International Humanitarian Law Youth Action Campaign

About the Competition

The IHL Youth Action Campaign is an American Red Cross program that empowers youth to explore the rules of armed conflict and raise awareness through student-led campaigns. Since 2020, JROTC cadets have helped educate over 250,000 people and reached more than 500,000 via social media.

Army JROTC has partnered with the Red Cross to offer this as a Service Learning Project. Each year, cadets focus on a theme tied to humanitarian protections. The 2024–2025 theme centers on Space Law and Armed Conflict, exploring how IHL helps prevent the destructive effects of emerging weapons.

Cadets compete globally across all service branches. Teams complete training, then design and launch creative awareness campaigns—past efforts included art contests, comic book events, movie nights, and social media outreach.

Top teams will be recognized by the Red Cross, and one school will be named the JROTC International Champion—earning a trip to Washington, D.C. for the Youth Action Campaign Summit in July 2025.

Benefits of Participating

  1. Fulfill your Service Learning Project requirement in a meaningful way.
  2. Build skills in public speaking, advocacy, project management, and creative design.
  3. Compete for a trip to Washington, D.C. and attend the prestigious Youth Summit.
  4. Educate your community about humanitarian protections and reduce suffering in conflict zones.
  5. Join a nationwide movement and connect with fellow cadets and advocates.

Past JROTC International Champions

  • 2024–2025: Coming soon
  • 2023–2024: Coming soon

Information & Registration

Competition Overview Video

IHL Educational Videos

Competition Materials

JROTC Handbook for Cadets

IHL Youth Action Campaign

Army JROTC cadets can participate in the American Red Cross’s International Humanitarian Law Youth Action Campaign—a service learning opportunity that teaches the rules of armed conflict and empowers cadets to lead awareness campaigns in their communities.

2024–2025 Theme

Space Law & Armed Conflict – Explore how IHL protects against the destructive effects of emerging weapons and technologies in space.

Cadet Benefits

  • Fulfill your Service Learning Project requirement
  • Build skills in advocacy, public speaking, and creative outreach
  • Compete for national recognition and a trip to Washington, D.C.
  • Make a meaningful impact by educating others about humanitarian protections

Resources

Videos

Launch Your Campaign

Note: All cadet teams must complete official Red Cross training before launching their campaigns. Finalists will be invited to the IHL Summit in Washington, D.C.