Captivity in War during the Twentieth Century: The Forgotten Diplomatic Role of Transnational Actors

This book explores the new international perspectives on captivity in wartime during the twentieth century, focusing on how global institutions and practices influenced the treatment of captives. It highlights the role of transnational bodies, such as non-governmental organizations, neutral states, and individuals, in dealing with captives in both large and lesser-known conflicts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 29 August 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book presents fresh global perspectives on captivity in wartime during the twentieth century. It delves into the significance of global institutions and practices concerning captives, their evolution, and their profound impact on the treatment of captives. From the early 20th century, international organizations, neutral nations, and other actors not directly involved in the respective wars often stepped in to assist civilian and military captives and oversee their care. This edited volume centers on these actors rather than the captives themselves to assess their comparative contributions to wartime captivity. Adopting a global approach, the book demonstrates that transnational bodies, including non-governmental organizations, neutral states, and individuals, played a vital role in addressing captives during wartime. Chapters cover both the most significant wars, such as the two World Wars, and lesser-known conflicts, to emphasize how captives were central to transnational negotiations.

Introduction:
The twentieth century witnessed a multitude of conflicts that resulted in the capture of individuals on a vast scale. These conflicts, ranging from world wars to lesser-known conflicts, placed captives at the center of transnational negotiations. This book aims to explore the roles played by global institutions, neutral nations, and other actors in dealing with captives during wartime.

Global Institutions and Practices:
International organizations, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the League of Nations, played a crucial role in addressing captives during wartime. These organizations established guidelines and regulations for the treatment of captives, aiming to minimize suffering and ensure humanity. Neutral nations, such as Sweden and Switzerland, also took steps to protect and assist captives, often acting as intermediaries in negotiations between warring parties.

Evolution of Captivity:
Over the course of the twentieth century, global institutions and practices regarding captives evolved significantly. The two World Wars, in particular, marked a turning point in the treatment of captives. The Geneva Conventions of 1949 and 1950 established international standards for the treatment of war prisoners and civilians, setting a precedent for future conflicts.

Influence of Captivity:
Captivity had a profound impact on individuals and societies throughout the twentieth century. It not only resulted in physical and psychological suffering but also shaped the course of history. Captives were used as bargaining chips in negotiations, exchanged for political concessions, or subjected to cruel and inhumane treatment. Moreover, captivity contributed to the development of international humanitarian law and the establishment of international human rights organizations.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive examination of captivity in wartime during the twentieth century. It highlights the roles played by global institutions, neutral nations, and other actors in addressing captives and their contributions to the treatment of captives. By adopting a global approach, the book demonstrates the importance of transnational bodies in dealing with captives and their impact on shaping global history.

Weight: 258g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030650971
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021