POWs cannot be held in cells or other forms of close confinement (except in connection with a criminal process or disciplinary sanctions). They can, however, be housed – interned – in camps to prevent their return to the battlefield. They must be released and repatriated without delay at the end of active hostilities.
Throughout their internment, POWs must be treated humanely and with "respect for their person and their honour." They cannot be subjected to coercive interrogation, and IHL sets out minimum conditions of internment for POWs, addressing issues such as accommodation, food, clothing, hygiene and medical care.
POWs cannot be subjected to insult or exposure to public curiosity. To protect their dignity and safety, their images and personal information must not be publicized. (For more on exposure to public curiosity, go here.)
POW camps must be situated at a safe distance from the combat zone. POWs must be interned in groups according to their nationality, language and customs, and with other POWs with whom they were serving. Their living quarters must be similar to those of the detaining forces.
POWs must be able to maintain relations with the outside world, especially with their families and friends. They have the right to correspond with them through letters and messages, and to receive individual parcels or collective shipments containing food, clothing or medical supplies.
POWs also have the right to send 'capture cards', which are cards that are sent to the family and to the ICRC's Central Tracing Agency that inform them of the fate and whereabouts of the POW.
PoWs must receive adequate medical attention. Seriously wounded or sick POWs must be repatriated right away, and other POWs in need of medical care can be accommodated in neutral countries.
For more on the treatment of POWs, see the Third Geneva Convention, in particular articles 12-108
