Fundamental Rules of International Humanitarian Law Applicable in Armed Conflicts

The Fundamental Rules of International Humanitarian Law Applicable in Armed Conflicts, prepared in 1978, are a set of guidelines aimed at limiting suffering during warfare. This body of law, also known as the law of war, seeks to protect non-combatants, such as civilians, and those unable to fight, like the wounded, sick, and prisoners of war.1

Key principles include:
* Distinguishing between civilians and combatants: Attacks should only be directed at military objectives, and the civilian population must be spared.2
* Prohibiting indiscriminate attacks: Weapons that cause unnecessary suffering or are used indiscriminately against civilians are forbidden.23

These rules supplement earlier treaties and aim to adapt to new warfare technologies while upholding humanitarian principles.14