https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2025-2026/R_ConCrUpon completion of the course the student: A. Has knowledge of and insight into: The characteristics and definitions of different types of conflict-related crimes and definitional debates around conflict-related crimes; Recent approaches, theories, and (research) findings from various disciplines in relation to conflict-related crimes, international criminal justice, and post-conflict justice; Legal actors, instruments and issues/debates concerning conflict-related crimes, international criminal justice, and post-conflict justice. B. Is capable of: Identifying and applying theoretical approaches from various disciplines; Applying the IRAC-method for legal reasoning; Independently setting up, carrying out and reporting the results of an interdisciplinary research project, including conducting qualitative interviews. C. Shows evidence of: Critical, independent reflection on research results and independent reflection on the legal and theoretical debates related to conflict-related crimes, international criminal justice, and post-conflict justice;An investigative, original and creative attitude with regard to existing issues and solutions in relation to conflict-related crimes, international criminal justice, and post-conflict justice.This introductory course familiarizes students of the master programme International Crimes, Conflict and Criminology with each other and with the main (legal) concepts, theories and judicial and non-judicial responses in relation to conflict-related crimes. The core international crimes (war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and the crime of aggression) will be discussed and illustrated. Similarly, attention will be given to conflict-related transnational crimes such as human smuggling, human trafficking, weapons smuggling and terrorism. In this course you will discuss the workings of international criminal courts and tribunals, other transnational modes of cooperation such as Interpol, and of transitional justice mechanisms implemented by states following conflicts such as truth commissions. During the ‘practical week’ students will visit relevant institutions such as the International Criminal Court in The Hague. Apart from focusing on the content, this intensive course also trains students in their practical skills, in particular how to write an academic research paper, how to interview respondents, and how to make a legal analysis.The course consists of a combination of lectures, interactive workshops, documentary screenings and visits to relevant institutions.The course is evaluated with an oral presentation, a legal assignment and research papers.Smeulers, A.L. & F. Grunfeld (2011). International crimes, Brill, Martinus-NijhoffA selection of articles and texts that are available online (links provided in coursebook)This course is in principle only open to students of the Master International Crimes, Conflict and Criminology. In exceptional circumstances other interested students may take part. They should well in advance direct an email with motivation and CV to Maarten Bolhuis (
[email protected]) to request if participation is possible. They will be informed whether participation is possible at the latest on 1 September. At the same time they must register via the applicable procedure (see Target Audience on the left).