Protection of medical personnel in armed conflicts—case study: Afghanistan

INTRODUCTION: International humanitarian law affords special protection to medical property and personnel whose mission is to save lives and provide health care for civilians and combatants alike. DISCUSSION: This paper presents the legal aspects of medical-personnel protection in armed conflicts. Presented below are examples of the Afghanistan analyses where, as a result of war situations, people are most vulnerable. Discussed are the minimum protection and standards applicable to such situations specified by the international humanitarian law. CONCLUSION: Its rules and provisions obligate fighting parties to take all necessary measures to protect and respect medical missions in all circumstances.