Despite its legal clarity and direct evidence in cases like Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the crime of aggression remains almost untried—prompting calls for a special tribunal and renewed focus on international justice
Stand firm in support of all quests for justice
As war today seems to be the only agenda for some major powers, including a war against justice itself, all those who still uphold the values of international law must unite on the side of all victims, without discrimination, and support any genuine pursuit of justice, writes Alain Werner, director of Civitas Maxima.
Confronting Camara in court: witnesses testify at pre-sentence evidentiary hearing in Philadelphia
On 23 January 2025, a pre-sentence evidentiary hearing was held in Philadelphia in the case against Laye Sekou Camara, aka K-1. The hearing followed Camara’s guilty plea that waived his right to a trial before a jury. Held long before the sentencing hearing, scheduled for 19 May, it was unusual but importantly gave an opportunity to 9 Liberian witnesses to testify.
Laye Sekou Camara, alias K-1, plaide coupable des quatre chefs d'accusation de fraude à l'immigration
Laye Sekou Camara, alleged high-ranking member of the LURD, who was due to stand trial for immigration fraud in Philadelphia, has plead guilty to all four counts of immigration fraud. He is due to be sentenced on 19 May 2025.
Un ancien commandant rebelle libérien présumé jugé pour fraude à l'immigration à Philadelphie, aux États-Unis
Laye Sekou Camara, also known by his noms de guerre “General K-1” and “General Dragon Master”, is alleged to have participated in Liberia’s brutal second civil war as a high-ranking member of the LURD (Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy).
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.
Focus on International Justice – April
Read about crimes against migrants, a War crimes court to be established in Liberia, as well as more updates, insights, and key developments in the world of international justice.
War crimes round-up: can Central African Republic set an example for justice on the continent?
International justice has seen major developments recently, including France charging alleged Liberian and Rwandan war criminals, and Switzerland’s first-ever enforced disappearance case. The Special Criminal Court in the Central African Republic continues delivering justice despite challenges, showcasing Africa’s potential for prosecuting war crimes locally, rather than relying solely on international courts.
War crimes round-up: Switzerland weighs in on elusive quest for justice over Syria Hama massacre
Switzerland issued an international arrest warrant for Rifaat al-Assad, former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad’s uncle, for war crimes in Hama in 1982. Although Rifaat fled to Syria, the warrant represents a significant step towards accountability, thanks to Geneva-based NGO Trial International’s efforts under universal jurisdiction.
War crimes round-up: Liberian civil war rebels on trial again, survivor testifies against Gambian ‘death squad’
January 2023 highlighted the growing impact of universal jurisdiction, with Switzerland’s first war crimes trial involving Liberian Alieu Kosiah. Meanwhile, former rebels faced charges in Finland, and the trial of Gambian death squad member Bai L. marked a historic moment for accountability. Global efforts against impunity continue to expand.
