War Crimes - Great Decisions

Tuesday 8.27.2024
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Sandy Library
10100 South Petunia Way
Sandy, UT 84092

Welcome to the Global Conversations Series: Looking at World Affairs Through A Humanities Lens.

Using the Foreign Policy Association's Great Decisions topics, this six-part discussion series explores how the intersectionality of global issues and humanities can lead to a more empathetic community. In each global affairs conversation, we will answer the following three questions: 

1. What role does the humanities play in fostering empathy with this week's topic?
2. What is your personal experience with the topic?
3. How might the topic impact individuals in our local community? 

Tonight, we will be discussing War Crimes.

What is a war crime? How does this definition apply to recent events in Ukraine?

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has resulted in widespread charges of war crimes and calls for justice. But what exactly are war crimes? Opinions of what constitutes a war crime have evolved, as have ways to identify and punish the perpetrators. How will the war crimes committed in Ukraine be dealt with? By Francine Hirsch

To prepare for this conversation, read the following:

Download the Glossary

Rough Justice: The International Criminal Court in a World of Power Politics

Analysis of the give-and-take involved in the creation of the International Criminal Court. Insightful discussion of the crime of aggression and the negotiations that led to the Kampala Amendments.

Ukraine responds to warfare with "lawfare"

Discussion of Ukraine’s strategic use of the international legal system to fight back against Russian aggression. Maps out possible pathways to justice.

Why genocide is difficult to prove before an international criminal court

Interview with international law professor Leila Sadat on the difference between “crimes against humanity” and “genocide” and on the need to prove intent for the prosecution of genocide. Also discusses possible U.S. cooperation with the ICC. 

Hosted in partnership with:

This program has received funding from Utah Humanities (UH).

The UH mission is to strengthen Utah communities by cultivating connections, deepening understanding, and exploring our complex human experience. 

For questions, contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..