Military offences

Military crimes
Khaki-collar crime

Nature

Both in times of peace and in times of war, individuals or groups from military forces may use their privileged position, particularly as foreigners based on allied territory, to act with immunity against civilians or civilian property. This may include deliberate destruction of property, such as field crops, by armoured vehicles on manoeuvre.

Incidence

Military offences are reported in armed forces worldwide, with thousands of cases annually involving desertion, insubordination, and unauthorized absence. For example, in the United States, the Department of Defense recorded over 2,000 cases of desertion between 2015 and 2020. Incidence rates vary by country, conflict intensity, and military discipline standards, with higher rates often observed during prolonged deployments or unpopular conflicts.
In 2017, the South Korean military prosecuted over 1,000 personnel for various military offences, including insubordination and absence without leave, reflecting ongoing challenges in maintaining discipline within conscripted forces during peacetime.

Claim

Military offences represent a critical threat to the integrity and effectiveness of armed forces. They undermine discipline, erode trust among service members, and compromise national security. Acts such as insubordination, desertion, and misconduct not only jeopardize missions but also tarnish the reputation of military institutions. Addressing these offences is paramount; failure to do so risks creating a culture of impunity that can have devastating consequences for both personnel and the nations they serve.

Counter-claim

Military offences are often exaggerated and misrepresented, overshadowing the vital role armed forces play in national security. The focus on isolated incidents distracts from the dedication and discipline of the vast majority of service members. Instead of sensationalizing these offences, we should celebrate the sacrifices made by military personnel. By prioritizing sensational stories over the real issues, we undermine the integrity and effectiveness of our military, which is far more important than any alleged misconduct.