The Pursuit of International Criminal Justice

This publication contains a survey of world conflicts that occurred between 1945 and 2008, the level of victimization they produced, and the subsequent post-conflict justice (PCJ) mechanisms which were applied. It shows the scope of the problem faced by international criminal justice (ICJ), and how the International Criminal Court (ICC) needs to shape its mission and approach to address ICJ needs and expectations. ICJ is no longer the utopian topic of only 40 years ago. After World War II, the Nuremberg and Tokyo trials were aimed at major offenders in leadership positions. Their prosecution and punishment, it was assumed, would have far reaching, deterring, and educational effects. Since 1948, however, some 310 conflicts have taken place resulting in an estimated 92 to 101 million people killed. In addition, an inestimable number of persons have been injured or have suffered psychological and material harm. Yet, for the most, perpetrators have benefited with impunity and escaped accou