Murder, extermination, enslavement, ethnic cleansing, rape, and torture: all these actions constitute ‘crimes against humanity’ when carried out in a widespread or systematic way. And unfortunately, as is painfully apparent in the popular media every day, the international community still has a long way to go in eradicating such atrocities.

In this compelling introduction, Adam Jones outlines the history and current extent of key crimes committed against humanity, and highlights the efforts of popular movements to suppress them. Using examples ranging from the genocide in Darfur and Rwanda and the sex trade of Eastern Europe to the use of torture on American detainees, Jones explores the progress already made in toughening international law, and the current stumbling blocks which prevent full compliance with it. Coherent and revealing, Crimes Against Humanity: A Beginner’s Guide is essential for anyone interested in the well-being of humanity and its future.