International Law

Do Powerful Countries Apply International Law Selectively?

International law claims universal application, yet enforcement depends heavily upon political power. Powerful countries may promote rules in one conflict and resist them in another.

Why War Crimes Are Prosecuted Unequally

War crimes are prohibited regardless of who commits them. In practice, however, some suspects face investigation and trial while others remain protected by powerful states.

Who Is Responsible for Civilian Deaths in War?

Civilian deaths are often described as accidental or unavoidable. Yet responsibility in war may extend beyond the individual who directly caused the death to commanders, governments and those who created or ignored foreseeable risks.