What is the law of Geneva?

As opposed to the ‘law of the Hague’, the ‘law of Geneva’ is a colloquial term that refers to a body of law that mainly deals with the protection of the victims of armed conflicts who are in the power of a party, i.e., non-combatants and those who no longer take part in hostilities.

What are the four principles of international humanitarian law?

To put things as simply as possible, these rules can be summed up in four precepts: do not attack non-combatants, attack combatants only by legal means, treat persons in your power humanely, and protect the victims …

What is hors de combat in international law?

A person hors de combat is:(a) anyone who is in the power of an adverse party;(b) anyone who is defenceless because of unconsciousness, shipwreck, wounds or sickness; or(c) anyone who clearly expresses an intention to surrender;provided he or she abstains from any hostile act and does not attempt to escape.

What is the difference between human rights and humanitarian law?

International humanitarian law and international human rights law are two distinct but complementary bodies of law. They are both concerned with the protection of life, health and dignity. IHL applies in armed conflict while human rights law applies at all times, in peace and in war.

What are the 7 humanitarian principles?

Humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality: these seven Fundamental Principles sum up the Movement’s ethics and are at the core of its approach to helping people in need during armed conflict, natural disasters and other emergencies.

What is humanitarian law PDF?

International humanitarian law (IHL) is a set of rules that seeks, for humanitarian reasons, to limit the effects of armed conflict. It protects persons who are not, or are no longer, participating in hostilities, and imposes limits on the means and methods of warfare.

What is Common Article 3 of the Geneva Convention?

Article 3 offers an international minimum protection to persons taking no active part in hostilities, including members of armed forces in certain situations specifically stated in the article. Humane and non-discriminatory treatment are two important protections offered under this provision.

What is the principle of distinction?

Protecting civilians and civilian objects during armed conflict. A central notion under international humanitarian law is the principle of distinction: certain people and objects enjoy protection against attacks because of their civilian status.