Each year the IHL Youth Action Campaign focuses on a specific topic of International Humanitarian Law. The theme is chosen by students based on relevant, innovative and engaging topics relevant to current and future armed conflict.
Each year the IHL Youth Action Campaign focuses on a specific topic of International Humanitarian Law. The theme is chosen by students based on relevant, innovative and engaging topics relevant to current and future armed conflict.
The IHL theme for the 2026-2027 Youth Action Campaign is Healthcare and Armed Conflict! This theme explores how International Humanitarian Law protects the wounded and sick, medical personnel, and healthcare facilities during times of war. Participants examine the history behind these protections, the legal principles that safeguard hospitals and medics, and emerging challenges such as cyber warfare and attacks on healthcare systems. Through real-world examples and interactive case studies, students learn how protecting healthcare during armed conflict helps preserve human dignity and reduce suffering, even in the most difficult circumstances.
IHL Art & Essay Competition Update: See You in 2028! This year's IHL Art & Essay Competition is on hiatus for 2027, but don't worry, we will be back again in 2028!
The American Red Cross International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Art and Essay Competition challenges participants with creating thoughtful and insightful entries around a specific IHL theme. Although the nature of each essay or art submission is up to the creator, entrants are asked to explore topics within the theme, including how the engagement in outer space by public and private actors is regulated by international law.
The competition is open U.S. citizens and foreign nationals residing in the U.S., overseas U.S. military bases or U.S. territories. Art and Essay entries will be accepted from student categories including Junior High, High School, Undergraduate and Law/Graduate School.
To learn more about this year's competition and previous winning submission visit our competition page!
The International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Youth Action Campaign (YAC) Design Competition provides Youth Action Campaign participants to showcase their creativity by submitting original artwork inspired by the annual IHL theme.
Selected designs may be featured in Youth Action Campaign materials, digital resources, promotional items, and other program recognition opportunities. The competition provides young volunteers with a chance to share their creativity and contribute to the global IHL Youth Action Campaign community.
The Annual IHL Youth Summit is the culminating event of the IHL Youth Action Campaign year. Each Spring, a select number of outstanding IHL YAC Ambassadors are invited to Washington, D.C. on a fully-funded trip that develops their personal skills, grows their network, and expands their knowledge of IHL.
Summit participants are selected from IHL YAC Ambassadors around the world by a panel of Red Cross professionals based on the dedication, creativity and execution of their campaign. This incredible opportunity reflects one of the highest honors within the IHL YAC program and is a significant achievement for attendees.