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Glossary

Jus cogens

compelling law

international

Peremptory norms of international law from which no derogation is permitted.

In more detail

Recognised jus cogens norms include prohibitions on genocide, slavery, torture and aggression. A treaty conflicting with such a norm is void under Article 53 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, making these the only truly hierarchical rules in international law.

Related terms

  • treaty
  • universal-jurisdiction

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