Definition:
Martial law is the temporary replacement of civilian legal authority with military control, typically justified by war, emergency, or perceived breakdown of civil order.
Usage Context:
Seen in emergency governance, conflict zones, disaster responses, and historical or constitutional analysis.
Critical Note:
Martial law is often framed as exceptional and temporary. In practice, emergency powers can normalise expanded authority, weaken civil protections, and create precedents for ongoing suspension of rights.
Related Terms:
Emergency Powers, Authoritarian Governance, Compliance Framing, Civil Liberties Erosion, Punitive Neutrality