University of New Mexico Assistant Professor of Law Norman Bay is one of 25 educators from around the world invited to participate in a seminar on International Humanitarian Law in Geneva, Switzerland, Sept.13-18, sponsored by the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Designed especially for university professors who teach in the field of international law, the seminar will provide training on international rules that apply in situations of armed conflict. Topics include law applicable in international and internal armed conflicts, including historical development, types of conflicts, the law of Geneva, the law of the Hague, prisoners of war, occupation, humanitarian assistance, customary law, war crimes and responsibility.
“Given the troubled times in which we live, international humanitarian law, which includes the Geneva Conventions, has become more important and relevant than ever,” Bay said. “This body of law helps ensure that basic norms of decency are observed during times of armed conflict and needless suffering averted. It helps protect combatants, prisoners of war and civilians alike.
“Through the seminar, I hope to gain insights into international humanitarian law that I'm able to share with students at the UNM School of Law. As a scholarship matter, I'm also interested in exploring the ways in which international criminal law can help further fundamental values of international humanitarian law, namely, upholding human dignity, protecting individuals from arbitrary treatment and ending the culture of impunity so that the worst offenders known to the world are held accountable for their conduct.”
Bay joined the UNM School of Law faculty in 2002 after a distinguished career in public service. In 2000, President Bill Clinton appointed Bay U.S. Attorney. During his U.S. Justice Department career he was detailed to the Treasury Department as special assistant to the Inspector General and taught at the Justice Department's National Advocacy Center.
His courses include criminal law, international law, legislative and administrative processes and professional responsibility.
Contact: Laurie Mellas Ramirez (505) 277-5915
Posted by kwentworth at July 30, 2004 03:13 PM