LAW7286

International criminal justice ( 6 points, SCA Band 3, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: T.B.A.

Offered:
Not offered in 2006.

Synopsis: This subject will explore how the international community has responded to the most heinous international crimes, such as crimes against humanity, genocide, war crimes, torture, slavery, apartheid and aggression. This subject will critically analyse significant developments from a comparative perspective, and will concentrate on the adequacy of the international community's response. The rights of the victims/survivors of international crimes and the crucial question of prevention will also be explored.

Objectives: The main objectives of the subject will be to: 1. provide students with an awareness of the concept of individual international criminal responsibility and comprehension of the basic rules of international criminal law, 2. enable students to analyse the main definitional issues in respect of the international crimes studied during this subject, as well as the possible legal defences accused persons might utilise when charged with one of these international crimes, 3. ensure students can critically analyse the extent, consistency, and adequacy of the international community;s response to international crime, comparing and contrasting the cariety of such responses, 4. help supply students with an understanding of the concept and the issues surrounding the establishment of a permanent international criminal court, together with knowledge of the main principles and provisions contained in the 1998 Rome agreement, 5. enable students to evaluate the rights of victims/survivors of international crimes, and how such crimes can be prevented in the future.

Assessment: Take-home exam - maximum of 3,000 words, worth 40%. This will be a combination of a problem based fact situation and short answer questions. Research assignment - 5,000 words, worth 60%.