Geneva Convention

Geneva Conventions: International Humanitarian Law

Background

The Geneva Conventions are a foundational framework of international humanitarian law, consisting of four treaties and three additional protocols establishing legal obligations for the humane treatment of wounded, sick, and shipwrecked members of the armed forces, prisoners of war, and civilians during times of war.

1949 Geneva Conventions

The four main Geneva Conventions, adopted in 1949, address:

• First Geneva Convention: Protection of wounded and sick members of the armed forces in the field.
• Second Geneva Convention: Protection of wounded, sick, and shipwrecked members of the armed forces at sea.
• Third Geneva Convention: Treatment of prisoners of war.
• Fourth Geneva Convention: Protection of civilians in time of war.

Adherence and Significance

The Geneva Conventions are one of the most widely ratified treaties in the world, with adherence from almost all nations. They represent a fundamental commitment to the protection of human rights and the preservation of human dignity during armed conflicts.