WorldJuly 14, 2026

belligerent

/bəˈlɪdʒərənt/

Definition

A nation or state engaged in a recognized, formal war or armed conflict.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'belligerans,' which is the present participle of 'belligerare,' meaning 'to wage war.' It combines 'bellum' (war) and 'gerere' (to carry on or wage).

In the news

The article uses the term in the phrase 'co-belligerent state' to describe a nation that is actively involved in an armed conflict, which is a key factor in determining the legal status of captured individuals.

Behind Enemy Lines: The Protection Gap Between POWs and Captured Nonstate Actors Under International Humanitarian Law

Read the full article ↗

Opinio Juris

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