"medical ranks" in the Russian provinces (XVIII - mid-XIX centuries). Responsibilities of medical personnel in armed conflicts Religious personnel in times of war

A military doctor is a person with a higher medical education who has a military rank.

Military doctors have a special neutral position, which was assigned to them in 1864 by the Geneva Convention. According to the convention, military doctors are obliged to perform only medical duties, to provide assistance to victims of hostilities or armed conflicts, without exception.

In the army, military doctors are considered the most important figures. Without this category of the military, the army could not exist. The doctor monitors the health of the soldiers, provides them with the necessary medical care if necessary.

Responsibilities of a military doctor

A military doctor must have commanding skills and be able to organize a medical service, the ability to solve problems of providing medical care, both in peacetime and in armed conflicts or hostilities.

The doctor must monitor the state of health of the military, if necessary, provide medical assistance or refer to a narrow specialist.

The doctor is obliged to help everyone without exception.

military doctor surgeon

A military doctor-surgeon provides treatment and is responsible for transporting the wounded from the places of military conflicts.

Modern weapons are capable of inflicting a large percentage of severe injuries on a person, which leads to some difficulties in the treatment and transportation of victims during hostilities.

A military surgeon differs from a civilian in methods of treatment in military conflicts. The doctor provides multidisciplinary care, therefore, must understand all areas of surgery.

The modern equipment that military field hospitals are equipped with, new surgical technologies make it possible to provide qualified assistance to the victims and save lives.

All new types of weapons appear in the world, in scientific laboratories military surgeons investigate the damaging effects of modern weapons and develop new surgical devices that can be used in military field conditions with minimal risk to the life of the victim.

military doctor dentist

A military dentist organizes medical care and treatment for the wounded with injuries to the maxillofacial region.

In the process of training, cadets study dental diseases and injuries, observing the condition of patients in the clinic. However, future military dentists do not face combat injuries, which makes it difficult to conduct practical exercises and master program issues.

Military sanitary doctor

The military sanitary doctor oversees the sanitary condition of the troops, the preservation of their health, the elimination of external adverse factors, and also controls the quality of food, which makes it possible to increase the professional ability of the country's army.

military veterinarian

The military veterinary doctor protects the health of animals in the troops, restores their fitness for service, and ensures control over the supply of meat and livestock products.

How to become a military doctor?

A military doctor is not an easy profession; in order to become a specialist in this field, it is necessary, first of all, to have endurance, military discipline, and outstanding knowledge. Many military doctors from a young age are accustomed to military life, most of them graduate from military lyceums before entering the university.

After receiving a certificate of secondary education, a person who plans to become a military doctor must enter a medical university.

It takes time to train a qualified specialist - six years of study, and one or two years of internship. In addition, any doctor should regularly improve his qualifications, since medical science does not stand still, you should be aware of new treatment methods.

The first four courses of study can take place at any medical institute, but in the fifth year you should transfer to the military medical faculty (for example, to the St. Petersburg Military Medical Academy).

Military doctors study subjects important for the military (surgery, radiology, toxicology, military field therapy) in more depth, but the diploma is practically no different from a civilian doctor.

The practice of cadets of military medical universities takes place at the place of service, often young doctors have to undergo an internship in the conditions of hostilities, remote garrisons.

Where do they study to become a military doctor?

A military doctor can take the first four courses of study at any medical university. In the fifth year, it is necessary to apply for transfer to an institute that has a faculty for the training of military doctors. The most famous are the St. Petersburg Military Medical Academy. Kirov, State Belarusian Medical University, National Medical University. Bogomolets in Kyiv.

Training of military doctors

Future military doctors are trained at the Faculty of Military Medical Affairs. In the fifth year, cadets study in more depth the subjects necessary for the work of military medical personnel. Young professionals learn how to act and provide the necessary medical care for gunshot wounds, poisoning with toxic substances, radiation exposure, etc.

After studying the theory, a young military doctor is sent to practice in military units, where for several years, under the guidance of a supervisor, he will learn to apply the knowledge gained at the institute in practice, in conditions of real military service.

Ranks of military doctors

After graduating from the Military Medical Academy or university, a military doctor receives the rank of lieutenant of the medical service.

Day of the military doctor

A military doctor celebrates his professional holiday together with other medical workers. Day of the health worker is celebrated on the third Sunday of June.

Conscription of doctors for military service

A military doctor after graduating from the medical academy is sent to serve on a contract basis. After the end of the contract, you can either extend the term of service or leave the armed forces.

Benefits for military doctors

A military doctor after 10 years of service has the right to enroll in a queue for free housing.

Benefits are not provided if the doctor left the service after the end of the first contract, however, if the dismissal was due to a layoff or illness, the benefits remain.

Benefits are earned by military doctors throughout their service life. After 20 years of service, the doctor is entitled to a salary after leaving the armed forces, medical care (including family members), etc.

Certification of military doctors

A military doctor undergoes mandatory certification, which is an important form of material and moral incentives for personnel. Certification is carried out according to the national nomenclature, taking into account the requirements and characteristics of doctors.

The first certification is held at a military medical university, before receiving a diploma. Cadets who successfully passed the certification receive a diploma of higher education. complete education in the specialty and qualification of the master.

Then, after a certain period of time, doctors undergo certification to assign a qualification category and to confirm the qualification category.

military doctor salary

In addition to wages, a military doctor receives salary increments for length of service, for special conditions of military service, etc.

A military doctor is not an easy profession, on his shoulders lies the medical support of the Armed Forces, including medical and preventive work, anti-epidemiological measures, sanitary and hygienic control, medical supply, etc.

The concept of medical personnel covers persons who are part of medical units and are appointed by the belligerent to perform exclusively medical purposes: search for the wounded, sick, shipwrecked persons, their evacuation, diagnosis, medical assistance, disease prevention measures, as well as for the administrative and economic support of medical units, sanitary vehicles and their maintenance (Article 8 of Additional Protocol I) As you can see, the term "medical personnel" means not only professional doctors, nurses, but also administrative and housekeeping workers, drivers and tl. Medical personnel are appointed by the parties to the conflict on a permanent or temporary basis. Temporary medical personnel carry out their activities only for the duration of the appointment, in contrast to the permanent personnel that are part of the structure of the armed forces. Medical personnel may be military or civilian. But it is the designated civilian personnel of the belligerent who enjoy the protection of international humanitarian law during a certain period of their work. So, for example, a civilian doctor who performs his professional duties during an armed conflict and does not have the appointment of his state for such activities does not fall under the concept of "medical personnel" within the meaning of international humanitarian law. Of course, the procedure for appointment must be in accordance with the domestic law of the State making the appointment. This is explained by the fact that medical personnel during the period of armed conflict enjoy special rights, and as soon as the belligerent state is responsible for any actions of persons belonging to this category, then it exercises proper control over their activities. For example, public authorities do not allow medical personnel to engage in commercial or other activities that are incompatible with their intended purpose. The personnel of medical formations are equated in their rights with the personnel of volunteer aid societies, a specially trained contingent for use, if necessary, as auxiliary orderlies or porters for searching, picking up, transporting or treating the wounded, sick, shipwrecked, authorized by their government, as well as National Red Cross Societies and their respective other voluntary societies. Persons of medical personnel may also be citizens of foreign states that are not parties to the conflict. They carry out their professional duties at the behest of their government. In addition, representatives of the National Red Cross or Red Crescent Societies of non-belligerent states may be included in the medical staff. They usually work under the authority of the ICRC. The legal status of medical personnel includes the rights, obligations provided for by international humanitarian law, and responsibility for violating its norms. The main purpose of establishing a legal status is to ensure that medical personnel can perform the humane tasks assigned to them during an armed conflict. Medical personnel attached to the armed forces are protected by international humanitarian law Within the framework of the military laws and regulations of the detaining Power, and under the guidance of its competent authorities, and in accordance with professional ethics, they continue to carry out their medical duties in the interests of prisoners of war, preferably from among those armed forces to which they themselves belong. The main duties of medical personnel are: strict observance of the norms of international humanitarian law, humane treatment of victims of war (not subject persons belonging to these categories to any procedures, experiments, experiments dangerous to their health, respect their physical and mental integrity); provision of medical assistance to the wounded, sick, prisoners of war, shipwrecked persons (failure to provide such assistance is a violation of the norms of international humanitarian law by medical personnel); strict observance principles of medical ethics, i.e. of their medical duties (Art. 16 of Protocol I; Art. 10 of Protocol II) in accordance with the “Oath of Hippocrates” (460-380 BC), provisions that are developed by the Geneva Oath” and the “International Code of Medical Ethics ”, developed by the World Medical Association (ie. conscientiously fulfill professional duties; consider the health of the sick, wounded as their main concern; not to disclose secrets entrusted to him by protected persons; respect the value human life; not to use medical knowledge against the laws of humanity; not allow any religious, national, racial, political or social discrimination in the performance of their duty; not to use medical knowledge against the laws of humanity even under the threat of life); implementation of the Rules of Medical Ethics for Wartime and the Rules for the Treatment of the Wounded and Sick in Armed Conflicts (approved in 1957 by the ICRC, military medicine and Phzrmacea, World Health Organization and approved by World Medical! association). humane and philanthropic treatment without any distinction from persons who do not directly take part in hostilities or are out of action; prohibition of any medical procedure that is not required for health reasons of protected persons, as well as medical, scientific or other experiments in relation to them; obtaining the consent of the patient (if he is able to do so) for treatment, surgical intervention associated with a risk to his life. Violation by persons of medical personnel of their professional duties, as well as the commission of serious or other violations of the norms of international humanitarian law by them entails disciplinary or criminal liability, which will be the norms of international vague law (Article 24. 28 of Convention I; Article 36 of the Convention II, Article 33 of Convention III, § 9 of Protocol II) ensure the protection of religious personnel, which include both military (military chaplains) and civilians. Spiritual staff performs exclusively spiritual functions and can be permanent (being part of the armed forces) or temporary, i.e. be attached to the armed forces, medical units, transports or civil defense organizations. If representatives of the religious personnel fall under the control of the opposing side, they can be detained only to the extent that spiritual needs and the number of prisoners of war require it. Religious personnel may not be treated as prisoners of war when detained, but at least enjoy the benefits of the Prisoners of War Convention. They shall be given all possible assistance in the performance of their spiritual duties and shall not be compelled to perform tasks inconsistent with their humanitarian mission. The belligerent powers under whose control these persons are allowed to visit prisoners of war in work teams, hospitals outside the camp.

Legal status of medical personnel and clergy

The concept of "medical personnel" covers persons who are part of medical formations and are appointed by the belligerent to perform exclusively medical purposes: search for the wounded, sick, shipwrecked persons, their evacuation, diagnosis, medical assistance, disease prevention measures, as well as for the administrative and economic support of medical units, ambulances and their maintenance (Article 8 of Additional Protocol I).

The term "medical personnel" in the broad sense of the word means: both professional doctors, nurses, and administrative and housekeeping workers, drivers, etc. Medical personnel are appointed by the parties to the conflict on a permanent or temporary basis. Temporary medical personnel carry out their activities only for the duration of the assignment, in contrast to the permanent personnel that are part of the structure of the armed forces.

Medical staff may be military or civilian. But it is the designated civilian personnel of the belligerent who enjoy the protection of international humanitarian law during a certain period of their work. Thus, for example, a civilian doctor who performs his professional duties during an armed conflict and does not have the assignment of his state for such activities does not fall under the concept of "medical personnel" within the meaning of international humanitarian law.

Of course, the procedure for appointment must be in accordance with the domestic law of the State making the appointment. This is explained by the fact that medical personnel during the period of armed conflict enjoy special rights, and as soon as the belligerent state is responsible for any actions of persons belonging to this category, then it exercises proper control over their activities. For example, public authorities do not allow medical personnel to engage in commercial or other activities that are incompatible with their intended purpose.

The personnel of medical formations are equated in their rights with the personnel of volunteer aid societies, a specially trained contingent for use, if necessary, as auxiliary orderlies or porters for searching, picking up, transporting or treating the wounded, sick, shipwrecked, authorized by their government, as well as National Red Cross Societies and their respective other voluntary societies.

Persons of medical personnel may also be citizens of foreign states that are not parties to the conflict. They carry out their professional duties at the behest of their government. In addition, representatives of the National Red Cross or Red Crescent Societies of non-belligerent states may be included in the medical staff. They usually work under the authority of the ICRC.

The legal status of medical personnel includes the rights, obligations provided for by international humanitarian law, and responsibility for violating its norms. The main purpose of establishing a legal status is to ensure that medical personnel can perform the humane tasks assigned to them during an armed conflict. Medical personnel attached to the armed forces are protected by international humanitarian law.

Within the framework of the military laws and regulations of the detaining Power, and under the direction of its competent authorities, and in accordance with professional ethics, they continue to exercise their medical duties on behalf of prisoners of war, preferably from the armed forces to which they themselves belong.

Main responsibilities medical personnel are:

strict observance of the norms of international humanitarian law;
humane treatment of victims of war (not subject persons belonging to these categories to any procedures, experiments, experiments that are dangerous to their health, respect their physical and mental integrity);
provision of medical assistance to the wounded, sick, prisoners of war, shipwrecked persons (failure to provide such assistance is a violation of the norms of international humanitarian law by medical personnel);
strict adherence to the principles of medical ethics, i.e. of their medical duties (Art. 16 of Protocol I; Art. 10 of Protocol II) in accordance with the Hippocratic Oath (460-380 BC), provisions that are developed by the Geneva Oath and the International Code of Medical Ethics ”, developed by the World Medical Association (i.e. conscientiously fulfill professional duties; consider the health of the sick, wounded as their main concern: not to disclose secrets entrusted to him by protected persons; respect the value of human life; not use medical knowledge against the laws of humanity; not allow any religious, national, racial, political or social discrimination in the performance of one's duty; not to use medical knowledge against the laws of humanity even at the risk of life);
implementation of the Rules of Medical Ethics for Wartime and the Rules for the Care of the Wounded and Sick in Armed Conflicts (approved in 1957 by the ICRC, the International Committee of Military Medicine and Pharmacy and the World Health Organization and approved by the World Medical Association);
humane and philanthropic treatment without any distinction with persons who do not directly take part in hostilities or are out of action;
prohibition of any medical procedure that is not required for health reasons of protected persons, as well as medical, scientific or other experiments in relation to them;
obtaining the consent of the patient (if he is able to do so) for treatment, surgical intervention associated with a risk to his life.

Violation by medical personnel of their professional duties, as well as serious or other violations of the norms of international humanitarian law by them, entails disciplinary or criminal liability, as will be discussed below.

The rules of international humanitarian law (arts. 24, 28 of Convention I; art. 36 of Convention II; art. 33 of Convention III; art. 9 of Protocol II) provide protection spiritual staff, which includes both the military (military priests) and civilians. Spiritual staff performs exclusively spiritual functions and can be permanent (being part of the armed forces) or temporary, i.e. be attached to the armed forces, medical units, transports or civil defense organizations.

If representatives of the religious personnel fall under the control of the opposing side, they can be detained only to the extent that spiritual needs and the number of prisoners of war require it. Religious personnel may not be treated as prisoners of war when detained, but shall at least enjoy the benefits of the Prisoners of War Convention.

They shall be given all possible assistance in the performance of their spiritual duties and shall not be compelled to perform tasks inconsistent with their humanitarian mission. The belligerent powers under whose control these persons are allowed to visit prisoners of war in work teams, hospitals outside the camp.

Military doctors in the army are highly respected figures. They are treated with honor by both ordinary and senior officers, considering doctors to be smart, intelligent, "intelligent" people.

Average salary: 45,000 rubles per month

Demand

Payability

Competition

entry barrier

prospects

Becoming a military doctor means being prepared for the need to help a wounded soldier at any time of the day. Such a profession requires firmness of character and composure from a person. During the period of hostilities, the doctor turns into a wizard who saves the lives of the fighters. But how to get the appropriate specialty? This article describes the mechanism for entering specialized universities with further career advancement.

History

Military medicine has a rich centuries-old history. IN Ancient Egypt special tents functioned on the battlefield, in which wounded soldiers were bandaged. Long before our era, separate unarmed brigades existed in Greece and the Roman Empire, evacuating wounded warriors from the war zone and providing them with basic care in safer conditions.

Within the territory of Kievan Rus During military campaigns, soldiers used specific tents (brusques) that served as a first aid point. Here the healers bandaged the wounds of the warriors and stopped the bleeding.

On the territory of the modern Russian Federation, military medicine has been actively developing in XII-XIII centuries. However, officially the corresponding specialty arose in 1620. At this time, the first military charter of Russia was issued - "The military book on all shooting and fiery tricks." The document clearly spelled out the organizational nuances of the regimental medical service, taking into account all the legal and financial foundations of the profession of a military doctor.

In 1798, by decree of the emperor, the Medical and Surgical Academy was founded, which became the first higher educational institution in St. Petersburg and all of Russia, where military doctors are trained. In the XIX and XX centuries, the active development of the specialty continues in accordance with the constantly changing conditions of warfare. The use of innovative types of weapons forced field doctors to quickly adapt to new conditions and invent new approaches to the treatment of wounded soldiers.

An important role in the development of military medicine was played by N.I. Pirogov, who in 1847 for the first time in combat conditions used ether anesthesia, which significantly improved the quality of emergency care provided.

Description and characteristics of the profession

Despite the romantic halo that films and books give to the profession, being a military doctor is very difficult. Such work involves the possession of a deep knowledge of medicine with the parallel performance of all the duties of an ordinary soldier. The main task of the doctor during the hostilities is to provide emergency care wounded comrades. During peacetime, emphasis is placed on providing the relevant units of the army with the necessary drugs and carrying out preventive work.

There are enough medical workers in the troops. These are sanitary instructors, paramedics, orderlies. However, only an officer can be a doctor. Therefore, all doctors have a rank no lower than junior lieutenant.

The advantages of the profession of a military doctor include:

Respect from colleagues. Often, a unit commander addresses a junior officer as an equal, which emphasizes the importance of the profession.
Free education with further advanced training. In peacetime, about a third of all time military service take trips to various courses and trainings to improve the theoretical and practical skills of the doctor.
Privileges, provided by the state for military personnel.

Despite these advantages, it must be remembered that a coin always has two sides. A military doctor must be prepared for the fact that he can be called at any time of the day. Doctors often face difficulties in housing due to the need to live in the barracks. In the event of the start of large-scale combat clashes, the appropriate specialist will work in their very epicenter. Therefore, before choosing a profession, it is necessary to carefully consider all the pros and cons of such work.

Specialties, universities and USE subjects

For the training of military doctors in Russia, higher educational institutions have been created that specialize not only in presenting specialized medical material, but also in demonstrating to future graduates all the hardships of service.

Applicants must be prepared for the parallel development of fundamental sciences (anatomy, physiology, therapy, surgery) on the same level as drill training, the organization of medical service in the army, and the like.

To become a military doctor, you need to graduate from a specialized higher educational institution, and we will list the most popular universities below:

Military Medical Academy. S. M. Kirova (St. Petersburg). This is one of the most requested educational institutions in the country. There are three basic faculties that train specialists for naval, airborne and ground forces.
Military Academy of the Strategic Missile Forces named after Peter the Great (Moscow).
Tomsk Military Medical Institute.
Samara Military Medical Institute.
Academy of the Federal Security Service Russian Federation(Moscow).

After 6 years of study, each graduate receives a diploma and the rank of junior lieutenant. Then you need to complete an internship (1 year). For admission to the relevant universities, applicants must provide USE results in the following subjects:

biology;
chemistry;
Russian language and literature.

It is important to remember that good physical preparation is required for admission to the relevant universities. Students regularly run cross-country, swim for a while, do ski trips. Therefore, studying to be a military doctor is not an easy task.

Duties

Military doctors are people who are ready, if necessary, to go to a "hot spot". During hostilities, the duties of a doctor are reduced to providing qualified medical care in specially equipped mobile stations. Depending on the provision of a specific dressing unit, operations or bleeding control can be carried out in a conventional tent or a full-fledged mobile hospital.

In peacetime, a military doctor also does not sit idle. Its key responsibilities are:

control of sanitary and hygienic standards in the unit;
implementation of therapeutic and preventive measures;
prevention of epidemics of infectious diseases;
control of the supply of medicines, instruments, material for dressings, etc.;
conducting medical examinations.

The high-quality work of field doctors is an integral part of the prosperity of the armed forces of any state.

Who is suitable for this profession?

Becoming a military doctor is not easy. This requires endurance, the ability to cope with stressful situations readiness for the defense of the country. Traditionally, this profession is chosen mainly by men. However, the number of women in the armed forces of many countries is growing every year.

A prerequisite for the effective performance of duties is good physical fitness. If you are overweight, it is difficult to serve and guarantee the quality of medical services in combat conditions.

It is important to remember that the position of a military doctor is closely related to the need to participate in the relevant exercises or combat operations. Living in the barracks also causes some discomfort. Therefore, one who desires a calm and measured family life chooses the profession of civil doctor.

Wage

The salary of a military doctor depends on his rank and experience. Junior officers can receive 20-30 thousand rubles a month. Over time, after rising up the career ladder, this indicator increases. In addition to the corresponding fee, the doctor can additionally count on social benefits that reduce his daily expenses.

The level of wages may also fluctuate depending on the working conditions in a particular hospital or medical unit where a doctor operates. Graduates of the relevant universities who are just starting work receive an average of 10-15 thousand rubles a month.

How to build a career?

Today, the profession of a military doctor is becoming more and more in demand. The reason for this was the staff reduction after the reforms in the 2000s. Career development provides for the precise fulfillment of the tasks set by the command and the qualified provision of medical care. Promotion in rank contributes to the growth of both respect among colleagues and colleagues, and an increase in wages.

Unofficially, all military doctors are divided into "physicians" and "organizers". The first group specializes in providing medical care to soldiers with all the pros and cons of the corresponding activity. The second part of the doctors is engaged in the supply of drugs, providing hospitals with the necessary equipment and other similar functions. If you have already decided which industry is closer to you, then you need to be patient and at first be content with the least prestigious job. As skills and experience increase, the chances of transferring to larger military units and, of course, wage growth increase.

Prospects for the profession

The profession of a military doctor is still relevant. Even in peacetime, the state allocates a lot of money to support the adequate functioning of the medical service in the structure of the armed forces. And taking into account the constantly emerging military conflicts, in which Russian military personnel are also involved, there is no shortage of work foreseen.

Salaries may vary depending on government policy. However, the respect of people and the opportunity to participate in the defense of their own country are still the reasons that encourage young boys and girls to enter specialized medical schools. Before the final choice of profession, you need to calmly weigh all the positive and negative sides the specialty of a military doctor and decide for yourself whether it is worth it.

State budgetary educational institution higher professional education

"Nizhny Novgorod State Medical Academy"

Ministry of Health and Social Development of the Russian Federation Institute of Postgraduate Education

Specialty "management and economics of pharmacy"

Department of Mobilization Training and Extreme Medicine

ESSAY

RELATED The rights of medical personnel in armed conflicts

Nizhny Novgorod

I.Geneva Conventions for the Wounded and Sick

In total, there are four Geneva Conventions for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded and Sick in Combat Operations.

The first of these was adopted in 1864 and was called "Convention for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded in Armies in the Field. Geneva, 22 August 1864" .

The second was adopted in 1906. It was named similarly and was dated July 6, 1906.

The latter is the fourth entitled "Convention (I) for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded and Sick in Armed Forces in the Field. Geneva, 12 August 1949." Geneva, 12 August 1949).

The essence of the Geneva Convention of 1864 is that the wounded and sick in medical institutions, as well as all personnel of these institutions, including non-medical attendants and administrative personnel, are considered neutral persons (as well as citizens of neutral non-belligerent states), regardless of whether which of the warring parties occupied this area. Those. they are not taken prisoner and are not considered prisoners. Medical institutions continue their normal functioning, even if the area is occupied by the enemy. All personnel of medical institutions after the end of their work (for example, all the wounded and sick recovered) can freely leave the occupied territory and return to their troops. At the same time, the occupying troops are obliged to ensure the safe passage of front line personnel.

The wounded and sick who have recovered can be returned to their country. At the same time, those declared unfit for further military service return to their country without fail and without any conditions, but those who can take up arms again return only under the obligation not to serve in their army until the end of this war (it is not entirely clear who should give such an obligation, either the wounded man himself, or his government).

An interesting point is the participation of local residents in the care of the sick and wounded. A house in which a wounded or sick soldier, regardless of which of the warring parties he belongs to, is given shelter and care is also considered neutral. He is exempt from lodging, and the inhabitants of this house are exempt from taxes and duties. Moreover, the commander of the occupying forces should encourage such behavior of the locals and explain to them the benefits they get if they care for the sick and wounded of any of the belligerents.

This Convention for the first time defined the distinctive sign of medical institutions and personnel involved in the care of the sick and wounded. It's a red cross on a white background. Medical facilities are marked with flags, and staff with armbands. The same signs may have personnel and groups involved in the evacuation and transportation of the sick and wounded. Those. a red cross on a white background indicates the neutrality of personnel or establishments protected by this convention.

Art. 7 of the Geneva Convention of 1864 clearly explains who can use this sign - everyone who is involved in caring for the sick and wounded. The 1929 Convention will subsequently specify if this assistance is provided free of charge. It will also determine that the "Red Cross (crescent, lion and sun) on a white background" emblem is the emblem of the Convention, but not of the Red Cross. Before the fall of the USSR, this emblem was quite legal in Soviet hospitals, pharmacies, clinics and other medical institutions, since all Soviet medicine was free. Today, in Russia, only military medical units and medical institutions charitable type, i.e. not taking money for their services.

In 1906, a new, radically revised Convention was concluded, which turned out to be much more detailed (33 articles against 10). She clarified a number of provisions and discussed what had previously been omitted.

Thus, in particular, the new Convention required that, in the event of leaving one's wounded to the enemy, the necessary personnel and materiel should be left with them. This issue was not considered in the old Convention, as a result of which problems could arise with food, medical and non-medical care for the wounded.

The new Convention no longer considered enemy wounded and sick to be neutrals. Now they received the status of prisoners of war. But for the personnel of medical institutions, priests, security units of medical institutions, the status of neutral persons is still retained, and they are not taken prisoner. This also applies to members of non-governmental charitable organizations involved in the care of the wounded and sick.

For the first time, the side that occupied the battle area was required to inspect the battlefield in search of the wounded and sick, to protect the latter from looting and from improper treatment, and they were given the duty to bury or burn the bodies of all the dead.

The participation of local residents in caring for the wounded and sick is becoming less attractive. Some special measures of protection and immunity can now be promised to local residents participating in this humanitarian effort. Those. this question falls into the domain of decisions of the occupiers.

At the same time, the belligerents are now required to inform each other about the fate of the killed, wounded and sick of the opposing side, and to take care of their personal belongings and valuables. Along with maintaining the status of neutrality of medical institutions and personnel of these institutions, they are now allowed to have weapons and use them to protect the wounded and sick, guard medical institutions with the help of armed army units, and store weapons and ammunition belonging to the wounded and sick.

If medical institutions with the sick and wounded are in the territory occupied by the enemy, then the latter is obliged to adequately supply these institutions with material resources.

The 1906 Convention unequivocally and specifically defined the red cross on a white background as the distinctive sign of the medical service of all armies. In the same place (Article 18) it is explained that such a sign was adopted out of respect for Switzerland with the conversion of the colors of its national flag (the flag of Switzerland is a white cross on a red background). The same sign is applied to all property and vehicles belonging to the medical service of the army, as well as charitable organizations involved in the care of the wounded and sick military personnel.

Personnel belonging to the medical service, including all auxiliary and service personnel, must also wear an armband with a red cross on a white background on the left sleeve. If at the same time the personnel do not wear military uniforms, then they must have an appropriate certificate issued by the military authorities of their state.

The 1906 Convention established who was obliged to be guided by its provisions. These included only States Parties to the Convention. Moreover, if at least one of the countries participating in the war was not a party to the Convention, then its provisions ceased to be binding on the wounded of this country for all other parties.

The convention obliges the parties to ensure that the signs of the red cross are not used by those who do not have the right to do so. In particular, as a logo of any private firms and organizations that are not related to the care of the wounded and sick. She also ordered to prosecute those who rob the wounded or mistreat them.

The experience of the First World War and the practice of applying the 1906 Convention required certain clarifications and changes to be made more in line with the changed conditions of the war. Therefore, in the summer of 1929, a New Convention for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded and Sick in Combat Operations was concluded. The 1929 convention had a similar title to that of 1906 and referred to both 1864 and 1906 in the introductory part. The 1929 Convention has grown to 39 articles.

For the first time, a provision appeared in it that after each clash, if circumstances permit, a local truce or at least a temporary ceasefire should be declared in order to make it possible to carry out the wounded.

The practice of local truces for the removal of the wounded was widespread during the First World War, although this was not provided for by any agreements. And here is the second World War so hardened the belligerents that this provision of the Convention was carefully forgotten by everyone. On the contrary, the places where the wounded of the opposing side were found were taken under special supervision by snipers, machine gunners, mortars and artillerymen in the hope of shooting those who tried to take out their wounded. To be honest, this technique was typical for the Germans, and for the Red Army, and for the allies. The war was of such a critical nature, so much was at stake, that any tricks and methods were used to destroy as many enemy soldiers as possible.

For the first time in this Convention, identification tokens are mentioned, which should consist of two halves. When a dead soldier is found, one half is left on the corpse, and the second must be transferred to the appropriate authorities in charge of personnel records. Moreover, in relation to the dead soldiers of the enemy, these halves must be transferred to the military authorities of the side to which the deceased belonged.

In Russia, there are no such signs, which are usually called "death tokens", to this day, although Soviet Union acceded to this Convention in 1931. There were none during the Second World War, and during the Afghan war, and in both Chechen wars.

The convention paid special attention to the fallen and deceased military personnel. The military authorities are obliged to organize a record of the fallen soldiers, not only of their own, but also of the enemy, to bury them with dignity, and to keep an accurate record of burials. And after the end of the war, exchange information on burials.

Unlike the 1906 Convention, the new one limits the presence of armed persons in medical institutions to sentries or pickets. It is no longer allowed to have armed units. It is possible to store weapons and ammunition of the wounded and sick only temporarily until it becomes possible to hand them over to the appropriate services. But under the protection of the Convention now falls veterinary personnel located in a medical institution, even if he is not part of the latter.

The 1929 Convention specifies who belongs to the personnel protected by the Convention and who, if they fall into the hands of the enemy, are not referred to as prisoners of war, but are returned to their troops. In addition to those who are engaged in the collection, transportation, treatment of the wounded, priests, administrative staff of medical institutions, soldiers of combat troops specially trained to provide first aid, soldiers used to carry and transport the wounded have now come under the protection of the Convention. Those. these are company and battalion medical instructors, orderlies, orderlies-drivers. Now, if they fell into the hands of the enemy at the moment when they were engaged in this business and had the appropriate identification cards in their hands, then they are also not taken prisoner, but treated like the personnel of medical institutions.

Convention allows them to be kept in the hands of the enemy only to perform the duties of caring for their wounded, and for the time required for this. Then these personnel, together with weapons, means of transport, equipment, are transported in a safe way to their troops.

In the 1929 Convention, the former meaning of the "red cross on a white background" emblem was retained. Those. this badge is the hallmark of the medical service of all armies. However, given that in non-Christian countries the cross is perceived not as a medical sign, but as a symbol of Christianity (i.e. a symbol of a hostile religion), the new Convention determined that instead of the red cross, a red crescent, red lion and sun.

The Convention also clarified that in order to recognize persons as belonging to personnel protected by the Convention, it is not enough that the person wears an identifying armband. He must also be provided by the military authorities of his army with an appropriate photo identification or, at the very least, an appropriate entry in his soldier's book. The identity documents of personnel protected by the Convention must be the same in all belligerent armies.

Unfortunately, the Convention itself did not offer a model for such a certificate, leaving this issue to the agreement of the belligerents. The Second World War will show that in modern conditions opponents cannot agree on anything during the war. Such certificates never appeared in any of the countries affected by the war. This gave a formal reason to take medical personnel prisoner along with all other soldiers and officers.

Article 24. The Convention determined the right to use the sign "Red Cross on a white background" in peacetime. This sign can be placed on all medical institutions that provide assistance to the wounded, injured and sick, but only on a free basis.

The most significant condition that radically changes the scope of the provisions of the Convention is Article 25, which, unlike the provisions of the 1864 and 1906 Conventions, requires that its signatories adhere to it in all cases, regardless of whether their opponent has signed the Convention or not, fulfills he her or not.

Moreover, Article 26 deprives military commanders of the opportunity to circumvent the requirements of the Convention on formal grounds. It unambiguously prescribes, in cases of difficulty and in cases not expressly described in the Convention, to be guided by its general meaning and spirit. Those. interpret its provisions in favor of the wounded, sick and their attendants.

The Convention requires that its provisions be known not only to commanders, but to all troops, and especially to those whom it protects. Including its provisions should be brought to the attention of the population.

Article 34 of the new Convention completely abolished the operation of the same conventions of 1864 and 1906. This is a significant point, since many conventions relating to hostilities, in one way or another, retained the effect of previous conventions to one degree or another, at least for those who did not accede to later versions.

. Rights and obligations of medical personnel in armed conflicts

It must be emphasized that the performance of professional duties by medical personnel in armed conflicts is regulated by international humanitarian law, which is confirmed by the provisions of the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols.

The main provisions of international humanitarian law are confirmed by four Geneva Conventions, adopted on August 12, 1949, and two Additional Protocols to the Geneva Conventions, adopted on June 8, 1977:

Geneva Convention for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded and Sick in Armed Forces in the Field;

Geneva Convention for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Wounded, Sick and Shipwrecked Members of Armed Forces at Sea;

Geneva Convention concerning the Treatment of Prisoners of War;

Geneva Convention for the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War;

Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions of August 12, 1949, Relating to the Protection of Victims of International Armed Conflicts;

Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions of August 12, 1949, Relating to the Protection of Victims of Non-International Armed Conflicts.

Currently, the Geneva Conventions are recognized by more than 150 states, i.e. almost the entire international community, so they are binding international norms. Medical personnel working in the conflict zone must comply with the requirements of the Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols to them, since their violation is a violation of international humanitarian law, for which responsibility and certain sanctions are provided.

Responsibilities of medical personnel

Medical workers who are called upon to assist in armed conflicts must know and clearly fulfill the following duties.

In any circumstances, act humanely, responsibly fulfill your duty, as your conscience dictates.

The principle of humanity, compassion for victims is one of the fundamental principles of international humanitarian law.

Medical personnel providing their services during armed conflict are obliged, as in peacetime, to observe the principles of medical ethics.

He must comply with the basic rules of the "Geneva Oath", adopted in 1948 by the World Medical Association, according to which the doctor must:

perform professional duties conscientiously and with dignity;

not to disclose the secrets entrusted to him;

not allow any religious, national, racial or political discrimination in the performance of their duty;

recognize the absolute value of human life;

even under threat not to use medical knowledge against the laws of humanity.

In 1957, the World Health Organization and the International Committee of Military Medicine and Pharmacy approved the "Rules of Medical Ethics for Wartime" and "Rules for Providing Care to the Wounded and Sick in Armed Conflicts", which confirmed the principle of the unity of medical ethics in peacetime and wartime.

Thus, the wounded, the sick, the shipwrecked, prisoners of war, the civilian population in enemy territory or occupied territory must be respected and protected, and treated with humanity.

Care is provided without distinction, for reasons other than medical.

The principle of providing assistance without discrimination of any kind is a fundamental principle of international humanitarian law. The doctor should see in the wounded only the patient, and not "his" or "enemy". The order of care is determined solely by medical requirements, the conscience of the doctor and medical ethics. Particular attention should be paid to the most vulnerable groups of victims: children, the elderly, pregnant women.

Persons protected by the Conventions are prohibited from being subjected to any medical procedure that is not indicated for their state of health, as well as from being subjected to any medical, biological or other scientific experiments.

Particularly strict control in this area is exercised by international humanitarian law. This is due to the crimes against humanity during the Second World War. It is necessary to exclude any experiments on persons in the power of the enemy.

All the wounded and sick must be respected.

If the patient is able to consent to treatment, the doctor must obtain it before proceeding with treatment. At the same time, actions that can harm the health of the patient (for example, medical experiments) are prohibited, even if the patient gives their consent to them.

Medical personnel who commit violations of international humanitarian law must be punished.

Medical personnel working in a zone of armed conflict have a great responsibility. He must be aware that a violation of international humanitarian law can have dire consequences, not only for the victims of this violation, but also for the medical personnel themselves. Serious violations are officially considered war crimes and subject to criminal prosecution regardless of the time and place of the commission.

Rights of medical personnel

Protection of medical personnel during the performance of their duties.

It should be noted that, while performing their duties in the zone of armed conflict, medical personnel enjoy the protection of international humanitarian law, the Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocols. Protection is granted to medical personnel on the condition that they are engaged exclusively in the implementation of the humanitarian tasks assigned to them, and only for the duration of their implementation. In addition, during this period, medical personnel must comply with a number of important requirements.

Have identification marks and documents.

All members of medical personnel who are protected in a zone of armed conflict must wear a clearly visible distinctive sign (for example, a large red cross on the chest and back, or for civil defense personnel, a blue equilateral triangle on an orange field) and have a standard identification card in accordance with the Additional Protocol to the Geneva Conventions.

Observe neutrality in armed conflict.

Medical personnel must refrain from any hostile action or any intervention in hostilities.

To have only personal weapons and use them exclusively for self-defense and protection of their wounded and sick.

Weapons can be used to prevent acts of violence against medical personnel or the wounded and sick, as well as to maintain order in medical facilities.

Medical personnel cannot be punished or prosecuted for the performance of their professional duties in accordance with the norms of medical ethics.

This means that medical activity, if it is carried out in accordance with medical ethics, under no circumstances and regardless of who is being helped, cannot become a reason for violence, threats, harassment and punishment.

It is not allowed to force medical personnel to commit actions inconsistent with medical ethics.

This provision complements the previous one. Medical personnel may not be compelled to take actions in relation to the wounded and sick that are inconsistent with the provisions of the Conventions, Protocols and norms of medical ethics.

Compulsion of medical personnel to provide information about the wounded and sick is not allowed.

Medical personnel have the right not to give information that could harm the wounded, the sick, or their families. However, if the domestic law of one of the parties to the armed conflict compels medical personnel to provide information, it is provided to their leadership for further resolution of the situation.

Immunity from capture. The following categories of medical personnel enjoy this right:

medical personnel sent by the International Committee of the Red Cross;

medical personnel of a neutral state placed at the disposal of one of the parties to the conflict;

medical personnel of hospital ships and air ambulance aircraft.

It must be emphasized that the Conventions and Protocols grant special rights to medical personnel sent to the zone of armed conflict in order to ensure the fulfillment of the most important task - to provide assistance to the wounded and sick.

The experience of organizing medical and sanitary assistance to the population in local armed conflicts indicates that it is carried out taking into account the situation of hostilities and the creation of the necessary grouping of medical forces and means. For these purposes, medical institutions and formations of the disaster medicine service, civil defense, other ministries and departments, as well as various international and humanitarian organizations can be involved. In their work, they must comply with the requirements of medical ethics, international humanitarian law and high professionalism in providing medical care to victims.

In turn, the World Health Assembly also does not remain indifferent to the legal problems of medical personnel participating in armed conflicts. .

So, at its 10th World Medical Assembly in October 1956, it adopted the “Rules for the Time of Armed Conflicts”

medical armed conflict law

General rules during armed conflicts

The requirements established by the "International Code of Medical Ethics" of the World Medical Association are valid both in peacetime and during armed conflicts. The first duty of a doctor is a professional duty, in the implementation of which, first of all, one should be guided by one's own conscience.

the main task medical profession- Maintain health and save lives. Therefore, it is considered unethical for doctors to:

A.Give advice and recommendations, as well as carry out preventive, diagnostic or therapeutic procedures that are not justified by the interests of the patient.

b.Weaken a person physically or mentally for no apparent medical reason.

C.Use scientific knowledge to encroach on the health and life of people.

During hostilities, as in peacetime, experiments are prohibited on people who are limited in their freedom, in particular, on prisoners and prisoners, as well as on the population of the occupied regions.

In emergency situations, the doctor is always obliged to provide the necessary assistance, regardless of the gender, race and nationality of the patient, his religious beliefs, political affiliations and other similar criteria. Medical activities should continue for as long as necessary and possible.

The doctor must ensure medical confidentiality.

The doctor is obliged to distribute, at his disposal, the privileges and conditions of the maintenance of patients only in accordance with medical indications.

Rules for the care of the sick and wounded, especially during armed conflicts

BUT.Under any conditions, every person - civilian or military - should receive the help he needs, regardless of gender, race, nationality, religion, political affiliations and other non-medical criteria.

Any intervention that may cause damage to the health, physical or mental integrity of a person is prohibited unless it is expressly justified from a medical point of view.

IN.In an emergency, physicians and paramedical personnel are required to provide immediate care to the best of their ability. For a doctor, there can be no differences between patients, except for the degree of urgency of the condition (Urgent (or emergency) conditions are a group of diseases that require urgent medical intervention (often surgical), failure to comply with which threatens with serious complications or death for this patient).

Doctors and medical personnel must be guaranteed the protection and assistance necessary for the free exercise of their activities and the full performance of their professional duties. They must be guaranteed freedom of movement and full professional independence.

The performance of medical duties and duty can under no circumstances be considered a misdemeanor. A doctor should not be sued for maintaining professional confidentiality.

Medics performing professional duties wear a special distinctive emblem: a red snake and a staff on a white background. The use of this emblem is governed by special rules.

And at its 55th session, under agenda item 13.2, the World Health Assembly adopted the following resolution - "Protection of medical missions in time of armed conflict", which states:

The Fifty-fifth World Health Assembly, Recalling and reaffirming resolution WHA46.39 entitled "Health and medical services in time of armed conflict";

Reaffirming the need to promote and enforce the principles and rules of international humanitarian law, and being guided in this regard by the relevant provisions of the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their Additional Protocols of 1977, as appropriate;

Aware that, over the years, approaches based on international humanitarian law and respect for human rights have led to improved protection of medical personnel and their recognized emblems in times of armed conflict;

Deeply concerned by recent reports of an increase in attacks against medical personnel, institutions and offices during armed conflicts;

Alarmed by the extent to which the civilian population suffers from a lack of medical care due to attacks on health and other humanitarian personnel and medical - sanitation facilities during armed conflicts;

Aware of the adverse impact of such conflicts on high priority public health programs such as the Expanded Program on Immunization, malaria, tuberculosis control;

Recognizing the benefits of a ceasefire agreed to for national immunization days, as appropriate;

CONVINCED, in accordance with international law, of the need to provide protection from attacks against health personnel, hospitals, health care facilities and infrastructure, ambulances and other medical vehicles and communications systems used for humanitarian purposes,

CALLS ON all parties to armed conflicts to fully respect and comply with applicable international humanitarian law that protects civilians and combatants not taking part in hostilities , as well as medical, nursing and other health and humanitarian personnel, and comply with the provisions governing the use of the Red Cross and Red Crescent emblems and their protective status under international humanitarian law;

URGES Member States to condemn all attacks against health personnel, especially those that interfere with the ability of such personnel to carry out their humanitarian function during armed conflicts;

STRONGLY URGES ALSO Member States, organizations of the United Nations system, other intergovernmental and nongovernmental bodies active in the humanitarian or health fields to promote actions that ensure the safety of health personnel;

ALSO URGES parties to conflict and humanitarian organizations to ensure that ambulances, other medical vehicles, health facilities or other facilities that support the work of health personnel are used for humanitarian purposes only;

REQUESTS the Director-General:

(1) to promote the protection and respect of health personnel and institutions;

(2) maintain close liaison with the competent organizations of the United Nations system, including UNICEF , Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, together with the International Committee of the Red Cross, International Federation Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and other relevant intergovernmental and non-governmental bodies, in order to promote the implementation of this resolution;

(3) to disseminate this resolution widely.

Currently, the following document exists and operates in Russia: "MANUAL ON INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW FOR THE ARMED FORCES OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION" (approved by the Minister of Defense of the Russian Federation on 08.08.2001), which regulates the rights and obligations of medical personnel in armed conflicts:

Art. 58. Medical and religious personnel are respected and patronized and cannot be the object of attack if these personnel, during the check, did not commit actions that go beyond their professional (medical or spiritual) duties, and refrain from participating in hostilities. The grant of protection may be terminated only after a warning, setting a reasonable time limit in appropriate cases, and after such warning has not been taken into account.

Art. 59. Medical and religious personnel detained by a party to the conflict in order to assist prisoners of war will not be considered prisoners of war, but at least will enjoy the benefits and protection accorded to prisoners of war. They will continue to perform their medical and spiritual duties for the benefit of prisoners of war, predominantly belonging to the armed forces for which they are listed.

Art. 61. Captured temporary medical personnel of the enemy (personnel of the armed forces specially trained to be used as orderlies, nurses or porters to search for, pick up, transport or treat the wounded and sick) receive the status of prisoners of war and, if necessary, can be used to perform their medical functions in according to their level of specialization.

Art. 62. Captured enemy spiritual personnel must be free to perform their duties until the detaining party is itself able to provide spiritual assistance. The provisions relating to captured enemy medical personnel apply by analogy to captured religious personnel.

Art. 63. It is prohibited to involve detained medical and religious personnel in the performance of work not related to their medical or spiritual duties.

Sources and literature

1. Website "ICRC -Intrenationsl Humanitarian Lo - Treaties&Documents" (www.icrc.org/ihl.nsf).

2. D. Due. Dominance in the air. AST. Terra Fantastica. St. Petersburg. 2003

Manual on International Humanitarian Law for the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation (draft). 2001

Resolution of the Fifty-fifth World Health Assembly of May 18, 2002 No. WHA55.13.

. "Rules for Armed Conflicts". Adopted by the 10th World Medical Assembly, Havana, Cuba, October 1956, revised by the 11th World Medical Assembly, Istanbul, Turkey, October 1957, amended by the 35th World Medical Assembly, Venice, Italy, October 1983.