Accounting for Crimes: The Role of International Criminal Tribunals in Effectively Addressing Impunity

Abstract

In this paper, the author examines the ways in which accountability for international crimes could become a practical reality. She takes the position that "impunity" is inimical both to justice, and to lasting peace and democracy in post-conflict societies and proposes a conceptual framework for the international rule of law as an alternative. She also argues that a strong, independent and permanent International Criminal Court (ICC) would ensure the kind of universal enforcement of international law that will lead to a progressive, long-term reduction of human rights violations.