The American Red Cross (ARC) works to disseminate international humanitarian law (IHL), also known as the laws of war, to the American public. The ARC helps Americans know and respect these laws which place basic limits on how war is waged. They protect civilians, wounded and sick combatants, and prisoners of war. At NHQ in Washington, D.C., and through ARC chapters across the country, staff and volunteers help adults and youth understand IHL and its relevance to daily life.