JSP 381
1
AIDE MEMOIRE ON THE LAW OF ARMED
CONFLICT
INTRODUCTION
1. This aide memoire is issued on mobilisation to all persons
deployed during an armed conflict. More detailed information is
contained in ‘The Joint Service Manual of the Law of Armed
Conflict’ (JSP 383) and ‘A Soldier’s Guide to the Law of Armed
Conflict’ (Army Code No. 771130). Service legal advisers may
also be consulted.
THE LAW OF ARMED CONFLICT
2. In every international armed conflict members of the
armed forces, including accompanying civilians, are subject to
the law of armed conflict. The law of armed conflict comprises
relevant international law and UK domestic law, which includes
Service law.
3. The law of armed conflict provides for the protection and
humane treatment of combatants and non-combatants. The
law both imposes duties upon and grants rights to individuals.
4. All personnel must be aware of the basic rules of the law
of armed conflict, including the practical application of the
principles of military necessity, proportionality, distinction and
humanity. These are dealt with below.
RESPONSIBILITY
5. Breaches of the law of armed conflict must be reported
immediately. They should be thoroughly investigated and
appropriately dealt with. Illegal orders must not be given or
carried out. Those who break the law may expect to be dealt
with and, if found guilty, severely punished.
