Alien Tort Statute (ATS)
79 Articles

Seeking Justice the Day After SCOTUS Killed the Alien Tort Statute
As surely as day follows night, survivors will continue their quest for justice and accountability. The Supreme Court’s decision marks the end of an era, but a new dawn awaits.

Supreme Court Closes the Door on the Alien Tort Statute
Unpacking the Supreme Court opinion in Cisco Systems, Inc. v. Doe.

The Oral Argument in Cisco
SCOTUS oral arguments on aiding and abetting liability for US companies that facilitate atrocities abroad highlighted cross-cutting legal views amongst the Justices

Cisco’s Real Stakes: Digitally Aiding and Abetting
The Supreme Court should dismiss cert in Cisco to avoid immunizing U.S. corporations who actively aid and abet atrocities.

Fourth Circuit Affirms $42 Million Jury Verdict in Abu Ghraib Case
In Al Shimari, the Fourth Circuit affirmed two Alien Tort Statute claims: conspiracy to commit torture and conspiracy to commit cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment.

Can the U.S. Government Be Sued for Wrongful Death in a Caribbean Boat Strike?
In Burnley v. United States, relatives sue on behalf of two Trinidadian men killed in a boat strike, confronting U.S. sovereign immunity and the political question doctrine.

Abu Ghraib Torture Survivors’ Landmark Win Gives Hope for Alien Tort Statute Cases
The Al Shirmari verdict may help other plaintiffs chart a path to navigate the Supreme Court’s constraints on Alien Tort Statute cases.

The Chiquita Verdict Expands International Human Rights Liability for Corporate Conduct Abroad
A recent verdict may have substantial ramifications for the future of international human rights litigation in U.S. Courts.

15 Years Later, Sri Lanka Continues to Deny Justice to Murdered Journalist
Lasantha’s murder, and the government’s failure to meaningfully investigate it, is a potent illustration of the importance and necessity of holding the perpetrators of crimes…

How to Get Away With Crimes Against Humanity: The Statutory Gap in US Law
Congress can bring justice for victims of crimes against humanity by passing a statute with universal jurisdiction.

The Just Security Podcast: The Mayor of Les Irois
Determined victims and creative lawyers used a U.S, law, the Torture Victims Protection Act, to hold a powerful mayor accountable.

Congress Should Close the ‘Crimes Against Humanity’ Loophole
Former U.S. Ambassador at Large for War Crimes David J. Scheffer and Kristin Smith on whether U.S. law is adequately equipped to investigate and prosecute atrocities as Congress…