Which of the following describes a civilian?

The option describing a civilian, represented by the small boy around the age of 5, is correct because the term "civilian" refers to individuals who are not members of the armed forces or active participants in a conflict. Civilians are typically those who are part of the general population and not engaged in military duties.

In contrast, the other options involve individuals who are either directly or indirectly connected to military operations. A military officer is a member of the armed forces, while a journalist covering a war can also be seen as a non-combatant, but they may have an association with military activities through their work. Likewise, a contractor providing services to the military is engaged in supporting military operations and is not classified as a civilian. Thus, the small boy symbolizes an ordinary member of society, clearly distinguishing him as a civilian in this context.