What is considered as "extermination" in terms of crimes against humanity?

Prepare for the HSC Legal Studies Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question includes explanations and hints. Elevate your readiness for the exam!

The concept of "extermination" in the context of crimes against humanity refers specifically to the intentional killing of a substantial and identifiable group of individuals. This is characterized by a structured approach to eliminate a population based on nationality, ethnicity, religion, or other defining characteristics. Such actions go beyond mere acts of violence; they constitute an organized campaign aimed at the mass killing of individuals who are grouped together by specific criteria.

The deliberate nature of these killings indicates a clear intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a particular community. This definition aligns with internationally recognized legal frameworks, such as the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, which acknowledges extermination as one of the most serious offenses against humanity.

In contrast, the other options may involve serious violations of human rights but do not fall under the strict definition of extermination. For instance, organized violence during war could include various acts of aggression or conflict that do not necessarily involve planned mass killings, while political repression through imprisonment or systematic discrimination in employment may involve human rights abuses but lack the lethal intent that characterizes extermination. Thus, the deliberate killings of a large group of people represent the core interpretation of extermination within crimes against humanity.

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