We’ve received thousands of questions on the Geneva Conventions.
So, we’re going to break down the rules of war you need to know right now.
All states have signed these – and are legally obligated to follow them.
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Civilians.
👉 They cannot be attacked.
👉 They must be protected.
👉 They are not a target.
Whatever wording you use – the message is the same. It is illegal.
Combatants.
Combatants must distinguish themselves from civilians in all military operations by wearing identifiable insignia and carrying arms openly. This helps protect civilians from harm.
Combatants must respect the rules of war. Period.
Civilian infrastructure.
This is schools, hospitals, civilians’ homes, water plants that supply clean water, and electricity lines.
Basically, everything that civilians need to go about their daily lives.
These are also not a target. We cannot stress this enough.
The sick and wounded.
They must be cared for, regardless of the side they’re on.
Parties to the conflict must also recover and identify those who have died and facilitate their return – in a dignified manner.
We can assist by acting as a neutral intermediary.
Prisoners of war and detainees.
The law states they must be protected. This includes from acts of violence, intimidation, and ill-treatment.
They also must be treated with dignity, and not exposed to public curiosity – like circulating images on social media.
Weapons.
The use of illegal weapons and the illegal use of weapons is prohibited. No ifs or buts.
The use of heavy explosive weapons in populated areas - so in cities - should be avoided.
Civilians only end up paying the price.
Aid workers and humanitarian organizations.
We must be allowed to operate safely. Our work is to bring aid and save lives.
Sanctions and other restrictive measures must be designed to allow humanitarian action to happen.
In all situations, lifesaving aid must not be blocked.
Red cross red crescent emblems.
They're protective emblems. In conflict, they must only be used for:
✅ Medical staff and facilities, including army medics and vehicles.
✅ Red Cross Red Crescent workers, vehicles, facilities and the humanitarian relief they bring.
The rules of war save lives. They reduce human suffering.
Mauritania
Burkina Faso
Somalia
Ethiopia
Kenya
South Sudan
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Sudan
Nigeria
Central African Republic
Chad
Cameroon
Niger
Mali
Right now, over 346 million people are suffering from severe food insecurity.
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People are skipping meals everyday.
Families are going without food and water.
Children are dying of malnutrition.
📢 The situation is alarming.
📢 The situation is only getting worse.
Armed conflict has destroyed livelihoods and displaced millions of people.
At the same time, many countries suffer from:
➡️ arid or drought conditions
➡️ soaring food prices and supply disruptions
This has forced millions to leave their homes in urgent need of food and water.