Mechanisms of international justice to fight impunity International tribunals, universal jurisdiction and transitional justice processes

The question of how the international community can effectively respond to grave violations of international law remains highly relevant, especially in a period marked by new conflicts and rising geopolitical tensions. In this context, our researchers Prof Veronika Bílková and Dr Federica Cristani prepared a study for the European Parliament that examines the tools available to fight impunity and strengthen accountability. 

The study offers a clear and accessible overview of three key mechanisms of international justice: 

• international criminal tribunals, 
• universal jurisdiction, and 
• transitional justice processes. 

It explains how each mechanism works, what strengths it brings, and where its practical limitations lie. Readers will also find an outline of recent developments in Europe and beyond, including examples from Ukraine, the former Yugoslavia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. 

In addition, the study reflects on expert perspectives gathered through a targeted survey and concludes with a set of policy recommendations for the European Union. These recommendations highlight how the EU can reinforce its support for accountability efforts worldwide, from cooperating more closely with the International Criminal Court to assisting countries in their post-conflict transitions. 

How do these mechanisms complement each other—and what role can the EU realistically play in strengthening international justice? If you would like to explore these questions further, you can read the full study attached.

On 4 December, Prof Veronika Bílková and Dr Federica Cristani will present the study at the European Parliament during the workshop Mechanisms of international justice to fight impunity. 
Follow the live stream here: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/committees/en/mechanisms-of-international-justice-to-f/product-details/20251126WKS06641