A civilian is someone who does not serve in the military, police or fire fighting organization. Civilians are usually not involved in military operations but they can provide support to the military or police operations. There are many types of civilians and they can work in almost any job. Some civilians are teachers, business owners, doctors and lawyers. Civilians can also help with disaster relief and aid to refugees.
Civilians have a lot of advantages over their military counterparts, including health and retirement benefits. However, the transition from a military life to civilian life can be a difficult one. In addition, the financial changes can be a huge adjustment. It is important for civilians to plan their budgets and be frugal to avoid over spending.
Some of the key differences between military and civilian life include housing, education, healthcare and savings. In the military, all of these costs are taken care of, but in civilian life the responsibilities fall on the shoulders of the individual. Civilians should make sure they are well prepared for these expenses before making the switch.
In addition, civilians need to be aware of the different rules that apply in military and civilian courts. A civilian who is charged with a crime in military court may have to defend themselves against harsh penalties or imprisonment. Civilians should have a strong defense to protect their rights and freedoms.
The term civilian was coined in the 19th century. Originally it simply meant non military but later it became more specific to the law of civilians. It is derived from the French word civil, which means “lawful.” Civilians are governed by laws that are separate from those that govern soldiers. Civilians are protected by international law and have a right to freedom of speech, religion and assembly. Civilians also have a right to privacy.
Under international humanitarian law, a civilian is anyone who does not belong to any of the armed forces of a belligerent party in an armed conflict. This includes members of national liberation movements, if they are not directly participating in hostilities. The Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols exclude such persons from the definition of combatant (API Arts. 45.1 and 51.3).
Civilians in the defense, diplomatic, intelligence and legislative enterprises may not constitute a single profession like military officership, but they do have expertise that complements and guides that of professional military advice. Whether they are commissioned or not, they have skills, values, habits and abilities that should be considered when making military policy. Moreover, they offer a perspective that is crucial to a healthy civil-military relationship.