01246nas a2200133   4500000000100000008004100001260001200042100001900054700001600073245009600089856021400185520069900399022001401098       2020                            d  c2020-041 aZhixiong Huang1 aYaohui Ying00aThe application of the principle of distinction in the cyber context: A Chinese perspective  uhttps://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/international-review-of-the-red-cross/article/abs/application-of-the-principle-of-distinction-in-the-cyber-context-a-chinese-perspective/7807F64D79AFD04F16C9AAD40406F50C3 aThe authors aim to clarify whether the existing rules are still completely applicable in the cyber context, and if needed, to find out what kind of improvements and clarifications can be made. Weighing in on these debates, we argue that despite the potential technical challenges and uncertainties, the principle of distinction should be applied to cyberspace. It should also be carefully re-examined and clarified from the standpoint of preventing over-militarization and maximizing the protection of the interests of civilians. For human targets, the elements of combatant status identified in customary international law and relevant treaties are not well suited to the digital battlefield.   a1816-3831