International human rights law for the protection of internally displaced persons

Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are entitled to enjoy rights under International Human Rights Law equally along with other persons without any discrimination. International Humanitarian Law does not specifically address the plight of IDPs, but this does not mean that they are not protected under the law. At the international level there are three bodies of law which provide comprehensive legal framework for the protection of internally displaced persons these are International human rights law, International humanitarian law and International criminal law. National authorities have an obligation to criminalize violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law in national legislation and to prosecute and punish those responsible before national courts and tribunals. In some cases, individuals can be brought to justice under international criminal law. The guiding principles on internal displacement although not a binding document, like a treaty, are based on and reflect existing standards of international law, which are binding. There are other international Organizations and Institutions for the protection of IDPs such as United Nations relief and Rehabilitation Administration, International Refugee Organization, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugee, Vienna Declaration, International Committee of Red Cross, etc. for the protection IDPs. In this article the author has discussed international human rights institutions such as conventions, treaties, organizations, institutions, legislations, etc. at the international, regional and national level for the protection of Internally Displaced Persons. The author has collected the research material through books, journals, internet, etc. This article is based on the doctrinal method of research.