If Wagner and similar Russian mercenary-like organizations do not meet the internationally accepted criteria for being mercenaries or Private Military and Security Companies, then what are they? This podcast explores the suitability of other terms, including militia, volunteer corps, terrorist, and criminal organizations. The challenge is to find a term that accurately describes what they are in a way that offers the possibility for accountability under the law.
Disclaimer: The information in these podcasts is my own opinion and does not represent that of the Department of Defense or any other organization I am or have previously been affiliated with.
(In response to comments received, I am trying to keep each podcast down to about 8 minutes.)
References:
Hague Convention (IV) respecting the Laws and Customs of War on Land and its annex: Regulations concerning the Laws and Customs of War on Land. The Hague, 18, October 1907, Annex, Chapter 1, Article 1
Geneva Convention Relative to the Treatment Of Prisoners of War of 12 August 1949, Article 4
Music:
Wagner, R. and the USMC Band, Siegfrieds Funeral (Public Domain)
Traditional, The Army Strings, Garryowen (Public Domain)
Kiilstofte, J., The Cavalry, Machinamasound (Licensed)
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