POLITICAL PERSECUTION Meaning and
Definition
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Political persecution refers to the systematic mistreatment, harassment, or oppression an individual or group faces due to their political beliefs, activities, or affiliations. It involves the targeted use of legal or illegal measures by a ruling authority, such as a government or political regime, to suppress or silence individuals who express dissenting opinions or challenge the established order. This coercive practice is often carried out to preserve the power and control of the ruling elite or regime, typically at the expense of basic human rights, individual freedoms, and democracy.
Political persecution can take various forms, including imprisonment, torture, physical violence, forced exile, surveillance, censorship, denial of access to resources or services, and discrimination in employment or education. It aims to intimidate, marginalize, or eliminate political opponents, activists, journalists, or any individuals who voice opposition or criticize government policies. By instilling fear in the population, political persecution aims to discourage dissent and maintain social conformity.
While political persecution is a violation of fundamental human rights and principles of democracy, it often occurs in authoritarian regimes or countries with limited rule of law. International human rights organizations and democratic nations advocate against political persecution, denouncing it as a threat to the principles of freedom of speech, expression, and association. Efforts are made to provide legal protection and support to those who face political persecution, seek asylum, or are in need of international assistance to escape the oppressive circumstances they face.
Etymology of POLITICAL PERSECUTION
The term "political persecution" is derived from two main components: "political" and "persecution".
The word "political" originates from the Latin word "politicus", which means "pertaining to citizens or public affairs". It later evolved through Old French and Middle English to its current form. "Political" refers to matters related to governance, government policies, and the activities, actions, or ideologies associated with organized bodies within a society.
The word "persecution" has its roots in the Latin word "persecutio", which means "pursuing, chasing, or harassing". It comes from the verb "persequi", which means "to pursue" or "to follow". "Persecution" refers to the act of mistreating, harming, or oppressing someone based on their beliefs, race, religion, political affiliation, or other protected characteristics.
