The Humanitarian Charter principles and their legal basis: principle 2

The Humanitarian Charter principles and their legal basis: principle 2

Principle 2, the distinction between combatants and non-combatants, is informed by laws that are designed to protect civilians – those not taking part in hostilities – in an area of conflict.

These form part of the Geneva Conventions. In full, these are:

1. First Convention – on the care of the wounded and sick members of armed forces in the field
2. Second Convention – on the care of the wounded, sick and shipwrecked members of armed forces at sea
3. Third Convention – on the conduct of combatants and the treatment of prisoners of war (between states)
4. Fourth Convention – on the protection of civilian persons and populations in times of war (duties and responsibilities of occupying power)

The Geneva Conventions also:

• provide conditions for humanitarian assistance
• describe the roles and responsibilities of the parties involved

These conventions:

• apply in times of international conflict
• are addressed to states: they impose duties on states and warring parties
• provide the conditions for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and protection