Martial
law
Martial
law is a temporary form of government under which a country's armed
forces control an area of that country. It may become necessary in an
emergency, such as an invasion, a natural disaster, a political or
economic crisis, or a riot. The military governs under martial law
only while the civilian government of an area cannot function.
Martial law does not apply if a civilian government calls for military
aid but continues to function. In these circumstances, civilian courts
would still be able to make decisions. But under martial law, military
courts are the only ones that can decide cases. Many governments have
the power to pass emergency laws in times of civil unrest or
disturbance, and can bring in armed forces if necessary to enforce the
law.
The Chinese government officially declared martial law in Beijing in
May 1989. This followed demonstrations in Tiananmen Square by students
demanding democratic government, and led to a massacre of protesters.
Martial law was lifted in January 1990.
|
