Listen&Learn: Geneva Conventions

Learn about the agreements that created international laws for war

Pre-listening vocabulary

• international: across multiple countries
• ethics: beliefs about which actions are right and which are wrong
• neutral: not choosing a side in a conflict
• establish: to create a system or law
• treaty: an agreement between multiple countries
• expand: to make something larger or more detailed
• civilian: someone who is not a soldier

Listening activity

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:47 — 1.6MB)

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Gapfill exercise

The Geneva Conventions are the that created an international code of laws and ethics for war. They took place in Geneva, Switzerland, because of the country’s historic neutrality. The first Geneva Convention was in 1864. It established to protect soldiers who had been injured in combat. It also formally recognized the red cross as a neutral for medics. Twelve countries this original agreement, and four more joined by 1867. After World War II, many countries agreed to revisit the treaties. In 1949, the Geneva Convention was expanded to four sections. The second, third, and fourth Geneva Conventions included protections for civilians and prisoners of war. Since then, 196 countries have signed the Geneva Conventions, including all of the United Nations.

Comprehension questions

See answers below

1. The first Geneva Convention took place in
   a. 1864
   b. 1918
   c. 1949
   
2. The purpose of the first Geneva Convention was to create protections for
   a. prisoners of war
   b. civilians
   c. injured soldiers
   
3. The original agreement was signed by
   a. four countries
   b. six countries
   c. twelve countries

Discussion/essay questions

1. Switzerland’s neutrality has caused a lot of debate. What is your opinion about countries staying neutral in wars? What are some good reasons to be neutral? Do you think it is ever unacceptable not to choose a side?
2. The red cross, crescent, and crystal are all recognized symbols for medics in war. Which symbol does your country use?

Transcript

The Geneva Conventions are the agreements that created an international code of laws and ethics for war. They took place in Geneva, Switzerland, because of the country’s historic neutrality. The first Geneva Convention was in 1864. It established laws to protect soldiers who had been injured in combat. It also formally recognized the red cross as a neutral symbol for medics. Twelve countries signed this original agreement, and four more joined by 1867. After World War II, many countries agreed to revisit the treaties. In 1949, the Geneva Convention was expanded to four sections. The second, third, and fourth Geneva Conventions included protections for civilians and prisoners of war. Since then, 196 countries have signed the Geneva Conventions, including all members of the United Nations.

Answers to comprehension questions

1a 2c 3c