Military occupation

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5th Gurkha Rifles, Japan 1946

Prussian Troops Parade Down the Champs Élysée in Paris (1 March 1871)

Cedar Revolution Demonstrators

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SBZ 1948 201A Berliner Bär

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Hawara checkpoint 2

Military occupation refers to the effective control of a territory by foreign armed forces. It is a situation in which the authority of the legitimate government is displaced, and the occupying power assumes administrative control over the region. Military occupation is typically temporary and does not confer sovereignty over the occupied territory.

Characteristics of Military Occupation

Military occupation is characterized by several key features:

• The presence of foreign military forces.
• The displacement of the local government.
• The establishment of a military administration.
• The imposition of laws and regulations by the occupying power.

Legal Framework

The legal framework governing military occupation is primarily derived from international law, including the Hague Conventions of 1907 and the Geneva Conventions of 1949. These treaties outline the rights and responsibilities of occupying powers and protect the rights of civilians in occupied territories.

Hague Conventions

The Hague Conventions set forth the rules of war and the responsibilities of occupying forces. They emphasize the temporary nature of occupation and the duty of the occupying power to maintain public order and safety.

Geneva Conventions

The Geneva Conventions provide comprehensive protections for civilians in occupied territories. They prohibit collective punishment, ensure the provision of food and medical care, and protect the rights of prisoners of war.

Historical Examples

Throughout history, there have been numerous instances of military occupation. Some notable examples include:

• The Allied occupation of Germany after World War II.
• The Israeli occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
• The United States occupation of Japan following World War II.

Administration and Governance

During a military occupation, the occupying power typically establishes a military government to administer the territory. This government is responsible for maintaining law and order, providing essential services, and ensuring the welfare of the civilian population.

End of Occupation

Military occupation is intended to be temporary. It usually ends with the withdrawal of the occupying forces, the restoration of the legitimate government, or the establishment of a new government through a peace treaty or other diplomatic means.

Related Pages

• Hague Conventions
• Geneva Conventions
• Allied occupation of Germany
• Israeli occupation of the West Bank
• United States occupation of Japan
• World War II