The Role of Civilians in War and Peace

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In war and peace, Army Civilians have been integral to the Army’s success since the Revolutionary War. Today, they serve in 540 careers across 31 career programs and are the largest civilian workforce within DOD. They are a critical element of the Army, helping to provide support to our nation, Soldiers and families, and to improve readiness. They also play a crucial role in the defense industry, supporting military operations in the field and at home.

The term “civilian” is generally used to refer to anyone who is not a member of the armed forces. However, in practice the distinction between civilians and combatants is often blurred – for example, when members of armed opposition groups take part in hostilities. These distinctions must be clarified to ensure the safety of civilians and to respect the principle of proportionality.

Civilians are not only the people who have a right to be free from military attack but also those whose lives, property and dignity are directly affected by armed conflicts. Across continents, civilian harm caused by the use of explosive weapons in populated areas is occurring on an alarming scale. Homes, schools, hospitals and places of worship are destroyed; populations are displaced; and the provision of essential services such as water, food and electricity is disrupted. The impact on civilians of the ongoing armed conflict is devastating and must be ended.

In contrast, civilian policymaking is often conducted by individuals occupying specified positions in civilian institutions such as the National Security Council and the Office of the Secretary of Defense and their relevant committees. This civil-military divide at the policymaking level must be understood in order to address the issue of civilian control of the armed forces.

The transition to civilian life can be difficult for many servicemembers. While the military has structure and schedules, civilian life can feel less structured and offer more freedom in terms of day-to-day activities and decisions, as well as opportunities for self-growth and development. Those who have made the transition successfully have found that, by taking advantage of veteran resources, they are able to find community that helps them feel comfortable in their new environment. This can be a great way to reduce frustration in the early stages of the transition. It is also important to remember that, while communication may be more fluid in civilian life, differences in personal and professional styles will still exist. The key is to work through these differences with friends and colleagues in a manner that avoids miscommunication or misunderstanding. To help with this, try to be aware of your own communication style and what your counterparts are accustomed to. You can also ask questions during a conversation to get a better sense of what is expected.