“Name and shame” is when a government or organization exposes individuals or companies who violate laws or engage in antisocial behavior. Lists are published, but the fairness and utility of this process is debated. Some see it as positive peer pressure, while others see it as unfair. Governments may also “name and shame” countries and leaders who violate international laws and standards.
“Name and shame” is something a government does to expose people or companies who violate certain laws or codes, including those who commit crimes or engage in antisocial behavior. Other organizations do this too, both to expose crimes that may have been covered up and to shed light on behavior the public might object to. The idea is that exposing these individuals’ identities will discourage others from engaging in similar activities for fear of being exposed as well.
Name and Shame groups when they publish lists of names of people or companies who have engaged in illegal or otherwise reprehensible behavior. Often, this behavior includes acts that tarnish a person’s reputation and standing within a community. It is commonly done for shoplifters, sex offenders and those who visit prostitutes, for example.
Another time a government might take this action is when it identifies individuals or businesses that have committed fraud. This could include lying to government agencies about taxes, stealing money or perpetrating fraudulent schemes. Public officials who act unethically in elected or appointed positions may also be appointed.
The fairness and utility of this process is debated. Some see it as a positive form of peer pressure, discouraging bad behavior in society by making it known to all. Others see it as unfairly creating citizens and businesses for the derision of neighbors and consumers. There is no opportunity for the person or company in the list to explain the context of the action, for example, or what could have been done to remedy the situation.
While some “name and shame” lists will surely embarrass those featured, some types of crime or behavior may actually be emboldened by such notoriety. Antisocial behaviors, such as spraying graffiti, are popular with certain crowds, particularly among teenagers. Being “named and shamed” could be considered a badge of honor.
Another criticism is the possibility of permanent damage to the reputation of those named. In some cases, a small drug or shoplifting charge that could be cleared may stay in the public eye longer because of these listings. Some argue that this is unfair, especially for juvenile offenders who may find it difficult to cope with the public perception towards them.
Politically, some governments and intergovernmental agencies “name and shame” countries and leaders who fail to abide by international laws and standards. This can include violations of human rights, equality laws and environmental issues. This practice is used as diplomatic pressure to push some nations and leaders to align themselves with other countries.
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