Explanatory note

This note is not part of the order, but is intended to indicate its general effect.

This order brings into force on 23 April 2014 all provisions of the Geneva Conventions (Third Protocol—Red Crystal Emblem) Amendment Act 2012 (the Act), except section 10(3)(b). The purpose of the Act is to implement New Zealand’s obligations under the Protocol additional to the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949, and relating to the Adoption of an Additional Distinctive Emblem (the Third Protocol). In accordance with Article 11(1), the Third Protocol entered into force on 14 January 2007, 6 months after 2 instruments of ratification or accession had been deposited.

Section 10(3)(b) of the Act came into force on 12 December 2012 (the day after the date on which the Act received Royal assent). However, the rest of the Act was able to be brought into force only when the Third Protocol entered into force for New Zealand under international law. New Zealand ratified the Third Protocol on 23 October 2013. In accordance with Article 11(2), the Third Protocol is due to enter into force for New Zealand on 23 April 2014. This order therefore brings the rest of the Act into force on that date.