Iranian Review for UN Studies

Iranian Review for UN Studies

The International Court of Justice’s Advisory Opinion of 2025: A Turning Point in the Protection of the Rights of Children Under Occupation

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Author
mohammadmehdi seyednasseri
MohamadMehdi Seyed Nasseri PhD of International Public Law, Islamic Azad University, UAE Branch, United Arab Emirates
10.22034/iruns.2026.585142.1226
Abstract
In contemporary international law, the true measure of humanitarian obligations lies in their capacity to protect children living under prolonged occupation. The International Court of Justice’s Advisory Opinion of 22 October 2025 marks a decisive milestone in redefining the occupying power’s positive duties. Using a descriptive–analytical method, this study examines how the Court established a renewed and authoritative framework governing the protection of children. The authors argue that through an expansive interpretation of the Fourth Geneva Convention and by reinforcing the interdependence of humanitarian law, the UN Charter, and human rights law, the Court broadened the occupying power’s obligations toward civilians, including children. It further deemed obstruction of impartial humanitarian organizations inconsistent with the purposes of the Charter. By emphasizing effective cooperation, the Court helped institutionalize a child-centered paradigm in the law of occupation and strengthen protections for children’s rights to survival, development, and health in occupied territories.
Keywords
Children’s rights
International Court of Justice
Occupying power
Advisory Opinion
Iranian Review for UN Studies

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 28 July 2026