State-sponsored torture is clearly the most despicable practice in the world. Yet punishing torture remains controversial – especially when it comes to holding the political elite of regimes to account. Trials of high-level officials implicated in torture continue to fail, both in their home countries and abroad. The result is often impunity.

This study examines the political, legal and practical hurdles that have so far limited the effectiveness of universal jurisdiction in addressing this impunity gap. It explores how universal jurisdiction can strengthen the framework of international legal accountability for torture. To this end, internationally acclaimed trials of controversial individuals (eg: Pinochet, Zardad, Habré) are highlighted.

This book is an indispensable tool for understanding the system of universal jurisdiction under the UN Convention against Torture. It is of particular interest to legal practitioners, academia, public officials and NGOs involved in the promotion of human rights.