The Alaska Basic Principles of the Law of War refers to a set of guidelines and rules that govern the conduct of parties engaged in armed conflict or war in the state of Alaska, United States. The principles are derived from international humanitarian law, also known as the law of war or the law of armed conflict, which aims to protect civilians, prisoners of war, and combatants who are no longer taking part in hostilities. The Alaska Basic Principles encompass several key aspects that define the conduct of war and ensure the preservation of human rights and international norms. These principles include: 1. Distinction: Parties involved in the conflict must distinguish between civilians and those directly participating in hostilities, such as combatants. Deliberately targeting civilians is strictly prohibited, and measures should be taken to avoid and minimize civilian casualties. 2. Proportionality: Parties are required to choose means and methods of warfare that are proportionate to the military advantage sought. This principle emphasizes the need to avoid excessive and indiscriminate use of force that could cause unnecessary harm to civilians or damage to civilian objects. 3. Military Necessity: Actions taken during armed conflict must be intended to directly contribute to the achievement of a legitimate military objective. Any use of force or the destruction of property must be justified by its military importance. 4. Humanity: Parties must respect and protect the human dignity of all individuals affected by the conflict. Injured, sick, and shipwrecked combatants, as well as civilians, must be afforded appropriate medical care and treated humanely. 5. Prohibition of Torture and Cruel Treatment: Torture, inhumane treatment, or degrading punishments are strictly prohibited. All parties involved in the conflict must ensure that captured combatants and civilians are treated with respect and dignity. 6. Prohibition of Indiscriminate Attacks: Parties must avoid attacks that cannot be directed at specific military objectives or that excessively harm civilians or civilian objects. The use of weapons or tactics that may cause unnecessary suffering or damage to non-combatants is strictly forbidden. 7. Protection of Cultural Property: Parties must safeguard and respect cultural property, such as archaeological sites, monuments, and buildings of historical or artistic importance, from destruction or damage unless militarily justified. In addition to these principles, the Alaska Basic Principles of the Law of War may also include specific guidelines and rules tailored to the unique geographical, climatic, and geopolitical conditions of the state. These principles serve as a framework for armed forces, government entities, and individuals involved in warfare in Alaska, helping to ensure the humane and lawful conduct of military operations while upholding the values of international humanitarian law.
Para su conveniencia, debajo del texto en español le brindamos la versión completa de este formulario en inglés. For your convenience, the complete English version of this form is attached below the Spanish version.