This systematic, contextual and practice-oriented account of complementarity explores the background and historical expectations associated with complementarity, its interpretation in prosecutorial policy and judicial practice, its context (ad hoc tribunals, universal jurisdiction, R2P) and its impact in specific situations (Colombia, Congo, Uganda, Central African Republic, Sudan and Kenya). Written by leading experts from inside and outside the Court and scholars from multiple disciplines, the essays combine theoretical inquiry with policy recommendations and the first-hand experience of practitioners. It is geared towards academics, lawyers and policy-makers who deal with the impact and application of international criminal justice and its interplay with peace and security, transitional justice and international relations.

‘This multidisciplinary work is grounded on theoretical inquiries and practical experiences, written by prominent legal scholars and senior actors in the international criminal judicial system. It consists mostly of scholarly contributions initially presented and discussed at the International Conference on the ICC and Complementarity, held at the Peace Palace and The Hague Campus of Leiden University between 15–16 September 2009. … In conclusion, this is an outstanding, original, comprehensive, and multidisciplinary work on the principle of complementarity. It is based on theoretical inquiries and practical experiences, with contributions by a number of prominent legal scholars and senior actors in the international criminal judicial system. It should be read by those interested in international criminal justice, namely international criminal law scholars at universities and research centres, international criminal lawyers, judges, investigators, and prosecutors.'

Hilmi M. Zawati Source: Journal of International Law and International Relations