To sum up, we must remember that refugees and displaced persons are first and foremost civilian victims of war; as such that they are protected by international humanitarian law before, during and after displacement. We must also remember that respect for international humanitarian law is the most effective means of preventing civilians from being uprooted from their homes and livelihood. Indeed, indiscriminate attacks or attacks wilfully directed against civilians, abuse of power, threats, reprisals and other violations of international humanitarian law are the main causes of displacement in time of war.

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immigration policy refugee international law civil war humanitarian aid