ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the nature of non-state actors; a consideration of the conceptual and legal arguments at stake generally; and an examination of specific categories of suggested non-state human rights violators, notably, terrorist and other armed opposition groups, corporations, and individuals, with particular reference to domestic violence. All measures to counter terrorists must be in conformity with international human rights standards. Before authors address directly the responsibility of terrorists and members of armed opposition groups, it is necessary to be aware of the existence of three areas of international law, each with its own specificity, but all capable of addressing under appropriate circumstances the same acts. In order of their entry into the lexicon of international law, they are: international humanitarian law (IHL); international criminal law; and international human rights law. IHL is the law applicable to the parties to an armed conflict.
