A civilian is a person who does not serve in the military. Civilians are protected from direct participation in hostilities under international law. Nevertheless, they are not immune from being attacked. In particular, civilians who engage directly in hostilities may be considered combatants under some legal regimes. In such cases, they would lose their protection against attack and, upon capture, could be treated as prisoners of war.
The term civilian has long been in use, though the specific definition varies across jurisdictions. In the US, it generally refers to someone who is not a member of the Armed Forces, and thus does not participate in any military activity. In other countries, the term is more widely defined to include anyone who is not a soldier or police officer.
Civilian may also refer to the legal code that governs nonmilitary life, as opposed to military codes of conduct or rules of engagement. For this reason, the term is sometimes used to describe a judge or an expert on civilian law.
Transitioning from the military to civilian life can be a challenging process. The change in lifestyle can be a shock to many, especially when it comes to schedules and structure. While civilians can still have strict schedules and routines, there is often much more flexibility and autonomy than in the military.
In addition, civilians tend to spend their time working at their job rather than engaging in other activities, including hobbies or personal relationships. This can lead to a feeling of isolation and loneliness, particularly in the early stages of the transition. It is important to seek out other civilians to connect with and find a support system for the initial period of transition.
For some, the most difficult part of transitioning to civilian life is reestablishing their relationships with friends and family. They have likely spent a great deal of time together while in the military, so finding the right balance can be a challenge. It is also important to remember that the people in civilian life may not understand the unique challenges that come with military service.
There are a variety of ways to become a civilian, from college degrees and professional careers to volunteering and community involvement. The most common path is through employment with the federal government. A person who is a civilian can work in agencies that manage national security, the environment, and public health. Many of these jobs have significant responsibilities and can require travel. They can also be highly demanding and fast-paced. It is important to understand the qualifications needed for these positions. It is also important to consider what type of work environment is best for you. Some civilians prefer the structured environment of a government office and others thrive in more flexible, team-based environments. This is important to evaluate during the interview process. It is also helpful to research the different agencies and programs to determine which is best suited for you.