This research paper explores the challenges of applying current legal protection frameworks, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law, to the changing nature and patterns of contemporary armed violence. The research will focus on two case studies: civil unrest, examining the Arab Uprisings and protracted violence in Syria; and urban violence. It will also explore the intersection of international humanitarian law, international human rights law and the emerging international norm ‘responsibility to protect’. Finally, the paper will identify targeted recommendations to strengthen the legal protective environment in these ‘Other Situations of Violence’.