A climate of impunity exists when those in power systematically abuse human rights, commit crimes or other misdeeds, and exclude others from opportunities without fear of consequences.
Impunity can happen in the guise of racism, gender inequality, other forms of discrimination, and harsh practices such as ‘militarised masculinities’ that rely on the use of violence and oppression to resolve conflicts.
This has profound consequences for society, in particular for those suffering from conflict and oppression.
Impunity is the result of profoundly unequal power relations, unaddressed historical abuses, a lack of transparency, the holding on to power by authoritarian governments, failed international interventions and actions, and the capture of state institutions by corrupt elites.
In the societies in which we work, and where impunity is prevalent, we see no accountability for wrongdoing; no chance of legal or political action that can bring about change.
Powerful actors suppress calls for accountability and intimidate the opposition through hate speech, division and persecution. Past traumas and suffering become ingrained, and there is a fatigue of inadequate responses, including by the international community.
There are profound consequences for societies faced with impunity, especially for those with authoritarian governments, and for those experiencing conflict and economic oppression.
Impunity fuels inequality, disproportionately affects the most vulnerable and undermines trust in political institutions.
Following violent conflict, it diminishes the chances of meaningful and peaceful change.
We must therefore seek to overcome impunity by increasing our efforts locally and globally. And we must do it together with the victims that have been wronged to help them come to terms with injustice.
“Justice cannot be only about criminal or legal proceedings, justice also means equity and fairness.”
The opposite of impunity is transformative justice.
This notion of justice combines accountability for individual crimes (legal justice) with holistic and long-term approaches to justice that:
All this contributes to sustainable peace, ensuring that violence and oppression do not recur.
1. Gathering and sharing knowledge
2. Building partnerships and coalitions
3. Mobilising joint political action
Our joint work with victims is at the heart of everything we do.
Learn more about our approach
14 November 2023
