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impunity

noun

/ɪmˈpjuːnɪti/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of impunity

Exemption from punishment or freedom from harm, or retribution.
"In exchange for his testimony, the accomplice received impunity from prosecution."

Detailed meaning of impunity

It refers to a situation where an individual or a group is not held accountable for their actions, even if they have broken the law or committed a wrong. Impunity is often associated with a lack of accountability, justice, or fairness in a society, and is seen as a threat to the rule of law and to the democratic principles of governance. In many countries, efforts are made to bring perpetrators of crimes to justice and to prevent impunity from taking hold, so that people can live in a safe and secure environment free from fear and oppression.

Impunity can occur in a variety of contexts, including in situations of political violence, war crimes, human rights abuses, and corruption. It can be a result of a lack of political will to prosecute crimes, a lack of capacity or resources to investigate or prosecute, or a lack of an independent and effective justice system.

Impunity undermines the rule of law and can lead to a culture of violence, corruption and injustice, it can also lead to a lack of trust in the institutions that are meant to protect citizens and maintain order. It also can lead to the repetition of the same crimes, as criminals know that there will be no consequences for their actions.

Impunity can be addressed through a variety of measures, including strengthening the rule of law, building more effective and independent justice systems, and increasing accountability for human rights abuses and other crimes.

In short, Impunity refers to the condition in which individuals or groups are able to commit crimes or acts of wrongdoing without facing any legal or political consequences, it can occur in a variety of contexts, including in situations of political violence, war crimes, human rights abuses, and corruption, it undermine the rule of law, and can lead to a culture of violence, corruption and injustice, it can be addressed through a variety of measures, including strengthening the rule of law, building more effective and independent justice systems, and increasing accountability for human rights abuses and other crimes.

Example sentences containing impunity

1. The government officials acted with impunity, knowing they would not be held accountable for their actions.
2. The police officers acted with impunity, using excessive force without fear of punishment.
3. The company operated with impunity, polluting the environment without facing any consequences.
4. The powerful individuals enjoyed impunity, protected by their wealth and influence.
5. The war crimes were committed with impunity, as the perpetrators were not brought to justice.
6. The impunity of the government officials led to a widespread sense of injustice among the population.

History and etymology of impunity

The noun 'impunity' has its etymological roots in Latin. It derives from the Latin word 'impunitas,' which combines 'in,' meaning 'not,' and 'poena,' meaning 'punishment' or 'penalty.' In essence, 'impunitas' conveyed the concept of exemption from punishment or freedom from harm or retribution. As it made its way into English, 'impunity' retained this core meaning, describing the state of being immune to the consequences or penalties that typically follow certain actions. The etymology of 'impunity' underscores the idea of escaping accountability or retribution, emphasizing the privilege or exemption from the usual consequences of one's actions.

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Further usage examples of impunity

1. The human rights abuses were committed with impunity, as the government failed to hold the perpetrators accountable.
2. The impunity of the powerful led to a lack of accountability and transparency in government.
3. The lack of accountability and impunity for the perpetrators led to a lack of trust in the justice system.
4. The impunity of the government officials led to a culture of corruption and abuse of power.
5. The impunity of the powerful led to a lack of respect for the rule of law.
6. The lack of accountability and impunity for the perpetrators led to a lack of justice for the victims.
7. The corrupt politician operated with impunity, knowing they would face no consequences for their actions.
8. The dictator ruled with impunity, suppressing dissent and violating human rights.
9. The wealthy elite often enjoy a sense of impunity, evading legal repercussions for their misdeeds.
10. The criminal committed the theft with impunity, confident they wouldn't be caught.
11. The company's negligent practices continued with impunity, despite public outcry.
12. The gang members roamed the streets with impunity, instilling fear in the community.
13. The abusive boss exercised his power with impunity, mistreating his employees.
14. The cybercriminal hacked into personal accounts with impunity, exploiting private information.
15. The powerful corporation operated with impunity, disregarding environmental regulations.
16. The warlord committed heinous crimes with impunity, terrorizing innocent civilians.
17. The serial killer targeted victims with impunity, leaving a trail of devastation.
18. The corrupt police officers acted with impunity, abusing their authority without consequence.
19. The drug lord conducted his illegal operations with impunity, evading capture for years.
20. The oppressive regime oppressed its citizens with impunity, suppressing their rights and freedoms.
21. The online trolls spread hate speech with impunity, hiding behind anonymity.
22. The corrupt judge accepted bribes with impunity, undermining the justice system.
23. The child bully tormented others with impunity, knowing there would be no repercussions.
24. The tax evaders cheated the system with impunity, avoiding their fair share of contribution.
25. The powerful lobby group influenced policies with impunity, prioritizing their own interests.
26. The gang members engaged in violent acts with impunity, creating a climate of fear.