From 29 to 30 October 2024, the Kalshoven-Gieskes Forum (KGF) and the Groitus Centre for In-ternational Legal Studies had the pleasure of hosting an inspiring authors' workshop in The Hague for the forthcoming Research Handbook, Victims under Public International Law, edited by Dr. Robert Heinsch and Dr. Jelena Plamenac.
Gathering a diverse group of contributors from across the globe, the workshop served as a platform to share, refine, and harmonize the ideas behind each of the chapters. The atmosphere was one of dynamic collaboration, with each participant bringing unique expertise and insights on how this book could become a vital resource for advancing victims' rights under international law.
The first day began with an exploration of the historical and structural roots of victims' rights, diving into complex questions about barriers to justice, protections under existing frameworks, and how different areas of international law - specifically International Humanitarian Law, International Human Rights Law, and International Criminal Law - can intersect to support victims more effectively. Participants discussed frameworks for addressing the challenges of business-related human rights abuses, modern slavery, and the often-overlooked impacts of armed conflicts. These discussions shed light on the current gaps in protections and highlighted the emerging strategies to close these gaps.
On the second day, the focus was on accountability mechanisms and the critical role of legal bodies in advancing justice for victims. Topics included the complex advocacy process for victims in ICC proceedings, protective measures for vulnerable witnesses, and the unique challenges faced by victims of forced displacement. The closing sessions examined reparations models and how national and regional courts can provide remedies for human rights violations. These thoughtful discussions have not only helped shape the book's direction but also underscored its potential to provide practical, actionable guidance for those working to support victims.
The workshop was both impactful and inspiring, made possible by each contributor's invaluable insights, passion, and commitment to shaping this book into an essential resource for victim-centered international law. The workshop was sponsored by the Leiden University Fund / Dr. H.A. van Beuningen Fonds, www.luf.nl.
