International Criminal Law Fundamentals
A foundation course introducing individual criminal responsibility, core international crimes, modes of liability, jurisdiction, evidence and fair-trial principles.
Academy pass mark: 80%
Public course: Anyone may study this course before applying for a Court service role.
Module 1 — Introduction to International Criminal Law
Students are introduced to the principles governing individual criminal responsibility under international criminal law. The course distinguishes international crimes from ordinary domestic offences and explains why international criminal proceedings require careful attention to jurisdiction, applicable law and due process.
Module 2 — Genocide, Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes
Students examine the basic legal concepts surrounding genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. The course emphasises that each crime has specific legal elements and that allegations must be assessed against the applicable legal definition and available evidence.
Module 3 — Individual Criminal Responsibility
Students learn that international criminal law can impose responsibility on individuals rather than treating criminal conduct solely as an act of a State. The course introduces basic concepts including direct perpetration, ordering, aiding and abetting and other recognised forms of participation, subject to the applicable law.
Module 4 — Command and Superior Responsibility
Students are introduced to the legal principles concerning responsibility of commanders and other superiors for crimes committed by subordinates in circumstances established by applicable law. The course stresses that responsibility must be based on the required legal elements and evidence rather than status alone.
Module 5 — Jurisdiction, Evidence and Investigation
Students examine the importance of establishing lawful jurisdiction before investigating or prosecuting an international crime. They also learn how witness evidence, documentary material, forensic evidence, digital evidence and other sources may contribute to establishing the elements of an offence.
Module 6 — Fair Trial and Judicial Responsibility
Students examine the relationship between prosecution of serious international crimes and fundamental fair-trial guarantees. They learn why impartiality, the presumption of innocence, the right to defence, disclosure, reliable evidence and reasoned decisions are essential to legitimate international criminal proceedings.