During times of political uncertainty, it’s natural to feel anxious about the possibility of martial law or other similar situations.
However, one of the best ways to ease these concerns is by staying informed through trustworthy sources and focusing on accurate information.
Here are the signs that martial law may imposed soon.
- Heightened Political Tensions
- Civil Unrest or Protests
- Natural Disasters or Emergencies
- Terrorist Threats or Attacks
- Economic Crises
- Government Decrees or Executive Orders
- Mass Surveillance
- Military Presence
What is martial law?
Martial law is a situation where military authorities take over the normal functions of civilian government.
This is usually in response to a crisis or emergency, and it involves the temporary suspension of ordinary law.
The military is given the power to enforce laws, maintain order, and make decisions that are typically reserved for civilian authorities.
It is considered an extreme measure and is generally implemented in response to natural disasters, widespread civil unrest, or threats to national security.
During martial law, the military can control and regulate civilian life, including restrictions on movement, curfews, and censorship.
It’s important to note that the declaration of martial law varies from country to country and is usually defined by law or the constitution of the respective nation.
The declaration of martial law is meant to be a temporary and exceptional measure, subject to legal and constitutional constraints.
8 Signs that martial law is coming
Martial law is a severe measure taken in response to an immediate threat to public safety, national security, or in critical situations.
Historical cues for martial law include the following signals.
1. Heightened Political Tensions
If political tensions, conflicts, or unrest significantly increase, authorities may impose martial law to maintain order.
In 1981, Poland declared martial law as a response to the Solidarity Movement, a trade union and social movement advocating for workers’ rights and political reforms.
The military took over key institutions, imposed curfews, and restricted the movement of citizens.
Solidarity persisted, and public pressure contributed to the eventual lifting of martial law in 1983 and the gradual transition to a more open political system in Poland.
2. Civil Unrest or Protests
Widespread civil unrest, protests, or demonstrations perceived as a threat to public safety could lead to martial law.
In 1970, martial law was declared in parts of Ohio, USA, in response to civil unrest and protests at Kent State University.
The declaration followed the Kent State shootings, where the National Guard fired on protesters, resulting in four deaths.
The martial law involved the military assuming control, imposing curfews, and restricting public assembly, illustrating the challenges governments face in handling domestic unrest.
3. Natural Disasters or Emergencies
Martial law may be declared in response to natural disasters or emergencies, especially if it overwhelms the capacity of civilian authorities to respond effectively.
After the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, which caused extensive damage to Tokyo and Yokohama, the Japanese government declared martial law.
The aim was to bring order and coordination to the emergency response.
The military took control and implemented measures such as evacuations, maintaining public order, and providing emergency assistance to the affected population.
The declaration of martial law was a response to the widespread destruction caused by the earthquake and the need for a coordinated effort to address its aftermath.
4. Terrorist Threats or Attacks
Governments may consider martial law in response to heightened terrorist threats or actual attacks that pose a significant risk to national security.
In 2017, the Philippine government declared martial law in Mindanao in response to a siege by ISIS-affiliated militants in the city of Marawi.
President Rodrigo Duterte authorized the imposition of martial law to combat the insurgency and prevent the spread of extremism.
The military took control of the area and implemented measures to restore order, quell the rebellion, and ensure the safety of the population.
Martial law in Mindanao lasted for an extended period before being lifted in 2019. This example demonstrates how martial law can be invoked to address security concerns arising from terrorist threats.
5. Economic Crisis
Sometimes, when things get really bad with the economy, the government might think about using martial law to keep things under control.
Let’s take the example of Thailand in 1976.
Back then, Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn was the Prime Minister.
Thailand was going through economic problems, like sky-high inflation and widespread unhappiness.
People started protesting, calling for changes in the political and economic systems, but the government didn’t like that.
They used force, which led to even more violent clashes between the protesters and authorities.
In October 1976, after things had been tense, Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn declared martial law and later stepped down.
The military took power, abolished the old constitution, and created a new government with more control.
Martial law was used to stop people from speaking out and to restore order during the tough economic and political times.
But it’s not always like that – every country and situation is different, and not all economic problems end up with martial law.
6. Government Decrees or Executive Orders
Governments sometimes grant expanded powers to the military by issuing decrees or executive orders.
This can signal a move toward martial law.
Turkey faced political and social unrest in the late 1970s, and things got worse when the military staged a coup d’état led by General Kenan Evren on September 12, 1980.
The coup was accompanied by the declaration of martial law and the issuance of a series of military orders.
The military government justified its actions by saying it needed to restore order, stabilize the economy, and eliminate the perceived threats posed by both left-wing and right-wing extremists.
They ruled with an iron fist, suppressing political activities, arresting thousands of people, and making significant changes to the Constitution.
The government’s use of executive orders and military decrees was a central feature of the period of martial law in Turkey, which lasted until civilian rule was restored in 1983.
This example shows how the issuance of executive orders and the suspension of normal constitutional processes can indicate that martial law is being imposed in response to perceived threats to national stability.
7. Mass Surveillance
If the government starts spying on you more, censoring what you say, or limiting how you gather, it could be a sign that they’re getting ready for martial law.
This happened in East Germany when the Stasi was around.
The Stasi was a spy agency that kept an eye on everything the citizens did.
They had people all over the place who reported back to them.
The government used this information to crush any kind of disagreement and keep control of the people.
Martial law wasn’t officially declared, but the Stasi’s snooping helped the government stay in charge.
This shows how spying can be used to control people and stop protests, even if there isn’t martial law.
8. Military Presence
When the military starts showing up in civilian areas, it could be a sign that martial law is being considered or put into effect.
A good example of this is what happened in South Korea during the martial law era in 1980.
People were protesting, the government was in trouble, and then General Chun Doo-hwan took over in a coup.
Martial law was declared, and the military came into the cities in a big way.
They were there to squash any opposition, and they enforced curfews to keep people in line.
The military even took control of civil institutions.
The government said it was all about restoring order and stability.
Martial law lasted until 1981, and during that time, the military was in charge of the country.
This whole situation shows that when you see more military around, it might be a sign that something serious is going on politically.
How to prepare for Martial Law?
It’s always a good idea to have a plan in case something unexpected happens like bad weather, economic problems, or civil unrest.
Depending on where you are and what you’re dealing with, there are some things you can do to be ready.
Here are some general tips to help you get started
- Stay Up-to-Date – Make sure you know what’s going on by following the news from a reliable source. It’s important to have the facts so you can make good decisions.
- Get an Emergency Kit – Have a basic kit ready that includes things like food that won’t spoil, water, a first aid kit, a flashlight, batteries, and any medicine you need.
- Communication is Key – Have a plan in place with your family and friends so you can stay in touch in case of an emergency. Ensure everyone knows how to get in touch and where to meet up if necessary.
- Plan Your Escape – Make sure you know how to leave your home quickly if you need to. Know which way to go, where the local shelters are, and how you’re going to get there.
- Get Your Money Right – Keep some cash on hand in case you can’t use your bank card or the internet. Make sure you have important documents like your ID and insurance policies.
- Build a Network – Get to know the people in your community. They can help you out if something goes wrong.
- Know Your Rights – Make sure you know what you’re allowed to do and what you’re supposed to do in your area. Know what the laws are and how to follow them.
- Stay Calm – Remember to stay calm and avoid panicking. It’s important to keep your head straight so you can make good decisions.
How to avoid trouble during martial law?
We’re not the government, so we can’t control what happens.
If martial law is declared, it’s better to stay out of trouble – no matter the reason.
To avoid trouble during martial law, you should be mindful of what you’re doing, stay informed, and follow any directives from authorities.
Here are some general tips.
1. Stay Informed
It is highly recommended that you keep yourself updated and informed about the latest situation by following trustworthy and credible news sources.
It is crucial to understand the regulations and directives issued by the relevant authorities to ensure your safety and well-being.
Stay informed about any new developments and take appropriate measures to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
Regularly check reputable news sources, official government announcements, and updates to understand the current situation and any changes in regulations.
It is also advisable to check with official sources before sharing any information to avoid spreading misinformation.
2. Comply with Laws and Orders
To ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals, it is important to strictly adhere to any curfews, restrictions, or directives that have been imposed by authorities.
If authorities impose a curfew, ensure you are indoors during the designated hours and follow any other directives issued for public safety.
If it is necessary to go out and be approached by security forces, remain calm, follow their instructions, and avoid any confrontations that may escalate the situation.
These measures are put in place to limit the spread of disease, prevent accidents, and maintain order in society.
Failure to comply with these regulations can have serious legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or other legal penalties.
Therefore, it is essential to stay informed about any updates or changes to the regulations and to follow them accordingly.
3. Maintain a Low Profile
To stay safe and avoid unwanted attention, it’s crucial to be mindful of your actions and surroundings.
Avoid participating in public protests or expressing strong political opinions that could attract attention during periods of political unrest.
Keeping a low profile can help you fly under the radar and minimize any risks.
It’s important to prioritize your safety at all times, especially in situations where you may be vulnerable or exposed.
By staying aware of your surroundings and taking proactive steps to protect yourself, you can minimize the chances of drawing attention or raising suspicions from others.
4. Limit Travel
In case of any travel restrictions imposed by the government or local authorities, it is advisable to avoid any non-essential trips until the restrictions are lifted.
If you must travel for essential reasons, make sure to follow the guidelines issued by the authorities and take all necessary precautions to prevent any issues with the security forces.
This may include carrying identification documents, complying with any security checks, and maintaining social distancing norms.
By doing so, you can ensure your safety as well as that of others around you.
5. Stay Indoors During Curfew
It’s important to follow the curfew guidelines set by the authorities and stay indoors during the designated curfew hours.
This helps to maintain public order and safety by minimizing the risk of encountering law enforcement officials or security forces that are patrolling the area during these hours.
By adhering to the curfew rules, you not only ensure your safety but also contribute to the larger goal of maintaining peace and order in the community.
It is advisable to plan your activities accordingly so that you can complete your essential tasks before the curfew hours begin and avoid any unnecessary movements during the restricted hours.
6. Avoid Crowds and Protests
You must prioritize your safety and avoid attending large gatherings, protests, or any public demonstrations.
These types of events can become unpredictable and volatile, putting you in harm’s way.
It’s best to stay informed about any potential risks associated with these gatherings and avoid attending them altogether if possible.
Instead, consider alternative methods of participating in the cause or movement, such as signing petitions or donating to relevant organizations.
Remember, your safety is paramount, so always exercise caution when it comes to attending public events.
7. Stockpile Essential Supplies
It’s important to make sure that you have enough essential supplies at home to sustain yourself for an extended period.
This includes non-perishable food items, clean drinking water, necessary medications, and other critical necessities such as toiletries, a first aid kit, batteries, and flashlights.
You should also be prepared for potential disruptions in services such as power outages, water shortages, or restricted access to medical facilities.
It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so take some time to stock up on the items you need to ensure that you and your family are prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise.
8. Communication
It is important to maintain open communication lines with your family and friends, especially in times of emergencies.
It is recommended to establish a communication plan that outlines the ways you can stay connected with your loved ones in case of an emergency.
You can consider using multiple communication methods such as phone calls, text messages, emails, social media, or video calls to ensure that you can reach out to each other easily.
It is also advisable to share your contact information and keep it updated regularly.
By having a well-defined communication plan, you can stay connected with your family and friends, provide support, and receive updates on their well-being during emergencies.
9. Know Your Rights
During martial law, it is crucial to understand your legal rights to protect yourself and your loved ones.
However, it is not easy to do so, as human rights abuses are common during such times.
It is important to keep yourself informed about any changes to the legal system, as these may affect your rights and obligations.
If you face any legal issues during martial law, it is essential to follow the appropriate channels and seek legal counsel to ensure that your rights are upheld.
Remember, staying informed and seeking help when needed is crucial to navigating the difficult and often unpredictable circumstances that can arise during martial law.
Don’t be paranoid!
It’s worth noting that the signs we’ve discussed might not cover everything, and the decision to declare martial law is usually a complicated one that depends on several different factors.
In most cases, governments only resort to martial law when other attempts to address a crisis or maintain order have failed.
Additionally, the specifics of martial law can differ quite a bit depending on the legal and constitutional framework of each country.
Don’t forget to stay prepared in case of an emergency!
Prepare to survive!