The ECOWAS Court dismissed claims urging Liberia to investigate the 1990 Lutheran Church massacre, citing jurisdictional limits. This ruling highlights challenges for victims seeking justice for past atrocities in West Africa.
The Pinochet case: Juan Garcés’ fight against impunity
During his visit to Geneva in early October, Civitas Maxima had the honor of welcoming Juan Garcés, a Spanish lawyer and the man behind the arrest, 26 years ago, of former Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet. He spoke about this battle, which paved a new path for justice in the pursuit of the gravest crimes.
One year after 7th October: the limited impact of international justice
The tragic events that have unfolded since October 7, 2023, in Israel and Palestine have triggered a historically unprecedented wave of global judicial activity. Although some tangible results have been achieved over the past year, the overall impact remains very limited.
When politics muzzles justice
Anyone working to deliver justice for victims of international crimes knows that the judicial process can be hindered by political considerations at every stage. Recent news has once again reminded us of this harsh truth.
The importance of cleaning up your own backyard
The Statute of the ICC is based on the principle of complementarity. It will only act if the competent state is “unwilling” or unable to investigate or prosecute. Alain Werner highlights that coastal West Africa sets an example for the rest of the continent in terms of transitional justice. The results are more mixed for Europe.
How can we judge those who escape justice?
The International Criminal Court cannot try high-ranking political leaders in their absence, even those for whom it has issued arrest warrants, which limits its actions. However, a recent development could help bring changes to the current system.
International crimes never die (but their perpetrators age)
International crimes are not subject to statute of limitations, but what can be done when their perpetrators, sometimes tried decades after the facts, have become senile, demented, and can no longer understand the proceedings?
Compensation for victims of mass crimes after all?
While he welcomes the intense recent developments in the field of international law, with several cases of states or suspects under judicial scrutiny. Alain Werner, director of Civitas Maxima, warns that one should not raise hopes of compensation for victims of mass crimes without being able to ensure that these compensations can actually be provided.
Is the European Union responsible for crimes against humanity?
“If you think too many people are being killed, perhaps you should provide fewer weapons,” said the EU’s chief diplomat, Josep Borrell. He also needs to clean up his own house, writes Alain Werner, director of Civitas Maxima.
No More “Lack Of Political Will” When It Comes to War-Related Impunity; President Boakai’s Unsaid Words Bring Hope to Liberians
No More “Lack Of Political Will” When It Comes to War-Related Impunity; President Boakai’s Unsaid Words Bring Hope to Liberians “We have decided to set up an office to explore the feasibility for the establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court (WECC) to provide an opportunity for those who bear the greatest responsibility for war […]
