International Criminal Law Overview

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Questions and Answers

What were two major criticisms of the Nuremberg and Tokyo Tribunals?

Victors’ justice and violation of state sovereignty.

How does International Criminal Law (ICL) hold individuals accountable?

ICL places criminal responsibility on individuals for acts defined as crimes by international law.

What is the significance of the ICC in the realm of International Criminal Law?

The ICC is the only permanent court for ICL, focusing on the prosecution of serious crimes of international concern.

Name two alternative accountability mechanisms mentioned in relation to ICL.

IIIM and UNITAD. Signup and view all the answers

In what city is the primary court for International Criminal Law located, and what does it symbolize?

The Hague, symbolizing peace and justice. Signup and view all the answers

What paradox exists within International Humanitarian Law (IHL)?

IHL is widely accepted yet often blatantly disregarded. Signup and view all the answers

Who is credited with the founding of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and its establishment?

Henry Dunant founded the ICRC after the Battle of Solferino. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between 'Ius ad bellum' and 'Ius in bello'?

'Ius ad bellum' concerns the justification for entering a war, while 'Ius in bello' deals with the conduct within war. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the ICRC play in relation to IHL?

The ICRC acts as the guardian of IHL, ensuring its application and addressing breaches. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary functions of the ICRC in relation to IHL enforcement?

The ICRC provides education on the rules of IHL to armed forces and the general public. Signup and view all the answers

What are the core activities performed by the ICRC?

The ICRC monitors IHL adherence, promotes its principles, and provides direct assistance to conflict victims. Signup and view all the answers

How does the ICRC function as a watchdog in armed conflicts?

The ICRC raises alarms about serious violations of IHL when they occur. Signup and view all the answers

What was a major historical impact of World War II on International Humanitarian Law?

World War II led to significant developments in IHL, including the Fourth Geneva Conventions of 1949. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of International Humanitarian Law (IHL)?

IHL focuses on regulating the conduct of parties in armed conflict and protecting civilians and civilian objects. Signup and view all the answers

How does International Criminal Law (ICL) differ from IHL concerning individual responsibility?

ICL provides for individual criminal responsibility for serious crimes of international concern, whereas IHL primarily regulates conduct during armed conflict. Signup and view all the answers

Name two key instruments of International Human Rights Law.

The ICCPR (International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights) and CEDAW (Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women) are two key instruments. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Geneva Conventions in the context of IHL?

The Geneva Conventions establish the core legal standards for humanitarian treatment in armed conflict. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of Human Rights Law, what does the acronym CERD stand for?

CERD stands for the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. Signup and view all the answers

What does IHL primarily aim to protect during armed conflicts?

IHL primarily aims to protect persons who are not participating in hostilities. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the context of moot court proceedings described.

In moot court proceedings, the ICC serves as the backdrop where teams represent the Office of the Prosecutor and the Defence in hypothetical trials. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary distinguishing feature between International Humanitarian Law and International Criminal Law?

IHL regulates conduct in armed conflicts, while ICL focuses on the prosecution of individuals for serious crimes like genocide and war crimes. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Minor International Law

Course covers Public International Law (PIL), International Humanitarian Law (IHL/ICL), and Human Rights Law (HRL)
PIL (5 ECTS), IHL/ICL (5 ECTS), HRL (5 ECTS)

Course Outline

Course content
Basic principles of IHL
Basic principles of ICL
Differences between IHL and ICL

Teaching Methodology

Lectures and seminars
Moot court
Reading and movies
Field trip

Weekly Schedule

Live lectures at THUAS on Fridays from 12:15 to 14:30 in Ov.4.47
Reading, homework, and group work (some seminars require preparation)
Guest lectures announced during the course
Field trip on November 22nd

Assessment

IHL/ICL accounts for 33% of the overall grade
Exam = 70% (1.5 hours)
Moot Court = 30% (separate module book on Blackboard)
Homework and group work assignments are mandatory for course completion

Moot Court

ICC proceedings (4 teams): OTP, 2x Defense, Victims Counsel
Moot court case available before the Fall Break
Written pleadings (70%)
Oral arguments (30%)
Best moot court team (written and/or oral) earns a prize

Field Trip

Scheduled for November 22nd
Location details likely to be provided

Literature

No single textbook; various articles, policy papers, videos, and other publications
Mandatory and recommended reading is contained in the module book
Additional materials are available via BrightSpace

Additional Topics (Based on Subsequent Pages)

War crimes investigations and conflicts (contemporary examples provided)
ICC convictions and implications (in Mali and other contexts)
The history and evolution of IHL (including Solferino, the Hague Conventions, WWI/WWII, and the Geneva Conventions)
Core principles, rules, and applications of IHL (with detailed examples)
Enforcement mechanisms of IHL
Role and function of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and its partners
Distinctions between IHL, ICL, and human rights law
Explanation of the concepts of IHL and ICL, including specific courts, tribunals and instruments

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Description

Explore the foundational concepts and criticisms of International Criminal Law through this quiz. Understand key elements such as the significance of the ICC and alternative accountability mechanisms. Test your knowledge of the historical tribunals and their impact on global justice.