What is an international criminal tribunal, or hybrid or mixed tribunal?

Examples of international criminal tribunals include the ICTY and the ICTR, which the U.N. Security Council created pursuant to its powers under Chapter VII of the UN Charter; and the International Criminal Court (ICC), which is a treaty-based court. A hybrid court is generally understood to be a stand-alone court that is created through an agreement between a national government and an international organization, such as the United Nations. These are usually staffed by a mix of international and national personnel (judges, prosecutors, investigators, defense counsel). For instance, the SCSL was created through an agreement between the United Nations and the government of Sierra Leone. A mixed court is more intimately embedded within the domestic judicial system of the state in question, often by way of specialized chambers. These too are staffed with a mix of local and international personnel.

How can I submit a tip?

Tips regarding any individual designated by the War Crimes Rewards Program can be submitted confidentially here: www.rewardsforjustice.net/english/submit-a-tip.html or by calling toll-free from the United States 1-800-877-3927. Local telephone numbers will be established in certain countries and will be publicized soon. Alternatively, information can be brought to the nearest U.S. Embassy or to any U.S. Government official.

Is it safe to provide information to the WCRP?

The U.S. Government will ensure complete confidentiality to individuals who provide information on war criminals, and, if participation in the program entails significant risk to the individuals, will consider additional protective measures.

Who is eligible to receive rewards?

Any person, including U.S. citizens, who provides information leading to the arrest, transfer, or conviction of a designated individual may be eligible to receive a reward. However, U.S. and foreign government officials, including military and police, are ineligible to receive WCRP rewards if the information is furnished while in the performance of official duties.

Are rewards paid for submitting information about any individual who has been accused by an international criminal tribunal? The Department of State offers rewards for information related only to specific individuals who are designated by the Secretary of State. The fugitives for whom the Department of State may offer rewards are publicized on this website.

How are rewards paid, and in what amounts?

A U.S. Government committee will determine if an award is warranted, and for what amount, taking into consideration several factors, such as the degree of relevancy of the information, the amount of risk the informant took to provide the information, and the seriousness of the allegations against the defendant.