When a prisoner of war is captured, they are subject to certain rules and regulations outlined in the Geneva Conventions. These rules are in place to protect the rights and well-being of prisoners in times of conflict. There are only four things that a prisoner of war is required to give to their captors: their name, rank, serial number, and date of birth. These four pieces of information are known as the "Big Four" and are essential for identifying and tracking prisoners of war. By providing this information, the captive is able to maintain a sense of identity and dignity, even in the most challenging of circumstances. The requirement for prisoners of war to provide the Big Four is outlined in the Third Geneva Convention, which governs the treatment of prisoners of war during armed conflict. This convention was first adopted in 1929 and has since been updated to reflect the changing nature of warfare and international law. By providing their name, rank, serial number, and date of birth, prisoners of war are able to ensure that they are treated in accordance with the Geneva Conventions. This includes protection from torture, inhumane treatment, and forced labor. It also allows for the timely notification of their capture to their families and the International Committee of the Red Cross. In addition to the Big Four, prisoners of war are also entitled to certain rights and protections under the Geneva Conventions. These include access to medical care, religious services, and communication with their families. Captors are required to provide adequate food, shelter, and clothing to their prisoners, as well as ensure their safety and security. Overall, the Big Four are a crucial part of ensuring the humane treatment of prisoners of war during times of conflict. By providing this basic information, captives are able to maintain a sense of dignity and identity, even in the most challenging of circumstances. For more information on the rights and protections of prisoners of war, visit the International Committee of the Red Cross website at www.icrc.org.

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