Who are considered "protected persons" under international humanitarian law?

"Protected persons" under international humanitarian law refers to individuals who are entitled to special protections due to their vulnerability, particularly in situations of armed conflict. This includes civilians, the sick, the wounded, and those not taking an active part in hostilities. The rationale behind this designation is to ensure that those who are most at risk of harm, such as those unable to defend themselves effectively in times of war, receive additional protections and humane treatment.

International humanitarian law, particularly the Geneva Conventions, outlines these protections explicitly, acknowledging that certain individuals require safeguarding from the dangers of conflict. This is essential to minimizing suffering and ensuring humane conditions during wartime.

In contrast, military personnel are combatants involved in armed conflict and are therefore not considered "protected persons" under the same definition; they are subject to the rules of war but do not fall under the special protections designated for vulnerable individuals. Non-civilian members of society, depending on their role, may or may not have protections based on their involvement in hostilities. Finally, individuals who work for humanitarian organizations are often afforded some protections under international law but are not categorized as "protected persons" in the same context as those recognized due to their vulnerability during conflicts.