The Legality of Nuclear Weapons Employment under the International Humanitarian Law of Coercion Control.
Abstract
This thesis analyzes the legality of nuclear weapons employment under international humanitarian law. Factual background data is given on present strategic and tactical nuclear arsenals; nuclear war strategies; targeting categories; and principle effects of nuclear weapons, including types of nuclear explosions and combined effects of multiple nuclear detonations, including the potential for environmental disaster. The legal framework is then set forth: the sources of humanitarian law (law of war); basic principles of humanitarian law (military necessity, humanity, proportionality, unnecessary suffering, and indiscriminate weapons); sanctions for violations of humanitarian norms; the impact of modern warfare; and a summary of views on the application of humanitarian norms to nuclear weapons. A tripartite analysis of the legality of nuclear weapons use is then made using express international treaty limitations, implied treaty limitations, and limitations from customary humanitarian norms. Pro and con arguments are examined in each area.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA185860
Entities
People
- Richard A. Price
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology