Citizens Should Be Allowed to Launch Legal Proceedings for Genocide: Academics

Law academics said current law interpretation restricted the pathway for the prosecution of international crimes in Australia.

A judge's gavel rests on top of a desk in the courtroom in Miami, Fla., on Feb. 3, 2009. Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Private citizens should be able to commence legal proceedings for genocide committed in Australia, a parliamentary committee has been told.

At an inquiry on July 30, academics from several universities in Australia presented their views on the genocide bill proposed by Victorian Senator Lidia Thorpe.