Historical Review of The International Justice System and Norms

This thesis provided a comprehensive historical review of the international justice system and its evolving norms, tracing its origins from arbitration mechanisms to the establishment of contemporary international tribunals and the International Criminal Court (ICC). The research highlighted the critical role that international law played in addressing egregious crimes, including genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity, emphasizing the shift towards individual accountability in international law. The study began by examining the historical context of arbitration as a dispute resolution mechanism prior to the League of Nations, illustrating how arbitration laid the groundwork for more formalized judicial processes. The establishment of the Permanent Court of International Justice (PCIJ) and the subsequent formation of the ICC represented pivotal moments in the evolution of international justice, driven by a collective desire to prevent atrocities similar to those witnessed during World War II. Through a detailed analysis of landmark cases and legal frameworks, the thesis explored the challenges faced by the international justice system, including issues of state sovereignty, the political will of nations to cooperate, and criticisms regarding the perceived selectivity of prosecutions. The research further discussed the impact of significant legal instruments, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the Geneva Conventions, in shaping international norms and accountability mechanisms. This thesis concluded that, while significant strides had been made in the establishment of an international justice framework, ongoing challenges remained. The legitimacy and effectiveness of the ICC were called into question, particularly regarding its focus on African states and the lack of enforcement mechanisms. This research aimed to contribute to the discourse on international justice by providing insights into its historical development and the current state of affairs, ultimately advocating for a more equitable and effective international justice system.