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Balanced Quote by Richard A. Falk

“This issue of expanding the reach of international criminal law by reliance on the use of Universal Jurisdiction by domestic courts needs to be balanced against the injustice of according impunity to those with strong geopolitical backing. It is notable that several western European countries…” quote by Richard A. Falk
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“This issue of expanding the reach of international criminal law by reliance on the use of Universal Jurisdiction by domestic courts needs to be balanced against the injustice of according impunity to those with strong geopolitical backing. It is notable that several western European countries backtracked on UJ after threats of retaliatory moves by the United States and Israel. There is no doubt that the domain of UJ is a geopolitical battleground.”

Richard A. Falk

About This Quote

Source Article: International Law Review, 2020

Universal jurisdiction can be a tool for justice but is vulnerable to geopolitical pressure, risking selective enforcement.

In simple terms: UJ balances justice and politics.

Key Takeaway

Advocate for consistent, unbiased application of UJ.

Themes

justice sovereignty politics human rights law enforcement

Mood

analytical critical

Type

legal political

When to use this quote

  • human rights advocacy
  • legal reform
  • diplomatic negotiations

Key Concepts

international law geopolitics policy analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can international law stay impartial?
  • What safeguards protect against selective enforcement?
A Different Perspective

Political interests can undermine legal principles.

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