Journal of Danubian Studies and Research, Vol 4, No 1 (2014)

Abstract

The emergence of legal rules governing criminal liability for genocide represents the natural response of society in the face of criminal phenomena that can not be categorized otherwise than atrocities. Punishing those responsible for committing these abominations is the result of strong consecration of fundamental principles of international humanitarian law. Regulations concerning the methods and means of wearing the war, limiting or prohibiting the use of certain types of weapons and ammunition and protection of victims of armed conflict is precisely the meaning of prevention of genocide. Starting from the basic principles of international humanitarian law, the international community has expressed a desire to define the concept of genocide rigorously and clearly as possible, thus being created the prerequisites for the criminalization of actions and deeds circumcised to the genocide phenomenon with which humanity faced throughout history. Studying genocide, a serious violation of human rights, can help us understand where that offense and other acts of mass violence are likely to occur and may lead to warning signs of impending violence and can suggest ways such acts can be prevented.