عفو (Amnesty) refers to a formal decision to forgive or overlook certain offenses, often granted by a government or authority. It typically applies to a group of individuals, allowing them to avoid punishment for specific crimes, usually for political reasons or to promote reconciliation. This practice can be seen in various contexts, such as during times of war or political transition, where leaders may offer amnesty to encourage peace. It is often associated with human rights organizations like Amnesty International, which advocate for the fair treatment of individuals and the protection of civil liberties.