Rachel Killean, The Benefits, Challenges, and Limitations of Criminalizing Ecocide, IPI Global Observatory (March 30, 2022)

This article introduces the new definition of ecocide by the Independent Expert Panel, considers the possible benefits and challenges associated with introducing it as a new crime at the ICC, and offers some thoughts on the role of ecocide in pursuing environmental and climate justice. The article concludes that the introduction of ecocide could play an important role in increasing accountability and access to reparations for environmental destruction. However, is important to acknowledge the limitations of criminalization as a means of addressing environmental destruction. While accountability and repair may play important parts in the pursuit of environmental and climate justice, far larger systematic changes will be needed to realize those goals.