A civilian is a person who is not a member of the military or police force. This person may live in the same city or country as the members of those forces, but is not one of them. Civilians are often considered to be the “backbone” of society, because they help keep society running smoothly through their work in the private sector. Civilians also serve as a contrast to the militarized nature of those who are in the armed forces.
Generally, civilians are not permitted to engage in hostilities and are protected by international humanitarian law. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as the case of civilians who take part directly in hostilities. This situation has arisen most notably in the context of spontaneous uprisings and of the activities of non-state armed groups during internal armed conflicts. The notion of direct participation in hostilities and the loss of protection is interpreted in different ways by various international bodies and organizations, and there are many ambiguities and inconsistencies in the principle that emerged since its earliest formulation.
In some cases, civilians who participate in hostilities are treated as combatants because their role is equivalent to that of a soldier fighting alongside the regular armed forces. However, the distinction between combatants and civilians is difficult to make, especially when people are involved in irregular warfare, where the definition of a soldier is less clear. The distinction between civilian and combatant is a critical issue that is central to the EU’s strategy for crisis management.
For those who transition out of the military, it can be a challenge to adjust to civilian life. The most significant change is usually financial, because civilian pay is often significantly lower than what was received in the military. This can be made even worse by the fact that in the military, taxes and allowances were frequently included in a person’s take-home pay.
There are other differences as well, including the way that people communicate and interact with each other. While military life is based on structured interactions, civilian communication styles are much more varied. This can lead to frustration on both sides if communication is not handled properly.
Those who transition from the military are also adjusting to their family relationships, and often find that they have been away from their families for a long time. This can be a challenging adjustment, especially if the transition was a traumatic one. Taking the time to learn how to navigate these new relationships can make the process more pleasant for everyone. In addition, it is important to be careful not to spend more than you can afford in the early stages of civilian life, as this can add to the stresses of a transition. Lastly, it is often helpful to seek out other veterans and former service members who are making the same transition to provide support and guidance. This can be particularly important when reintegrating into the community after a deployment.