What is the primary goal of the law of armed conflict?

The primary goal of the law of armed conflict, often referred to as international humanitarian law, is to limit suffering during armed conflict. This body of law aims to ensure that even in times of war, there are standards that protect those who are not participating in hostilities, such as civilians, medical personnel, and aid workers, as well as those who are no longer participating, such as wounded soldiers and prisoners of war.

The emphasis on limiting suffering underscores the humanitarian principles within the law, which seeks to balance military necessity with humanity. This means that while military forces can engage in operations to achieve their objectives, they are bound by rules that prohibit unnecessary suffering and dictate how combatants may conduct hostilities. This foundational objective is crucial in maintaining a sense of morality and decency even amidst the chaos of warfare.

By focusing on the limitation of suffering, the law of armed conflict seeks to mitigate the impacts of war on both combatants and non-combatants, thereby promoting a more humane approach to military engagement.