April 18, 2025 — The Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD) hosted a distinguished training session under the guidance of the Honorable Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Dr. Emmanuel UGIRASHEBUJA. The session formed part of the Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice Executive Mode, comprising senior legal practitioners and officials from both public and private institutions across Rwanda.

Focusing on the doctrine of Universal Jurisdiction, the lecture delved into one of the most critical topics in the criminal process module. This principle allows for the prosecution of certain grave crimes—such as genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and torture—by any state, regardless of where the crime was committed or the nationality of the accused.

Dr. UGIRASHEBUJA emphasized the practical application and global significance of Universal Jurisdiction in the fight against impunity. He explored its benefits, potential for misuse, and proposed safeguards, underscoring how this legal doctrine serves as a powerful tool in contemporary criminal justice and international law.

He further encouraged the trainees to appreciate their role in ensuring justice is not limited by borders. “When states embrace Universal Jurisdiction responsibly and in good faith, they strengthen the global legal order and ensure that no one is beyond the reach of justice,” he stated.

Participants expressed deep appreciation for the training. ILPD student Aline Murekatete highlighted its impact, stating: “Having our instruction delivered by the Attorney General himself shows that Rwanda is committed to providing fair justice and that those entrusted with this knowledge here are held in high esteem and expected to achieve great things.”

Another trainee, Jean Baptiste Twizerimana, shared: “Before this course, I didn’t fully understand how international prosecutions were handled. But now, thanks to what I’ve learned at ILPD, I feel confident that I could even contribute to such processes on a global scale.”

This training is in line with ILPD’s mandate to promote justice, accountability, and adherence to legal norms. Through such high-level engagements, the institution continues to play a central role in shaping capable legal professionals ready to uphold the rule of law both nationally and internationally.