Traumatised Witnesses in International Criminal Trials

This book focuses on the testimonial evidence of traumatised witnesses in trials of international crimes, which deal with acts of genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. Such trials often involve the testimonies of those who experienced or witnessed extremely traumatic events, which can make it hard for these witnesses to recall specific details. Testifying during trial may in itself also pose challenges to their well-being. Yet the legal process of determining whether someone can be held criminally responsible for the alleged crimes needs to be fair, in accordance with the right to a fair trial of the accused, and the facts need to be determined as accurately as possible. This book argues that to ensure fair and accurate fact-finding when in particular traumatised witnesses testify, a balance needs to be struck between the needs of witnesses who testify about traumatic experiences, the fair trial rights of the accused and the objective of the court to establish as accurately as possible the responsibility of the accused. This is crucial throughout the stages of selecting, preparing, presenting and assessing the testimonial evidence of traumatised witnesses. The methodology involves an analysis of transcripts of proceedings and case law of the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, the International Criminal Court and Dutch courts prosecuting international crimes. The research demonstrates that it is often difficult to strike a balance between the competing objectives during proceedings when traumatised witnesses testify due to the current lack of regulations and guidelines applicable during investigations and prosecutions. This book shows that this balance can, and should, be achieved when traumatised witnesses testify during criminal proceedings for international crimes. The work is an invaluable resource for researchers, academics and practitioners in criminal law, criminology, legal psychology, legal psychiatry, social anthropology and forensic sciences.

'In her groundbreaking book Traumatised Witnesses in International Criminal Trials, Suzanne Schot examines the process by which international criminal courts select, present, and assess the testimony of traumatised witnesses. Meticulously researched and brimming with practical advice for investigators, prosecutors, and judges, the book argues that a balance must be found?and guidelines established?that respect the psycho-social needs of traumatised witnesses, the rights of the accused, and the need to establish certain facts relevant to the proceedings. It is a book that is long overdue.'

Eric Stover, Co-Faculty Director, Human Rights Center, University of California, Berkeley School of Law

'Traumatised Witnesses in International Criminal Trials is a tour de force, providing a detailed and comprehensive treatment of a topic that is of crucial importance to the success and legitimacy of contemporary international criminal law. The book is exceptionally thorough, addressing both large-scale and minute challenges facing traumatized witnesses who seek to bear witness, and it is equally insightful.'

Professor Nancy Combs, Ernest W. Goodrich Professor of Law, William & Mary Law School, Williamsburg Virginia