Argentina
Practice Relating to Rule 59. Improper Use of the Distinctive Emblems of the Geneva Conventions
Under Argentina’s Law of War Manual (1969), the improper use of the distinctive emblems is an act violating the principle of good faith. The use is considered as “improper” only in combat operations.
The manual also states that the distinctive emblems “shall not be used … whether in time of peace or in time of war, for other purposes than indicating or protecting medical units and establishments, the personnel and material protected by the [1949 Geneva Conventions]”.
Argentina’s Law of War Manual (1989) provides: “It is prohibited … to make improper use of the sign of the Red Cross.”
The manual further states:
The distinctive sign of [the 1949 Geneva Convention I] and [the 1977 Additional Protocol I] can only be used for medical units and for medical and religious personnel whose protection is provided for in the Convention and Protocol, with the consent of the competent authority.
Argentina’s Emblem Law (1893) punishes “(1) Any person who, without proper authorization, wears the armlet of the Red Cross. (2) Any person who improperly uses the name of the Argentine Red Cross Society or uses its emblems or insignia for any unlawful purpose.”