Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a civilian according to the principles of protection?

A characteristic of a civilian according to the principles of protection is that they do not engage in military operations. Civilians are defined by their lack of involvement in hostilities and combat activities. Engaging in military operations would categorize an individual as a combatant, which would disqualify them from the protections afforded to civilians under international humanitarian law.

The other characteristics listed—lack of combatant status, living within the community, and being unarmed during conflict—are all fundamental attributes that help delineate civilians from combatants. Civilians are expected to remain unarmed and not take part in violence, thereby ensuring their protection amidst armed conflicts. Recognizing these distinctions is crucial for the enforcement of the legal protections that aim to safeguard civilian populations during warfare.