War crimes trials are legal proceedings held to prosecute individuals accused of committing serious violations of international humanitarian law during armed conflicts. These trials aim to hold accountable those responsible for atrocities such as genocide, torture, and crimes against humanity. Notable examples include the Nuremberg Trials after World War II and the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia.
These trials serve to promote justice and deter future war crimes by establishing that individuals, including military and political leaders, can be held accountable for their actions. They also help to provide a sense of closure for victims and their families, reinforcing the importance of upholding human rights during conflicts.