FIBGAR presents the project “Rethinking universal jurisdiction: contemporary challenges and recommendations for strengthening the fight against impunity”
The Baltasar Garzón International Foundation (FIBGAR) officially presents the project “Rethinking universal jurisdiction: contemporary challenges and recommendations to strengthen the fight against impunity”, a global initiative aimed at critically analysing the current application of universal jurisdiction and contributing to its strengthening as a fundamental tool in the fight against impunity for the most serious international crimes.
Universal jurisdiction constitutes one of the most significant mechanisms in international law for guaranteeing access to justice when national systems are unable or unwilling to investigate and prosecute certain crimes. However, in a context marked by growing legal, political and institutional challenges, it is necessary to reflect on its practical application, identify obstacles and promote strategies to reinforce its effectiveness and legitimacy.
Through this project, FIBGAR promotes spaces for specialised dialogue, academic research and strategic advocacy with the aim of generating up-to-date knowledge, strengthening international partnerships and developing operational recommendations aimed at legal practitioners, public policy makers, civil society organisations and other actors committed to international justice.
As part of this initiative, during 2026 various international meetings have already been held in different regions of the world. In March, the event “Gender Justice and Universal Jurisdiction” took place in New York, organised in collaboration with the Guatemalan Women’s Association (AMG) within the framework of the 70th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70). That same month, FIBGAR organised the seminar “Universal Jurisdiction: Critical Perspectives from Latin America” in Buenos Aires, in collaboration with the Fray Bartolomé de las Casas Institute. Subsequently, in May, the organisation took part in the international workshop “Prosecuting Asia-Pacific International Crimes in Domestic Courts” in Brisbane, Australia, alongside Griffith Law School, the Griffith Asia Institute and the Asia Justice Coalition.
The initiative will continue to develop over the coming months with new activities and international meetings, including a regional seminar scheduled for September in Rome, dedicated to analysing the challenges and opportunities facing universal jurisdiction in the European context.
The main outcomes of this process will be compiled in specialist publications and in a final document containing analysis and recommendations, aimed at strengthening the effective application of universal jurisdiction and promoting its role as a key instrument for ensuring truth, justice and accountability in relation to international crimes.
Through this project, FIBGAR reaffirms its commitment to promoting international justice and defending human rights, fostering spaces for reflection and cooperation that contribute to strengthening the legal tools available to combat impunity at a global level.
For further details on the objectives, activities and expected outcomes of this initiative, please consult the full project description in FIBGAR’s portfolio.
