Civilians who are not directly participating in hostilities are a type of non-combatant protected under the law of war including in international humanitarian law (IHL) treaties and conventions, as well as. The relationship between doctors and bureaucrats can be fraught, as highly educated professionals tend to resent attempts by mere civilians to cut costs, manage performance, or dictate treatment. a person who is not on active duty with a military, naval, police, or firefighting organization: Thousands of civilians had been killed or injured in the war. adj. [before a noun]

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Civilians are the electorate, activists, and public officials who shape policy, vote, and engage in civic discourse, forming the backbone of democratic societies.

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