Definition
Proportionality in international humanitarian law requires that the expected civilian harm from a military action not be excessive relative to the concrete military advantage anticipated. It is both a legal test and an ethical judgement.
Why this matters when reading conflict news
"Disproportionate" is one of the most contested words in wartime reporting. The legal definition does not match the everyday one.
Common misunderstandings
- Proportionality is not a numerical match — it is not "eye for an eye".
- An action can be proportionate under IHL and still morally objectionable, and vice versa.