Satellite imagery has become critical in documenting and responding to the impacts of armed conflicts. These impacts cover environmental degradation, infrastructure destruction and deterioration of societal functions, such as access to clean water, food security, and public health.

However, there continue to be challenges around alignment and clarity regarding the methodological and ethical considerations of carrying out and collaborating on the environmental and social impacts of remote sensing in humanitarian contexts. The field relies on best practices but has not yet articulated the goals of this and how it encompasses authentication, privacy and scientific standards. These considerations are especially important when using the data in accountability settings, including in criminal prosecution and international tribunals, where satellite data can be used as legal evidence.

This session welcomes presentations showcasing the state of play of using remote sensing to monitor environmental and societal harm in conflict-affected regions. Subsequently, it will raise questions at the frontier of our research discipline: how can we understand the impacts of RS mapping and output sharing on victims, ecosystems, and partners in conflict-affected areas? What are opportunities to involve local stakeholders in data collection and verification? How can RS be most effective in supporting international norm-building and norm-compliance around the costs of war? What protocols should RS research adhere to to ensure relevance in addressing accountability and victim support through international legal frameworks?

By addressing these questions, this session aims to start a conversation among practitioners and academics on how remote sensing can be responsibly and effectively used to address the environmental and societal impacts of armed conflicts while supporting justice and accountability.