Rights and duties of a civilian

This page is a translation of the German original. If anything is unclear, the German text applies.

Fundamental rights

As a civilian you are entitled to all fundamental rights enshrined in national constitutions and international human rights documents — including the right to life, physical integrity, freedom of expression and freedom of movement.

Legal capacity

Civilians have full legal capacity: they can conclude contracts, own property, sue and be sued. This civil legal status fundamentally distinguishes them from combatants, who are subject to special rules under the law of war.

Civil law rights

• Contract law: The right to enter into and enforce legally binding agreements.
• Family law: The right to marry, to have a family and to the corresponding legal protection.
• Inheritance law: The right to bequeath and to inherit property.

Rights in armed conflict

International Humanitarian Law, in particular the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949, grants civilians specific protection:

• No targeted attacks: Civilians must never be the direct target of a military attack.
• Humane treatment: Civilians must be treated humanely at all times, including under conditions of occupation.
• No human shields: The use of civilians as human shields is expressly prohibited.

Rights as a victim of crime

As a civilian you have the right to take legal action in the event of crimes against you, to file a report and to claim state protection. International law obliges states to protect civilians and to prosecute crimes committed against them.

Duties of a civilian

The status of civilian also carries duties:

• Compliance with the applicable national and international laws.
• Respect for the rights and dignity of other persons.
• Refraining from any direct participation in hostilities — direct participation leads to the loss of protected status for the duration of the participation.