Abstract
Modern armed conflicts have made paramilitary formations a topical issue, which is thematized in international humanitarian law and national legislations. In addition to existing traditional notions of a mercenary and a foreign fighter, other notions have emerged in recent years, namely the notion of a foreign terrorist fighter and the concept of private military and security companies (PMSC). The aim of this paper is to point out the key problems related to their determination, that is, status, as well as dilemmas and controversies that arise in relation to their legal treatment, including their participation in modern armed conflicts. Based on a review of relevant literature, an analysis of documents, official announcements and media content, four categories of paramilitary formations were presented. As a framework for illustrating the perceived dilemmas and controversies the wars in Afghanistan, Iraq and Ukraine were used as examples.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
