For International Crimes, Justice Without Boarders
“Never again." This is what the international community promised in the aftermath of the Holocaust. It is a promise that was later embodied by the creation of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which aims to fight against the impunity of the perpetrators of international crimes.
However, when it comes to justice for international crimes, the ICC plays a complementary role to individual countries. Dr. Fannie Lafontaine, Canada Research Chair in International Criminal Justice and Human Rights, aims to understand how countries that face political tensions and have deficient legal systems can take responsibility for the implementation of justice for mass crimes with countless victims.
Lafontaine is analyzing the issues involved in the decentralization of criminal justice as it relates to crimes against humanity. She aims to identify strategies that will ensure justice is served, without undermining the rights of the accused, peace and security, or international relations. In addition, Lafontaine seeks to understand how the ICC and the international community can co-operate to strengthen the ability of national courts to investigate and take action against the perpetrators of crimes.
Lafontaine’s research will help increase the effectiveness of the international criminal justice system, and ensure justice for victims and perpetrators of international crimes.