Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

An act by a state or non-state actor that constitutes participation in armed conflict, triggering the application of international humanitarian law.

A conflict occurring within a state between governmental forces and non-state armed groups, regulated by international humanitarian law provisions specific to internal conflicts.

An organized group not affiliated with any government that engages in armed conflict or violence.

A comprehensive collection of rules derived from state practice and opinio juris that govern conduct during armed conflicts, recognized as binding even without treaty ratification.

A criterion to attribute conduct to a state based on its effective control over non-state actors during armed conflict.

The unlawful coercion of an individual into marriage during armed conflict, recognized as a violation under international criminal law.

Treaty agreements supplementing the original Geneva Conventions to expand protections in armed conflicts, including non-international conflicts.

A provision establishing minimum humanitarian protections in non-international armed conflicts.

The agreement by a state allowing foreign armed forces or peacekeepers to operate within its territory.

The unlawful seizing or detaining of individuals to compel actions from others during armed conflict, prohibited under international humanitarian law. It constitutes a serious violation subject to prosecution.

The lawful detention of enemy fighters during armed conflict without criminal charges under international humanitarian law.

A set of rules regulating the conduct of hostilities and the protection of persons during armed conflicts.

Rules governing the rights and duties of states that remain neutral during armed conflicts between other states.

An armed conflict occurring within a state between government forces and non-state armed groups, governed by specific IHL rules.

The principle that military actions must avoid excessive force in relation to the anticipated military advantage.