5 Principles
This principle requires you to separate military targets from civilian objects.
What is Distinction?
The Third Geneva Convention specifically outlines the humane treatment, housing, and medical care for this group of people.
Who are Prisoners of War (POWs)?
I wear a uniform, I am commanded by a responsible person, I carry arms openly, and I follow the Law of War.
What is a Combatant?
If a lawful combatant is captured, they are legally entitled to this specific status.
What is Prisoner of War (POW)?
The Law of War Principle of "Military Necessity" allows you to use all measures to defeat the enemy quickly, except for this.
What are acts prohibited by the Law of War? (Or: Violating the Law of War).
Faking a surrender with a white flag violates this principle, which forbids perfidy and treacherous conduct.
What is Honor (or Chivalry)?
The First Geneva Convention applies to wounded and sick military personnel in this specific domain.
What is "in the field" (or on land)?
I am a farmer with no military affiliation. I am just trying to survive the war.
What is a Civilian?
If captured, POWs are only required to give the "Big 4." Name, Rank, Date of Birth, and this.
What is Service Number (or DoD ID Number)?
This principle dictates that civilian casualties must not be excessive in relation to the concrete military advantage gained.
What is Proportionality?
The Fourth Geneva Convention, largely created after the atrocities of WWII, prohibits collective punishment and protects this group.
Who are Civilians?
I am an active-duty military chaplain. I do not carry a weapon and I am not authorized to engage in combat.
What is a Noncombatant?
If an Unprivileged Belligerent (like a spy or terrorist) is captured, they are NOT entitled to POW status, but they can face this consequence.
What is criminal prosecution (tried under domestic/international law)?
Using glass-filled fragmentation grenades designed to evade X-rays violates this principle.
What is Humanity (or Unnecessary Suffering)?
A hospital ship marked with a Red Cross is protected under this specific Geneva Convention.
What is the Second Convention (Wounded, Sick, and Shipwrecked at Sea)?
I am a civilian who picked up an assault rifle and started ambushing military convoys without state authorization.
What is an Unprivileged Belligerent (or Unlawful Combatant)?
If a military doctor is captured, they do not become a POW. Instead, they are given this specific legal status so they can treat captured troops.
What is Retained Personnel?