Publicizing an Offender as a Protective-Precautionary Measure: Its Rationale and Temporal Scope

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Department of Law, Ma.c., Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran.

Abstract

Public identification of offenders can intensify stigma, social exclusion, and obstacles to reintegration, and may amount to a second punishment inconsistent with human dignity. Islamic jurists have discussed tashhīr, or public exposure, in connection with false testimony, qadhf, fraud, deception, and procuring. This article re-examines the subject, rationale, scope, and legal nature of tashhīr. Using a descriptive-analytical study of primary fiqhi sources, it finds that a binding requirement of public exposure is established only for the false witness. Its rationale was not retribution, deterrent humiliation, or reform through disgrace, but the protection of adjudication by preventing renewed reliance on the witness until rehabilitation became known. The measure is therefore protective and precautionary rather than punitive, and it differs from publication of a final judgment, media release of an offender’s image, public execution of punishment, shaving the head, exile, or banishment. Because modern criminal-record systems enable courts to verify prior convictions, the original rationale has largely disappeared. Tashhīr is no longer required as a primary rule, although narrowly tailored disclosure may exceptionally be authorized as a secondary governmental measure where public order and a demonstrated public interest require it.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Studies of Islamic Jurisprudence and Basis of Law
Volume 20, Issue 53 - Serial Number 53
September 2026
Pages 287-307

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