Amnestía

Amnestía is a Spanish word that translates to "amnesty" in English. It refers to a legal act by a government that forgives and absolves individuals from blame or punishment for certain offenses. Amnesties are typically granted for political offenses, though they can also be applied to other categories of crimes. The purpose of an amnesty can vary, often serving to promote reconciliation after periods of conflict or repression, to facilitate political transitions, or to address overcrowding in correctional facilities. Granting amnesty is a sovereign power of a state and is usually enacted through legislation or a decree. It is important to note that an amnesty is not a pardon; a pardon forgives an individual's guilt, whereas an amnesty may erase the offense itself or prevent prosecution. The scope and conditions of an amnesty are determined by the specific legislation or decree that establishes it, and it may apply to all individuals who have committed a particular offense within a specified timeframe.