How does human rights law differ from law of war?

Human rights law focuses on protecting individual rights and freedoms in all circumstances, emphasizing the dignity and worth of every person, regardless of the situation. In contrast, the law of war, or international humanitarian law, specifically applies during armed conflicts, regulating the conduct of hostilities and protecting those who are not participating in the fighting, such as civilians and prisoners of war. While both legal frameworks aim to safeguard human dignity, human rights law is applicable at all times, whereas the law of war is contingent upon the existence of armed conflict.