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Michael Higgins: ICJ risks destroying credibility if it redefines genocide

International Court of Justice is being pushed to use more expansive definition in case against Israel

A ruling expected shortly by the International Court of Justice in the Hague could pave the way for a host of countries, including Canada, to stand trial for genocide.

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In the case of Gambia versus Myanmar the ICJ has been asked to lower the threshold for genocide and if the judges agree it would almost certainly lead to an avalanche of lawfare cases.

Michael Higgins: ICJ risks destroying credibility if it redefines genocide Back to video

The World Court would find itself less concerned with justice than politics.

Indeed, politics is at the heart of the effort to reduce the standard for genocide. A lower standard would make it easier for South Africa to make its case at the ICJ that Israel is committing a genocide in Gaza.

Columnist Jesse Kline keeps you up to date with what’s happening in Israel and the effects of antisemitism on life here in Canada. Friday mornings.

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But if the ICJ lowers the threshold merely to appease those who wish to punish Israel then it makes a mockery of itself.

Genocide is the “crime of........

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