Neutrality

Neutrality: When a nation is at war it is obligatory for the belligerent parties to notify all other Powers that they are engaged in hostilities. And it is the duty of such Powers, not taking part in the war, immediately to issue a proclamation of neutrality, warning their citizens that no assistance must be given to belligerents.

The ships of neutral nations are entitled to go about their business in the usual way provided they are not carrying Contraband of War, but they are liable to be searched by belligerent ships. Belligerent ships may not be fitted out in neutral waters, but if they are driven by force of circumstances in a neutral harbour they may be supplied with sufficient coal to enable them to proceed on their voyage, but they must leave a neutral port within 24 hours or be interned for the rest of the war. If combatants seek refuge or accidentally enter neutral territory they also must be interned.

References / notes

The above term is listed in our Compendium of the Great War.

This compendium forms the central hub of words, phrases, people, and places relative to the Great War period of 1914–1918. These also include battles, political events, ships, trench slang, British and American service terms and expressions in everyday use, nicknames, sobriquets, the titles of British and Commonwealth Regiments and their origins, and also warfare in general. These words and phrases are contemporary with the war, which is reflected in the language used, some of which may seem derogatory by today's standards. Feel free to expand upon and improve this content.

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