This lecture underscores the importance of combatant status within IHL. It distinguishes between civilians and combatants, emphasizing their unique rights and responsibilities. Combatant status, defined in Article 4 of the Third Geneva Convention, is explained along with the criteria for its attainment. The lecture also explores the implications of combatant status, particularly the rights and protections granted to prisoners of war. Lastly, the lecture briefly addresses the absence of prisoner of war status in non-international armed conflicts, raising considerations regarding amnesty provisions.