Universal jurisdiction refers to the prosecution of individuals accused of committing atrocity crimes —regardless of where the crimes occurred or the nationality of the alleged perpetrators. This principle offers a broader avenue for holding individuals accountable for serious offences compared to traditional legal processes.
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest among various stakeholders in using universal jurisdiction as a means of accountability for atrocity crimes. This is evident in recent cases in France and Germany involving allegations of crimes against humanity, war crimes, and torture committed by members of the former Syrian regime, members of ISIS, and others.
In light of this, BHRC and IBAHRI are hosting a series of events focused on Universal Jurisdiction to explore its implications and recent developments. This particular panel concentrated on the participation and representation of victims, featuring insights from prominent barristers, NGOs, and victims themselves.
The first launch event, chaired by Isabella Kirwan (Barrister at Guernica 37 Chambers and BHRC Executive Committee) included:
Haydee Dijkstal, Barrister at 33 Bedford Row and BHRC Executive Member
Gissou Nia, Director, Atlantic Council Strategic Litigation Project
Hope Rikkelman, Director, The Nuhanovic Foundation and Yazidi Legal Network
Natalie von Wistinghausen, Lawyer
Fawziya Bashar Khalaf, Yazidi survivor and advocate
CLICK HERE TO ATTEND (IN-PERSON)
