A civilian is a person who is not a member of the armed forces. The term is also used to refer to persons who are not involved with government or police work. People who are civilians may have jobs in the private sector, in education or in local governments. In the United States, the term is more often used to refer to non-military government employees, such as teachers and firefighters, than to those who are in the military or law enforcement.
During a conflict, civilians may be targeted by enemy soldiers. This can cause them to suffer injuries or even be killed. There are some ways to protect civilians during a conflict. Some countries have laws that prevent civilians from entering areas where the military is fighting. They may also have laws that say civilians can’t be arrested by the military.
Civilians can be involved in military court cases, but it is more common for service members to testify in court cases involving their fellow service members. A civilian could also be a witness at a hearing for a service member who is facing charges under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act.
Returning home from a military tour can be a difficult transition. From making new friends to adjusting with your family, civilian life can be challenging. It’s important to remember that everyone’s experiences are different, but with time and patience you can adjust to your new normal.
For many veterans, a life in the military is more than just a job; it’s a right of passage. It’s a journey that tests your mental, physical and spiritual strength. It’s a journey that allows you to grow into a better person. It’s a journey that can have profound impacts on your personal and professional life.
It is the role of civilians, in the policymaking context, to provide expertise that complements and guides that provided by professional military advisers. This expertry is not only valued but necessary to the legitimate policymaking process. Civilian careers across the defense, diplomatic, intelligence and legislative enterprises may not comprise a single profession like military officership, but their collective intellectual capital is vital to any genuine national security strategy.
On August 26, the Secretary of State launched the Civilian Harm Reduction and Prevention Plan (CHMRAP), alongside a congressional caucus that will “conduct oversight and advance policies that prevent, reduce and respond to civilian harm caused by U.S. and partner operations.” The CHMRAP has the potential to significantly reduce civilian harm from armed conflict. However, it will require executive-level leadership and dedicated staffing to be effective. It will also require sustained effort to ensure compliance with international humanitarian law and to understand the full scope of civilian harm experienced by individuals and communities.