- Often held in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, leading to high death rates from malnutrition, disease, and exposure.
- Subjected to forced labour, often in dangerous or unhealthy conditions.
- Many were systematically executed, especially Soviet prisoners.
- Some were used for medical experiments or as slave labour.
- Those who survived were often left with physical and psychological trauma.
German Prisoners of War in Allied custody
- Generally held in better conditions than Allied prisoners in German custody, although conditions varied between countries.
- Typically held in camps in Britain, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
- Given adequate food and medical care, and allowed to exercise and pursue hobbies.
- Many were used as agricultural workers or in other civilian jobs, contributing to the war effort.
- After the war, most were repatriated to Germany, although some chose to remain in their host countries.
Japanese Prisoners of War in Allied custody
- Often held in harsh and brutal conditions, leading to high death rates from starvation, disease, and mistreatment.
- Many were subjected to forced labour, often in dangerous or unhealthy conditions.
- Some were executed or used for medical experiments.
- Those who survived often suffered from physical and psychological trauma.
Soviet Prisoners of War in German custody
- Over 3 million Soviet POWs died in captivity, the vast majority due to deliberate mistreatment and neglect.
- They were often held in open-air camps, exposed to the elements without adequate food, shelter, or clothing.
- Many died from starvation, disease, or execution.
- Those who survived were often repatriated to the Soviet Union, where they faced further persecution.