How does the principle of universal jurisdiction operate?

The principle of universal jurisdiction operates by allowing states to prosecute individuals for serious crimes that violate international law, regardless of where those crimes were committed. This principle is particularly applicable to offenses such as genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and torture, which are considered to be offenses against the international community as a whole.

The rationale behind universal jurisdiction is that certain crimes are so heinous that they represent an affront to humanity, and therefore any state has a legitimate interest in prosecuting the perpetrators, irrespective of their nationality or the location of the crime. This reflects a commitment to accountability and justice, ensuring that individuals cannot evade prosecution simply because the crime was committed in another jurisdiction.

This principle enables states to respond to international crimes effectively, promoting the idea that there are no safe havens for individuals who commit gross violations of human rights. By empowering nations to take action against such crimes, universal jurisdiction serves to deter future offenses and support the overarching framework of international law aimed at protecting human rights.