Theory of Legal Norms

The chapter introduces the concept of interconnected norms based on a differentiation between the sanctioned normsSanctioned norm and sanctioning norms. The chapter provides a definition of the legal norm, discusses the categories of legal norms, and explains their internal structure in a manner that is rooted in the legal theory rather than in international criminal law. For this reason, it could seem that the approach adopted in the book departs from the understanding of legal norms developed in international criminal law and might turn out to be irreconcilable with the characteristics of mass atrocity crimes and criminal proceedings before the ICC. However, this chapter demonstrates that the concept of interconnected norms is not only applicable to the norms inferred from the Rome Statute but enables the readers to grasp some normative nuances that often escape academic attention.