This doctrine addresses the use of military civil affairs assets in planning and conducting joint CA activities across the range of military operations. Mission, policy determinants, and the relation of the government of the Country concerned to the United States have an influence on civil affairs (CA) and the commander's military operations. Civil-military operations is a broad, generic term used to denote the decisive and timely application of military capabilities to enhance the relationship between the military and civilian populace in order to ensure accomplishment of the commander's mission. Civil affairs activities range from advice and assistance to welfare, stability, and security of friendly governments and their population. The pattern and objectives of CA activities in friendly, neutral, hostile, or occupied countries in any given area should correspond with applicable international and domestic law. Certain general principles apply to all CA activities including mission, command responsibility, continuity and consistency of policy, reciprocal responsibilities, economy of personnel and resources, and humanitarian considerations. Operational parameters of CA include the threat relationships within the US, its territories and possessions, and relationships in foreign countries. Effective CA activities will assist commanders in accomplishing assigned missions, regardless of the operational area.