This commentary has been submitted in response to the Joint Committee on Human Rights’ call for evidence in relation to its inquiry into the human rights implications of UK extradition policy.
Jurisdiction over international crimes committed abroad by suspects in the UK is firmly established by a robust legislative framework with few “impunity gaps”. Despite this, there have been very few prosecutions. Rather, the apparent policy seems to be to leave cases in limbo in the hope of a successful extradition, even where an attempt to extradite has already failed. This approach is wrong is principle, and is at variance with the UK’s obligations under international law. Redress calls for a holistic policy of extradition aimed at ensuring accountability for the most egregious crimes within our jurisdiction.