Excessive extralegal powers
Nature
Highly placed political figures always can draw upon greater powers than they are legally entitled to. Royalty and heads of state are permitted their positions, finally, on the basis of trust by the citizenry (or disinterest, whichever is stronger). The result is that where there exists a leader, there exists the possibility of their grabbing power before the legal systems may take effect to stop them.
Incidence
A 2023 report by Freedom House found that at least 57 countries exhibited significant instances of authorities exercising powers beyond legal limits, often justified by national security or emergency measures. Such practices are most prevalent in regions with weak judicial oversight, including parts of Central Asia, the Middle East, and Sub-Saharan Africa, but have also been documented in established democracies during periods of crisis.
In 2016, Turkey’s government declared a state of emergency following a failed coup attempt, granting security forces and officials sweeping extralegal powers. This led to mass detentions, dismissals, and restrictions on civil liberties, with limited judicial recourse for those affected.
In 2016, Turkey’s government declared a state of emergency following a failed coup attempt, granting security forces and officials sweeping extralegal powers. This led to mass detentions, dismissals, and restrictions on civil liberties, with limited judicial recourse for those affected.
Claim
Excessive extralegal powers pose a grave threat to democracy and individual freedoms. When authorities operate beyond legal boundaries, they undermine the rule of law, erode public trust, and create a culture of fear. Such unchecked power can lead to abuses, discrimination, and the silencing of dissent. It is imperative that we confront this issue head-on, ensuring accountability and transparency in governance. Protecting our rights and liberties demands vigilance against the encroachment of extralegal authority.
Counter-claim
Excessive extralegal powers are often overstated and mischaracterized. In reality, these powers are necessary for maintaining order and addressing urgent situations that legal frameworks may not adequately cover. Society thrives on flexibility and adaptability, and the occasional use of extralegal measures can prevent chaos. Focusing on this issue distracts from more pressing concerns, such as economic stability and public health. We should prioritize effective governance over unfounded fears of overreach.
Broader
Related
Value
SDG
Metadata
Database
World problems
Type
(D) Detailed problems
Biological classification
N/A
Subject
Government » Nation state » Nation state
Law » Legality
Content quality
Presentable
Language
English
1A4N
D3246
DOCID
11432460
D7NID
166736
Last update
Oct 4, 2020
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