flogging

Flogging is a form of corporal punishment that involves striking a person repeatedly with a whip, cane, rod, or similar instrument. The blows are typically delivered to the back or buttocks, and the number of lashes and the instrument used determine the severity of the punishment.

Historically, flogging has appeared in many cultures and served as a disciplinary tool in military, naval, legal, and religious contexts. In Europe and the Atlantic world it was widely used from the medieval period through the 19th century and was gradually restricted or abolished in many jurisdictions. In some colonial and post-colonial settings it persisted into the 20th century and beyond in various forms.

Legal status today varies by country. Some jurisdictions retain flogging or caning as a penal measure for certain offenses, often with formal oversight and medical provisions. In most of the world, however, flogging as a state punishment has been abolished or is not enforceable. International human rights bodies frequently criticize flogging as cruel, inhuman, or degrading punishment.

Procedural details differ by system. Instruments can include whips, lashes, or rods, and the punishment is typically administered by an official within a formal setting such as a court or penal facility. The number of lashes, the target areas, and whether medical supervision is required are determined by the applicable legal code and the nature of the offense.

Ethical and practical debates continue. Critics emphasize physical injury, psychological harm, and human rights concerns, arguing that flogging is ineffective and degrading. Proponents may cite tradition, deterrence, or cultural norms. Alternatives such as fines, imprisonment, or restorative measures are commonly proposed in place of corporal punishment.