
The 38th meeting of the European Network for investigation and prosecution of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes (Genocide Prosecution Network) took place from 19 to 20 November 2025. Hosted at Eurojust and under the chairmanship of the Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU, the two-day meeting included about 150 participants, including representatives from national investigative and prosecutorial authorities, international accountability mechanisms, and civil society. The central focus of the meeting was how new technologies are reshaping justice for core international crimes, offering transformative potential for investigations and prosecutions, but also legal and ethical challenges.
Key discussions at the meeting centred on how open source information (OSI), satellite imagery, and 3D modelling tools are transforming the documentation and investigation of large-scale atrocities. In conflict zones where access is often restricted, digital platforms and social media can serve as vital sources of evidence. During the meeting, case studies were presented to illustrate how visualisation technologies could enhance judicial understanding of complex events. However, participants also acknowledged significant hurdles, from verifying the authenticity and reliability of digital data to combing through massive amounts of digital evidence.
Participants also discussed the potential role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in investigations, for instance for the identification and analysis of crime patterns. While these technologies could significantly reduce the time and resources needed for core international crimes investigations and improve accuracy, ethical and legal considerations were also debated.
The meeting drew international participation from over 32 countries, including a Western Africa delegation of representatives of national authorities from The Gambia, Guinea and Senegal, joining thanks to the support of the National Authorities Against Impunity (IMPNA) Project. By fostering a global exchange, the event promoted the harmonisation of legal approaches and ensured best practices and expertise can be discussed with peers from other regional contexts.
The Genocide Prosecution Network remains a vital platform for international cooperation in the fight against genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. With its secretariat hosted by Eurojust, the network plays a crucial role in coordinating efforts, sharing expertise, and fostering innovation in prosecution strategies. As new technologies continue to reshape the landscape of justice, the network is dedicated to adapting legal practices to address the complexities of modern challenges. This meeting highlighted the network's commitment to global collaboration, ensuring that justice systems in the EU and beyond are equipped to respond effectively to the evolving nature of core international crimes.