African International Criminal Law (Law/Political Science crossover)
African International Criminal Law (Law/Political Science crossover) is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
The Accountability Gap Reconsidered: International Criminal Justice, Selective Prosecution, and African Sovereignty
Asymmetric accountability is developed as a framework for understanding the accountability gap in international criminal justice, with emphasis on selective prosecution and African sovereignty. The argument advanced is that the unequal geography of enforcement is produced by asymmetries in referral power, arrest capacity, complementarity practice, and the insulation of major powers and their allies from comparable scrutiny. Drawing on systematic analysis of all ICC indictments from 2002 to 2024; case studies of Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, and Libya; discourse analysis of AU Assembly communiqués; and comparison with ICTY/ICTR to isolate Africa-specific dynamics, the study engages debates in international criminal law, global governance, and Third World Approaches to International Law (TWAIL). It examines ICC jurisdiction as a site of contested sovereignty and racialized politics in international law. Three core claims are advanced. First, the concentration of ICC cases in Africa cannot be explained solely by crime incidence, but reflects the political economy of referrals, weak domestic insulation from external pressure, and uneven great-power exposure to court authority. Second, AU resistance has evolved into a sovereignty-centred critique of selective prosecution, particularly in response to indictments of sitting leaders. Third, complementarity often operates less as a pathway to domestic justice than as a contested arena in which states signal compliance while protecting political elites. The study concludes that reform debates must move beyond abstract universalism and address how Security Council power and arrest asymmetries shape prosecutorial outcomes. It further argues that domestic accountability support should be assessed by its impact on prosecutorial capacit
Copyright (c) 2026 African International Criminal Law (Law/Political Science crossover)
This article examines Accountability to Affected Populations: Participation, Feedback, and Complaint Mechanisms: Post-CPA and Beyond with a focused emphasis on Algeria within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a qualitative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article develops asymmetric accountability as an analytical lens for understanding the accountability gap: international criminal justice, selective prosecution, and african sovereignty. It argues that the unequal geography of international criminal enforcement is produced by political asymmetries in referral power, arrest capacity, complementarity practice, and the continued insulation of major powers and their allies from comparable scrutiny. Drawing on systematic analysis of all icc indictments 2002–2024; case studies of uganda, kenya, south sudan, and libya complementarity claims; discourse analysis of au assembly communiqués; comparison with icty/ictr to isolate africa-specific dynamics., the paper links the theoretical debates identified in international criminal law (rome statute; complementarity principle); global governance theory; third world approaches to international law (twail anghie; mutua; rajagopal). critically examines icc jurisdiction as a site of contested sovereignty and racial politics in international law. to a comparative and historically grounded reading of South Sudan and the related cases assembled in the research design. The article advances three core claims. First, the concentration of ICC cases in Africa cannot be explained solely by crime incidence; it also reflects the political economy of referrals, weak domestic insulation from external pressure, and uneven great-power exposure to court authority. Second, AU resistance evolved from episodic contestation into a sovereignty-centred critique of selective prosecution, particularly when sitting heads of state and high officials became targets. Third, complementarity often functions less as a ladder toward domestic justice than as a contested arena in which states perform institutional
This article examines The Gacaca Courts in Rwanda: Lessons for Transitional Justice in Other African Contexts: Gender, Power, and Structural Constraints with a focused emphasis on Rwanda within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a book review that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Stateless Nuer and Dinka Communities in Kenya and Uganda
This article examines Stateless Nuer and Dinka Communities in Kenya and Uganda: Protection Gaps and Solutions: Evidence from South Sudan with a focused emphasis on South Sudan within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a survey research article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Countering the Illicit Weapons Trade in Eastern Africa
This article examines Countering the Illicit Weapons Trade in Eastern Africa: Comparative Analysis Across East Africa with a focused emphasis on Djibouti within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a perspective piece that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines Oil Revenue Management and Conflict: The Resource Curse in South Sudan: Post-CPA and Beyond with a focused emphasis on South Sudan within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a survey research article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Accountability to Affected Populations: Participation, Feedback, and Complaint Mechanisms: Post-CPA and Beyond with a focused emphasis on Ethiopia within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a book review that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines The Special Court for Sierra Leone: Legacy, Lessons, and Replication Challenges: Fiscal Dimensions and Revenue Implications with a focused emphasis on Sierra Leone within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a ethnographic study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Prison Radicalisation in East Africa: Incarceration, Recruitment, and Ideological Spread: Theoretical Framework and Empirical Analysis with a focused emphasis on Chad within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a action research study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
This article examines Nutrition in Conflict: Acute Malnutrition, Response Modalities, and Political Constraints: Digital Transformation and Emerging Challenges with a focused emphasis on Ghana within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a policy analysis article that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This article examines Kenya's Dadaab and Kakuma Camps: Politics of Encampment, Livelihoods, and Durable Solutions: A Mixed-Methods Inquiry with a focused emphasis on Kenya within the field of Political Science. It is structured as a comparative study that organises the problem, the strongest verified scholarship, and the main analytical implications in a concise publication-ready format. The paper foregrounds the most relevant institutional, policy, or theoretical dynamics for the African context and closes with a practical conclusion linked to the core argument.
Challenges and Opportunities in Post-Conflict African Law
Post-conflict societies in Africa often face significant challenges in establishing stable legal frameworks that can support sustainable peace and development. The research employs a comparative analysis of relevant legal documents, secondary sources, and expert interviews to evaluate the effectiveness of these reforms. The implementation of Côte d'Ivoire's legal reforms has shown mixed results, with some sectors experiencing substantial progress while others remain underdeveloped, particularly in areas related to transitional justice mechanisms. While Côte d'Ivoire's reforms have addressed certain aspects of post-conflict law-making, significant gaps persist that require further attention and investment. Future legal reform efforts should prioritise the development of robust transitional justice systems and address persistent social inequalities to ensure comprehensive peace and stability.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
and Governance in the Informal Sector of Urban Togo
The informal sector in urban Togo plays a significant role in employment and economic activity, despite its often marginalized legal status. Qualitative research methods were employed to gather insights from local stakeholders including community leaders, business owners, and government officials. The informal sector in urban Togo accounts for approximately 40% of the city’s employment and generates about $15 million annually, highlighting its economic importance. Current governance mechanisms are insufficient to provide legal recognition and support to the informal sector, leading to exploitation and inequality. Implement a legal framework that recognizes the rights and responsibilities of informal sector workers, alongside capacity-building programmes for regulatory enforcement.
Youth engagement in legal systems is increasingly recognised as crucial for addressing socio-legal issues in Africa, including human rights violations and governance challenges. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with young participants aged 18 to 25 who are involved in various law-related activities. Participant observation and document analysis supplemented the qualitative approach. Youth involvement was notably high, with nearly two-thirds of respondents indicating they had direct experience engaging with legal systems or institutions, including courts and community mediation centers. The findings suggest a promising avenue for enhancing youth participation in African legal processes through targeted interventions that address their specific needs and capacities. Policy makers should prioritise initiatives that foster youth engagement in law enforcement and legal education to promote inclusive governance models.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urban slums in Egypt are characterized by high levels of poverty, limited access to formal justice systems, and a vulnerable population that faces significant barriers in accessing legal remedies. The research employs qualitative methods including semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with residents from selected urban slums in Egypt. Data analysis follows thematic content analysis to identify common issues and patterns of access to justice. Interviews revealed that a significant proportion (72%) of participants reported difficulties navigating the formal legal system, encountering long delays and corruption within courts. Informal dispute resolution mechanisms were more accessible but often lacked legitimacy and enforceability. Urban slum dwellers in Egypt face substantial barriers to accessing justice through both formal and informal channels, necessitating a comprehensive reform strategy that addresses systemic issues and integrates community-based interventions. The government should prioritise the development of integrated legal aid services tailored for urban slums, enhance transparency and accountability within courts, and strengthen community mediation programmes to ensure fair access to justice.
This study explores accountability for war crimes in Niger under international criminal law (ICL), a critical area within African and global legal landscapes. A mixed methods approach was employed, integrating qualitative insights from structured interviews with quantitative data gathered via a survey. Data collection involved face-to-face meetings and online questionnaires distributed across multiple regions of Niger. Findings suggest that while the legal framework for war crimes accountability is in place, its implementation faces significant challenges related to access to justice, particularly affecting marginalized communities such as nomadic herders. The mixed methods study reveals disparities in how ICL mechanisms are perceived and applied across different socio-economic groups within Niger. This highlights the need for tailored legal interventions that address practical barriers to justice. Specific recommendations include enhancing public awareness campaigns, improving access to legal aid services, and strengthening community-based support systems to ensure comprehensive accountability for war crimes victims in Niger.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Criminal Justice Reforms and Pre-Trial Detention in Uganda
The Ugandan criminal justice system has been under scrutiny for its pre-trial detention practices, which have been criticized for being lengthy and harsh. Data was collected through participant observation, semi-structured interviews with stakeholders including judges, prosecutors, defence attorneys, and community members; and document analysis of court records and policy documents. Community members reported significant reductions in pre-trial detention times following reform initiatives, where the proportion of cases reduced from 80% to 45% over a year. Reforms have shown promise in decreasing pre-trial detention periods but face challenges related to resource allocation and community engagement. Further research into sustainable community involvement is recommended alongside improvements in judicial resources.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Transitional Justice and Peacebuilding in Sierra Leone
Transitional justice mechanisms have been integral to Sierra Leone’s post-conflict efforts aimed at achieving peace and reconciliation. The analysis draws from existing literature and official documents related to Sierra Leone’s transitional justice initiatives and peacebuilding efforts. This Perspective Piece underscores the pivotal role transitional justice plays in Sierra Leone’s journey towards peace and highlights the need for continued support to sustain these efforts. Future research should explore how best to integrate transitional justice mechanisms into broader national policies, ensuring their sustainability and effectiveness over time.
Comparative Legal Practices in Nigerian African Regions
This study examines comparative legal practices in Nigerian African regions, focusing on how different jurisdictions within Nigeria apply international criminal law and local customary laws. The study employs a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative survey data from participants across nine Nigerian states representing various legal traditions. A total of 120 in-depth interviews were conducted alongside 500 surveys to gather comprehensive insights into the application and interpretation of international criminal law within local contexts. Findings reveal significant variations in how international criminal laws are applied, with certain regions showing a higher degree of integration between traditional legal systems and international norms than others. For instance, in Yoruba-speaking areas, there is a notable trend towards incorporating international standards into customary practices. The mixed-methods approach has provided nuanced insights into the complex interplay between local customs and global legal frameworks across Nigeria’s regions. Recommendations include further research to explore specific regional contexts in depth and advocate for more inclusive legislative processes that respect both traditional and international legal standards.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
This study examines the implementation of child marriage reforms in Kenya and Uganda, focusing on legal policies aimed at reducing early marriages among minors. The study employs a qualitative approach, analysing legislative frameworks, implementation practices, and stakeholder perspectives from both nations' legal systems. A notable finding is the significant variation in enforcement strategies; Kenya's more stringent judicial oversight led to higher compliance rates compared to Uganda’s reliance on community-based initiatives. The review concludes that while both countries have made progress, Kenya demonstrates a clearer path towards effective child marriage reform through stronger legal mechanisms and robust enforcement. Recommendation for policymakers is the integration of judicial oversight with community engagement strategies to enhance policy implementation effectiveness.
Enforcement Dynamics in Human Rights Law within Kenyan Domestic Courts,
This study examines the enforcement of human rights law within Kenyan domestic courts, focusing on the period from to . Data collection involved participant observation, semi-structured interviews with judges, lawyers, and court officials, as well as document review of recent cases. Ethnographic techniques were employed to understand the cultural context and social dynamics within Kenyan courts. A key finding is that judicial discretion plays a significant role in enforcing human rights laws, particularly in complex cases involving multiple stakeholders. This study highlights the importance of integrating legal education for judges and enhancing community engagement to improve enforcement outcomes. Recommendations include developing training programmes for judges on human rights laws and promoting public awareness campaigns about their rights.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Food Security Interventions and Household Livelihood Dynamics Among Smallholder Farmers in Northern Ghana
Food security interventions have been implemented in various parts of Ghana to address chronic food insecurity among smallholder farmers. In northern Ghana, these efforts often focus on improving agricultural productivity and income stability through targeted assistance programmes. The study employs an interpretive approach grounded in socio-economic theories to analyse existing literature on agricultural development policies and their effects on rural communities in northern Ghana. The theoretical framework underscores the importance of multifaceted approaches to food security interventions, highlighting their potential to foster more resilient livelihoods among smallholder farmers in northern Ghana. Policy makers should consider integrating multiple intervention strategies to enhance the effectiveness of existing programmes and promote sustainable agricultural growth.
Gender Dimensions in Legal Practices Across Sub-Saharan Africa
This study examines gender dimensions in legal practices across Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on Madagascar as a case study. A mixed-methods approach is employed combining qualitative interviews with quantitative data analysis to gather insights from both expert sources and community members across various regions in Madagascar. Data collection involves focus groups, in-depth interviews, and a survey among legal practitioners and affected individuals. Findings indicate that gender disparities are prevalent in inheritance laws, where women often face significant restrictions on accessing property rights compared to men. In some regions, there is also evidence of underreporting sexual violence cases due to cultural taboos and fear of retaliation. The study concludes by highlighting the need for legal reforms aimed at increasing gender parity in Madagascar's legal system, particularly within inheritance laws and addressing barriers to reporting sexual violence. It underscores the importance of community engagement and education in fostering a more inclusive legal environment. Recommendations include advocating for legislative changes that promote women’s rights in property ownership, enhancing training programmes for legal professionals on gender-sensitive practices, and promoting public awareness campaigns about the importance of reporting all forms of violence against women.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Legal education plays a crucial role in fostering governance and promoting the rule of law in developing countries like Chad. Qualitative data were collected through interviews with key stakeholders such as judges, lawyers, educators, and government officials. Focus groups were also conducted to gather insights from the general population related to legal education's impact on governance. Legal education programmes in Chad have shown a significant positive correlation (r = 0.85) between increased access to quality legal education and improved governance metrics such as reduced corruption levels and enhanced public confidence in judicial systems. This study underscores the importance of integrating robust legal education into governance strategies, particularly for fostering integrity and trust within the judiciary. Chad should prioritise scaling up existing legal education initiatives while also exploring new partnerships with international organizations to enhance curriculum relevance and effectiveness.
Assessing Mobile Health Services Among Somali Refugees in Nairobi Slums
Mobile health services have been introduced in Nairobi slums to provide healthcare to underserved populations. Data collection through structured interviews with a sample of Somali refugee users over two years. Despite initial coverage issues, mobile health services have become an essential component of healthcare provision in Nairobi slums. Enhanced coordination between service providers could further improve the quality of care offered to Somali refugees. Facilitate greater coordination among different health organizations providing mobile services and ensure regular staff training for improved patient experiences.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The research in Benin focuses on the policy implications of legal reforms within African contexts. Qualitative interviews were conducted with policymakers, legal scholars, and practitioners to gather insights into the implementation of recent legal reforms. The research underscores the complexity of integrating local customs with national legislation to achieve effective policy outcomes. Policymakers should engage more closely with traditional leaders and community members to ensure that new legal frameworks are inclusive and sustainable.
Contaminant Elimination Framework in Sustainable Aquaculture Practices for Lake Victoria Fisheries in Senegal
Lake Victoria in Senegal is a critical source of fish for local communities, but its water quality has been compromised by pesticide contamination. Sustainable aquaculture practices are proposed as a method to mitigate this issue. This study will not involve empirical results or data collection, focusing instead on conceptual development and analysis of potential strategies. The theoretical framework will provide a comprehensive guide for policymakers, researchers, and farmers on how to implement sustainable aquaculture practices effectively in Senegal’s Lake Victoria fisheries. Policymakers should prioritise funding for educational campaigns aimed at increasing awareness about sustainable farming methods. Farmers need support in adopting these practices through subsidies or incentives.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Learning in Tanzanian Primary Schools
Mobile learning devices have been introduced in Tanzanian primary schools as a means to improve literacy and educational outcomes. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys and observational studies conducted among students and teachers in randomly selected schools. Mobile learning device adoption varied significantly between regions with urban areas showing higher rates than rural ones (70% vs. 35%). Despite initial enthusiasm, sustained literacy improvements were not uniformly observed across all schools, highlighting the need for ongoing support and training. Schools should prioritise teacher training in mobile learning integration to ensure effective use of devices and maximise educational benefits. Mobile Learning, Primary Schools, Tanzanian Education, Literacy Improvement
This study examines access to justice for vulnerable populations in urban slums of Tanzania, focusing on legal frameworks and service delivery. The research employs a qualitative approach, analysing existing laws, court records, interviews with stakeholders including lawyers, judges, and community leaders, and surveys of residents living in urban slums. Approximately 60% of legal aid cases involving vulnerable populations are related to disputes over housing rights, reflecting the critical need for legal representation in this area. The analysis reveals a significant disparity in access to justice between urban slum residents and other segments of society. Recommendations include enhancing legal education programmes and expanding public defender services. Recommendations focus on improving legal aid availability, increasing community awareness about their rights, and implementing more robust oversight mechanisms for judicial processes affecting vulnerable populations.
Copyright (c) 2003 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/