The basics of international criminal law, how it is actually enforced, and the arguments it has provoked are all introduced in a book that is as current as the headline news.
International Crime and Punishment: A Guide to the Issues explores the many facets of this relatively new field of criminal law, an autonomous branch of law that concerns international crimes and the systems set up to handle individuals who are accused of committing them. As the author explains, international crimes include crimes against humanity, crimes against peace, war crimes, trafficking in human beings, drug trafficking, money laundering, arms trafficking, and smuggling of cultural artifacts.

The laws may seem straightforward, but the system is not without controversy. As the author shows, the United States has opposed certain actions of the International Criminal Court, while other countries have objected to U.S. plans to refer persons accused of terrorism to military tribunals. Clearly and cogently, this work introduces the principles of international criminal law, its enforcement, and the conflicts that have arisen as a result. Journalists, policymakers, students, and educated citizens will find the book an essential tool for unraveling today's news stories.

James Larry Taulbee is professor of international law at Emory University, Atlanta, GA.