3. The Elements of international crimes, in particular the mental element
3. The Elements of international crimes, in particular the mental element
- Antonio Cassese,
- Paola Gaeta,
- Laurel Baig,
- Mary Fan,
- Christopher Gosnell
- and Alex Whiting
Abstract
This chapter begins with a discussion of the two main features that characterize international crime. It then explains the objective structure of international crime, which divides these crimes into conduct; consequences; and circumstances. This is followed by discussions of the mental element of international criminal law; intent; special intent (dolus specialis) recklessness or indirect intent, knowledge, culpable or gross negligence, the mental element in the International Criminal Court Statute, and judicial determination of the mental element.
