Digital Emblems in Armed Conflicts: Technical and Legal Solution for Protecting Humanitarian Entities
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Abstract
Introduction: in an increasingly digitalized world, armed conflicts have extended into cyberspace, where cyber operations threaten entities protected by International Humanitarian Law (IHL), such as hospitals and humanitarian organizations. This study proposes a digital emblem as a technical and legal solution to identify and protect these entities in the digital environment, analyzing the technical, legal, and operational challenges of its implementation. Objective: the aim is to evaluate the feasibility of the digital emblem as a protection tool in armed conflicts, analyzing the IHL legal framework, the benefits and risks of its implementation, and proposing recommendations for its international adoption. Methodology: an analytical-descriptive approach was used, based on a document review of international treaties, ICRC documents, and manuals such as the Tallinn Manual 2.0, complemented by theoretical analysis of concepts like the Cyber Kill Chain and evaluation of practical cases of cyberattacks. Conclusions: the study concludes that the digital emblem is an innovative solution to protect humanitarian entities, although it faces challenges such as asset exposure and misuse. A specific international legal framework, advanced authentication technologies, and cooperation among states, humanitarian organizations, and technological actors are recommended to ensure its effectiveness.
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