Conceptual Delimitation of the Phenomenon of Extrajudicial Executions*

Abstract

The international community has centered its attention on the phenomenon of extrajudicial executions or so-called “false positives.” The increasing reports of victims, years of impunity, and lack of accountability of those responsible have generated multiple documents by NGOs and international agencies on the situation. However, the definition of “false positives” is still unclear. It has been interpreted as a violation of human rights and an international crime, but also as a crime against humanity and a war crime. Therefore, it is necessary to delimit the concept of “false positives” to characterize the phenomenon.