society and partner organizations longstanding relationships of with trust successfully utilised and expanded upon weary of external interference, Geneva Call as communitiescircumstances, can be other In activities. low-profile usual its restricting staffmovement and maintaining not in intervening active conflict zones, adapted programme related by activities Call Geneva ANSAs/stakeholders. with Call to implement regular engagement Geneva for risks security the increased Shan ongoingThe in conflict northern context? this in face What challenges did Geneva Call Expenditure nhanced knowledge towards imple • • •

E in armed conflict. conflict. armed in knowledge of basic that IHL applies enhanced an have now who fighters 920 to IHL on messages key delivering States, Karen and Chin Shan, across stakeholders various with held were ing and awareness raising sessions Strengthened knowledge: matter. the in highlighting their interest and CNA, minesAP took with place the KNU victim-activated of issue the covering with engagement ANSAs manitarian engagement: Deepened conflict. armed in care health of Commitment for the protection of Deed latest Call’s Geneva and ination; of sexual violence and gender discrim child protection and the prohibition onsigned ban of total the mines, AP three three wasCNA dedicated to reviewing the menting the Deeds Deeds ofDeeds Commitment : A training with the Direct hu 25 train they had 462 CHF

471 38 - - - - 39 What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? in achieve Call Geneva did What the lines between the different contexts. which often blur ethnic groups, and ANSAs families political tween or powerful clans, intertwined with grassroots conflictsbe often is conflict Armed ANSAs. by roles use of children for combat and non-combat and recruitment the report to continued has and places of worship. The United Nations hospitals includinginfrastructure, schools, on civilian as well asexecutions, attacks of human shields, abductions and summary norms, including targeting civilians, the use marked by of violations humanitarian inMindanao conflicts haveArmed been focus. Call’s Geneva remains and decade past the of most for region the in conflict armed by affected most province the been and Sulu. Maguindanao has consistently Sur del Lanao Maguindanao, of provinces the especially BARMM, the in included continued toincidents transpire in areas Despite serious violent this, (BARMM). Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao Law (BOL), establishing the Bangsamoro the ratification ofthe Bangsamoro Organic with FrontMoro Liberation Islamic (MILF) and the strongest in ANSA the country, the peace process between the government the in abreakthrough with 2019 began situation? conflict the was What Philippines • •

its collaboration with two CSOs, Ti CSOs, two with collaboration its creased outreach: Capacitating local partners for in duced and viewed times. 180.000 pro was areas hard-to-reach in IHL approach tonon-normative promote A video this describing in BARMM. the booklet to the madaris curriculum proposed to integrate the content of and support its expressed MILF ANSAs. to access hard-to-reach broadening expressing directholders insupport present, representing different stake More thanlect. 150 attendees were references and in dia Maguindanaon Armed Conflictwith integrated Islamic Internal in Fighters for 15on Rules Key aBooklet City Cotabato in launched Islamic religious Geneva experts, Call gets: Expanding the reach to religious tar Following consultations with Geneva Call launched Geneva Call launched ------• •

of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Mine Action and Mines for Cooperation Anti-Personnel on to aTotal Ban Adherence for ment Deed of Commit the of provisions the by advocating towards the inclusion of ment with established a ANSA long-term Maguindanao. It engage continued its factions inspiration with in Islamic ANSA engagement with two hard-to-reach Geneva initiated Call new humanitarian Policy changes towards respecting IHL: reached. were people million 1.4 total, In mines. AP of bition protection of education and the prohi of protection hostilities, of children, booklets in Tagalog on the conduct illustrated thematic four as well as app the Fighter not Killer mobilestations, radio four across Tagalog and danaon in Filipino, a radio in campaign Maguin ‘Conflict hasrules too’,with sixvideos tinued communication campaign its Increased awareness: monitor and evaluate ANSA’s actions. distribute and materials educational raising sessions with communities, awareness conduct will CSOs The them. capacitate to order in sessions Women and conducted several training yakap and Kalilintad Inc. UnYPhil – into the regional law of of law regional the into Geneva Call con Call Geneva - - - - - TOTAL Expenditure are accepted. stakeholders to ensure that the messages of range awide consults Call Geneva and these interpret to how on disagree nings with ANSAs different ideological underpin religious teachings. However, different to harmonise the promotion of IHL with attempt an in scholars and lawyers Islamic organizations, relations with faith-based working existing reinforced has Call neva Ge challenge, this To tackle concept. ern’ still perceive as norms a humanitarian ‘west ANSAs some Mindanao, of parts some In engagement. ANSA among to contacts discuss and facilitate and intelligence operations caused fear offensives State the addition, In ANSAs. reach to difficulties with meetings of ments Frequent led clashes to repeated postpone context? this in face What challenges did Geneva Call GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA 266 CHF

717 - - - -

© Geneva Call GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 40 41 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA CALL

Ukraine Policy and Legal Unit

• Extending outreach: Geneva Call led During 2019, the Policy and Legal Unit Throughout the year, the PLU continued workshops on humanitarian norms for (PLU) has continued to support field op- to liaise with relevant stakeholders, build local communities along the front line erations with IHL training for ANSAs and partnerships and represent Geneva Call in

© Geneva Call and local CSOs. Local partner organi- civil society organizations, legal advice on various expert meetings and fora. It also zations were identified to consolidate operational matters, as well as internal provided legal support to Geneva Call’s program-related activities. capacity building. It notably provided a directorate to address issues related to series of induction training sessions, at the impact of counter-terrorism policies • Enhanced awareness: In both N/GCA, HQ and country office level, on methodol- and measures on humanitarian actors and Geneva Call has built its acceptance and ogies of engagement with ANSAs and IHL, organized a 2-days thematic workshop on reputation in the country through the including questions of conflict qualification, engaging ANSAs for humanitarian protec- launch of a mass media campaign ‘War conduct of hostilities and Geneva Call’s tion in collaboration with PHAP. has rules too’ in Ukrainian and Russian priority thematic issues. It also developed promoting humanitarian norms via new training and dissemination materials social media. It includes a phone app to to engage with ANSAs on displacement learn IHL; short videos with clear and issues, the protection of health care and powerful messages; photos and quiz- cultural heritage, and revised some of the zes; articles in online and printed me- older training modules on IHL. dia, TV and Radio shows. Over 19.000 people have already downloaded the As part of a major research project with app, including at least 3000 in NGCA. the Geneva Academy of International Hu- Over 500.000 people have watched manitarian Law and Human Rights on the the videos, including at least 150.000 practice and interpretation of humanitarian in NGCA with people asking questions norms by ANSAs, the PLU conducted field about the nature and attribution of missions to interview ANSAs and other key violations and also highlighting their stakeholders in Myanmar, Colombia, Mali, interest on the subject. the Philippines and Somalia/Somaliland. What was the conflict situation? principles of international humanitarian Preliminary results were presented in a and human rights law. What challenges did Geneva Call Research Brief and at a side-event during After presidential and parliamentary face in this context? the 33rd International Conference of the elections in Ukraine in spring-summer of What did Geneva Call achieve in 2019? Red Cross and Red Crescent. 2019, both sides to the conflict in Donbas Engaging with ANSAs is a challenging resumed dialogue, including on human- • Engaging both sides: Geneva Call en- process in both GCA and NGCA due to itarian issues. During 2019, two troops gaged in cross-line/cross-border dia- the polarization of the conflict and strict disengaged in Luhansk and one in Donetsk. logue initiatives, operating in Russia, counter-terrorism legislation. Geneva Call A pedestrian bridge in Stanitsa Luhanska, Government Controlled Areas (GCA) uses trained veteran fighters in GCAs to the only connection between government and Non-Government Controlled Areas access the most closed groups and units and non-government-controlled areas of (NGCA) to establish dialogue and raise of foreign fighters. Like all local or interna- Luhansk region, has also been restored. awareness of Geneva Call and the need tional protection actors, Geneva Call faces Major simultaneous releases of detainees to protect civilians, IHL and education. challenges accessing NGCA, as de facto were organised in Moscow and Kyiv in Sep- authorities are very restrictive in accred- tember, and in Kyiv and Donetsk/Luhansk in • Increased knowledge: Provided aware- iting such work but reaches its audiences December, with nearly 300 people released. ness sessions on Geneva Call’s role and through indirect engagement. 167 conflict-related civilian casualties were basic IHL to low and mid-level fighters registered in 2019, according to OHCHR: before their deployment to the front- 27 killed and 140 injured. This is a 40% line. The training and awareness-raising decrease compared with 2018 and the sessions directly reached approxima- lowest annual civilian casualty figures for tively 500 frontline commanders and the entire conflict period. fighters and indirectly 2’000 who ben- efited from second hand information. Expenditure Yet violations of IHL and IHRL are still re- CHF portedly committed by all parties. Reports • Promoting protection of health care: TOTAL 276 400 document amongst others the use of AP Geneva Call led a discussion on the mines, shelling of civilian infrastructure, protection of health care in times of limited access to healthcare and freedom armed conflict with civilian and ANSA of movement, mistreatment of detainees. military medics. Specifically, Geneva Along the contact line, there is weak rule Call advanced their consciousness on of law and a lack of respect for the guiding the protection of medical transport. GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 42 43 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA CALL

Communication Human Resources

Both Geneva Calls’ institutional and oper- tion of the organization. New videos and • Urging stakeholders to facilitate access A new performance appraisal and develop- More standardized recruitment processes ational communications were enhanced animations were produced using latest to funding for humanitarian outfits who ment system was implemented in 2019 and have been put into place across the organ- with dedicated resources coordinating technologies to better engage targeted engage ANSAs, making sure that they builds upon each staff member’s objectives ization and are now better coordinated social media, press and web campaigns audiences e.g. a series of virtual reality clips are protected from counter-terrorism and action plan, which is in turn aligned to and regulated across both field offices covering key organizational and field project on key international humanitarian norms. legislation. team and overall organizational objectives. and headquarters. activities. Major commitments by ANSAs, A staff satisfaction and feedback survey was either by signed Deeds or other formal en- As also mentioned in the previous section • Highlighting the need for parties to created and tested and will be deployed Work was completed to finalize social gagements, were regularly communicated highlighting progress on strategy, a draft conflict to take ownership of IHL, in- for the first time in 2020. Throughout the insurance and contracting processes as to stakeholders, alongside the release and of Geneva Call’s advocacy strategy has cluding through training, public com- year particular effort was placed on staff well as the establishment of a formal ab- distribution of new tools, such as videos been produced which will be finalised and mitments (Deeds…) and monitoring support and well-being. sence tracking system. Staff salary grids and booklets, covering international hu- implemented during the next strategic behaviour change. are applied across the organization and manitarian norms with relevant linkages period 2020-2023. The following key areas Additional staff policies and processes were salary payments are executed. All insurance to religious principles and socio-cultural of focus have been defined: completed and implemented throughout contracts have been reviewed and revised norms. The “Fighter not Killer” campaigns the organization. These included updates according to needs and norms. A review continued to be regularly adapted to the • Urging key stakeholders to system- to the Code of Conduct, Duty of Care and of HR systems was carried out in 2019 and various contexts. atically insist on the importance to Whistleblowing policies, updated inter- the selected system will be implemented engage all armed actors, especially national field staff policies as well as var- during 2020. The new visual identity adopted in 2018, ANSAs, in their strategies for protec- ious elements of communication policies was further implemented in 2019 with the tion of civilians. and guidelines. These were supported by updating of all external visibility material specific HR training for the field offices, and notably the launch of a newly designed • Stressing that engaging with armed creating an HR team network across the website that better portrays the evolu- groups on IHL does not legitimize them. organization. There is ongoing and regular contact between headquarters and field offices on human resource issues, enabling an improved information flow.

Staff training based on an established train- ing policy was enhanced during 2019 with Administration and Finance systematic induction and field skills training using, where appropriate, e-learning tools and common project management and planning training was also implemented.

A robust internal control system was de- An audit of the internal control system was The internal finance team was expanded veloped and implemented in headquarters carried out in December 2019 on behalf of and developed, including a redefinition of and field offices during 2019. This included the Swedish International Development Co- the structure, roles and responsibilities, process improvements in financial closing, operation Agency (SIDA). Its main purpose notably with the recruitment of regional budgeting, disbursement, outgoing con- was to evaluate whether the organization controllers to improve field operations tract management, asset management, has reliable and relevant systems and pro- financial management. Similarly, the roles record retention policies and procedures, cedures, adequate resources and compe- and responsibilities between Geneva Call as well as further enhancement of the tencies to manage future contributions and the external service provider firm were anti-fraud policy implementation. Online from Sweden/Sida. The auditors concluded strengthened. resources, access to the policy documents, that Geneva Call has an acceptable internal relevant templates and instructions were control environment and noted that the developed with online training also made organization in the most recent years has available to staff both at field and HQ loca- worked to implement a more thorough tions. In addition, a new induction training internal control system to mitigate the package was also rolled out for finance risk of weak financial management in the staff. future, including the development and implementation of several new policies and procedures in some key control pro- cesses in the recent year. Geneva Call also successfully passed the other additional audits, such as new donor attribution audits and other ongoing donor project audits, as well as continuing to implement Swiss GAAP RPC accounting norms. GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 44 45 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA CALL

Financial Report

Geneva Call’s full financial statements, Expenditure (CHF) Operating Expenditures including the auditors’ report, can be found on www.genevacall.org/documents/. Annual Report 2019 8 000 000

Africa DRC 446 197 7 000000 Libya 367 404 Mali 413 413 6 000000 South Sudan 106 085

Africa regional 152 975 5 000000 TOTAL AFRICA 1 486 074 4 000000

NAME Iraq 449 057 3 000000 Lebanon 141 328

Syria 765 772 2 000000 Yemen 977 830

NAME regional 820 216 1 000000 TOTAL NAME 3 154 203 0

AFRICA NAME LATIN AMERICA ASIA/EUROPE POLICY & LEGAL MEAL OPERATIONS TOTAL PROGRAMME TOTAL SUPPORT UNIT DIRECTION Latin America Colombia 231 682

Asia/Europe Afghanistan 387 748 Eurasia regional 77 368 Myanmar 462 471 Other contexts Asia 58 841 Philippines 266 717 Expenditure Ukraine 276 400 Programme Comparison 2018/2019 TOTAL ASIA/EUROPE 1 529 545 3 500 000 20.8% 79.2%

Programme Support Policy & Legal Unit 515 319 2018 2019 3 000 000 MEAL 20 837 Operations Direction 50 836 2 500 000 TOTAL PROGRAMME SUPPORT 586 992

2 000 000 PROGRAMME EXPENDITURES 6 988 496 ADMINISTATION/SUPPORT EXPENDITURES 1 838 335 1 500 000

TOTAL OPERATING EXPENDITURES 8 826 831 1 000 000

500 000

0 PROGRAMME EXPENDITURES DRC IRAQ MALI LIBYE SYRIA YEMEN

SUPPORT EXPENDITURES UKRAINE LEBANON MYANMAR COLOMBIA TOTAL ASIA PHILIPPINES TOTAL NAME TOTAL AFRICA SOUTH SUDAN SOUTH AFGHANISTAN NAME REGIONAL NAME AFRICA REGIONAL REGIONAL AFRICA WESTERN SAHARA WESTERN EURASIA REGIONAL EURASIA TOTAL LATIN AMERICA OTHER CONTEXTS ASIA GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 46 47 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 GENEVA CALL

Balance sheet (CHF) Statement of operations (CHF)

2019 2018 2019 2018

Cash and cash equivalent 941 726 1 504 235 OPERATING INCOME Current accounts – – Unrestricted donations 80 327 32 545 Receivables from donors 1 050 863 363 866 Restricted contributions from public authorities 7 313 517 8 063 608 Other receivables 372 704 204 592 Restricted contributions from private donors 1 000 000 252 700 Prepayments and accrued income 74 112 106 501 Other income 5 385 1 601 CURRENT ASSETS 2 439 405 2 179 194 TOTAL OPERATING INCOME 8 399 229 8 350 454 Fixed assets 22 193 49 378 NON-CURRENT ASSETS 22 193 49 378 OPERATING EXPENDITURES 8 826 831 7 971 968 Direct expenditures 6 988 496 6 233 966 TOTAL ASSETS 2 461 598 2 228 572 Support expenditures 1 838 335 1 738 002

Payables from goods and services 419 475 304 136 TOTAL OPERATING EXPENDITURES 8 826 831 7 971 968 Other liabilities 448 390 266 998 Accrued expenses 40 536 38 990 CHANGE IN OPERATING FUNDS 567 173 -967 778 CURRENT LIABILITIES 908 401 610 124 OPERATING RESULT 139 571 -589 292 OPERATING FUNDS 1 788 005 2 355 178 FINANCIAL RESULT -105 029 -115 134 Organization’s capital Financial charges -22 315 -20 489 – Initial capital 50 000 50 000 Exchange loss -103 840 -225 978 – Free capital 700 000 200 000 Exchange gain 21 120 130 769 – Accumulated benefit/deficit (beginning of the year) -986 730 -31 972 Interest earned 6 564

– Result of the Year 1922 -954 758 EXCEPTIONAL RESULT -32 620 -250 332 TOTAL ORGANIZATION'S CAPITAL -234 808 -736 730 Previous years expenses -32 620 -250 332

TOTAL LIABILITIES RESULT OF THE YEAR 1 922 -954 758 AND ORGANIZATION'S CAPITAL 2 461 598 2 228 572

Evolution of income since 2011 (CHF) Sources of funding

0.06% 9 000 000 8 399 229 8 35 0 45 4 11.91% 0.96% 8 000 000

7 000 000

6 000 000 5 707 4 4 2 5 4 8 9 4 0 8 5 000 000

3 855 267 4 000 000 3 936 443 3 437 95 0 3 599 628 3 000 000 2 492 518 2 000 000

1 000 000

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

87.07%

UNRESTRICTED DONATIONS

CONTRIBUTIONS FROM PUBLIC AUTHORITIES

CONTRIBUTIONS FROM PRIVATE DONORS

OTHER INCOME so over the coming years. coming the over so hopes that new donors will consider doing continuing to fund it in this manner and Call wishes to thank current its donors for responsiveness to emerging Geneva needs. the organization greaterand flexibility allows this funding; core of element an donors and those particularly who give its of appreciative greatly is Call Geneva activities. field to dedicated be to resources more allowing reduces therebyalso administrative costs, Itand human resources commitments. planning to overall aid a is significant this as guaranteed funding, seeks multi-year particularly Call Geneva this, Toaddress Call. Geneva for challenge a continuous Finding new financial resources represents us Support including: it receives from donors its and partners, gratitude for the particular supportits toGeneva Call operations. expresses its of funding arethese types fundamental maticBoth and operations. geographical targeted project funding covering the the highlighted in the previous sections) and the support and management functions tioning of the organization and specifically (whichfunding enables the overall func core of acombination receives Call Geneva supporters and donors to its Geneva thankful is Call ANNUAL REPORT 2019 CALL GENEVA •

Netherlands, Norway, Sweden (Swedish (Swedish Sweden Norway, Netherlands, GICHD), Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, the the (through Italy DRC), in embassy its bilization, Peacebuilding, and through izations, Multilateral Coordination, Sta –Assistance Policy, International Organ Prevention, Division S08 – Humanitarian S03Crisis Division Foreign – Office: France,gium, Finland, Germany (Federal Bel Trade), and Affairs Foreign of ment The governments of Australia (Depart ------+41 22 879 94 36 94 879 +41 22 [email protected] Head of Communication and Fundraising Pasche Gregory pleaseFor contact: details, further •

and York University. York University. and UNMAS Ukraine, Hounds Truth Ground, Save the children, Search for Common Joint PeaceCouncil, Refugee Fund, to and Stability Peace (IcSP), Danish the European contributing Instrument (EIDHR), and Human Rights Democracy Council), the European Instrument for Refugee Council and Danish Refugee Norwegian Norway, Children the Save including through Danish Church Aid, Department, Protection Civil and Aid an The European Commission (Humanitari Thailand. and Philippines in embassy Myanmar and New Zealand through its Development) through embassy in its Ireland (Department for International Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern United the Myanmar), in embassy its opment and Cooperation and through Division and Swiss for Agency Devel Agency), Switzerland (Human Security International Development Cooperation

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Ocean from Geneva in one month. one in Geneva from Ocean Atlantic the reach to France across raising effort rowingmore than 1100km Yakoubian for their exceptional fund Amanda Zou, Cyprien Fluzin and Emilie Romailler, Vittorio Monti, Arthur Waltz, Thomas rowers the and club rowing The Aviron de Universitaire Genève VernierSA Jerome –Lelou, Majoie France Leuc, Odier, Igor Leuchter and Elisa Ha-Vinh du Groupe Pictet, Patrick and Cynthia Foundation, Fondation de bienfaisance undisclosed Geneva-based A reputable and Canton of Geneva. Republic the and Geneva of City the The Commune of Chêne-Bougeries, 48 -

© Geneva Call GENEVA CALL ANNUAL REPORT 2019 50

Board of Trustees (as of 31 Dec 2019)

Jean Keller, Chair

Lorella Bertani, Vice-chair

Gloria GaggioIi

Hans Isler

Mohamed Mahmoud Mohamedou

Doris Pfister

François Tissot

Ruth-Gaby Vermot-Mangold

Michel Veuthey

Directorate

Alain Délétroz, Director General

Hichem Khadhraoui, Director of Operations

Maud Bonnet, Director of External Relations and Support T. +41 22 879 10 50 F. +41 22 879 10 51 E. [email protected]

47, ch. de la Chevillarde, 1224 Chêne-Bougeries Geneva – Switzerland

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