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Acts of violence Quote by Richard A. Falk

“It would not be desirable to include 'terrorism' among international crimes subject to International Criminal Court jurisdiction if defined to apply only to anti-state acts of violence. The failure to include terrorism as a distinct crime was due to the inability to agree upon its proper definition.” quote by Richard A. Falk
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“It would not be desirable to include 'terrorism' among international crimes subject to International Criminal Court jurisdiction if defined to apply only to anti-state acts of violence. The failure to include terrorism as a distinct crime was due to the inability to agree upon its proper definition.”

Richard A. Falk

About This Quote

Source Speech: International Law Conference, 2015

He argues terrorism should not be classified as an international crime under the ICC because definitions are contested and limited to anti‑state violence.

In simple terms: Terrorism isn’t included in ICC crimes due to definition problems.

Key Takeaway

Clarify terrorism’s legal definition before jurisdiction.

Themes

international law terrorism jurisdiction definition ICC

Mood

analytical critical

Type

legal political

When to use this quote

  • policy drafting
  • court deliberations
  • academic debates
  • legislative sessions

Key Concepts

legal theory political science

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can a consensus definition be reached?
  • What are the risks of omitting terrorism?
A Different Perspective

Excluding terrorism may leave victims without recourse.

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