What is prohibited as a form of punishment unless authorized by the UCMJ?

Deprivation of liberty or privileges is prohibited as a form of punishment unless specifically authorized by the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). This principle ensures that a service member's fundamental rights are protected and that any punitive actions taken are lawful and justified.

The UCMJ outlines the legal framework for military discipline, and certain forms of punishment, particularly those that impact a service member's personal freedom or basic rights, require specific legal authority to enforce. This helps maintain a fair and just approach to discipline within the military, emphasizing the importance of due process and the need to adhere to established legal standards.

While deprivation of basic necessities, reduction in rank, and loss of pay can also be punitive actions, they carry different legal considerations and may not require the same stringent authorization as depriving someone of their liberty or essential privileges.