Dr Emma Palmer from Griffith Asia Institute has been awarded an Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) to explore how universal jurisdiction can be leveraged to prosecute atrocity crimes in the Asia-Pacific region.
Universal jurisdiction allows domestic courts to investigate and prosecute crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide regardless of where the violence occurred, or the nationalities of the perpetrator and victims. This research aims to advance understanding of how this legal principle is applied and adapted within the Asia-Pacific context.
Dr Palmer's study is expected to contribute to international relations theories on norm adaptation while generating new knowledge to improve justice mechanisms. The research will also provide an evidence base to support better decision-making and foster collaborations between practitioners and officials working to investigate and prosecute international crimes in the region.
"This research has the potential to enhance access to justice and strengthen responses to atrocity crimes," Dr Palmer said.
Supported by Griffith University, the project will shed light on how universal jurisdiction can play a pivotal role in addressing impunity and delivering accountability for some of the world's gravest crimes.
Dr Palmer's research will also offer critical insights into the role of intergovernmental organisations, such as the African Union and ASEAN, in addressing international crimes through universal jurisdiction. By comparing their approaches, the study aims to identify strategies that can be adapted to strengthen justice systems and promote accountability in the Asia-Pacific. This comparative analysis will further inform global efforts to combat impunity and ensure justice for victims of atrocity crimes.
