Looting

What is Looting and Why Does It Occur?

Looting is the act of stealing or taking goods by force, often in times of crisis such as war, natural disasters, or rioting. The proceeds are called booty, loot, plunder, spoils, or pillage. Have you ever wondered why looting happens during these chaotic moments?

Looting During Modern-Day Armed Conflicts

During modern-day armed conflicts, looting is prohibited by international law and considered a war crime. However, in the chaos of war, it can be difficult for authorities to maintain order. Governments often struggle with balancing the need for security with the necessity of allowing civilians to survive. In some cases, looting may even be tolerated or encouraged for political reasons, including religious or social factors.

A Historical Perspective on Looting

Throughout history, looting has been a common practice in armed conflicts, dating back to ancient times. It was sometimes prohibited due to religious concerns but often viewed as a way for soldiers to supplement their income and celebrate victory. The spoils of war have included enslaved populations, precious metals, and works of art.

Modern Conflicts and Looting

In the modern era, looting has been associated with poor military discipline and can be an army’s downfall. It has also contributed to further victories for armies and been used by local civilians to take advantage of a breakdown in order. For instance, during the 2011 Egyptian Revolution, artifacts from the National Museum of Iraq were broken into, resulting in thousands of artefacts remaining missing.

Looting During Civil Unrest

International law prohibits pillage in armed conflict, as recognized by customary international law and treaties such as the Lieber Code, Brussels Declaration, and Oxford Manual. The Hague Conventions of 1899 and 1907 obliges military forces to protect enemy property. Despite these prohibitions, looting remains relatively common during civil unrest and modern conflicts.

Examples of Looting in Recent Conflicts

In April 2003, looters broke into the National Museum of Iraq, resulting in thousands of artefacts remaining missing. During the Syrian Civil War, Syrian conservation sites and museums were looted, with items sold on the international black market. International observers have accused Russia of large-scale looting during the Russo-Ukrainian War, with reports of widespread looting of food and industrial equipment.

Looting in Peacetime

The term ‘looting’ is sometimes used to refer to antiquities being removed from countries by unauthorized people or foreign nations seeking prestige or scientific discovery. Examples include the removal of Egyptian tombs’ contents and Soviet forces plundering factories in Germany during World War II.

Conclusion

Looting, a practice as old as war itself, continues to be a complex issue in modern conflicts and civil unrest. Whether it’s soldiers supplementing their income or civilians taking advantage of chaos, looting remains a significant challenge for authorities trying to maintain order. As we navigate the complexities of conflict and crisis, understanding the roots and implications of looting is crucial.