das  Kriegsrecht

C1

Estimated CEFR level.

/ˈkʁiːɡsˌʁɛçt/

🏛️ What is "das Kriegsrecht"?

Das Kriegsrecht refers to a legal state of exception (ein rechtlicher Ausnahmezustand) that can be declared by the government or the military during times of war or severe internal emergency. When martial law (Kriegsrecht) is in effect, fundamental civil rights are often temporarily restricted or suspended. Executive power, especially security powers, is frequently transferred wholly or partially to the military. Its purpose is to maintain or restore public order and security under extreme circumstances.

⚠️ Important: The exact provisions and effects of Kriegsrecht can vary significantly depending on the country and its constitution.

🧐 Grammar in Detail: Das Kriegsrecht

"Kriegsrecht" is a neuter noun (sächliches Substantiv). It is almost exclusively used in the singular, as it describes a state or condition.

Declension Singular

Note: A plural form ("die Kriegsrechte") is grammatically possible but very unusual and rarely used.

Example Sentences

1. Die Regierung erwägt, das Kriegsrecht zu verhängen.
   (The government is considering imposing martial law.)
2. Unter dem Kriegsrecht wurden Versammlungen verboten.
   (Assemblies were forbidden under martial law.)
3. Die Geschichte lehrt uns die Gefahren des Kriegsrechts.
   (History teaches us the dangers of martial law.)
4. Die Verfassung regelt die Bedingungen für die Ausrufung des Kriegsrechts.
   (The constitution regulates the conditions for declaring martial law.)

⚖️ Usage and Context

The term "Kriegsrecht" is used in serious contexts relating to war (Krieg), uprisings (Aufstände), natural disasters (Naturkatastrophen), or severe civil unrest (schwere zivile Unruhen). It is a key term in constitutional law (Staatsrecht) and international law (Völkerrecht).

• Typical Use: In news reports, political discussions, historical analyses, and legal texts.
• Connotation: Often carries a negative connotation, as it is associated with the restriction of freedoms and potential military rule (Militärherrschaft).
• Distinction: It is stronger than a mere "state of emergency" (Ausnahmezustand) or "state of necessity" (Notstand), as it explicitly implies a military component and the potential suspension of fundamental rights.

🤔 Mnemonics for Kriegsrecht

Article Mnemonic: Think of the neutral "it" (like in the article das) representing the law book itself. It's a neutral set of rules, even if for war. So, das Buch (book), das Recht (law) -> das Kriegsrecht.

Meaning Mnemonic: Break it down: "Krieg" (war) + "Recht" (law/right). It's the special 'law' that applies 'right' in the middle of a 'Krieg' (war).

🔄 Synonyms & Antonyms

😂 A Little Joke

Richter: "Warum haben Sie während des ausgerufenen Kriegsrechts nachts die Ausgangssperre verletzt und Hühner gestohlen?"
Angeklagter: "Herr Richter, ich dachte, bei 'Kriegsrecht' wäre Federvieh vogelfrei!"

--- Translation ---

Judge: "Why did you violate the curfew at night during the declared martial law and steal chickens?"
Defendant: "Your Honor, I thought with 'Kriegsrecht' (martial law / literally 'war right'), poultry (Federvieh) would be 'vogelfrei' (literally 'bird-free', meaning outlawed/fair game)!"

📜 Poem about the State

Wenn Waffen sprechen, Recht erblasst,
die Ordnung wankt, von Not erfasst.
Das Kriegsrecht ruft man dann aus,
bringt strenge Regeln in das Haus.
Freiheit weicht, Befehl regiert,
bis Frieden wieder eingekehrt.

--- Translation ---

When weapons speak, law turns pale,
order falters, caught in travail.
Martial law is then declared,
bringing strict rules, unprepared.
Freedom yields, command holds sway,
until peace returns one day.

❓ Riddle

Ich bin ein Recht, doch nicht für Friedenstage,
ich komme meist mit Not und Plage.
Das Militär bekommt die Macht,
Bürgerrechte sind eingeschränkt bei Tag und Nacht.

Wer bin ich?

--- Translation ---

I am a law, but not for days of peace,
I usually come with hardship and unease.
The military gains control and might,
Civil rights are restricted day and night.

What am I?

Solution: Das Kriegsrecht (Martial Law)

💡 Other Information

Word Composition (Wortzusammensetzung):

The word "Kriegsrecht" is a compound noun (Kompositum), composed of:

• Krieg (noun): War
• -s- (Fugen-s): Linking element
• Recht (noun): Law, right

Historical Context (Historischer Kontext):

The application of martial law (Kriegsrecht) has a long history and has been relevant in many conflicts and crises worldwide. The specific rules and legitimacy have changed significantly over time and depending on the political system. In modern international law, there are efforts to regulate the application and effects of martial law (e.g., through the Geneva Conventions).