War & humanitarian law
Protection of civilians
A core pillar of international humanitarian law requiring parties to a conflict to distinguish at all times between civilian populations and combatants.
Why it matters
Civilians must never be the target of attack, and combatants must take all feasible precautions to avoid or minimize civilian death, injury and destruction of civilian objects.
Key context
The Geneva Conventions prohibit indiscriminate attacks, direct attacks on civilian infrastructure, collective punishment, starvation of civilians as a method of warfare, and forced displacement.
Sources
International Committee of the Red Cross - Rules on the Protection of Civilians
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