In the era of 'Total War', distinctions between formal military forces and non-combatant civilians have become increasingly, and often deliberately, blurred. The collections illustrate the experiences of civilians; refugees, the victims of repression and ethnic cleansing, resistance, and those on the Home Front. Their experiences are documented, and their sacrifices given worthy prominence, in the museum's displays and collections.

You can explore aspects of this theme through the collection highlights, or read the Civilians overview.