«the text presents an insightful, new perspective that shows the reality of distinction as an inherently flawed yet useful concept.»

Louisa Rowe, University of Tasmania Law Review

«The principle of distinction lies at the heart of international humanitarian law and Dr Sutton's book gets to the (divided, enigmatic, contested, over-worked) heart of the principle itself. What are civilians? Who are humanitarians? Dr Sutton shows us how these categories are reproduced and where that work is done (in academies, in institutions, during military training, on the ground). And she does it all armed with an exceptionally sharp eye and a broad sweep of experience. An indelible contribution to the field.»

Gerry Simpson, Chair of Public International Law, London School of Economics and Political Science

«What could be less contentious than the distinction between combatants and non-combatants in international humanitarian law as the starting point of all protection? Rebecca Sutton begs to differ, inviting us in the process to reexplore a foundational but in reality quite problematic and fluid summa divisio through a variety of settings. Thoroughly well-argued and always stimulating: the field was much in need of this book, even if it did not know it!»

Frédéric Mégret, Professor of Law, McGill University Faculty of Law

«No matter how many courses on international humanitarian law one has taken or legal handbooks one has perused, one does not know the principle of distinction without having read this book. Bringing together clear legal analysis with a nuanced understanding of the complexity of humanitarianism, Dr Rebecca Sutton beautifully shows the work that the principle does in messy realities.»

Sarah Nouwen, Chair of Public International Law, European University Institute and Reader in Public

«Are humanitarians saviors? Should international law treat them exceptionally? Rebecca Sutton urges caution. Drawing from her extensive on-the-ground experience, and refreshing self-awareness, Sutton takes a clear-eyed view of humanitarianism. She suggests that the law not exalt their status. Sutton delivers an elegant, insightful, and brilliant book - a tour-de-force - that is a must-read for anyone concerned with peacekeeping, conflict resolution, or civilian-military relations.»

Mark A. Drumbl, Class of 1975 Alumni Professor of Law Director, Transnational Law Institute Washingt

«In this compelling book, Dr. Sutton adroitly analyzes the ways in which the concept of distinction was established, legitimated, and circulated. She convincingly shows how the actions of humanitarians have helped efface rigid doctrinal lines, often with significant implications for whom the law serves in practice. In Dr. Sutton's subtle analysis, the usual classroom clarity surrounding a core concept of international humanitarian law evaporates into a much more complex haze - one that more accurately and fully reflects the diverse experiences of civilians in war. In applying an innovative methodology, Dr. Sutton's reassessments throw clarifying light on the promise and the perils of law in war. The Humanitarian Civilian should become a model for combining rigorous research, critical self-reflection, and unblinking appraisal of the people and institutions charged with developing and applying legal protections in war.»

Naz K. Modirzadeh, Professor of Practice, Harvard Law School