It is this authorization to use force that distinguishes combatants from civilians.Ĭombatants can be prosecuted under national or international criminal law if they commit war crimes, crimes against humanity, or acts of genocide, even if they act under the orders of their superiors but not for their plain participation in the hostilities. According to the definitions provided by the Geneva Conventions and their first 1977 Additional Protocols, combatants are members of national armed forces or organized groups placed under the effective control of those forces. ![]() The use of force may not occur as a result of individual initiative but must take place under a clear chain of responsible command, within the framework of respect for the rules of the law of armed conflict. But, contrary to civilians, they may not be subject to criminal prosecutions for their participation in hostilities as long as their use of force is in conformity with the provisions of the law of armed conflict, also named humanitarian law. Conversely, they constitute legitimate military targets in times of armed conflict. ![]() Combatants are persons who are authorized to use force in situations of armed conflict by international humanitarian law.
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