The Geneva Conventions of 1949 are the cornerstone of modern International Humanitarian Law , establishing the fundamental rules governing the conduct of armed conflict and the protection of victims of war. This volume presents the complete and authoritative text of the four Geneva Conventions adopted on 12 August 1949 , including their annexes. These landmark treaties form the legal foundation for the protection of wounded and sick soldiers, shipwrecked members of armed forces at sea, prisoners of war, and civilians in times of armed conflict. Widely regarded as the most important instruments of humanitarian law, the Geneva Conventions define the minimum standards of humane treatment applicable in both international and non-international armed conflicts. Their provisions regulate the treatment of combatants and non-combatants, the protection of medical services and humanitarian personnel, and the obligations of states during wartime. This edition is designed as a clear and practical reference for students, legal professionals, scholars, members of the armed forces, and anyone interested in the legal framework governing war and humanitarian protection. The book includes: The First Geneva Convention – Protection of the wounded and sick in armed forces in the field - The Second Geneva Convention – Protection of wounded, sick and shipwrecked members of armed forces at sea - The Third Geneva Convention – Treatment of prisoners of war - The Fourth Geneva Convention – Protection of civilian persons in time of war - Official annexes and related provisions A valuable reference for the study and application of International Humanitarian Law and the Law of Armed Conflict .