International Law and Treaty Obligations, Mutual Legal Assistance, and EU Instruments

Abstract

This chapter deals with international and European Union law that provides a legal framework for international cooperation in crime-related matters. The relevant provisions of international law form part of treaties combating transnational crime and of bilateral and multilateral agreements establishing a general framework for international cooperation in criminal matters as well as the new instruments under EU law that are based upon the principle of mutual legal assistance. The chapter first outlines the scope and elements of international cooperation in criminal matters before discussing international cooperation in criminal matters and human rights. It then considers the principle of mutual recognition, new international cooperation instruments such as extradition, and enforcement of criminal sentences and measures. In particular, it examines the transfer of convicted persons and enforcement of prison sentences, along with enforcement of pecuniary sanctions and asset recovery.