In 2013, the the International Law Commission decided to include the topic “Protection of the environment in relation to armed conflicts” in its programme of work. Earlier this year, the Drafting Committee provisionally adopted 28 draft principles on first reading. In this informal discussion, Special Rapporteur Dr. Marja Lehto will discuss the impetus for the initiative, outline the current status of this topic, highlight some of the key stakes, and raise issues for reflection and consideration.