What are the four principles of the use of force?

The four principles of the use of force—military necessity, proportionality, discrimination, and humanity—are fundamental guidelines that shape the conduct of military operations and ensure that actions taken during conflict are lawful and ethical.

Military necessity allows for the use of force as long as the action is necessary to achieve a legitimate military objective. This principle ensures that force is not applied arbitrarily but rather in pursuit of a strategic goal, which must be clearly defined in the context of military operations.

Proportionality mandates that the force used in a conflict must not exceed what is necessary to achieve a military objective. This principle is crucial in preventing excessive harm to civilians or damage to civilian property, emphasizing that military actions should be balanced against the anticipated collateral damage.

Discrimination refers to the obligation to distinguish between combatants and non-combatants during military operations. This principle is aimed at minimizing civilian casualties and ensuring that non-combatants are not targeted during hostilities.

Humanity, often connected with the humane treatment of all individuals who find themselves in conflict, reinforces the need to alleviate unnecessary suffering. It ensures that even in war, basic human rights and dignity are respected and upheld.

These principles collectively promote ethical conduct in military engagements and are essential for safeguarding both