A state of emergency (also known as a “state of siege”) is a situation in which the normal workings of government are suspended for the protection of citizens. It can be declared before, during or after a natural disaster, civil unrest, armed conflict, medical pandemic or biosecurity risk and is a form of martial law. It allows a nation to put through policies that would otherwise be blocked, although it does not automatically suspend all civil rights.
The state of emergency can be used for a variety of reasons and in both democratic and dictatorial countries. Democracies tend to invoke it for natural disasters or public order situations while dictatorships use it to allow them to suppress internal opposition without being bound by the usual human rights laws. A state of emergency can also allow a nation to evade international sanctions.
States of emergency may be imposed by either a national or provincial government and can last up to 30 days, though it can be extended with the approval of parliament. During this time, the government can make regulations to ensure the safety of the population, such as altering transport and restricting movement. It can also take control of the police, fire and ambulance services.
The government can also impose travel restrictions on its citizens and close State offices. However, every emergency is different and the instructions given by State officials will depend on the conditions at hand. It is best to pay attention to news media and stay updated about the situation.