A civilian is someone who does not serve in the military or police force. This is the typical definition, but there are some people who are not considered to be civilians such as police and fire department personnel (they are sworn personnel), and those who are incarcerated for serious crimes.
Civilian can also refer to the code of law that governs non-military life, such as civilian courts or civilian laws. The word civilian itself has a fairly short history, dating back only to the early 19th century. It was derived from the French word for “common law.”
In the context of international humanitarian law, civilian is used to describe people who are not members of armed forces in an armed conflict. Under customary laws of war and international treaties such as the Fourth Geneva Convention, civilians are entitled to certain privileges that do not apply to combatants.
For instance, civilians must be protected from attacks during an armed conflict by a party to the conflict. The definition of civilians varies slightly depending on whether the conflict is internal or international. It is also determined by the status of the territory in question and whether it is part of a state.
Many civilians are affected by armed conflicts, and the protection of civilians must be an integral element of military planning. Conflicts in densely populated areas often increase the risk of civilian harm by disrupting education, health systems and critical infrastructure. They can also drive up acute malnutrition and cause mass displacement.
A key component of civilian protection is finding better ways to mitigate risk and respond to harm. This involves both enhancing DoD policies and operations to reduce the risk of civilian casualties, and addressing the consequences of armed conflict in densely populated regions.
Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging, especially when adjusting to a new job and new lifestyle. It can also be hard to maintain relationships with civilian friends and family that may have stayed home during your time in the service, which can make it even more important to take steps to communicate effectively.
Another aspect of civilian life that can be difficult to adjust to is the constant movement involved with military work. Often, moving to different locations in the country or abroad is a big part of the job, and it can be tough to keep up with the relationships you have established. In addition, many civilian jobs do not provide as comprehensive benefits as the military. This can be frustrating for veterans who have been used to the flexibility and convenience that a military life offers. Fortunately, there are plenty of resources available to help with this transition. It is possible to find a career that suits your interests and skill sets while still providing you with the stability that comes with a military career. It just takes a little effort to find the right fit.