The principle of universal jurisdiction as a tool of international criminal justice: challenges for Africa

Abstract

The subject of universal jurisdiction is of great relevance to all who work for human rights. I regard the search for ways to end impunity in the cause of gross violations of human rights as an essential part of the work of my Office and an essential instrument in the struggle to defend human rights... ln my daily work as High Commissloner for Human Rights, I see many situations involving gross, and sometimes widespread, human rights abuses for which the perpetrators often go unpunished, These disturbing trends have given me cause to reflect on the possibilities for alternative means of securing .justice and accountability.