The Basic Principles of the Law of War in Missouri refer to a set of fundamental guidelines that govern the conduct of armed forces engaged in armed conflicts or wars. These principles are rooted in international humanitarian law and seek to ensure the protection of individuals who are not taking part in the hostilities, as well as to regulate the means and methods of warfare. The following are the main basic principles of the law of war in Missouri, along with relevant keywords: 1. Distinction: This principle emphasizes the need to distinguish between combatants and civilians, as well as between military objectives and civilian objects. It prohibits direct attacks on civilians and emphasizes the importance of minimizing harm to non-combatants. 2. Proportionality: The principle of proportionality requires that any incidental harm caused to civilians or civilian objects during an attack must not be excessive in relation to the anticipated military advantage. It ensures that the means and methods of warfare are not disproportionate to the intended military objectives. 3. Military Necessity: This principle requires that the use of force and the selection of targets be necessary to achieve a legitimate military objective. It prohibits the use of force that is not deemed necessary for military purposes. 4. Precaution: The principle of precaution obliges parties to a conflict to take all feasible precautions in planning and conducting military operations to avoid or minimize harm to civilians and civilian objects. It stresses the importance of taking proactive measures to protect non-combatants. 5. Prohibition of Torture and Cruel Treatment: This principle prohibits the use of torture, cruel treatment, and inhumane acts against individuals, including prisoners of war or detainees. It ensures that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. 6. Prohibition of Indiscriminate Attacks: Parties to a conflict must not carry out attacks that target civilians or civilian objects without distinguishing between military objectives and non-combatants. It emphasizes the need for precise targeting and avoids causing harm to civilians. 7. Protection of Protected Persons: This principle emphasizes the protection of certain categories of individuals, such as the wounded, sick, shipwrecked, prisoners of war, and civilian internees. It outlines the obligations of parties towards these protected persons, including providing them with medical care, necessities, and humane treatment. These principles provide a framework for the conduct of armed forces and help ensure respect for human rights and the preservation of humanitarian values during times of armed conflict. It is important to note that the principles discussed here are not limited to Missouri but are applicable globally under 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.