International humanitarian law is based on fundamental principles designed to limit the effects of armed conflict and protect persons who are affected by war.
PUBLIC LEGAL REFERENCE
Fundamental Principles of IHL
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The principle of distinction requires parties to an armed conflict to distinguish between civilians and combatants, and between civilian objects and military objectives. Attacks must only be directed against legitimate military targets.
The principle of proportionality prohibits attacks where the expected civilian harm would be excessive in relation to the concrete and direct military advantage anticipated.
Parties to conflict must take feasible precautions to reduce harm to civilians and civilian objects when planning and conducting military operations.
The principle of humanity requires humane treatment of all persons affected by armed conflict and prohibits unnecessary suffering and cruel treatment.
Military necessity recognises that military operations may be conducted for legitimate purposes, but those operations remain restricted by humanitarian rules and legal limits.
Persons who are no longer participating in hostilities, including wounded combatants and detainees, must be treated humanely and protected from violence or abuse.
Students should understand that the core principles of IHL are distinction, proportionality, precautions, humanity and military necessity. These principles regulate warfare and protect people affected by armed conflict.
Students should understand the principles of distinction, proportionality, military necessity and humanity, which form the foundation of lawful conduct during armed conflict.
The fundamental principles of IHL include distinction, proportionality, military necessity and humanity. These principles guide the lawful conduct of armed forces during conflict.
The fundamental principles of international humanitarian law guide the interpretation and application of humanitarian rules during armed conflict. They assist courts, States and international organisations in assessing whether conduct complies with humanitarian obligations and whether unnecessary harm has been avoided.