The recent High Court ruling upheld jurors’ right to acquit defendants based on conscience, reinforcing the principle of jury nullification. Trudi Warner’s case, involving her informing jurors of this right during a trial, was dismissed by Mr. Justice Saini, who emphasized juror autonomy and the importance of public awareness about their rights. The decision serves as a crucial precedent, affirming jury nullification as a safeguard against injustice and a form of civil disobedience against unjust laws. Critics argue it undermines the rule of law, but proponents assert it upholds foundational principles of justice and serves as a check on state power. Recent cases, including those involving climate change protestors, have demonstrated the use of jury nullification to challenge perceived moral wrongs, reflecting evolving legal norms and societal values.
Tag Archives: Climate activism
Decorticating The Historic Climate Change Case In Front Of The ECtHR
The European Court of Human Rights ruled in favor of an association and elderly women in Switzerland, finding the Swiss government in violation of their rights due to inadequate action on climate change. The court emphasized the duty of states to mitigate climate change to protect human rights, setting a precedent for other states parties to the Convention to take legislative measures. This landmark judgment marks the first time an international court explicitly links climate change to human rights, potentially influencing global climate litigation and enforcement of international climate commitments.
Nightingale Rights Initiative 