For over two decades, civilian harm resulting from United States and partnered operations has gone under-acknowledged and largely without remedy for civilian victims and survivors. Meanwhile, the US military has often failed to learn critical lessons and institutionalize meaningful reforms to prevent harm in the future.
Where the United States is not involved in conflict directly, US security assistance to governments and armed actors involved in conflict can also fuel civilian harm and human rights violations.
CIVIC’s US Program uses a combination of technical expertise, public advocacy, and private engagement with US military leaders, the executive branch, and Congress to improve US policy and practice around civilian protection, with three key objectives:
- Promote policies and practices that prevent and reduce civilian harm resulting from US operations
- Advocate for US arms transfer and security assistance policies that prioritize the protection of civilians and human rights; and
- Improve transparency and strengthen the United States’ response to and accountability for civilian harm.
