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PETRA BAUMRUK
CYIL 4 ȍ2013Ȏ
4. Conclusion
Having discussed the principle of universal jurisdiction and the core international
crimes, one can conclude that universal jurisdiction is playing a growing role in the
emerging system of international accountability for heinous offences. However, the
list of serious crimes under international criminal law is constantly evolving and
new crimes are becoming a threat to the international community. The challenge is
therefore to define the content and scope of these crimes and to clarify when and how
universal jurisdiction can be exercised.
Universal jurisdiction, along with the principle of
aut dedere aut judicare
,
obligations
erga omnes
and
jus cogens
, might be viewed as a doctrinal “siblings” who
all have the common goals to maintain international peace and security. When
analyzing universal jurisdiction, all of these doctrines should be taken into account
as important pillars in the fight against impunity.
Despite a few impediments on the exercise of universal jurisdiction, such as
immunities of high-ranking state officials, or political and other legal considerations,
the application and acceptance of universal jurisdiction will grow even more because
it in the best interest of all nations to combat impunity.