Social Context of the Law - QS

Title: Prosecuting the Powerful

Speakers: Tba

Moderator: Patrick O’Connor KC (Doughty Street Chambers and Inner Temple Bencher)

Prosecuting powerful leaders for war crimes, human rights abuses and corruption tests the strength and efficacy of national and international law and courts. The discussion will focus on the challenges and procedures of bringing powerful leaders to justice.

This will commonly arise as part of post-conflict resolution. The first option is a national process through the doctrine of subsidiarity Amnesties may arise as a barrier here. Ad hoc courts may be set up by the UN or regional bodies. Ultimately, the International Criminal Court may act, but it is the last resort. The discussion will not be able to avoid the current full-on threat to the ICC from various sources, and the general ‘credibility’ of the Court. The whole structure of International criminal law and of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) is at stake. Students today must gain a better understanding of these issues to equip them for unprecedented challenges: and to make informed career choices. The idealism of law students can lead into exciting and rewarding careers, but only if tempered with realism.

The event will be delivered in person and online. The session will include an opportunity for Q&A and for post-talk networking.

Cancel by: 09/11/2026