Is it ever OK to target civilians during war?

The general rule is that only those people fighting you are legitimate targets of attack. Those who are not fighting should not be attacked as this would violate their human rights. The Geneva Convention lays down that civilians are not to be subject to attack.

What are the rights of civilians in time of war?

Persons taking no active part in the hostilities, including members of armed forces who have laid down their arms and those placed hors de combat by sickness, wounds, detention, or any other cause, shall in all circumstances be treated humanely, without any adverse distinction founded on race, colour, religion or faith …

What is the meaning of civilian casualties?

Civilian casualties occur when civilians are killed or injured by non-civilians, mostly law enforcement officers, military personnel, rebel group forces, or terrorists. Under the law of war, it refers to civilians who perish or suffer wounds as a result of wartime acts.

What are the rights of civilians and why we need it?

The Constitution of Pakistan provides for fundamental rights which include freedom of speech, freedom of thought, freedom of information, freedom of religion, freedom of association, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly and the (conditional) right to bear arms.

What is a civilian in war?

“Civilian” means, in an international armed conflict, any person who does not belong to the armed forces and does not take part in a “levée en masse”. Both in international and non-international armed conflicts, the civilian population enjoys general protection against the dangers of military operations.

What are the rights of civilians in war?

Civilians and militants who are no longer fighting in the conflict have a right to receive the help they need, whether it’s medical care, food, water or shelter. This means that restricting the delivery of humanitarian aid — through naval and air blockades, closing ports or confiscating supplies — is prohibited.

What are the rules of war?

The rules of war, also known as international humanitarian law: Protect those who are not fighting, such as civilians, medical personnel or aid workers. Protect those who are no longer able to fight, like an injured soldier or a prisoner.

Is it a war crime to destroy a civilians house?

Doing so is a war crime. Recognize the right of civilians to be protected from the dangers of war and receive the help they need. Every possible care must be taken to avoid harming them or their houses, or destroying their means of survival, such as water sources, crops, livestock, etc.

What can we do to prevent war crimes?

Protect those who are not fighting, such as civilians, medical personnel or aid workers. Protect those who are no longer able to fight, like an injured soldier or a prisoner. Prohibit targeting civilians. Doing so is a war crime. Recognize the right of civilians to be protected from the dangers of war and receive the help they need.