Press Releases

28.11.2023

Verdict in Gambia Atrocity Case

A German court in the city of Celle is expected to deliver a verdict on November 30, 2023, in the first trial based on universal jurisdiction in Germany for crimes committed in The Gambia. The trial concerns Bai L., an alleged member of the “Junglers,” a paramilitary unit also known as the “Patrol Team,” which was set up by then-president Yahya Jammeh in the mid-1990s. Jammeh’s 22-year rule was marked by systematic oppression and widespread human rights violations, including torture, extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and sexual violence against actual and perceived opponents.

16.11.2023

Argentinische Militärdiktatur: Angeklagter Ex-Militär Luis Kyburg gestorben

ECCHR laments lack of proceedings and justice

Die Berliner Generalstaatsanwaltschaft bestätigte heute den Tod des ehemaligen argentinischen Marineoffizier Luis Kyburg. Gegen Kyburg liegt seit 2013 ein internationaler Haftbefehl wegen Verbrechen gegen die Menschlichkeit vor. Seit 2014 ermittelt die Berliner Generalstaatsanwaltschaft gegen Kyburg wegen Verdacht des Mordes. In seiner Funktion als Vizekommandant einer Eliteeinheit auf der Marinebasis Mar del Plata soll Kyburg 1976 zu Beginn der argentinischen Militärdiktatur (1976 – 1983) mitverantwortlich für schwerste Verbrechen gewesen sein.

08.11.2023

There is No Alternative to Peace Based on Justice

After the 7 October 2023 attacks by Hamas against civilians in Israel, we mourned the loss of so many lives. Since the subsequent attacks by Israeli forces in Gaza, we are mourning the loss of so many Palestinian civilian lives. The situation is unbearable and peace is urgently needed – but not currently in sight. We know that justice comes too late and is never enough, but nevertheless, crucial and important steps can and must be undertaken immediately. Thus, we are demanding impartial and independent investigations by international and national prosecutors and courts into the situation in Palestine and Israel.

08.11.2023

Climate litigation against Holcim

The four plaintiffs are granted legal aid

After four inhabitants of the sinking Indonesian island of Pari filed a lawsuit against the Swiss cement company Holcim in January 2023, there is first news from the court. In October, the Zug Cantonal Court approved the request of Asmania, Arif, Bobby and Edi for legal aid. For the four plaintiffs, this is an important interim step in the continuation of the proceedings against the Zug-based Holcim AG. The case represents the first time a Swiss court addresses the question of whether a corporation can be held liable under civil law for its contribution to climate change.

11.09.2023

After DNA-matching: Relatives at Kilimanjaro demand early return of their identified ancestors and apology from Germany

After an analysis initiated by the research-exhibition "Marejesho", ancestral remains of victims of German colonial rule have been identified by DNA for the first time. The descendants in Tanzania are now demanding prompt repatriation, an apology from Germany for colonial crimes, and negotiations on reparations. Personal belongings are also to be returned. The exhibition "Marejesho" can be seen at TA T in Berlin from October 12, 2023.

20.07.2023

Italian-made bombs in deadly airstrike in Yemen

Strasbourg Court has unprecedented opportunity to deliver justice to survivors

Relatives of victims and one survivor of a deadly airstrike in Yemen, conducted by the Saudi-led military coalition using Italian-made bombs, submitted a complaint against Italy with the European Court of Human Rights. The three applicants argue that the Italian judiciary failed to hold arms manufacturer RWM Italia S.p.a. and senior officials of Italy’s National Authority for the Export of Armament accountable for the violation of their right to life, as set out in Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights.