GENOCIDE – AN INTERNATIONAL LEGAL ANALYSIS AND ECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES

Abstract

This paper examines genocide as one of the most complex international crimes. Starting from the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, the paper analyzes the fundamental elements of genocide, emphasizing its specificity in relation to other forms of mass violence, particularly through dolus specialis, that is, the existence of a specific genocidal intent aimed at the total or partial destruction of protected groups. In addition to its conceptual definition, the paper analyzes the phases, typology, and normative framework of genocide, both within the national law of the Republic of Serbia and in international law. Special attention is devoted to the analysis of the theoretical contributions of Raphael Lemkin, the creator of the very concept of genocide, as well as to subsequent legal and sociological critiques of the narrow convention-based definition. The paper also examines the phases of genocide according to George Stanton’s model, with particular emphasis on the phase of denial, understood as a permanent and socially harmful continuation of the victimization of affected groups. Furthermore, various types of genocide are analyzed in accordance with theoretical classifications, alongside an examination of the motives and objectives that may underlie its commission. In addition to the analysis of positive law, the paper examines genocide as an international criminal offense par excellence, which constitutes the central focus of this study. This crime transcends the boundaries of national legal systems and represents an obligation of the international community as a whole. In the spirit of protecting fundamental human rights, the paper concludes that the prohibition of genocide constitutes one of the foundations of contemporary international law. The paper also addresses the economic consequences of ge-nocide.