Necklacing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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necklacing
[ˈnɛkləsɪŋ ]
Definition
criminal act
Necklacing is a form of murder in which a tire is placed around a victim's neck and then set on fire. This brutal method is often associated with political violence, particularly in the context of apartheid in South Africa. The act is typically used as a form of punishment or intimidation against those perceived as collaborators or enemies. It has become a symbol of extreme violence and repression.
Synonyms
execution, murder, punishment.
Examples of usage
- The activists condemned the necklacing incidents during the protests.
- Necklacing has been a widely discussed topic in studies of political violence.
- Witnesses recounted the horrific details of necklacing used by rebel groups.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- This practice gained notoriety in South Africa during the struggle against apartheid in the 1980s.
- Those who were necklaced were often accused of being traitors or collaborators, illustrating the extreme tensions of the era.
- The act reflected deep-rooted societal issues, highlighting the conflict between communities during a time of political upheaval.
Human Rights Violations
- Necklacing is considered a form of mob justice and is widely condemned by human rights organizations.
- The act is a tragic reminder of the lengths individuals may go to in expressing their grievances in lawless environments.
- Globally, it represents the dark side of societal unrest and the failure of legal institutions to maintain order.
Social Implications
- This violent practice raises important questions about the nature of justice and the role of community in conflict resolution.
- It often leads to increased fear and insecurity in communities, perpetuating cycles of violence.
- Survivors of such acts can suffer long-term psychological effects, impacting their ability to coexist peacefully in society.
Media Representation
- The media often portrays such acts to emphasize the violent aspects of social conflict, sometimes sparking debates about violence in society.
- Films and documentaries addressing the apartheid era sometimes feature this act as a symbol of desperation and failed justice.
- Fictional portrayals can evoke strong emotional responses, influencing public perspective on societal issues surrounding justice.
Origin of 'necklacing'
The term 'necklacing' originated in South Africa in the 1980s during the height of apartheid. It was used to describe a brutal method of execution employed by anti-apartheid activists against those seen as betraying the cause, particularly informers. The act itself was a symbolic gesture against the oppressive regime, reflecting the anger and desperation of the oppressed population. The use of a tire, which was a common object of daily life, added a grotesque layer to the method, making it not only a means of killing but also a powerful political statement. Over the years, the term has come to represent not only the physical act of this execution but also the broader context of violence and repression during the struggle against apartheid.