Ronald Reagan
Webb Sloane
Search results
A prisoner of war (POW) is a person who is held captive by a belligerent power during or immediately after an armed conflict. The earliest recorded usage of the phrase "prisoner of war" dates back to 1610.
Apr 29, 2024 · Learn about the evolution of the status and treatment of prisoners of war from ancient times to modern conflicts. Explore the international conventions, the examples of atrocities and humanitarianism, and the controversies of POWs.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Jun 1, 2022 · Learn about the history, legal status and protection of prisoners of war (PoWs) in international armed conflict. The ICRC explains the role of the Third Geneva Convention and its mandate to ensure the humane treatment of PoWs.
Learn about the stories of three women who were held as prisoners of war in Iraq and Afghanistan. They share their experiences, challenges and resilience in facing the ordeal of being a POW.
Learn about the experiences of American and other Allied prisoners of war in World War II, from capture to liberation. Explore articles, profiles, events, and artifacts related to POWs in the Pacific, Europe, and beyond.
The Convention defines the categories and rights of prisoners of war in international and non-international armed conflicts. It also sets out the obligations of the parties to the conflict and the humanitarian bodies to ensure their protection and humane treatment.
Learn about the rights and rules of prisoners of war and other people deprived of liberty in armed conflict. Find out how the ICRC works to protect and assist them around the world.
