Responsibility of Head of States for International Crime: Mechanisms and Obstacles

Abstract

In this master's thesis, in the light of the problems of bringing head of states to justice, the options suitable, in accordance with the current international legislation, for the implementation of justice against Presidents who commit the most serious crimes are considered, as well as the identification of obstacles preventing the implementation of the judicial process was considered. A master's thesis begins with a study of the evolution of the doctrine of the responsibility of leaders and high-ranking officials of states is under way. Further research examines the practice of international law regarding the responsibility of Presidents for international crimes and the important role of international bodies in ensuring justice. The problems that exist in the way of bringing the leaders of the states to account have been identified. It has been demonstrated how immunity affects the implementation of justice when applying already existing specific legal mechanisms. Using the example of Ukraine, a legal mechanism for bringing the current President of Russia to justice is proposed, the implementation of which in the future can become an important precedent and a strong signal for other state leaders.