Insights into the laws of armed conflict: A NATO perspective

What is it about?

NATO is an international military organization. NATO has defined many rules of engagement (ROE) for armed conflict. In her book, Camilla Guldahl Cooper explains these ROE and how they are implemented. She also clarifies other complex issues, such as the definitions of lawful targets, hostile acts, and self defense. The use of force during armed conflict cannot be avoided. However, according to the NATO ROE, soldiers can only use force to complete the missions they have been given. This force can only be used against lawful targets. Lawful targets can be objects or enemy soldiers. Civilians need to be protected. Attacks that cause excessive civilian loss are to be avoided. Some civilians participate in the conflict (directly or indirectly). They can briefly be exempted from this rule. Overall, soldiers must follow the ROE to ensure that the planned attack is lawful. Earlier, the NATO ROE on self defense used to be unclear. Now, they have been updated. The updated ROE address the rights military forces have while dealing with threats from the enemy.

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Photo by Marek Studzinski on Unsplash

Photo by Marek Studzinski on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The NATO ROE are complex. They are also sometimes ambiguous. This can compromise both missions and personnel safety during armed conflict. Hence, the clarification of ROE concepts provides important advantages from political, strategic, and operational standpoints. It could help increase operational efficiency while preventing the loss of civilian life and property. KEY TAKEAWAY: The NATO ROE framework explains the intricacies surrounding the use of force during armed conflict. It defines the factors that should be considered before implementing attacks. It can help soldiers ensure that their actions are lawful. In this way, they can support the mission’s political purpose and operational details in as “ethical” a manner as possible. However, it is important to note that these ROE are specific to NATO and NATO countries. ROE can differ in other regions, such as the United States.