Former UN Prosecutor Reflects on Decades-Long Fight for Justice

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a recent episode of the Echoes Across Time podcast, former UN International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals Senior Trial Attorney Rupert Elderkin reflected on his nearly 20-year career prosecuting some of the most serious international crimes, including cases stemming from The Hague and the Rwandan genocide. Elderkin emphasized the importance of persistence and moral clarity in confronting atrocities, even when evidence is old and perpetrators attempt to evade consequences.

Why it matters

Elderkin's work highlights the challenges and complexities of achieving justice for victims of war crimes and crimes against humanity, especially across decades and international borders. His insights into the role of empathy, resilience, and ethical responsibility in legal work provide valuable perspectives on the pursuit of accountability.

The details

In the episode, Elderkin discussed building cases that demonstrate how 'time, distance, and hiding do not place anyone beyond the reach of justice.' He described how early exposure to stories of resilience and sacrifice from his parents, who were shaped by World War II, influenced his understanding of responsibility and shaped his professional path. Elderkin also reflected on the tension between humanity's capacity for violence and its ability for compassion, underscoring the importance of accountability and ethical responsibility.

• Elderkin joined the UN International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals nearly 20 years ago.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The episode of Echoes Across Time featuring Rupert Elderkin is available for listeners to hear his full discussion on the pursuit of justice and accountability.