The Physical, Biological and Cultural Dimensions of Genocide: An Expansive Interpretation of the Crime?

This paper deconstructs the definition of genocide provided for by Article II Genocide Convention with a view to assessing whether an expanding scope crime is possible. The current does not seem correspond original conception term, which finds its roots in Raphael Lemkin’s writings, “father” Convention. Lemkin envisaged three forms genocide, namely physical, biological, and cultural, so as convey concrete idea number faces that could show over time. drafters largely discussed three-dimensional structure which, end, did reach consensus when pondering inclusion cultural component within so-called crimes. notwithstanding, there are still some remnants dimension although it reads differently initially envisioned. In addition, this introduces reader examples recent years have dealt explicitly or implicitly question ‘cultural genocide’, whose has never been clearly determined. certainly problematic inasmuch no unanimity was evidenced throughout discussions preceded adoption Broadly speaking, notion genocide’ appears refer intent destroy, entirely, partially, traits characterise modus vivendi certain group, encompassing both tangible intangible attributes. regard, article also considers different alternatives might circumvent strict order subsume similar offences against characteristics group other serious crimes under international law.