International humanitarian law and ecocide: the war in Ukraine as a case study

Authors

  • Tetiana Duiunova Department of State Legal Disciplines and International Law, State Biotechnological University, 61002, 44 Alchevskykh Str., Kharkiv, Ukraine
  • Mikhailo Voznyk Department of Law Support, Social Studies Institute, National Defence University of Ukraine named after Ivan Cherniakhovskyi, 03049, 28 Povitroflotskyi Ave., Kyiv, Ukraine
  • Serhii Koretskyi Department of Law, Kyiv Cooperative Institute of Business and Law, 03022, 18 Lomonosov Str., Kyiv, Ukraine
  • Olena Chernetska Department of International Law, Educational and Research Institute of Law, State Tax University, 08205, 31 Universytetska Str., Irpin, Ukraine
  • Volodymyr Shylinhov Department of International Law, Educational and Research Institute of Law, State Tax University, 08205, 31 Universytetska Str., Irpin, Ukraine

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14712/23361964.2024.2

Keywords:

crime of ecocide, ecocide, environmental safety, international legal responsibility, international mechanism

Abstract

Ecocide, an illegal act that causes serious damage to the environment, has become one of the greatest threats to the planet. Ukraine, which has recently been exposed to ecocide, strives to bring the perpetrators to justice by applying to international judicial bodies and creating mechanisms for collecting evidence. Ecocide should be included in the list of crimes against humanity and properly regulated at the international level, which will contribute to the preservation of the environment and human security. The purpose of this article is to define the crime of ecocide under international humanitarian law, apply it to the conflict in Ukraine, and discuss possible international mechanisms for bringing to justice those who have committed ecocide. This paper showcases Ukraine’s legal and factual basis for holding Russia accountable for ecocide, which includes the destruction of natural resources, water and air pollution and actions that could result in environmental catastrophes. This paper emphasizes the importance of filing lawsuits with international bodies, international cooperation, public engagement, and resource mobilization for effective prosecution. Ukraine’s commitment to environmental protection through the pursuit of ecocide accountability is of global significance for the preservation of the planet and well-being of future generations.

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Published

2024-06-24

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Articles