What is extraordinary rendition?

Extraordinary rendition refers to the practice of covertly abducting and detaining individuals suspected of being involved in terrorism or terrorist activities, often without formal legal proceedings. This method typically involves the transfer of these individuals to countries where they may be interrogated and detained without the safeguards that would ordinarily apply under domestic or international law.

The key aspects that define extraordinary rendition include its secretive nature and the lack of due process for the suspects involved. It often bypasses standard judicial proceedings and can involve transferring detainees to jurisdictions with less rigorous human rights protections, raising significant ethical and legal questions about the treatment of these individuals.

Understanding extraordinary rendition is crucial in discussing issues of national security, human rights, and the balance between protecting citizens and adhering to the rule of law.