Training “Genocide: International Practice and Contemporary Challenges” for Ukrainian Prosecutors

On 10–11 September, the Prosecutors’ Training Center of Ukraine hosted a two-day training “Genocide: International Practice and Contemporary Challenges.”

The training was conducted by Anna Vyshniakova, Head of the NGO LingvaLexa, together with Olena Oliinyk, Deputy Head of the Department for Combating Crimes Committed in Armed Conflict. Fulfilling its obligations under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, Ukraine investigates crimes committed by the army of the Russian Federation on the territory of Ukraine whichmay potentially constitute genocide. For this, it is essential to have a detailed understanding of each element of this crime. The process of investigation and subsequent work on proving the hypothesis of genocide is extremely complex, as it requires the collection of high-quality evidence, including linkage and contextual evidence, as well as in-depth analytical work involving specialized experts. Moreover, to develop an effective evidentiary strategy, it is crucial to clearly distinguish the crime of genocide from other most serious international crimes, in particular crimes against humanity.

During the training, significant attention was given to:

international approaches to proving genocide;

the specifics of proving the mens rea and actus reus of the crime in the Ukrainian context;

the history of the Genocide Convention and the practice of international tribunals;

potential challenges that the Ukraine may face;

specifics of proving the crime of incitement to genocide.

For LingvaLexa’s participation in such events contributes to strengthening the capacity of Ukrainian law enforcement system to properly conduct pre-trial investigations of the most serious international crimes. We thank our partners for these opportunities and for the valuable experience gained. More to come!