Judge Garzón's case was largely founded on the principle of universal jurisdiction – that certain crimes are so egregious that they constitute crimes against humanity and can therefore be prosecuted in any court in the world. The British House of Lords ruled that Pinochet had no right to immunity from prosecution as a former head of state, and could be put on trial.
Judge Garzón's case was grounded on the principle of universal jurisdiction – the idea that certain crimes are so egregious they constitute crimes against humanity and can be prosecuted in any court worldwide. The British House of Lords ruled that Pinochet had no immunity from prosecution as a former head of state, and could be put on trial.