...[T]he Montreux Document…asserts the application of 27 core international obligations of states, private military and security companies [PMSCs] and their personnel operating in situations of armed conflict...[T]he document also contains 73 good practices for states...It is premised on the acknowledgement that PMSCs are a fact of international life...But there is no intention to confer or deny legitimacy...The International Peace Operations Association and the British Association of Private Security Companies have already expressed their support for the Montreux Document...In sum, it calls for action that is realistic, straight-forward, and operational...[article includes summary of main elements of the document]