Extraterritoriality

/ˌɛkstrəˌtɛrɪtɔːriˈæləti/ noun

Definition

The legal status or condition of being exempt from the local jurisdiction and laws of a territory, usually granted through international agreement.

Etymology

From 'extraterritorial' + '-ity' (forming nouns). This legal concept was formalized in international law treaties, especially during colonial expansion when Western powers negotiated special privileges.

Kelly Says

Extraterritoriality was hugely controversial in Asia when Western powers demanded their citizens couldn't be tried in local courts—it basically meant outsiders were above the law, which led to massive resentment.

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