Which statement regarding the duties owed to civilian detainees under the Geneva Conventions is FALSE?

The statement that civilians must be used as shields, if necessary, is false because it directly violates the principles of international humanitarian law outlined in the Geneva Conventions. These conventions place a strong emphasis on the protection of individuals who are not participating in hostilities, including civilians. The use of civilians as human shields is considered a war crime, as it intentionally places individuals in harm's way to protect military objectives or personnel.

In contrast, the other statements reflect actual obligations under the Geneva Conventions. Civilians must indeed be treated with dignity, as humane treatment is a cornerstone of international humanitarian law. They must not be held as hostages, ensuring their protection against coercive tactics. Additionally, civilians must receive medical care when needed, recognizing their right to health and care during conflict. Hence, the falsehood of using civilians as shields aligns with the overarching principles aimed at safeguarding human rights and dignity during armed conflict.