Problem

Lawlessness


Experimental visualization of narrower problems
Other Names:
Decay of the rule of law
Nature:

Lawlessness is a lack of law, in any of the various senses of that word. Lawlessness may describe various conditions.

Incidence:

In 1994 the increasing level of long-term unemployment was seen as raising the probability of widespread lawlessness as many, especially the young, became marginalized and turned to crime, racism and extreme political views resulting in growing violence. Half of the unemployed of the EEC/EU had been without jobs for more than a year. It was estimated that by the end of 1994 young people would represent more than 25% of the 20 million without jobs. The dilemma of the UN and USA forces in withdrawing from Somalia in 1994 related largely to a widespread fear that the country would backslide into lawlessness.

A report on the future of Africa in 1994 forecast the withering away of central government, the rise of tribal and regional domains, the unchecked spread of disease and the growing pervasiveness of regional conflicts. This was expected to be accompanied by violent crime and armies of refugees on the move, as was already the case.

In January 2019, the European Parliament (MEPs), agreed to back proposed measures to cut funding for member states where the rule of law was seen to be undermined. They will come into force if backed by EU member states.

Broader Problems:
Social breakdown
Related UN Sustainable Development Goals:
GOAL 15: Life on LandGOAL 16: Peace and Justice Strong Institutions
Problem Type:
C: Cross-sectoral problems
Date of last update
17.10.2021 – 10:33 CEST