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.
Background
The global significance of excessive extralegal powers emerged prominently during the 20th century, as reports of unchecked authority by state and non-state actors proliferated in the wake of wars, coups, and authoritarian regimes. International attention intensified following high-profile abuses documented by organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, leading to increased scrutiny and debate over the erosion of legal safeguards and the normalization of arbitrary power in both emerging and established political systems.
Incidence
Excessive extralegal powers have been reported in numerous countries, affecting both developed and developing societies. Such powers are often exercised by government officials, security forces, or intelligence agencies, bypassing legal frameworks and oversight. This phenomenon undermines the rule of law, erodes public trust, and can lead to widespread human rights abuses. Incidents have been documented in contexts ranging from counterterrorism operations to political crackdowns, with international organizations frequently raising concerns about the unchecked authority wielded by state and non-state actors.
In 2022, reports emerged from Myanmar detailing the military junta’s use of extralegal powers following the February 2021 coup. Security forces detained thousands without due process, imposed arbitrary curfews, and restricted civil liberties, drawing condemnation from the United Nations and human rights organizations.
In 2022, reports emerged from Myanmar detailing the military junta’s use of extralegal powers following the February 2021 coup. Security forces detained thousands without due process, imposed arbitrary curfews, and restricted civil liberties, drawing condemnation from the United Nations and human rights organizations.
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
Editing link
Official link
Last update
Oct 4, 2020