STRENGTHENING REGIONAL AND SUB-REGIONAL TIES TOWARDS THE DEVELOPMENT OF UNIVERSAL JURISDICTION APPROACH TO TERRORISM

Abstract

The philosophical underpinnings of universal criminal jurisdiction (UCJ) in the prosecution of crimes are justice and dignity for the victims of international crimes and crimes sharing similar characteristics; as criminal accountability remains a necessary tool for upholding the rule of law, eliminating criminal impunity and defending the core values and interests of the international community. Undoubtedly, UCJ theory serves as a medium for international criminal law to remove the veil of impunity from perpetrators of international crimes. The full implementation of the principle of universal jurisdiction on terrorism remains difficult, especially in view of the non-acceptance of the crime as an international crime notwithstanding the fact that the crime has continued to ravage global peace. Consequently, the involvement of regional and sub-regional intergovernmental institutions becomes crucial in the mission to develop a universal agreement. Thus, this paper examines and provides recommendations as solutions to the full entrenchment of the principle of UCJ as a tool in universal counter terrorism efforts. The paper adopts doctrinal research method by relying on primary data such as statutes, laws and cases, and secondary materials including academic texts and articles. The paper recommends harmonised anti-terrorism laws, strengthened international cooperation, enhanced judicial capacity, and flexible legal frameworks incorporating universal jurisdiction.