The Signature of Evil

Beschrijving

In The Signature of Evil, the notion of torture in international law is explored, with the intention of discovering the precise meaning of this most infamous and yet still very prevalent practice. By devouring a wealth of international legal sources, and combining this with personal field research and a look at the historical, philosophical, cultural, political and social background of tortures use and abolition, this books first ambition is to define the term. This leads to an extensive and impressive overview, in which tortures constituent elements are carefully identified, thoroughly and meticulously scrutinised, and critically evaluated. On the basis of this synthesis and analysis, in which all possible uncertainties, problems and evolutions are highlighted and discussed, a redefinition is proposed, which does not shy away from setting foot on new terrain and trying what might be revolutionary roads. Some thought provoking ideas are suggested, and at times controversial choices are made, but all this is done in order to attain one all-important goal enhancing tortures absolute and non-derogable prohibition, and strengthening the international legal framework against unlawful abuse.brbrFrom the preface by Christine Van den Wyngaert, Judge in the ICCbrThis book is quite fascinating reading. It is well written, the ideas are clearly developed and the arguments are persuading. It is a must-read for students of international criminal law, international humanitarian law and of international human rights law. The, at times, provocative and challenging ideas that are spread all over the book, can only stimulate further legal thinking in these disciplines.brbr