Liberia Early Warning Watch (LEW-WATCH) takes interest in the ongoing violence incident at the Liberia/Guinea borders. The Liberian Government Public spin to justify the authority absence at the borders has drawn criticism, while some calling it “Soft Power”. LEW-WATCH believes if the narrative so far is true that allowing civilians to face a notoriously unaccountable Guinea junta is the first line of defense objective, the repercussions might place a dent on the Government reputation.
As lightly as it may appear, it is largely construed in military warfare as “shielding”. Using civilians as shields is a serious violation of international humanitarian law and considered a war crime. It’s prohibited under the Geneva Conventions Article 51 (7) and the Rome Statute Article 8 (2)(b xxiii) and Article 8 (2)(e)(iii).
The Liberian Government’s absence for over 48hrs to protect/guide civilians envolvement clearly demonstrates a grand plan to use innocent citizens as buffer. This tactic puts innocent lives at risk and undermines the principles of distinction and proportionality in warfare.
