How international (humanitarian) law influences the rules of engagement in military cyber operations?

Abstract

This dissertation aims to investigate the influence of International Humanitarian Law on the Rules of Engagement, in military cyber operations. Through a deductive methodology, it will be examined how legal norms apply and necessitate to adapt to rules of engagement, to address the challenges of cyberspace. The study highlights the complexities of applying international principles, in a domain where civilian and military infrastructures often collide. It highlights the variableness in state practices and interpretations and suggests ways forward for enhancing coherence and compliance with international humanitarian law in cyber conflicts. The motivation for addressing this topic relies on the increasing significance of cyberspace in modern warfare, which poses unseen legal and ethical challenges, and where significant achievements can be reached, and critical threats mitigated.

Date of Award	12 Oct 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Maria Isabel Tavares (Supervisor)