As a consequence of the growing complexity of modern armed conflicts, the law of war is also becoming more and more complicated.The military find it difficult to distinguish what is of importance to them.
There is need for a document following the concept and structure of military manuals in general. Thus, the military reader would immediately find what is of concern for him according to his position within the command chain and to a give situation.
To fill such gap, the present Handbook on the law of war for Armed Forces has been prepared. it has a double purpose, being intended
-- for use as reference book in international and national courses on the law of war.
-- for use as a code of conduct within Armed Forces.
The general approach of the Handbook with regard to armed conflicts and to the law governing them is strategic.
From the strategic level downward, application of the law of war becomes increasingly a matter of internal order and discipline. it addresses command responsibility.