Corporate accountability for violations of international humanitarian law: Addressing accountability gaps and emerging trends of inclusion

The issue of corporate responsibility for violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) has become a critical issue in contemporary international legal discourse. Despite the increasing recognition of corporate power and influence, over states even in armed conflict, international law has largely focused on holding individuals accountable for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and other breaches of IHL. As corporations continue to expand their operations in conflict zones, their involvement in human rights violations remains an ongoing challenge. This article examines the accountability gaps that persist in corporate responsibility under IHL, exploring the limitations of existing legal frameworks and highlighting emerging trends toward greater inclusion of corporations in the scope of jurisdiction in international prosecution. Employing a doctrinal research methodology, the article assesses the potential for reforming international legal structures to incorporate corporate accountability for IHL violations. It argues that while corporate liability remains a complex and contested area, recent developments such as the expansion of domestic legal frameworks, the growing influence of civil society advocacy signal a shift towards greater corporate responsibility. The article concludes by proposing key reforms and strategies that could help close the existing accountability gaps and ensure that corporations are held accountable for their actions in conflict zones, contributing to the broader goals of justice, peace, and human rights.