A civilian is someone who is not a member of the military or an official law enforcement officer. Civilians are people who work in fields like education, health care and business. Civilians also have a social life that revolves around friends and family members. The term is also used to refer to people who follow pursuits of the common law, such as lawyers or those studying civil law.
Civilians are not considered to be combatants in a war, but they do have some protections under international humanitarian law. These protections are outlined in the 1949 Geneva Conventions and the 1977 Additional Protocols to the Geneva Conventions. The additional protocols expanded the definition of combatant to include members of national liberation movements.
The distinction between civilian and combatant is important because the Geneva Conventions state that civilians are not legitimate targets for attacks during armed conflict. This distinction was further strengthened by the International Committee of the Red Cross in the two Additional Protocols relating to international and non-international armed conflicts (API Arts. 45.1, 51.3; APII Art. 13.3).
Civilian rights are protected by the United Nations and many countries. This protection includes freedom of movement, the right to a fair trial and the right to privacy.
During an armed conflict, a civilian’s basic rights can be violated in several ways. One example is when a civilian is injured during an attack by another country’s military. Another way that civilians can be victimized during a war is when they are displaced from their homes. This could be because of a natural disaster or as a result of a war.
After leaving the military, it can be difficult to adapt to a civilian lifestyle. Many veterans experience financial issues when they are first adjusting to civilian life. They may struggle with budgeting and determining how much they should spend on items such as food, clothing, and housing. They also might have trouble with balancing work and personal life.
Another area where the transition from military to civilian life can be rough is in relationships. It can be hard to adjust to the fact that other civilians don’t have a structured, regimented schedule or the same sense of duty to their country that service members do. This can lead to tensions and arguments with friends and family members.
Whether you are fighting to keep your career or trying to avoid a military divorce on your record, having a strong defense can help you resolve the situation in your favor. A military divorce attorney can help you understand your legal options and protect your rights.