PoliticsAugust 15, 2026

politicisation

puh-lit-ih-sigh-ZAY-shun

Definition

The act of making an inherently neutral or professional process—such as the selection of judges—subject to political influence or partisan agendas.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'politikos' (of the citizens/state), this term entered English as a noun formed from the verb 'politicize,' signifying the process of infusing political character into an area previously considered separate from party politics.

In the news

The author uses this term to warn against the dangers of bringing political interference into the appointment of judges, contrasting New Zealand's neutral process with the US system.

Attorney General: Championing the rule of law

Read the full article ↗

RNZ

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