Abstract
The purpose of this thesis is to explore the applicability of the principle of discrimination in Afghanistan. Two research questions seeks to find out whether it is possible to draw a distinction between combatants and non-combatants in Afghanistan, and whether it is possible to prepare soldier for difficult situations arising when making this distinction. Just war theory is used as a basis for the analytical framework. The study concludes that the traditional group-based criteria for distinguishing between combatants and non-combatants in conflicts are not applicable in Afghanistan. Based on Larrys May’s interpretation of just war theory I suggest that a distinction in insurgency conflicts should rather be based on a behaviour-based approach, as this approach proves more successful in Afghanistan today.