Once again, the Lubanga trial makes use of an expert opinion. At this time, the Prosecution seeks an independent assessment of the age of former child soldier witnesses who might corroborate their indications of dates of birth. Confirmation of witnesses’ age is crucial in this particular case. Charges impose a limit on child soldiering and on the recruitment age to constitute a war crime: 15 years old. Even more, the lack of reliable documentary evidence on birth dates in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as the determined attempts made by the Defence to discredit some witnesses concerning their age, makes the Prosecution turn to scientific knowledge to tender to the Chamber enough convincing facts.

Read Lubanga Chronicle #20 12 May 2009

Bron:AegisTrust