The Downing of MH17: Investigating Accountability under International Law

International Laws Involved: Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules of Law Relating to International Carriage by Air (Montreal Convention), Customary International Law

The downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 over Eastern Ukraine in 2014 led to a complex international investigation into accountability for the tragedy. While specific individuals or entities were identified as responsible for the missile attack, international law, specifically the Montreal Convention, outlines the liability of states in incidents involving international air travel. Additionally, customary international law may be invoked to establish accountability for violations of airspace sovereignty. The ongoing discourse surrounding this incident serves as a critical test of international norms regarding air safety and accountability.