The AFCOE’s professional cadre of experts will provide independent practical advice, support and assistance in Human Rights and the Law of Armed Conflict (‘LOAC’) to armed forces, law enforcement agencies, private military contractors and private security companies.

The AFCOE’s expertise in Law of Armed Conflict and Human Rights training improves the likelihood (1) that companies can sell to new countries and markets, and (2) that those new markets are now able to purchase the equipment they need.

• • By undertaking such training and ensuring compliance with HR and LOAC, a State’s armed forces demonstrate their suitability for international missions.  
  • Private military contractors / private security companies are able to reassure their clients. 
  • The AFCOE’s training and expertise also provides a significant differentiator that helps defence sector companies stand out when bidding for contracts.
  • By linking mandatory practical Law of Armed Conflict and Human Rights training that is relevant and proportionate to the equipment being provided, a defence contractor enhances its reputation by demonstrating that it is an ‘Ethical and Responsible Defence Manufacturer’. The manufacturer also has legal and reputational protection if the purchaser subsequently misuses the equipment.

The AFCOE can subsequently deploy active Law of Armed Conflict and Human Rights ‘Monitoring and Verification Programs’ to ensure the correct use of equipment and thereby protect a company’s reputation and allow for a meaningful defence for the company in the event of any Law of Armed Conflict or Human Rights breaches by the end-user when using the manufacturer’s equipment.