Define: International Criminal Law

International criminal law is a branch of law that deals with the prosecution and punishment of individuals who have committed serious crimes of international concern, such as genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and aggression.

The International Criminal Court is a permanent international tribunal established to prosecute individuals for the most serious international crimes. It has jurisdiction over crimes committed within the territory of member states or by their nationals.

Yes, individuals can be held accountable for international crimes. International criminal law focuses on the responsibility of individuals rather than states, ensuring that those who commit such crimes are brought to justice.

The principle of complementarity states that the ICC can only intervene when national courts are unable or unwilling to prosecute individuals for international crimes. It encourages states to take responsibility for prosecuting such crimes within their own legal systems.

Yes, heads of state can be prosecuted for international crimes if they are found to be individually responsible for committing or ordering such crimes. However, due to their immunity while in office, prosecution may be challenging and often occurs after their term ends.

The United Nations plays a significant role in international criminal law by establishing ad hoc tribunals, such as the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, to prosecute individuals responsible for serious crimes during conflicts.

Yes, non-state actors, such as rebel groups or paramilitary organisations, can be held accountable under international criminal law if they commit international crimes. The ICC has jurisdiction over such actors, ensuring that they can be prosecuted for their actions.

The process of bringing individuals to trial under international criminal law typically involves investigations, indictments, arrests, and trials. The ICC follows a specific procedure, including pre-trial, trial, and appeals stages, to ensure fair and impartial proceedings.

Yes, victims can participate in international criminal proceedings as witnesses, provide testimony, and seek reparations. Their participation is crucial in ensuring justice and accountability for the crimes committed against them.

There is no statute of limitations for international crimes. This means that individuals can be prosecuted for international crimes regardless of when the crimes were committed, ensuring that justice can be pursued even years after the occurrence of the crimes.