78154 International Criminal Law

This subject examines international criminal law from both theoretical and practical perspectives. The subject commences by examining the historical and conceptual framework of international criminal law and justice, as well as the sources of international criminal law. It then examines the jurisdictional ability of international law to prosecute individuals responsible for war crimes, genocide, crimes against humanity, aggression, torture, and terrorism. The history of international criminal courts and tribunals is also examined including the theoretical bases for the establishment of the ad hoc international criminal tribunals, the International Criminal Court, and their temporal and subject matter jurisdiction. Following on, the subject examines key principles of international criminal justice including principles of criminal culpability, as well as possible exclusions and defences, and judicial procedures to be applied. The subject then examines the substantive law of war crimes, crimes against humanity, aggression, torture, and terrorism, including their scope both as treaty and customary crimes, as well as key prosecutions that have taken place concerning the respective crimes.

Typical availability

Autumn semester, City campus
Spring semester, City campus