Weekly News Recap (16 – 22 March 2026) © Photo by Swiveler via Flickr International Justice Section PCA: Hearings Begin in Rwanda’s Arbitration Proceedings Against UK Over Cancelled Migration Agreement...
Weekly News Recap (18 - 24 November 2024)
© Photo by Kelly Michals via Flickr
- Hong Kong: Court of First Instance Sentences 45 Opposition Activists for Subversion
- ICC: Court Sentences Al Hassan to 10 Years In Prison for Crimes Against Humanity in Mali
- Thailand: Civil Court Dismisses Case on Unlawful Use of Spyware Despite Allegations of Human Rights Violations
- Brazil: Former President Indicted For Alleged Coup and Criminal Involvement Post 2022 Elections
- ICC: Arrest Warrants Issued for Israeli Prime Minister, Defence Minister and Hamas Military Commander for Alleged War Crimes
- South Korea: Court Issues Arrest Warrant for Former Lawmaker in Campaign Finance Scandal
- IRMCT: Review Judgment Pronounced in Appeals Case Against Gérard Ntakirutimana For Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity Involvement
- US: New York Court Indefinitely Delays President-Elect Trump Sentencing in Hush Money Case
International Peace & Security Section
UN: Russia Vetoes Security Council Resolution for Ceasefire in Sudan
US-Philippines: Military Intelligence-Sharing Agreement Signed To Strengthen Security Ties
Ukraine: 14.6 Million People in Need of Humanitarian Assistance
Russia: New Doctrine Lowering the Threshold for Nuclear Weapons Approved by President Putin
Syria: Accused of Failing to Comply with ICJ Order to Prevent Torture
UN: US Vetoes UN Security Council Resolution for Ceasefire in Gaza
UK-Moldova: Both Nations Sign Agreements on Migration, Defence and Security
- Hungary: Air Defence System To Be Deployed Near Border with Ukraine
International Justice Section
Hong Kong: Court of First Instance Sentences 45 Opposition Activists for Subversion
On 19 November 2024, the Hong Kong Court of First Instance sentenced 45 pro-democracy activists to prison terms ranging from 50 to 120 months for conspiracy to commit subversion. The case centres on an unauthorised primary election in 2020, organised to secure a Legislative Council majority and push for reforms such as universal suffrage and investigations into police misconduct. The court deemed the scheme a serious threat under the National Security Law (NSL), enacted by Beijing in 2020 to curb dissent. Benny Tai Yiu-ting, identified as a principal offender, received a 10-year sentence, reduced by one-third for a timely plea. Other principal offenders, Au Nok-hin, Chiu Ka-yin Andrew, and Chung Kam-lun, received sentences of 73 to 84 months. Active participants faced prison terms of 50 to 93 months, varying based on their roles and mitigating factors. The court rejected claims that the improbability of achieving the activists’ goals lessened the offence’s seriousness but acknowledged that some defendants acted under the belief their actions were lawful. Secretary for Security Chris Tang affirmed the ruling as a warning against threats to national security. Appeals against some acquittals are under consideration.
ICC: Court Sentences Al Hassan to 10 Years In Prison for Crimes Against Humanity in Mali
On 20 November 2024, Trial Chamber X of the International Criminal Court (ICC) sentenced Al Hassan Ag Abdoul Aziz Ag Mohamed Ag Mahmoud to 10 years in prison for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Timbuktu, Mali, between May 2012 and January 2013. The judgment allows for appeals by either party. Judge Kimberly Prost, the presiding judge, emphasised the significance of the sentencing phase in ensuring accountability and recognizing the harm suffered by victims. The Chamber considered the gravity of Al Hassan’s crimes, his level of involvement, and both aggravating and mitigating factors, including his minor assistance to civilians during 2012-2013 and his cooperation during the investigation. Despite these mitigating factors, the crimes—such as persecution, torture, mutilation, and other serious offenses—were deemed extremely grave. The sentence includes credit for time Al Hassan spent in ICC detention from March 2018 to November 2024 but excludes additional time spent in Malian custody since April 2017.
https://www.icc-cpi.int/news/mr-al-hassan-sentenced-10-years-imprisonment
Thailand: Civil Court Dismisses Case on Unlawful Use of Spyware Despite Allegations of Human Rights Violations
On 21 November 2024, Amnesty International criticised a Thai court’s dismissal of a lawsuit against NSO Group Technologies over alleged misuse of its Pegasus spyware, calling it a significant setback in the fight against spyware abuse and human rights violations. Thai activist Jatupat “Pai Dao Din” Boonpattararaksa had filed the suit in July 2023, claiming Pegasus was used to target pro-democracy activists, violating their right to privacy. The Bangkok Civil Court dismissed the case, citing insufficient evidence linking forensic findings to the spyware’s misuse. Amnesty expressed disappointment, emphasising NSO Group’s alleged role in enabling human rights abuses and the failure to ensure accountability. Pai’s lawsuit was based on findings that Pegasus targeted at least 30 individuals involved in Thailand’s 2020–2021 pro-democracy protests. Amnesty supported Pai, arguing NSO failed to adequately investigate misuse, despite promising accountability after the 2021 Pegasus Project revelations. NSO contended it only licensed and trained users but was not responsible for misuse. Amnesty underscored Thailand’s obligations under its constitution and international law to safeguard privacy and provide remedies for human rights abuses. It also highlighted the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, which require businesses like NSO to address human rights impacts, and for governments to ensure accountability for corporate misconduct.
Brazil: Former President Indicted For Alleged Coup and Criminal Involvement Post 2022 Elections
On 21 November 2024, Brazil’s federal police indicted former President Jair Bolsonaro and 36 others for alleged crimes including attempts to subvert the democratic order, planning a coup, and involvement in a criminal organisation to keep Bolsonaro in power after the 2022 elections. The indictment, approved by the Supreme Federal Court, aims to ensure transparency and counter misinformation about the investigation. Key individuals indicted include Bolsonaro’s former ministers Anderson Gustavo Torres (Justice), Augusto Heleno Ribeiro Pereira (Institutional Security), and Walter Braga Netto (Defence). The indictments stem from nearly two years of investigations involving plea bargains, searches, and judicially authorised measures. Bolsonaro’s charges also connect to the January 8, 2023 riots, which were seen as efforts to overturn the election results, and a separate case involving falsified vaccination records during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bolsonaro has criticised Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, accusing him of biassed investigations and undermining democracy. The former president claims the charges are politically motivated, targeting him rather than safeguarding democratic principles.
ICC: Arrest Warrants Issued for Israeli Prime Minister, Defence Minister and Hamas Military Commander for Alleged War Crimes
On 21 November 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC)’s Pre-Trial Chamber I announced its decision on Israel’s jurisdictional challenge and the issuance of three arrest warrants pursuant to the investigation in the Situation in Palestine. Israel’s jurisdictional challenges were rejected as premature and the ICC reaffirmed its previous decision that the Court can exercise its jurisdiction on the basis of territorial jurisdiction of Palestine. The judges issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, as well as senior Hamas leader Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri, also known as Deif. The arrest warrants allege that Netanyahu and Gallant each bear criminal responsibility for the following crimes as co-perpetrators for committing the acts jointly with others: the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare; and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts. Deif was alleged to be ‘responsible for the crimes against humanity of murder; extermination; torture; and rape and other form of sexual violence; as well as the war crimes of murder, cruel treatment, torture; taking hostages; outrages upon personal dignity; and rape and other form of sexual violence’ under secondary modes of liability.
South Korea: Court Issues Arrest Warrant for Former Lawmaker in Campaign Finance Scandal
On 22 November 2024, a South Korean court issued pretrial arrest warrants for Myung Tae-kyun, a political consultant, and Kim Young-sun, a former lawmaker from the ruling People Power Party, over allegations of violating political funding laws. The Changwon District Court authorised the arrests in connection with a high-profile scandal implicating President Yoon Suk Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon-hee. Prosecutors allege that Myung received approximately US$54,000 from Kim in exchange for helping secure her nomination in a parliamentary by-election in June 2022. Myung purportedly leveraged his relationship with the president’s wife to influence the nomination process. Kim, in turn, is accused of providing financial support under the guise of political expenses. The defence argued that the funds were meant to settle earlier election-related debts and denied allegations of ongoing payments. They claim that half of Kim’s salary was transferred to Myung only to repay the borrowed amount. The case has intensified scrutiny on President Yoon after a phone call surfaced between him and Myung a day before his inauguration in 2022. In the recording, Yoon reportedly mentioned recommending Kim to the party’s nomination committee, raising concerns about undue influence in the selection process.
IRMCT: Review Judgment Pronounced in Appeals Case Against Gérard Ntakirutimana For Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity Involvement
On 22 November 2024, the Appeals Chamber of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT) ruled on a review request in the case of Prosecutor v. Gérard Ntakirutimana. The Chamber partially granted a review in May 2024 to assess the credibility of Witness HH’s alleged recantation of testimony, which was pivotal to Ntakirutimana’s convictions for aiding and abetting genocide and crimes against humanity in attacks at Gitwe Hill in 1994. During hearings on 18–19 November 2024, the Chamber examined Witness HH’s testimony and submissions from both parties. It concluded that Witness HH did not credibly recant his previous testimony. Consequently, the convictions based on this testimony remain valid. Ntakirutimana, a former medical doctor at the Mugonero Hospital in Rwanda, was originally convicted in 2003 for genocide and crimes against humanity for actions during the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. These included killings at the Mugonero Hospital, aiding and abetting genocide at the Mugonero Complex, and participating in attacks at Mubuga Primary School. He was granted early release in 2014, but this review focused solely on the Gitwe Hill-related charges.
US: New York Court Indefinitely Delays President-Elect Trump Sentencing in Hush Money Case
On 22 November 2024, a New York judge indefinitely postponed Donald Trump’s sentencing in his hush-money case following his victory in the 2024 presidential election. Sentencing had been scheduled for 26 November 2024, but Judge Juan Merchan granted the delay after a joint request from prosecutors and Trump’s defence team, citing the unique circumstances of Trump’s election and its impact on the four criminal cases against him. The judge also allowed Trump’s legal team to file a motion to dismiss the case entirely, with the defence arguing that continuing the prosecution would destabilise the presidential transition and violate the Constitution, the Presidential Transition Act of 1963, and the “interests of justice.” The motion to dismiss is due 2 December 2024, with a prosecution response by 9 December 2024. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has vowed to oppose the dismissal. The delay aligns with broader legal developments involving Trump. Federal cases, including a classified documents case led by Special Prosecutor Jack Smith and a federal election interference case, have also been paused or adjusted due to Trump’s election. Trump was previously found guilty in May 2024 of 34 felony counts for falsifying business records related to hush-money payments to Stormy Daniels. These delays reflect uncharted legal territory as Trump prepares to assume the presidency while facing multiple criminal charges.
International Peace & Security Section
UN: Russia Vetoes Security Council Resolution for Ceasefire in Sudan
On 18 November 2024, Russia vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for an end to hostilities in Sudan. The draft resolution put forward by the UK and Sierra Leone called on all parties in Sudan’s war to cease fighting and to take steps to agreeing a national ceasefire, as well as ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid. All other 15 members of the Security Council voted in favour. The Sudan war broke out in April 2023, following tensions between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) ahead of a planned transition to civilian rule. The government of Sudan praised the Russian stance, and in a statement said it was a demonstration of support for the “independence and unity of Sudan and its national institutions.” Deputy Russian UN Ambassador, Dmitry Polyanskiy, accused backers of the resolution of “double standards” as they have allowed Israel’s violations of international humanitarian law in Gaza to continue. UK Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, described the Russian veto as “mean, nasty and cynical” and added they are “the enemy of peace.” According to UN estimates, half of the 25 million Sudanese population need aid as famine has spread through displacement camps, while 11 million people have fled their homes, more than three million of those have fled to other countries.
https://www.reuters.com/world/russia-vetoes-un-security-council-action-sudan-war-2024-11-18/
US-Philippines: Military Intelligence-Sharing Agreement Signed To Strengthen Security Ties
On 18 November 2024, the US and the Philippines signed a military intelligence-sharing deal in a move that further strengthens security ties between the two nations. Philippine Secretary of Defence, Gilberto Teodoro, signed the agreement with US Secretary of Defence, Lloyd Austin, during a visit to Manila. The deal, called the General Security of Military Information Agreement, allows for the sharing of classified information and simplifies the sale of certain classified technologies. The Philippines described the deal as a “critical step to enhance information sharing and deepen interoperability between the Philippines and the US.” Security engagements between the Philippines and the US have developed with both countries keen to counter China’s hostile strategy in the South China Sea. The two countries already have a mutual defence treaty signed in 1951, which could be invoked if either nation came under attack. In July, the US announced US$500 million in military aid for the Philippines. In 2023, they announced US troops would have access to four more military bases in the country. China has deployed navy and coast guard vessels to the South China Sea even though an international ruling has said their claim to the waterway has no legal basis. The Philippines say their boats have been harassed by the Chinese vessels and have stopped them from accessing some islands in the waters. This has resulted in violent clashes over the past 18 months and concerns the US could get caught in a conflict due to its defence agreement with the Philippines.
Ukraine: 14.6 Million People in Need of Humanitarian Assistance
On 19 November 2024, Director General of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope, said in a statement that more than 14.6 million people across Ukraine are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance as the Russian war in Ukraine has now passed a thousand days. The number includes 3.5 million people who are displaced within the country, many of whom are women, children, elderly and people with disabilities. Pope added that the attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure have destroyed 65 percent of the country’s generation capacity, and with winter arriving, leaves communities grappling without electricity, heating or water. She stated as a matter of survival for millions of people the international community must come together in solidarity. The IOM urges governments, private sector leaders and individuals to “sustain their support for those in greatest need.”
https://www.iom.int/news/iom-chief-marking-1000-days-start-full-scale-invasion-ukraine
Russia: New Doctrine Lowering the Threshold for Nuclear Weapons Approved by President Putin
On 19 November 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a revised doctrine lowering the threshold for the use of nuclear weapons. This comes days after Ukraine fired long-range US made ATACMS missiles into Russia. US President Joe Biden’s administration granted permission for Ukraine to use the weapons. The biggest alteration to the doctrine was that Russia could consider the use of nuclear weapons in response to a conventional attack on Russia or its ally Belarus that “created a critical threat to their sovereignty and (or) their territorial integrity.” The previous doctrine said Russia may use nuclear weapons in the event of a nuclear attack by an enemy or a conventional attack that threatened the existence of the state. The updated doctrine states “any attack by a non-nuclear power supported by a nuclear power would be considered a joint attack, and that any attack by one member of a military bloc would be considered an attack by the entire alliance.” The Russian defence ministry said Ukraine’s missile attack struck the Bryansk region with six missiles, five were intercepted by air defence systems and one was damaged. The Kremlin stated Russia considers nuclear weapons a means of deterrence, and the intention of the revised doctrine is to make clear the certainty of a retaliation should an enemy attack Russia.
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/putin-issues-warning-us-with-new-nuclear-doctrine-2024-11-19/
Lebanon: Continued Violence and Lack of Response from the International Community is the ‘Horrific New Normal’
On 19 November 2024, it was reported that ground clashes in Lebanon have become more violent and peacekeepers have witnessed the destruction of villages in southern Lebanon along the UN-patrolled Blue Line that separates the country from Israel, along with IDF ground incursions and continuing Hezbollah attacks. Israeli forces have been seen by the UN-mission carry out incursions two or three kilometres deeper into Lebanese territory before withdrawing. Daily Israeli airstrikes have caused widespread destruction of towns and villages. The hostilities have led to a “silent normalisation of horror” for the children of Lebanon, where three young kids have been killed each day on average for the past two months, and many more are injured and traumatised. Hundreds of thousands have been forced to flee their homes and the attacks have hit the infrastructure that children rely on, namely schools, medical facilities. Additionally, the psychological impact of the war on the kids and young people and the lack of a “meaningful response” to the killing of children from decision makers have massive impacts on mental health.
Syria: Accused of Failing to Comply with ICJ Order to Prevent Torture
On 20 November 2024, Human Rights Watch (HRW) accused Syria of failing to implement a 2023 International Court of Justice (ICJ) order requiring it to prevent acts of torture. Despite the ICJ’s directive, HRW and Amnesty International report that torture remains widespread in Syria’s detention facilities, with detainees subjected to severe beatings, electric shocks, and psychological abuse. The ICJ’s provisional measures, issued in a case brought by Canada and the Netherlands under the Convention Against Torture, ordered Syria to end arbitrary detentions, allow independent monitors access to detention centers, and preserve evidence of torture. The court also required Syria to share information about detainees and their burial sites with families. Rights groups assert that Syria has not taken these steps and warn that recent moves, such as dissolving Military Field Courts, may aim to destroy evidence of systemic abuse. Syria denies the allegations, claiming its actions are counter-terrorism measures, despite the absolute prohibition of torture under international law. UN bodies and NGOs describe the abuses as crimes against humanity, while European courts have pursued prosecutions for Syrian torture and war crimes under universal jurisdiction.
https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/11/20/syria-violating-world-court-order
UN: US Vetoes UN Security Council Resolution for Ceasefire in Gaza
On 20 November, 2024, the US vetoed a UNSC draft resolution that demanded an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, despite having secured 14 votes in favour, the resolution did not pass due to the veto. The resolution also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. For a resolution to be adopted, it must secure at least nine votes in favour, and no negatives or vetoes. Had the draft resolution been adopted, it would have given immediate access for civilians in Gaza to basic aid and services along with a demand to release hostages, exchange of Palestinian prisoners, the return of the remains of hostages who have been killed, the return of Palestinian civilians to their homes and neighbourhoods in all areas of Gaza and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
New Zealand: Large Protests Against Parliament, Opposing Proposed Legislation Which Could Undermine Māori Treaty Rights
On 20 November 2024, a historic protest took place in New Zealand, where over 40,000 people marched to parliament opposing proposed legislation that could undermine Māori treaty rights. The demonstration concluded a nine-day nationwide hīkoi (march), starting from Te Rerenga Wairua/Cape Reinga and passing through cities, including Auckland. The dispute centres on the Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840, which guarantees Māori rights to self-governance and land protections. Critics argue that the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill, introduced by parliamentarian David Seymour, would significantly weaken these rights and diminish Māori sovereignty. The protest, known as Toitū te Tiriti hīkoi, saw widespread participation, including tangata Tiriti (non-Māori allies) and prominent figures like the newly crowned Māori queen. Protesters, including Wellington MP Tamatha Paul, emphasised unity among Māori and non-Māori, rejecting interference with the Treaty. The bill now enters a six-month select committee process, where public submissions will be considered, though it is expected to be defeated in parliament.
UK-Moldova: Both Nations Sign Agreements on Migration, Defence and Security
On 20 November 2024, the UK announced it had signed a new readmissions agreement with Moldova intended to strengthen UK border security. UK Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, signed the agreement during a visit to Chisinau. The deal will guarantee the prompt identification and removal of Moldovan nationals who have no legal right to remain in the UK. The agreement comes as the UK reports an increase in overall deportations, with more than 9,400 people returned since the new government came into office in July. The two countries also signed a Defence and Security Partnership. Lammy outlined that despite Russian interference “the people of Moldova have chosen freedom, democracy, and independence. A decision we must help them protect.” He announced funding of GB£2 million to reinforce Moldova’s cybersecurity attempts. Further to this, the UK launched a GB£600,000 project aimed at improving Moldova’s capability of analysing suspicious financial activity and countering corruption.
Hungary: Air Defence System To Be Deployed Near Border with Ukraine
On 21 November 2024, Hungary Defence Minister, Kristof Szalay-Bobrovniczky, announced that an air defence system was going to be installed in Northeast Hungary, near the Ukraine border, as the Ukraine-Russia war intensified. On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin lowered the threshold for a nuclear strike. This decision came after Ukraine fired US long-range missiles for the first time into Russia, an attack Russia regards as a major escalation. Szalay-Bobrovniczky said Hungary would install air control and air defence systems to prepare for all possibilities. He stated the threat of the escalation of the Ukraine-Russia war is “greater than ever.” At present, the Hungarian military is undergoing a modernisation plan. Last year, they bought the French Mistral air defence systems, and in 2020, they agreed to buy NASAMS air defence systems. Szalay-Bobrovniczky did not specify which air defence systems would be installed at the border. He also added that units of the Hungarian military were on high alert.
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