Heightened risk of revictimization as a challenge stemming from digitalization and democratization of international criminal justice efforts: case study of Polish civil society organizations in the aftermath of the Russian aggression on Ukraine

auteur Kaja Kowalczewska
tijdschrift RIDP Libri (ISSN: )
jaargang 2024
aflevering Victim-Centred Criminal Justice
onderdeel Part 2: Investigative phase
publicatie datum 20 september 2024
taal English
pagina 99
samenvatting

Advancements in digital technologies are catalysing transformative changes in international criminal justice. This shift emphasizes the importance of understanding the human factor in legal proceedings, particularly emotions and their psychological impacts. This chapter investigates the impact of CSOs on the risk of revictimization during the documentation and prosecution of core international crimes. Focusing on Polish CSO activities following the Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022, the study examines their efforts within Poland, a neighbouring country that at one point hosted over three million Ukrainian refugees. The analysis focuses on Polish CSOs because of Poland’s limited experience with international humanitarian law violations. This focus provides a potential reference point for other states and CSOs in similar circum-stances. Using qualitative analysis of case studies and interviews conducted in early 2023, the chapter cross-references findings with the Guidelines formulated by Eurojust and the ICC-OTP. The goal is to contribute to the discourse on victim/survivor-centred justice by examining how digitalization influences the risks of revictimization and the broader quest for justice. Conclusions and recommendations aim to guide future CSO practices and international criminal justice efforts.