IGNOU CIHL Project (BLEP-38): Topics, Format & Guide

The IGNOU CIHL Project (BLEP-38) is the capstone research component of the Certificate in International Humanitarian Law program. Students undertake a concise project (around 2,000 words) analyzing an IHL (International Humanitarian Law) issue that teaches IHL principles – the rules protecting civilians and non-combatants in conflict. CIHL students take three 4‑credit courses (Understanding IHL BLE 35, Application of IHL BLE 36, and IHL Issues in South Asia BLE 37) followed by a 4‑credit research project (BLEP‑38).

This guide explains the BLEP‑38 project’s requirements – word count, scope, format, and deadlines – and offers topic ideas, workflow steps, and FAQs to help students plan and write their CIHL project report.

Key Highlights & Quick Summary:

CIHL Program: A 6‑month certificate in International Humanitarian Law (IGNOU School of Law) with three 4‑credit theory courses (BLE 35, 36, 37) and a 4‑credit project (BLEP‑38).
BLEP‑38 Project: A research project of about 2000 words on an approved IHL topic (e.g. civilian protection, proportionality in attack, UNSC’s role in NIACs, cultural property, women/children in conflict).
Word Count & Deadlines: Write around 2000 words. Submit by March 31 (for January session) or September 30 (for July session) each year.
Format & Structure: The report should include a title page, declaration, abstract, introduction, methodology, analysis/discussion, findings/recommendations, conclusion, references, and any annexures.
Submission Process: Students select a topic (with supervisor approval), draft a synopsis, research sources, write the report, and submit the final project to their Study Centre by the deadline.

Table of Contents

What is CIHL & BLEP-38?

CIHL at IGNOU

CIHL (Certificate in IHL) is a distance-learning certificate offered by IGNOU’s School of Law. Developed with support from the ICRC, it aims to build knowledge and specialist understanding of IHL issues in South Asia. The curriculum covers core IHL rules (e.g. Geneva Conventions, principles of distinction and proportionality) and regional concerns like civilian protection and refugees. The medium of instruction is English, and eligibility is 10+2 (or IGNOU BPP).

Where BLEP-38 Project fits in the CIHL programme

The CIHL curriculum consists of three theory courses and one project work. Each theory course (BLE-035, BLE-036, BLE-037) is 4 credits. BLEP‑38 is the 4‑credit project work component. For example, IGNOU lists Understanding IHL (BLE-035), Application of IHL (BLE-036), and IHL Issues in South Asia (BLE-037) as the courses, followed by BLEP-38: Project (4 credits). The BLEP-38 project is the capstone research assignment required to complete the CIHL certificate.

Official IGNOU CIHL Project Requirements

Word count & scope

IGNOU’s Project guidelines specify that the BLEP-38 project should be “about 2000 words”. Students must choose a topic from the approved list of IHL themes. Past official topic lists include issues like “Protection of Civilian Population” and “Evolution of Proportionality in Attack”. (The latest list also includes topics on UNSC roles, cultural property, and protection of women and children.) Students should ensure their research question and analysis stay within the scope of the chosen topic and CIHL curriculum.

Indicative submission windows (Jan/July sessions)

IGNOU operates on two academic cycles. Projects for students admitted in the January session are typically due by March 31 of that year, and those admitted in July are due by September 30. For example, the official CIHL project instructions for 2022 specify submission by 31st March for the January session and 30th September for July. Students should always check the latest official schedule or confirm with their Study Centre, as submission dates may be updated annually.

Figure: “Jan vs July Session—typical windows & what to do when”

Approved IGNOU CIHL Project Topics Ideas (BLEP-38)

Protection of civilian population during armed conflict.
Evolution of the principle of proportionality in attack.
Role of the United Nations Security Council in non-international armed conflicts.
Child soldiers in South Asian conflicts (or global context).
Protection of cultural property in armed conflict.
Protection of women and children during armed conflict.
Use of drones (UAVs) and protection of civilians under IHL.
Cyber warfare and the applicability of IHL.
Environmental protection in warfare (IHL perspective).
Autonomous weapons systems and IHL compliance.
Medical neutrality: protection of healthcare personnel and facilities.
Refugees, internally displaced persons, and humanitarian access in conflict.
Sexual violence against civilians as an IHL violation.
Obligations of non-state armed groups under IHL.
Humanitarian assistance, blockades, and starvation in conflict zones.
Peacekeeping operations and IHL principles.
Use of chemical and biological weapons under IHL.
Safety of journalists and media workers in armed conflict.
Role of ICRC and NGOs in enforcing IHL norms.
Enforcement of IHL: International courts and war crimes tribunals (e.g. ICC/ICJ).

Figure: 20 Trending IGNOU CIHL Project Topics

(Students may adapt these ideas or combine related issues. Always choose a topic that interests you and fits within the CIHL syllabus. Verify the final topic with your supervisor.)

IGNOU CIHL Project Format & Structure

Cover page, declaration, acknowledgements (if required)

Title/Cover page: Include the project title, student’s name, enrollment number, course code (BLEP-38), study centre, and date. Use IGNOU’s prescribed title page format if provided.
Declaration: A statement that the work is original, signed by the student. E.g. “I declare that this project report is my own work…”
Acknowledgements: Optional section thanking any people or institutions that helped (e.g. supervisor, library staff). Keep it brief (a few lines).
Contents/Index: (if needed) List of chapters or sections with page numbers.

Abstract (120–150 words)

A concise summary of the CIHL project (around 120–150 words). It should briefly state the research context, objectives or question, methodology, key findings, and conclusions. Write the abstract after finishing the report, and place it on a separate page (following the declaration). The abstract helps readers quickly grasp the project’s purpose and results.

Introduction (context, objectives, research question)

The introduction sets the stage. Explain the background and context of your topic (why it’s important in IHL). State the scope and objectives of your project clearly. Formulate the research question or problem statement you will address. For example, if your topic is “Proportionality in Attack,” explain what proportionality means and why its evolution is significant. End with a brief overview of how your report is organized (e.g. “This report will first examine legal sources, then discuss case law, and finally offer conclusions.”).

Methodology (doctrinal / empirical; sources; limitations)

Outline how you conducted your BLEP-38 research:

Approach: Typically, doctrinal research for IHL projects – i.e. analysis of legal rules, treaties, conventions, commentary, and case law. If empirical methods (e.g. surveys or interviews) were used, describe them.
Sources: List major sources used (e.g. Geneva Conventions, Additional Protocols, ICRC commentaries, Indian IHL Act, relevant UN resolutions, selected case law such as ICJ/ICTY/ICTR/ICC decisions, law journal articles, books by IHL scholars, official ICRC publications).
Scope & Limitations: Note any limitations (e.g. limited primary data, narrow timeframe, language constraints). Mention how you addressed them (e.g. by relying on secondary sources). Be concise.

Analysis & Discussion (legal provisions, commentary, case law)

This is the core of the CIHL project. Organize it into logical sub-sections (or chapters) focusing on different aspects of the topic. Typically, include:

Legal Framework: Examine relevant treaty provisions and customary IHL rules (e.g. cite specific Articles of the Geneva Conventions, Additional Protocols, The Hague Regulations, UN resolutions, etc.).
Scholarly Commentary: Discuss interpretations and opinions from textbooks, articles, and ICRC commentaries.
Case Law & Examples: Provide examples of state practice or judicial decisions (ICJ, ICTY, ICTR, ICC, domestic courts) that illustrate how IHL rules are applied.
Critical Analysis: Identify gaps, challenges or debates in the law. Compare different interpretations (e.g. how proportionality is applied by different courts or States).
Use a mix of descriptive writing and critical analysis. Support statements with citations to laws and cases. Each sub-section should flow logically and connect back to your research objectives.

Findings, Recommendations, Conclusion

Findings: Summarize the main outcomes of your analysis. State what your research reveals (e.g. clarity or ambiguity in the law, effectiveness of protections, etc.).
Recommendations: If appropriate, suggest any policy or legal improvements (e.g. amendments, better implementation, further training). Be specific and realistic.
Conclusion: Wrap up by restating the research question and briefly how you answered it. Highlight the overall significance of your findings. The conclusion should tie everything together and may suggest areas for further study.

References (uniform citation style) & Annexures

References: List all sources cited in the report in a uniform format (e.g. Oxford/OSCOLA style, Bluebook, or any standard legal citation method). Include books, articles, treaties, cases, and websites. Ensure consistency (same format for all entries). Examples: Geneva Convention I, 1949, ICRC Commentary, ICJ Prosecutor v. Host State, author names with publication year, etc.
Annexures: (Optional) Attach any supporting material not integral to the main text, such as full texts of treaties, questionnaires, interview transcripts, data tables, or maps. Label annexures clearly (Annexure A, B, etc.) and refer to them in the text where relevant.

Step-by-Step Workflow in IGNOU BLEP-38 Project (CIHL)

Topic Selection: Choose a relevant IHL topic that interests you and fits the CIHL syllabus. Ensure it is neither too broad nor too narrow. Consult your project supervisor or coordinator to finalize the topic and get it formally approved.
Outline Preparation: Create a detailed outline. Break your project into sections (Introduction, Methodology, Analysis, etc.) and note key points or headings under each. Define your research question and objectives in the outline.
Source Gathering: Collect study materials and sources. Use IGNOU course books, international treaties, UN/ICRC documents, case law databases (e.g. ICJ, ICC), legal journals, and reputable websites. Keep track of bibliographic details for each source.
Drafting: Write the first draft section by section. Follow your outline and include proper citations. Start with the Introduction and Methodology, then move to analysis. Write clearly and coherently, explaining legal points in your own words. Use subheadings for different issues.
Review & Revision: Revise your draft for content and clarity. Check that arguments are logical and questions are answered. Verify that all citations are accurate. Get feedback from your supervisor or peers. Edit for language, formatting, and compliance with IGNOU guidelines (handwriting may be required if submissions are physical). Run a plagiarism check.
Final Submission: Prepare the final document with all required components (cover page, declaration, etc.) neatly. Compile the report as per format. If required, write it neatly by hand or print it clearly. Submit your project and the assignment coversheet to your Study Centre before the deadline, and obtain a receipt for your records.

Figure: Step-by-Step Workflow in IGNOU BLEP-38 Project (CIHL)

FAQs in IGNOU CIHL Project for BLEP-38 course

Q: What is the word limit for the BLEP-38 project?

A: The project report should be about 2000 words long.

Q: When is the BLEP-38 project submission deadline?

A: For the January session it is typically due by March 31, and for the July session by September 30.

Q: How many credits is the BLEP-38 project?

A: BLEP-38 is a 4‑credit project work, equal weight to each theory course.

Q: What topics are available for the CIHL project?

A: You must select one approved topic from the CIHL list. Examples include protection of civilians, proportionality in attack, UNSC role in NIACs, cultural property, and women & children in conflict.

Q: What format should the CIHL project follow?

A: Use a formal report format: title/cover page, declaration, abstract, introduction, methodology, analysis/discussion, conclusion, references, and annexures.

Q: Is there a sample project report or synopsis available?

A: IGNOU does not publish an official sample. Students should follow the prescribed format and guidelines. You can consult your study centre or project supervisor for guidance and refer to generic law project examples as a model. 📌 For a visual guide and templates, refer to: How to write IGNOU Synopsis/Proposal?

Q: Where can I get help or guidance for the CIHL project?

A: Contact the CIHL coordinator at your Study Centre or your assigned supervisor. IGNOU study materials and the SOL website provide course guidance. Unofficial resources (study notes, forums) may also offer tips, but always cross-check with IGNOU rules.

Q: Where can I find official assignment questions or materials for CIHL?

A: The School of Law publishes CIHL Tutor Marked Assignment PDFs (for Jan/July sessions) on IGNOU’s website. These include the BLEP-38 topics list. You can download them from IGNOU’s SOL assignments portal or obtain them from your Study Centre.

Download Resources

Each of these resources can be downloaded and reviewed for additional guidance on the CIHL project.

Conclusion

The IGNOU CIHL project for BLEP-38 is a critical component of the IGNOU Certificate in International Humanitarian Law. Students must adhere to IGNOU’s word count (≈2000 words) and format guidelines, and choose a topic from the approved IHL list. Careful planning, systematic research, and revision are essential. By following the outlined IGNOU’s Project Format and workflow—selecting a clear topic, drafting a detailed outline, gathering authoritative sources, and seeking supervisor feedback—students can produce a coherent legal research report.

Be mindful of the submission deadlines and consult the official IGNOU resources for updates. With diligent work and guidance, completing the BLEP-38 project will strengthen your understanding of humanitarian law and satisfy the CIHL programme requirements.

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IGNOU CIHL Project for BLEP-38: Complete Guide (Topics, Format, Submission)