Legal Status of Private Military Companies

The video discusses the challenges of the private military industry, highlighting the differences between private military companies and traditional military units. It emphasizes the lack of accountability and the discretion private soldiers have in their contracts. The legal complexities and the absence of political will to address these issues are also explored, along with the need for enforcement of laws to ensure accountability.

What is a key difference between private military companies and government military units?

• Private companies take an oath of service.

• Private companies have no contractual obligations.

• Private companies are part of the government.

• Private companies work for you, not serve you.

How do private military companies make decisions?

• Based on international laws.

• Based on public opinion.

• Based on their own interests.

• Based on government orders.

What is a unique aspect of private soldiers compared to public soldiers?

• They have no discretion in their work.

• They can choose when and where to work.

• They are always deployed in war zones.

• They cannot break contracts.

What can private soldiers do if they receive a better job offer?

• They need government approval to switch jobs.

• They are bound by international law to stay.

• They can break their contract without prosecution.

• They must complete their current contract.

What is a potential reason for a private soldier to break a contract?

• They are required to stay by law.

• They have no personal reasons to leave.

• They are not allowed to leave for personal reasons.

• Their spouse has a baby and they want to go home.

Why is it difficult to apply civilian laws to private military companies in war zones?

• Laws are typically set up for civilians.

• Laws are too strict for war zones.

• Laws are not recognized by private companies.

• Laws are only applicable to public soldiers.

What has been lacking in dealing with incidents involving private military companies?

• Political will to prosecute.

• Public awareness.

• Military cooperation.

• International support.

What legal comparison is made regarding private military contractors?

• They are fully accountable under international law.

• They are in a legal void similar to Guantanamo detainees.

• They are like government officials.

• They are like public soldiers.

What is necessary for rules to be effective?

• Enforcement.

• Public support.

• International recognition.

• Government approval.

What is the hope for the future regarding the legal status of private military contractors?

• They will remain in a legal void.

• They will be treated as public soldiers.

• They will be exempt from all laws.

• More laws will be applied to them.