The Geneva Convention (1906) provided recognition for the International Red Cross and guaranteed the rights of prisoners of war, as well as outlawing certain practices and weapons

The Geneva Convention (1906) provided recognition for the International Red Cross and guaranteed the rights of prisoners of war, as well as outlawing certain practices and weapons.

Drafted in 1864, and finally ratified in 1906, the Geneva Convention laid down guidelines for the conduct of war and the treatment of prisoners. The Red Cross was recognised by all the major powers, and guaranteed access to prisoners, while its facilities and personal granted protection by warring parties. Certain weapons, such as "dumdum" bullets, were outlawed, though such bans proved difficult to enforce.

The terms were updated in 1950, and again in 1978 to outlaw attacks on undefended civilians, reprisals against civilians, and to guarantee the rights of guerrilla fighters taken as prisoners.