Legal and Professional Standards for Troop Deployment in Focus at Lusaka Forum
The African Military Law Forum, set to commence on Tuesday in Lusaka, Zambia, will bring together over 30 African countries to explore the crucial role of legal advisers in military operations. The four-day conference will be co-hosted by the Zambian Defense Force, the U.S.-Africa Command (AFRICOM), U.S. Army Europe and Africa, and the North Carolina National Guard.
Participants, including military leaders and magistrates, will delve into the responsibilities of legal advisers during troop deployments. The discussions will center on ensuring adherence to the rule of law, professional conduct, and accountability in military operations.
Retired Colonel Max Maxwell, AFRICOM’s deputy legal counsel, emphasized the importance of legal oversight in maintaining military professionalism. “Militaries deploy to remote and challenging environments, and it is essential that they follow the rule of law,” Maxwell said. “Legal advisers help ensure that soldiers are accountable, that commanders are guided by legal standards, and that troops operate with professionalism.”
The conference aims to bolster the professionalism of armed forces by focusing on legal and ethical standards. Maxwell highlighted that adherence to these standards not only fosters effective mission execution but also helps build trust in military institutions. “A professional and accountable army is more likely to succeed in its mission and maintain positive relations with local communities,” he added.
Brigadier General Dan Kuwali from Malawi noted that the forum will also address strategies to prevent human rights violations during deployments. Malawi has been actively involved in the Southern African Development Community mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Kuwali stressed the importance of legal training for troops to avoid violations and ensure accountability.
Eswatini’s legal counsel, Captain Portia Magongo, underscored the strategic role of legal advisers in military operations. “Legal advisers play a critical role in advising commanders on political and military policies,” Magongo said. “Their involvement is crucial for making informed deployment decisions and ensuring compliance with legal standards.”
The forum is taking place amid rising instability across Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, where jihadist insurgencies have intensified attacks. The focus on legal advisers reflects a broader effort to address these challenges by reinforcing the rule of law and professional standards within military operations.
The African Military Law Forum represents a significant step towards enhancing the role of legal advisers in military deployments. By promoting accountability and professionalism, the conference aims to strengthen military operations and improve stability in the face of ongoing conflicts across the continent.
