Publication

Preventing Civilian Harm in Partnered Military Operations: A Commander's Handbook

This handbook is for military commanders and staffs working with other armed forces or non-state armed groups within the framework of partnered military operations (PMOs). Much of the guidance is relevant for policy advisers as well. The handbook offers planning and decision-making considerations for avoiding or lessening adverse humanitarian effects on civilian populations. It presents proactive, pragmatic practices to foster Law of Armed Conflict compliance by partners; to identify, avert, or mitigate potential risks to civilians; to positively influence partner behaviour; and to stimulate awareness in partners’ and own force’s behaviour and actions that can potentially harm civilians.