International Bar Association Unveils Joint Statement on Universal Jurisdiction for Justice, Accountability
The International Bar Association (IBA), in collaboration with the CEELI Institute and the Center for International Law & Policy in Africa (CILPA), has released a groundbreaking joint statement outlining 12 recommendations to strengthen the implementation of universal jurisdiction.
This move aims to bolster justice and accountability for international crimes, particularly in the wake of the war in Ukraine.
IBA Executive Director Dr. Mark Ellis emphasized that universal jurisdiction is a vital tool for ensuring accountability, regardless of where crimes were committed or the perpetrator’s nationality. However, its implementation faces numerous hurdles. The Prague Statement on Universal Criminal Jurisdiction seeks to address these challenges.
Dr. Ewelina Ochab, IBAHRI Senior Programme Lawyer, noted that victims have been seeking justice globally using universal jurisdiction, especially when other legal avenues are unavailable. She stressed the need to focus on utilizing this principle to challenge impunity.
CEELI Institute Executive Director Robert Strang highlighted the importance of exercising universal jurisdiction in national courts to ensure accountability for international crimes, particularly in Ukraine and beyond.
Key Recommendations:
- Responding to Legal Challenges: Establish strong chains of evidence in challenging wartime conditions and handle universal jurisdiction in absentia.
- Building Capacity: Pursue complementarity between national authorities and international bodies investigating and prosecuting international crimes.
- Cooperation and Coordination: Foster civil society engagement through public advocacy, evidence gathering, and critical research.
- Wider Engagement: Educate the general public and affected communities on justice and accountability for international crimes.
Additional Recommendations:
- Support the establishment of a special tribunal for the crime of aggression targeted at Russia’s leaders.
- Strengthen international legal frameworks through ratifying benchmark treaties on war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, torture, and enforced disappearances.
The Prague Statement aims to overcome obstacles and enhance universal jurisdiction’s effectiveness as an accountability measure. By implementing these recommendations, lawmakers and stakeholders can promote justice and accountability for international crimes.
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