Abstract
This paper explores the evolving status of prisoners of war (POWs) from historical contexts to contemporary scenarios. Historically, POWs were often subject to harsh treatment, minimal legal protections, and used as leverage in diplomatic negotiations. The advent of international humanitarian law, particularly the Geneva Conventions of the mid-20th century, marked a significant shift towards the humane treatment of POWs, establishing clear rights and protections.
Today, the status of POWs is governed by these international treaties, yet challenges persist. Modern conflicts, characterized by asymmetrical warfare, non-state actors, and the war on terror, complicate the application of traditional POW protections. Instances of unlawful detention, torture, and ambiguous legal statuses highlight ongoing issues.
This paper examines these historical transformations, current legal frameworks, and the realities of enforcement, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the status of POWs in both past and present contexts.
Through this analysis, the paper underscores the importance of continued vigilance and adaptation of legal standards to uphold the rights and dignity of POWs in an ever-changing global landscape.
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The Status of Prisoners of War Yesterday and Today
About the Author
Oluwole Solagbade is a legal practitioner and a masters candidate at the University of Lagos. He is based in Lagos State, Nigeria.