What does the principle of distinction mean?

What does the principle of distinction mean?

The principle of distinction is a fundamental principle of international humanitarian law which provides that parties to an armed conflict must “at all times distinguish between the civilian population and combatants and between civilian objects and military objectives and accordingly shall direct their operations only …

What is the crime of distinction?

The principle of distinction requires distinguishing between combatants and civilians. The principle criminalises direct and intentional attacks against civilians in armed conflict situations.

What is protracted armed violence?

Protracted armed conflicts are characterized by their longevity, intractability and mutability. Due to the prolonged nature of these conflicts, they may fuel a cycle of revenge, undermining respect for the law.

Who has specific protections under LOAC?

Medical personnel and chaplains have a special protected status. They must be respected and are not to be attacked. They are permitted to carry out their medical and spiritual duties but take no part in combat. 10.

What is the distinction principle?

Distinction is a principle under international humanitarian law governing the legal use of force in an armed conflict, whereby belligerents must distinguish between combatants and civilians.

What is the principle of Distinction in human rights?

Qualified as “cardinal” and “intransgressible” [1], the principle of distinction is the cornerstone of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). One must know who and what may be targeted and who and what may not, and what protection to afford depending on the category which a person belongs to.

Why is distinction important in international law?

Distinction is a principle under international humanitarian law governing the legal use of force in an armed conflict, whereby belligerents must distinguish between combatants and civilians. Distinction and proportionality are important factors in assessing military necessity in that the harm caused to civilians…

What is the principle of Distinction in international relations?

Under the principle of distinction, all involved in the armed conflict must distinguish between the persons thus defined (the combatants) and civilians. Combatants must distinguish themselves (i.e., allow their enemies to identify them) from all other persons (civilians), who may not be attacked nor directly participate in the hostilities.