In an increasingly globalized world, accountability for international crimes remains a complex and evolving challenge. TRIAL International, a non-governmental organization headquartered in Geneva with offices in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Bosnia and Herzegovina, has made significant strides in its mission to combat impunity. TRIAL International focuses on investigating international crimes, offering legal support to victims, and pursuing strategic litigation to hold perpetrators accountable, no matter where they are. We spoke with Ingrid Beauquis, the Director of Fundraising & Communication, to learn more about their impactful work and how they are driving positive change.
TRIAL International’s Mission
TRIAL International was founded in 2002 and is dedicated to creating a world where impunity for crimes such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, enforced disappearances, sexual violence and extrajudicial execution is no longer tolerated. The organization operates on three main pillars: the investigation and documentation of crimes, capacity building for legal practitioners, and strategic litigation. Through this multi-faceted approach, TRIAL International contributes to legal cases that would otherwise face barriers due to lack of resources, political will, or access to evidence.
A notable area of TRIAL International’s work is its commitment to universal jurisdiction, a legal principle that allows any state to prosecute individuals for international crimes, regardless of where the crime was committed or the nationality of the perpetrators or victims. As Beauquis explained, universal jurisdiction offers crucial avenues to prosecute crimes that may otherwise go unpunished due to national obstacles.
Supporting Victims in the Quest for Justice
TRIAL International offers vital support to victims of international crimes, providing free legal assistance and facilitating their access to justice and reparation. This includes investigating and documenting the crimes they have suffered, finding the most effective legal paths to prosecute perpetrators, and ensuring victims’ participation in the judicial process. In addition to legal assistance, TRIAL International also provides logistical and psychological support to victims.
TRIAL International has successfully used universal jurisdiction to prosecute crimes when national justice systems fail. Beauquis highlighted recent successes in Germany and Switzerland, where trials led to convictions for crimes against humanity committed in Gambia under the Yahya Jammeh regime. These convictions were groundbreaking, not only because they held high-ranking officials accountable but also because they set important legal precedents under the universal jurisdiction framework.
Collaboration and Global Reach
TRIAL International’s work is deeply rooted in collaboration with both international and national NGOs. The organization coordinates with local partners to gather critical evidence and engage in legal proceedings, especially when it lacks the local expertise or direct access to key information.
Cross-border collaboration is also essential to TRIAL International’s advocacy efforts for more impact and ensures that justice for international crimes remains a priority for the global community. This cross-border support, including financial contributions from international donors, enables TRIAL International to remain independent and pursue cases based on justice rather than political interests.
Cross-border giving plays a crucial role in TRIAL International’s ability to operate beyond Switzerland and its established offices. Organizations like Transnational Giving Europe (TGE) facilitate donations from supporters in multiple countries, enabling TRIAL International to access funding from diverse sources and strengthen its global impact. For TRIAL International, cross-border donations are not just a financial necessity; they are a testament to the global community’s commitment to fighting impunity and supporting victims of international crimes.
Looking Ahead: Goals for the Future
As TRIAL International looks to the future, its primary goal remains clear: to continue fighting impunity and seeking justice for victims of international crimes. Over the next few years, the organization aims to expand its reach, increase its capacity to document and prosecute crimes, and further leverage universal jurisdiction to hold more perpetrators accountable.
Beauquis also highlighted the importance of fostering collaboration with local organizations and governments. As TRIAL International continues its work in high-profile cases and emerging conflict zones, it remains committed to its mission of ensuring that those responsible for heinous crimes face justice, no matter where they are.
TRIAL International’s work is a beacon of hope for victims of some of the world’s most egregious crimes. Through strategic litigation, collaboration with local and international partners, and unwavering dedication to justice, the organization has made significant strides in holding perpetrators accountable and supporting victims on their path to reparation. However, with limited resources and complex political landscapes, the fight against impunity is far from over. Cross-border support, both financial and advocacy-based, will continue to play a vital role in ensuring that TRIAL International can continue its critical work in the years to come.
To learn more about Trial International, visit the website: https://trialinternational.org/
For donations through TGE, please click: https://donate.transnationalgiving.eu/landing/trialinternational?lang=en_EN