armedconflict

An armed conflict is a sustained confrontation between organized groups that uses armed force. It can involve states or non-state actors and typically features ongoing violence and military operations that disrupt civilian life. International armed conflict refers to hostilities between states or externally intervened internal conflicts. Non-international armed conflict occurs within a state between government forces and organized armed groups, or between such groups themselves.

IHL (international humanitarian law) governs armed conflict, including the Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols, to protect civilians and regulate warfare. It requires distinction between military targets and civilians, proportionality, and precautions in attack. Non-international conflicts rely on Common Article 3 and Additional Protocol II. Jus ad bellum concerns the legality of using force; jus in bello governs conduct during fighting.

Parties include states, rebel movements, and other organized groups; external states may provide support. Conflicts often feature asymmetric tactics, proxies, or cyber and urban warfare. IHL applies to all parties, but enforcement varies. Prohibited acts include deliberate civilian targeting, starvation of civilians, and recruitment of child soldiers, which may incur war crimes or crimes against humanity.

Armed conflicts cause casualties, displacement, and humanitarian needs. Protection of civilians, medical personnel, and aid access is central for humanitarian actors. Endings are pursued through ceasefires, peace negotiations, disarmament, demobilization and reintegration, and, where possible, peacekeeping missions. Durability depends on accountability, governance, and rebuilding infrastructure.