Muscat: Oman Charitable Organization (OCO) today launched a specialized training program on International Humanitarian Law. The two-day program, organized in cooperation with the Secretariat General of GCC States, brings together representatives of Red Crescent societies in GCC states, OCO members, and representatives of government departments.

According to Oman News Agency, the program aims to spread awareness about the basic principles of International Humanitarian Law and hone the skills of personnel operating as part of GCC humanitarian bodies and societies. It seeks to contribute to consolidating sound practices in the areas of relief aid, the protection of civilians, and response to emergencies and disasters.

The first day of the program included panel discussions and practical exercises that deepened the participants' understanding of how to align humanitarian missions with international rules. Badr bin Mohammed Al Zaabi, Acting CEO of Oman Charitable Organization, stated that the program reflects the OCO's approach to regional and international partnerships in the field of humanitarian missions, based on International Humanitarian Law as a framework for protecting people in times of crises and conflicts.

Al Zaabi added that, acting in cooperation with the departments concerned, the OCO seeks to foster better understanding of this legal system. 'The hosting of this program reflects our belief in the importance of joint GCC action. It enhances the readiness of humanitarian institutions in the region to ensure their readiness to engage in prompt humanitarian action that is aligned with the applications of international humanitarian law,' Al Zaabi explained.