Genocide Determination Bill [HL]

A Bill to provide for the High Court of England and Wales to make a preliminary finding on cases of alleged genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes; and for the subsequent referral of such findings to the International Criminal Court or a Special Tribunal

Originating House

House of Lords

Last Updated

8 November 2019

In Plain English

AI-generated

This bill would let the High Court of England and Wales issue a preliminary ruling on cases involving alleged genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes. If such a finding is made, it could be referred to the International Criminal Court or to a Special Tribunal for further action.

Key Points

The High Court would be able to issue a preliminary finding on alleged genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes in eligible cases.
Any such finding could be referred to the International Criminal Court or to a Special Tribunal for further proceedings.
The bill creates a formal UK pathway to engage international justice bodies in serious crimes cases.
It is currently at the 2nd reading stage in the House of Lords, part of the early stages of the legislative process.

Progress

The bill is at the 2nd reading in the House of Lords. If it clears this stage, it would move on to further stages in the Lords and then to the Commons for consideration.

Who is affected?

Victims and survivors of genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes (and their families)People or organisations accused of such crimes in cases brought before the High CourtJudges, barristers, prosecutors and other legal professionals involved in these casesThe UK judiciary and related government departments, such as the Ministry of JusticeInternational bodies such as the International Criminal Court and, if applicable, any Special Tribunal to which referrals may be made

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Genocide Determination

1 Jan 1970

First reading took place on 21 October. This stage is a formality that signals the start of the Bill's journey through the Lords.

Second reading - the general debate on all aspects of the Bill - is yet to be scheduled.

The 2017-19 Parliament dissolved at the end of the 2019 Session and this Bill will make no further progress.

Documents (1)

HL Bill 13 (as introduced)

BillLords

21 Oct 2019

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

Genocide Determination Bill [HL] | TrackPolitics