A civilian is a person who does not belong to a country’s military or any other fighting group. They are protected under international humanitarian law. Civilians are the opposite of combatants and soldiers, and it is illegal to target civilians with military attacks during wartime. There are numerous other considerations for civilians in times of conflict, including the right to be free from attack and to shelter in safe areas.
Civilians are also a key component of the peacebuilding process, as they contribute to the recovery of communities after conflict and help rebuild a country’s infrastructure. Civilians also play a vital role in supporting the delivery of essential services such as health, education and food security. The humanitarian impact of armed conflict on civilians is one of the greatest challenges facing our world.
Despite the daily headlines, it is easy to forget that protecting civilians from the devastating impacts of conflict has never been harder. The latest report of the Secretary-General on the protection of civilians in armed conflict is a stark reminder, noting a 53 per cent increase in civilian deaths since 2021 and underscoring the fact that more and more countries are restricting civic space, making it impossible for civil society to exercise its internationally guaranteed rights.
For veterans, it can be especially difficult to transition from the military into civilian life. It takes time to adjust to the chain of command in civilian jobs, as well as to reestablish long-distance relationships. It is important to make an effort to connect with people in the civilian community who share your experiences, as this will help you feel more at home in your new environment.
There are also many financial changes in civilian life, and it is important to budget carefully and be frugal. Some of these changes include housing, school tuition, healthcare, and other expenses. It is best to save money before leaving the military, so that you can be prepared for these changes and have a buffer to cover unexpected expenses.
It is also a good idea to network with civilians in your area and try to find fellow veterans who can relate to the struggles of military life. It is helpful to have a support system in place, and this can be accomplished through veteran groups, family members, friends and coworkers. It is also a good idea to try to maintain a connection with your military community, as this will help you feel less lonely when adjusting to civilian life. Keeping this connection will also help you stay in touch with your military friends who may be deployed abroad or on active duty. For more information about civilians, see the article Civilian (legal definition). This article is part of our ongoing series on military-related legal terms. Check back regularly for new articles. You can also subscribe to the Civilian Terms of Reference newsletter for monthly updates on new terms and definitions. If you have suggestions for future topics, please email us.