Civilian is a person who is not a member of the armed forces or law enforcement. Civilians work in society in various fields like education, healthcare, business and government. Civilians are often discussed in discussions about war, conflict and humanitarian issues because protecting civilians is critical to ensuring the success of any military operation.
The global community is facing a time of unprecedented need for stronger protections for civilians in armed conflict. The humanitarian impact of conflict is staggering, with millions of people displaced and suffering from lack of access to vital services including food, water and shelter. Armed conflicts also kill civilians and damage or destroy their homes, schools and hospitals.
As conflicts continue to expand and escalate, addressing civilian harm is increasingly urgent. In 2022 alone, the United Nations documented a 53% increase in civilian deaths globally in armed conflict and highlighted the broader human security impacts of armed violence, such as increased acute malnutrition, water insecurity, and displacement.
To help address these challenges, we need to ensure that civilians are fully included in policies and practices that shape the conduct of armed actors. This includes providing training and capacity building for civilian leaders to advocate and empower themselves, while empowering civil society to exercise their rights and participate in decision-making at the local level. We need to improve civilian oversight of armed actors and support the development of effective policies that mitigate civilian harm and protect civilians from the disproportionate and devastating consequences of conflict.
We have a long way to go to make civilians feel heard, seen and safe from the effects of armed conflict. This requires a clear and compelling strategy from all levels of government, supported by robust resources to achieve it.
Our research shows that a holistic approach to reducing civilian harm requires the involvement of a range of partners and influencers, from local communities to international bodies. This should include tribal, religious and spiritual leaders, women’s organizations, political and economic personalities, trade unions, student groups, social media influencers, and NGOs. By leveraging these stakeholders and involving them in the development of policy and practice, we can create a more sustainable and enduring culture of civilian protection. It will also help ensure that the voices and perspectives of civilians are not ignored, which is key to achieving lasting protection and a better future for all.