Respect for Life: Parties to the Geneva Convention on Engagement with Flies (GCEF) shall respect the inherent value of all fly life and seek to minimize harm to flies whenever possible.
Proportionality: All actions taken against flies must be proportionate to the threat posed and aimed at achieving a legitimate military objective, such as protecting public health or preventing harm to humans or animals.
Article II: Rules of Engagement
Prevention and Deterrence: Parties shall take all reasonable measures to prevent fly infestations and deter flies from entering areas where they may pose a threat to human health or safety.
Non-lethal Measures: Parties shall prioritize the use of non-lethal methods for controlling flies, such as fly swatters, fly traps, and insect repellents, whenever feasible.
Minimum Force: When lethal force is necessary, parties shall use the minimum force required to neutralize the threat posed by flies, taking care to avoid collateral damage to non-combatants and civilian property.
Protection of Civilians: Parties shall take all necessary precautions to protect civilians from harm during fly control operations, including providing advance warning when possible and avoiding the use of chemical agents that may pose risks to human health.
Treatment of Captured Flies: Parties shall treat captured flies humanely and refrain from subjecting them to unnecessary suffering or cruel treatment.
Article III: Humanitarian Considerations
Medical Treatment: Parties shall provide prompt and appropriate medical treatment to individuals who have been bitten or otherwise harmed by flies, regardless of their nationality or affiliation.
Humanitarian Access: Parties shall facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance, including medical supplies and insecticides, to populations affected by fly infestations, in accordance with international humanitarian law.
Article IV: Compliance and Enforcement
Compliance: Parties to the GCEF shall comply with its provisions in good faith and take all necessary measures to ensure that their personnel understand and adhere to these rules of engagement.
Monitoring and Reporting: Parties shall establish mechanisms for monitoring compliance with the GCEF and reporting any violations or incidents of concern to the relevant authorities.
Accountability: Parties responsible for violations of the GCEF shall be held accountable for their actions and, where appropriate, provide compensation to victims for any harm caused.
Article V: Conclusion
The Geneva Convention on Engagement with Flies reaffirms the commitment of the international community to uphold humanitarian principles and protect the rights of all living beings, including flies. By adhering to these rules of engagement, parties can mitigate the impact of fly infestations while minimizing harm to both flies and humans.