Tuesday 24 February 2009

Belgium Files Proceedings Against Senegal Alleging

Belgium has filed proceedings against Senegal at the International Court of Justice charging a violation of international law by a failure to either try or extradite the former Chadian ruler, Hissan Habré, who has been living in Senegal for many years: http://www.icj-cij.org/docket/files/144/15052.pdf?PHPSESSID=fb2b1be847f114ca31179b66668fd5b6. Belgium wants to prosecute Habré for crimes against humanity and torture. Belgium also seeks provisional measures requiring Senegal to retain custody over Habré pending the proceedings. A fascinating new chapter in international human rights law and international criminal law has been opened by the Belgian application. It concerns application of the Convention Against Torture as well as the scope of customary international law.
Thanks to Fidelma Donlon.

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