NationStates Jolt Archive

An occupied nation, whether occupied by a military government or otherwise, always needs to address the issue of non-combatant citizens. However, the problem of non-combatants is a far greater problem than one might originally imagine. For example, what defines a combatant in war? Hitler, in World War Two, never saw military action, only directed it. But we all know that Hitler was the perpetrator of the holocaust and the direct cause of the 30 million deaths Europe suffered. So then, on a lesser note, how do community leaders who never bore arms but directed the thoughts and ideals of their community rank? Are these people non-combatants? The concrete answer to this would be 'no' these people were not combatants in the sense that they never fought. However, while not members of the fighting population, these 'non-combatants' were just as lethal. Through their charisma and public standing these community leaders are often able to avoid the real fighting and instead fight war through their powers of persuasion and ability to incite the general public. Consequently, while not trained soldiers, or fighters for that matter, these members of society are just as dangerous as combatants. These people can incite guerrilla style resistance that can both hinder, and in some cases defeat the invading army. Moreover, these people come from all forms of life, from politicians to teachers, to clergy members and idealistic youth. It is thus imperative that the UN realises the potential danger posed by non-combatants and legislate to nullify the potential danger they can cause.
It is essential that this be undertaken on top of the drive to push for non-combatant rights, otherwise any defeated nation could easily develop into another Weimar and pose a threat to the thousands of other Nation States.

There's a stickied topic (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=430910) for discussing the current resolution up for vote, could you please use it?