Geneva Conventions
Summary: Core treaties of international humanitarian law protecting civilians and non-combatants in war. Tags: concepts law humanitarian international Created: 2026-05-03T00:00:00Z Last Updated: 2026-05-03T00:00:00Z
Content
The Geneva Conventions are a series of four treaties (1949) and three Additional Protocols that form the foundation of international humanitarian law. They establish standards for the humane treatment of wounded soldiers, prisoners of war, and civilians during armed conflict.
Key protections include:
- Medical personnel and facilities must be protected and not attacked.
- Wounded and sick combatants must be cared for regardless of side.
- Civilians must not be targeted and must receive humanitarian assistance.
- The Red Cross / Red Crescent emblem is protected.
The Conventions are universally ratified and binding on all states.