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While the notion of ‘methods of warfare’ is found in a large number of provisions under international humanitarian law (IHL), there is no definition of ‘methods of warfare’. Suggested definitions, ranging from the ways in which weapons are used to any way of conducting hostilities for the purpose of weakening the enemy, differ to a large extent and leave more questions than answers. Therefore, this thesis seeks out to answer the question what is the meaning of ‘methods of warfare’ under IHL? 

Looking back in time, ‘methods of warfare’ have been regulated for long. However, it was not until within the Additional Protocols I and II to the Geneva Conventions that rules regulating ‘methods of warfare’ were codified. These rules all rely on the premises that the choice of ‘methods of warfare’ is not unlimited, that only what is necessary in order to overcome the adversary is permitted, and that humanitarian consequences of armed conflicts shall be limited. These are reflected in the number of provisions discussed throughout the thesis. The provisions, as well as a discussion on contemporary challenges such as cyber operations and influence operations, highlight certain parts of the notion of ‘methods of warfare’ that are necessary for a consistent application of the concept throughout IHL. These are primarily the inclusion of other ways of conducting hostilities than just that the use of weapons, as well as the importance of the definition being of a descriptive nature, rather than of a normative nature. 

When discussing the provisions and challenges in regard to the definitions offered, it is concluded that both the ways in which weapons are used as well as other strategic and tactical ways of conducting hostilities shall be included. There has to be a belligerent nexus between the ‘method of warfare’ and the armed conflict. However, there is no requirement of any violence or consequence for the purposes of an act being a ‘methods of warfare’, as the notion is only descriptive. Because of this, the thesis suggests the following definition: 

‘Methods of warfare’ under IHL are the ways in which weapons are used as well as other strategic or tactical ways of conducting hostilities.