Overview

This book demonstrates how, after many years of inactivity after the World War II tribunals, judges at the Yugoslav, Rwanda and Sierra Leone tribunals, and to a lesser extent the International Criminal Court, have seized the opportunity to develop international law on war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.

Authors' Perspective

Meernik and Aloisi argue that judges are motivated by a concern for human rights protection and the legacy of international criminal justice.

They have progressively expanded the reach of international law to protect human rights and have used the power of their own words to condemn human rights atrocities.

Judicial Actions

Judges have sentenced the guilty to lengthy and predictable terms in prison to provide justice, deterrence of future violations and even to advance peace and reconciliation.

Conclusion

On judgment day, we show that judges have sought to enhance the power of international justice.