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Charles Taylor war crimes trial - the verdict Charles Taylor war crimes trial - the verdict
(7 days later)
9.35am: Soon after 11am Dutch time (10am BST), judges at the Special Court for Sierra Leone will give their verdict on whether Charles Taylor, who served as Liberia's president from 1997 to 2003, is guilty of war crimes, crimes against humanity and a range of other offences, among them the use of child soldiers.9.35am: Soon after 11am Dutch time (10am BST), judges at the Special Court for Sierra Leone will give their verdict on whether Charles Taylor, who served as Liberia's president from 1997 to 2003, is guilty of war crimes, crimes against humanity and a range of other offences, among them the use of child soldiers.
This is a landmark moment for west Africa, where Taylor's activities as both a president and a rebel warlord spread violence and chaos through not only his own country and Sierra Leone, but into Guinea and Ivory Coast.This is a landmark moment for west Africa, where Taylor's activities as both a president and a rebel warlord spread violence and chaos through not only his own country and Sierra Leone, but into Guinea and Ivory Coast.
It is also, whatever the verdict, a hugely significant moment in the international criminal process. Taylor is, depending which interpretation you take, either the first former head of state to face war crimes charges in an international, or part-international, tribunal, or at least the first since the post-second world war Nuremberg hearings convicted Karl Doenitz, who briefly led Germany following Hitler's suicide.It is also, whatever the verdict, a hugely significant moment in the international criminal process. Taylor is, depending which interpretation you take, either the first former head of state to face war crimes charges in an international, or part-international, tribunal, or at least the first since the post-second world war Nuremberg hearings convicted Karl Doenitz, who briefly led Germany following Hitler's suicide.
My colleague, Owen Bowcott, is in The Hague to hear the conclusion of the near five-year trial. We'll also be getting reaction from Liberia and Sierra Leone.My colleague, Owen Bowcott, is in The Hague to hear the conclusion of the near five-year trial. We'll also be getting reaction from Liberia and Sierra Leone.
9.40am: If you're unfamiliar with the Taylor case, it can seem initially odd that a former Liberian president is being tried solely for alleged offences in Sierra Leone. The short answer is that it was Sierra Leone which, following the end of its civil war, asked the UN to assist the country in setting up a part-international, part-national tribunal to try those accused of the most serious offences, which included Taylor.9.40am: If you're unfamiliar with the Taylor case, it can seem initially odd that a former Liberian president is being tried solely for alleged offences in Sierra Leone. The short answer is that it was Sierra Leone which, following the end of its civil war, asked the UN to assist the country in setting up a part-international, part-national tribunal to try those accused of the most serious offences, which included Taylor.
In contrast, Liberia has thus far made no similar efforts to prosecute those involved in such offences during Taylor's presidency.In contrast, Liberia has thus far made no similar efforts to prosecute those involved in such offences during Taylor's presidency.
It's worth also noting that the long trial has, for the most part, received little coverage in the European and US media. The big exception came in August 2010, when first the model Naomi Campbell and then the actor-turned campaigner Mia Farrow gave evidence connected to one of the charges against Taylor, his alleged involvement in the trade in "blood diamonds". Campbell was alleged to have been given conflict diamonds by Taylor.It's worth also noting that the long trial has, for the most part, received little coverage in the European and US media. The big exception came in August 2010, when first the model Naomi Campbell and then the actor-turned campaigner Mia Farrow gave evidence connected to one of the charges against Taylor, his alleged involvement in the trade in "blood diamonds". Campbell was alleged to have been given conflict diamonds by Taylor.
9.42am: Some quick background reading before the verdict – which is rumoured to be very, very long – begins. First is this morning's story, which also explains how, under the international agreement about the trial, Taylor could serve any eventual sentence in a UK prison.9.42am: Some quick background reading before the verdict – which is rumoured to be very, very long – begins. First is this morning's story, which also explains how, under the international agreement about the trial, Taylor could serve any eventual sentence in a UK prison.
And here, Tamasin Ford and Rachel Stevenson talk to people who suffered at the hands of Taylor's notorious Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels.And here, Tamasin Ford and Rachel Stevenson talk to people who suffered at the hands of Taylor's notorious Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels.
9.45am: In the video below Charles Taylor's former wife, Jewel Taylor, now a Liberian state senator, defends him.9.45am: In the video below Charles Taylor's former wife, Jewel Taylor, now a Liberian state senator, defends him.
9.49am: Tamasin Ford, out and about in Monrovia, has sent in a couple of brief missives. She writes:9.49am: Tamasin Ford, out and about in Monrovia, has sent in a couple of brief missives. She writes:
Most callers in Liberian radio stations are declaring Taylor's innocence, angry he's on trial for another country's war.Most callers in Liberian radio stations are declaring Taylor's innocence, angry he's on trial for another country's war.
The thousands of UN agency staff and foreign NGO staff in the country have been told to work from home today, in case the verdict sparks trouble.The thousands of UN agency staff and foreign NGO staff in the country have been told to work from home today, in case the verdict sparks trouble.
9.53am: We're now running a background story by Owen Bowcott on the trial, and the unlikely testimony of Campbell and Farrow.9.53am: We're now running a background story by Owen Bowcott on the trial, and the unlikely testimony of Campbell and Farrow.
The US-based Human Rights Watch group have also put together an exhaustive Q&A on the issue, and a chronology of events leading to today.The US-based Human Rights Watch group have also put together an exhaustive Q&A on the issue, and a chronology of events leading to today.
9.58am: From the Human Rights Watch Q&A I just mentioned, this is a useful run-through of the charges faced by Taylor, and the legal justifications for his trial:9.58am: From the Human Rights Watch Q&A I just mentioned, this is a useful run-through of the charges faced by Taylor, and the legal justifications for his trial:
• Five counts of war crimes: terrorising civilians, murder, outrages on personal dignity, cruel treatment, and looting;
• Five counts of crimes against humanity: murder, rape, sexual slavery, mutilating and beating, and enslavement; and
• One count of other serious violations of international humanitarian law: recruiting and using child soldiers.

The indictment cites a multitude of locations where crimes were committed in Sierra Leone, covering six of Sierra Leone's 13 districts. The indictment alleges that Taylor can be held individually criminally responsible for the crimes based on three legal principles:		• Five counts of war crimes: terrorising civilians, murder, outrages on personal dignity, cruel treatment, and looting;
• Five counts of crimes against humanity: murder, rape, sexual slavery, mutilating and beating, and enslavement; and
• One count of other serious violations of international humanitarian law: recruiting and using child soldiers.

The indictment cites a multitude of locations where crimes were committed in Sierra Leone, covering six of Sierra Leone's 13 districts. The indictment alleges that Taylor can be held individually criminally responsible for the crimes based on three legal principles:
• Individual criminal responsibility: Taylor planned, instigated, ordered, committed, or aided and abetted planning, preparation, and execution of the alleged crimes.
• Joint criminal enterprise: Taylor participated in a common plan, design, or purpose that consisted of or involved the commission of the alleged crimes, or those crimes were reasonably foreseeable consequences of the common plan, design, or purpose.
• Command responsibility: Taylor held positions of superior responsibility and exercised command and control over subordinate members of the Revolutionary United Front(RUF), RUF/Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC) alliance, and Liberian fighters. Taylor knew or had reason to know that subordinates, responsible to him, were about to commit the alleged crimes or had done so and he failed to take necessary and reasonable measures to prevent such acts or punish those responsible.		• Individual criminal responsibility: Taylor planned, instigated, ordered, committed, or aided and abetted planning, preparation, and execution of the alleged crimes.
• Joint criminal enterprise: Taylor participated in a common plan, design, or purpose that consisted of or involved the commission of the alleged crimes, or those crimes were reasonably foreseeable consequences of the common plan, design, or purpose.
• Command responsibility: Taylor held positions of superior responsibility and exercised command and control over subordinate members of the Revolutionary United Front(RUF), RUF/Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC) alliance, and Liberian fighters. Taylor knew or had reason to know that subordinates, responsible to him, were about to commit the alleged crimes or had done so and he failed to take necessary and reasonable measures to prevent such acts or punish those responsible.
10.02am: Owen in The Hague has emailed through this quick update:10.02am: Owen in The Hague has emailed through this quick update:
Despite reports that he would not be able to attend the verdict due to other professional commitments, Taylor's lead counsel, Courtenay Griffiths QC, is in court to represent his client.Despite reports that he would not be able to attend the verdict due to other professional commitments, Taylor's lead counsel, Courtenay Griffiths QC, is in court to represent his client.
10.04am: Below is part of an article sent to the Guardian by Messeh Kamara, a 25-year-old peace campaigner and law student in Sierra Leone, about how Taylor and his rebels affected the country. It's worth quoting at some length. Today's verdict is, Kamara argues, "a historic moment for the children of Sierra Leone and across the world":10.04am: Below is part of an article sent to the Guardian by Messeh Kamara, a 25-year-old peace campaigner and law student in Sierra Leone, about how Taylor and his rebels affected the country. It's worth quoting at some length. Today's verdict is, Kamara argues, "a historic moment for the children of Sierra Leone and across the world":
Children will live with the long-lasting impact of the war for the rest of their lives. The recruitment and use of children to fight wars is criminal. It is a war crime and a crime against humanity. In Sierra Leone, the war shattered the lives of my generation. It is not possible to replace 10 years of a lost childhood but what children lost in the war – education, health, protection – must be restored to the extent possible.Children will live with the long-lasting impact of the war for the rest of their lives. The recruitment and use of children to fight wars is criminal. It is a war crime and a crime against humanity. In Sierra Leone, the war shattered the lives of my generation. It is not possible to replace 10 years of a lost childhood but what children lost in the war – education, health, protection – must be restored to the extent possible.
When I was 11 years old, I was separated from my parents. I spent months hiding in the bush and moving from village to village to escape the rebels. I lost everything including my parents in a war I did not cause to happened, but I suffered the most.When I was 11 years old, I was separated from my parents. I spent months hiding in the bush and moving from village to village to escape the rebels. I lost everything including my parents in a war I did not cause to happened, but I suffered the most.
During the 10-year conflict, children had no rights. Children could not go to school, children had no access to doctors, children were victims of abuses and violations, and children had no access to justice. Children were used and abused by those who should have been protecting them....During the 10-year conflict, children had no rights. Children could not go to school, children had no access to doctors, children were victims of abuses and violations, and children had no access to justice. Children were used and abused by those who should have been protecting them....
Many children in Sierra Leone are orphaned and left with deep emotional scars and trauma from direct exposure to violence, rape, displacement, poverty and the loss of loved ones. These coupled with the difficulty in accessing health and education services and a weak social structure to protect children have had a terrible impact on the lives of children....Many children in Sierra Leone are orphaned and left with deep emotional scars and trauma from direct exposure to violence, rape, displacement, poverty and the loss of loved ones. These coupled with the difficulty in accessing health and education services and a weak social structure to protect children have had a terrible impact on the lives of children....
There is a great responsibility now to make sure that Sierra Leone's future is not defined by the negative impact of the war and that the questions of child rights, democracy, justice and ending impunity are addressed fairly and fully. That rule of law is a significant contributor to that agenda. If perpetrators are not prosecuted it is harder to rebuild our country and restore respect for the rule of law.There is a great responsibility now to make sure that Sierra Leone's future is not defined by the negative impact of the war and that the questions of child rights, democracy, justice and ending impunity are addressed fairly and fully. That rule of law is a significant contributor to that agenda. If perpetrators are not prosecuted it is harder to rebuild our country and restore respect for the rule of law.
10.11am: The Sierra Leone tribunal web page has links to a live feed of the verdict.10.11am: The Sierra Leone tribunal web page has links to a live feed of the verdict.
10.12am: As you can see from the live feed, the ruling has begun. Owen writes:10.12am: As you can see from the live feed, the ruling has begun. Owen writes:
Judge Richard Lussick of Samoa has begun reading the judgment. Taylor is sitting in dock wearing a blue suit, white shirt and red tie as well as his trademark tinted glasses. He has a neat, greying goatee beard and moustache.Judge Richard Lussick of Samoa has begun reading the judgment. Taylor is sitting in dock wearing a blue suit, white shirt and red tie as well as his trademark tinted glasses. He has a neat, greying goatee beard and moustache.
10.18am: As you can hear if you listen to the feed of the ruling the judge, Richard Lussick, is reading out a long list of offences committed in Sierra Leone, and the tribunal's conclusion, in the main, that these did take place as described. No word yet on Taylor's responsibility or otherwise.10.18am: As you can hear if you listen to the feed of the ruling the judge, Richard Lussick, is reading out a long list of offences committed in Sierra Leone, and the tribunal's conclusion, in the main, that these did take place as described. No word yet on Taylor's responsibility or otherwise.
10.23am: Monica Mark in Freetown has sent the following from the part of the special court for Sierra Leone based there:10.23am: Monica Mark in Freetown has sent the following from the part of the special court for Sierra Leone based there:
There has been a steady trickle of people coming to the court from all different backgrounds - amputee victims, youths with their parents, business people. There is a sense of tension, expectation in the court. Jarka Alhaji, a former bank official who lost both arms and used savings to travel to The Hague, said: "I am feeling high. I will be disappointed if he gets anything less than 100 years. I still feel anger each time I want to do something simple that I can't without help."There has been a steady trickle of people coming to the court from all different backgrounds - amputee victims, youths with their parents, business people. There is a sense of tension, expectation in the court. Jarka Alhaji, a former bank official who lost both arms and used savings to travel to The Hague, said: "I am feeling high. I will be disappointed if he gets anything less than 100 years. I still feel anger each time I want to do something simple that I can't without help."
Daphne Preston, a 16-year-old YMCA member in a blue skirt, shirt and beret, said: "I feel happy because it's a first opportunity for everyone to know the truth our parents have always talked about. It's up to the court to decide what happens to him but we have faith."Daphne Preston, a 16-year-old YMCA member in a blue skirt, shirt and beret, said: "I feel happy because it's a first opportunity for everyone to know the truth our parents have always talked about. It's up to the court to decide what happens to him but we have faith."
10.29am: Owen Bowcott in The Hague has been listening in more detail to the details of atrocities currently being read out at such length. They are chilling:10.29am: Owen Bowcott in The Hague has been listening in more detail to the details of atrocities currently being read out at such length. They are chilling:
Judge Lussick says more than a 1,000 children had the letters 'RUF' carved into their backs to prevent them escaping. Children were used to amputate limbs, guard diamond mines and hunt for food. Some were involved in fighting.Judge Lussick says more than a 1,000 children had the letters 'RUF' carved into their backs to prevent them escaping. Children were used to amputate limbs, guard diamond mines and hunt for food. Some were involved in fighting.
The trial chamber has found that all the crimes in the 11 charges were committed by the RUF and other rebel paramilitary groups in Sierra Leone between 1996 and 2002. These include recruitment of child soldiers, looting conflict ("blood") diamonds, terrorising civilian populations, murder, rape, sexual slavery and mutilations.The trial chamber has found that all the crimes in the 11 charges were committed by the RUF and other rebel paramilitary groups in Sierra Leone between 1996 and 2002. These include recruitment of child soldiers, looting conflict ("blood") diamonds, terrorising civilian populations, murder, rape, sexual slavery and mutilations.
We are now waiting to hear what role Taylor is deemed to have had in these atrocities.We are now waiting to hear what role Taylor is deemed to have had in these atrocities.
10.33am: In Monrovia, Tamasin Ford is encountering support for Taylor:10.33am: In Monrovia, Tamasin Ford is encountering support for Taylor:
People are gathering in Monrovia to listen to the verdict. One man on a street has posters denouncing the UN as evil. As Taylor's face is seen on the TV feed there is cheering. Someone shouts, "Let Taylor be free!"People are gathering in Monrovia to listen to the verdict. One man on a street has posters denouncing the UN as evil. As Taylor's face is seen on the TV feed there is cheering. Someone shouts, "Let Taylor be free!"
One man tells me he's "too happy, because my papay (Taylor) will be free today". As Taylor's face is seen again, another shouts, to cheers: "He's the only God-fearing president we've got."One man tells me he's "too happy, because my papay (Taylor) will be free today". As Taylor's face is seen again, another shouts, to cheers: "He's the only God-fearing president we've got."
10.38am: Below is a screengrab showing Taylor listening to the verdict in The Hague.10.38am: Below is a screengrab showing Taylor listening to the verdict in The Hague.
10.43am: Owen Bowcott sends this:10.43am: Owen Bowcott sends this:
Judge says Taylor told RUF commanders to seize and hold the diamond producing areas of Sierra Leone in order that he could continue trading gems for arms and ammunition.Judge says Taylor told RUF commanders to seize and hold the diamond producing areas of Sierra Leone in order that he could continue trading gems for arms and ammunition.
10.45am: Tamasin Ford has finally encountered someone in Monrovia hoping Taylor is found convicted:10.45am: Tamasin Ford has finally encountered someone in Monrovia hoping Taylor is found convicted:
One man says, "If Charles Taylor is found guilty today, it's a victory for human rights," – the first voice speaking out against the former president I've heard this morning.One man says, "If Charles Taylor is found guilty today, it's a victory for human rights," – the first voice speaking out against the former president I've heard this morning.
10.50am: Ros Atkins from the BBC is among those also tweeting from Freetown:10.50am: Ros Atkins from the BBC is among those also tweeting from Freetown:
A hush has fallen in the2courtrooms in Freetown.Both packed.The opening statements have begun on screens.Listen @bbcworldservice #bbctaylorA hush has fallen in the2courtrooms in Freetown.Both packed.The opening statements have begun on screens.Listen @bbcworldservice #bbctaylor
— Ros Atkins (@BBCRosAtkins) April 26, 2012— Ros Atkins (@BBCRosAtkins) April 26, 2012
10.51am: Monica Mark, at the courtroom in Freetown, writes:10.51am: Monica Mark, at the courtroom in Freetown, writes:
It's very, very quiet in the court, some older attendees looked visibly shaken as the charges relating to infamous "operation pay yourself" were read out.It's very, very quiet in the court, some older attendees looked visibly shaken as the charges relating to infamous "operation pay yourself" were read out.
10.53am: Owen writes:10.53am: Owen writes:
The court found that Liberian troops were sent in to support RUF rebel attacks in Sierra Leone. Arms and ammunition shipments from Burkina Faso were also facilitated by Taylor.The court found that Liberian troops were sent in to support RUF rebel attacks in Sierra Leone. Arms and ammunition shipments from Burkina Faso were also facilitated by Taylor.
10.54am: While the lengthy verdict is still read out, my colleague from our law website, Maya Wolfe-Robinson, has sent me some links to further background reading on the trial. Two come from Alpha Sesay from the Open Society Justice Initiative, who is tweeting exhaustively from The Hague:10.54am: While the lengthy verdict is still read out, my colleague from our law website, Maya Wolfe-Robinson, has sent me some links to further background reading on the trial. Two come from Alpha Sesay from the Open Society Justice Initiative, who is tweeting exhaustively from The Hague:
• Charles Taylor's lawyer needs a lawyer• Charles Taylor's lawyer needs a lawyer
• One judge down: drama continues at the Charles Taylor trial• One judge down: drama continues at the Charles Taylor trial
There is also Marine Hyde's view of the "media feeding frenzy" when Naomi Campbell gave evidence.There is also Marine Hyde's view of the "media feeding frenzy" when Naomi Campbell gave evidence.
11.05am: The TV feed just showed another shot of Taylor listening to the verdict. With a hand on his chin, leaning forwards, the former president gave no obvious reaction to the details being outlined, but he was clearly listening with care.11.05am: The TV feed just showed another shot of Taylor listening to the verdict. With a hand on his chin, leaning forwards, the former president gave no obvious reaction to the details being outlined, but he was clearly listening with care.
11.08am: Monica Mark, at the court building in Freetown, sends the following:11.08am: Monica Mark, at the court building in Freetown, sends the following:
A few more amputees have come in on their crutches, but not all war victims are interested in the proceedings. James Kpomgbo, whose arm was amputated, remained at home today, saying: "I will reflect on the suffering we suffered today but I want to forget. We have known all along CT is guilty. Today is just another day where we must find food."A few more amputees have come in on their crutches, but not all war victims are interested in the proceedings. James Kpomgbo, whose arm was amputated, remained at home today, saying: "I will reflect on the suffering we suffered today but I want to forget. We have known all along CT is guilty. Today is just another day where we must find food."
11.10am: Some more specifics are starting to come into the verdict on the use of diamonds to fund the conflict, and how it financed the RUF. Owen writes:11.10am: Some more specifics are starting to come into the verdict on the use of diamonds to fund the conflict, and how it financed the RUF. Owen writes:
Charles Taylor's emissary was given 90 carats of diamonds and $90,000 to purchase weapons for the RUF and other Sierra Leonean rebel groups, the court found.Charles Taylor's emissary was given 90 carats of diamonds and $90,000 to purchase weapons for the RUF and other Sierra Leonean rebel groups, the court found.
11.23am: Two updates from Owen which, while not yet definitive, begin to link events in Sierra Leone and elsehwere directly to Taylor:11.23am: Two updates from Owen which, while not yet definitive, begin to link events in Sierra Leone and elsehwere directly to Taylor:
Taylor was found by the court to have received "blood" or "conflict" diamonds from the RUF. Sometimes they were delivered in person by RUF commanders for 'safe keeping', sometimes they were used to purchase arms and ammunition. One diamond weighed 36 carats, several others were 25 carat diamonds. Diamonds from Sierra Leone are of a far better quality than those from Liberia.Taylor was found by the court to have received "blood" or "conflict" diamonds from the RUF. Sometimes they were delivered in person by RUF commanders for 'safe keeping', sometimes they were used to purchase arms and ammunition. One diamond weighed 36 carats, several others were 25 carat diamonds. Diamonds from Sierra Leone are of a far better quality than those from Liberia.
And:And:
Judge Richard Lussick said Taylor was privately fuelling the conflict by providing arms and ammunition to the RUF in Sierra Leone. His clandestine dealing helped undermine the peace process even when there was a regional arms embargo in force.Judge Richard Lussick said Taylor was privately fuelling the conflict by providing arms and ammunition to the RUF in Sierra Leone. His clandestine dealing helped undermine the peace process even when there was a regional arms embargo in force.
11.28am: Another tweet from the BBC's Ros Atkins in Sierra Leone:11.28am: Another tweet from the BBC's Ros Atkins in Sierra Leone:
It's like time has stopped here. 100s watching in silence. The emotion in the courtroom moves you the moment you enter #freetown #bbctaylorIt's like time has stopped here. 100s watching in silence. The emotion in the courtroom moves you the moment you enter #freetown #bbctaylor
— Ros Atkins (@BBCRosAtkins) April 26, 2012— Ros Atkins (@BBCRosAtkins) April 26, 2012
11.36am: Judge Lussick is now turning to Taylor's responsibility for the crimes committed. This is the key – it has been established by the court that many atrocities and other crimes took place, but the prosecution needs to show that Taylor is to blame, due to his authority.11.36am: Judge Lussick is now turning to Taylor's responsibility for the crimes committed. This is the key – it has been established by the court that many atrocities and other crimes took place, but the prosecution needs to show that Taylor is to blame, due to his authority.
11.40am: An important update from Owen:11.40am: An important update from Owen:
The court has found that despite Charles Taylor's denials, the Liberian leader knew from August 1997 about the campaign of terror being waged against the civilian population in Sierra Leone, including murder, rape and amputations.The court has found that despite Charles Taylor's denials, the Liberian leader knew from August 1997 about the campaign of terror being waged against the civilian population in Sierra Leone, including murder, rape and amputations.
11.42am: The first verdicts are in: the prosecution has not proved that Taylor was individually responsible for some of the crimes committed in Sierra Leone.11.42am: The first verdicts are in: the prosecution has not proved that Taylor was individually responsible for some of the crimes committed in Sierra Leone.
Owen has more:Owen has more:
Court found that Taylor had significant influence over the RUF and gave them advice and support but he did not have command over them. Nor did he work with them in a common joint enterprise.Court found that Taylor had significant influence over the RUF and gave them advice and support but he did not have command over them. Nor did he work with them in a common joint enterprise.
11.45am: This from Owen:11.45am: This from Owen:
Taylor found guilty of aiding and abetting RUF rebels in Sierra Leone in their reign of terror.Taylor found guilty of aiding and abetting RUF rebels in Sierra Leone in their reign of terror.
11.50am: The court finds also that Taylor's activities had a "substantial" impact on the "commission of crimes" by the RUF and others.11.50am: The court finds also that Taylor's activities had a "substantial" impact on the "commission of crimes" by the RUF and others.
Taylor looks impassive as the long and complex ruling is read out, while still listening carefully. So far he has been acquitted on some counts – namely that he did not command the RUF or work with them in a common joint enterprise – but convicted on others.Taylor looks impassive as the long and complex ruling is read out, while still listening carefully. So far he has been acquitted on some counts – namely that he did not command the RUF or work with them in a common joint enterprise – but convicted on others.
11.56am: Taylor is guilty of "aiding and abetting" war crimes in Sierra Leone, the judge says. 11.56am: Taylor is guilty of "aiding and abetting" war crimes in Sierra Leone, the judge says.
Taylor's "practical assistance, encouragement and moral support" for the RUF had "a substantial effect" on the commission of crimes in Sierra Leone, the ruling says. Taylor knew the RUF was committing crimes, it adds.Taylor's "practical assistance, encouragement and moral support" for the RUF had "a substantial effect" on the commission of crimes in Sierra Leone, the ruling says. Taylor knew the RUF was committing crimes, it adds.
12.05pm: You'll notice there's a break in the live feed. That is because the audio tape recording proceedings ran out and needs to be changed, the judge said.12.05pm: You'll notice there's a break in the live feed. That is because the audio tape recording proceedings ran out and needs to be changed, the judge said.
12.06pm: As the judgment reading begins again, Owen Bowcott has sent a summary of what we know so far:12.06pm: As the judgment reading begins again, Owen Bowcott has sent a summary of what we know so far:
Charles Taylor, the former president of Liberia, has been found to have "aided and abetted" war crimes by a United Nations-backed tribunal in The Hague.
After four years of hearings at the Special Court for Sierra Leone, the disgraced onetime guerrilla leader was found to have provided sustained support for rebels during their reign of terror in the neighbouring west African state.
Taylor, 64, the first African head of state to be brought before an international tribunal, had pleaded not guilty to all 11 charges.
Between 1996 and 2002, the rebel Revolutionary United Front was found by the court to have committed crimes involving terrorising civilian populations, murder, rape, sexual slavery and enforced amputations in Sierra Leone.
Judge Richard Lussick of Samoa said that more than a 1,000 children had the letters 'RUF' carved into their backs to prevent them escaping. Children were used to amputate limbs, guard diamond mines and hunt for food. Some were
involved in fighting.
The judge said Taylor told RUF commanders to seize and hold the diamond producing areas of Sierra Leone so that he could continue trading gems for arms and ammunition.
The court has also found that despite Charles Taylor's denials, the Liberian leader knew from August 1997 about the campaign of terror being waged against the civilian population in Sierra Leone, including murder, rape and amputations.
Lussick said Taylor was privately fuelling the conflict by providing arms and ammunition to the RUF in Sierra Leone. His clandestine dealing helped undermine the peace process even when there was a regional arms embargo in force.		Charles Taylor, the former president of Liberia, has been found to have "aided and abetted" war crimes by a United Nations-backed tribunal in The Hague.
After four years of hearings at the Special Court for Sierra Leone, the disgraced onetime guerrilla leader was found to have provided sustained support for rebels during their reign of terror in the neighbouring west African state.
Taylor, 64, the first African head of state to be brought before an international tribunal, had pleaded not guilty to all 11 charges.
Between 1996 and 2002, the rebel Revolutionary United Front was found by the court to have committed crimes involving terrorising civilian populations, murder, rape, sexual slavery and enforced amputations in Sierra Leone.
Judge Richard Lussick of Samoa said that more than a 1,000 children had the letters 'RUF' carved into their backs to prevent them escaping. Children were used to amputate limbs, guard diamond mines and hunt for food. Some were
involved in fighting.
The judge said Taylor told RUF commanders to seize and hold the diamond producing areas of Sierra Leone so that he could continue trading gems for arms and ammunition.
The court has also found that despite Charles Taylor's denials, the Liberian leader knew from August 1997 about the campaign of terror being waged against the civilian population in Sierra Leone, including murder, rape and amputations.
Lussick said Taylor was privately fuelling the conflict by providing arms and ammunition to the RUF in Sierra Leone. His clandestine dealing helped undermine the peace process even when there was a regional arms embargo in force.
12.09pm: Taylor is found criminally responsible for planning crimes committed by the RUF and other groups.
12.09pm: Taylor is found criminally responsible for planning crimes committed by the RUF and other groups.
12.12pm: Taylor is ordered to stand as the judge reads out the guilty verdicts.12.12pm: Taylor is ordered to stand as the judge reads out the guilty verdicts.
12.14pm: The judge reads out 11 offences of which Taylor has been found guilty, all war crimes or crimes against humanity. They are:12.14pm: The judge reads out 11 offences of which Taylor has been found guilty, all war crimes or crimes against humanity. They are:
1. Acts of terrorism
2. Murder
3. Violence to life
4. Rape
5. Sexual slavery
6. Outrages of personal dignity
7. Cruel treatment
8. Other inhumane acts
9. The use of child soldiers
10. Enslavement
11. Pillage		1. Acts of terrorism
2. Murder
3. Violence to life
4. Rape
5. Sexual slavery
6. Outrages of personal dignity
7. Cruel treatment
8. Other inhumane acts
9. The use of child soldiers
10. Enslavement
11. Pillage
12.16pm: Sentencing is adjourned until next month. Taylor asks to say something, but the court is adjourned and he is cut off.12.16pm: Sentencing is adjourned until next month. Taylor asks to say something, but the court is adjourned and he is cut off.
12.18pm: Owen Bowcott was watching Taylor as the 11 counts were read out:12.18pm: Owen Bowcott was watching Taylor as the 11 counts were read out:
Charles Taylor stood up while the judge formally found him guilty of aiding and abetting in the commission of 11 crimes. Hands clasped in front of him, he blinked as the long list of his criminal responsibility was read out. He blinked repeatedly, his eyes shifting not knowing where to look.Charles Taylor stood up while the judge formally found him guilty of aiding and abetting in the commission of 11 crimes. Hands clasped in front of him, he blinked as the long list of his criminal responsibility was read out. He blinked repeatedly, his eyes shifting not knowing where to look.
12.21pm: Details of the sentencing: there will be an initial sentencing hearing on 16 May, when Taylor will have up to 30 minutes to say his piece, with the sentence handed down on 30 May.12.21pm: Details of the sentencing: there will be an initial sentencing hearing on 16 May, when Taylor will have up to 30 minutes to say his piece, with the sentence handed down on 30 May.
12.24pm: It's been a slightly complex morning, so it's time for a recap:12.24pm: It's been a slightly complex morning, so it's time for a recap:
• Charles Taylor, the former president of Liberia, has been found guilty of aiding and abetting war crimes and crimes against humanity in neighbouring Sierra Leone.• Charles Taylor, the former president of Liberia, has been found guilty of aiding and abetting war crimes and crimes against humanity in neighbouring Sierra Leone.
• He was convicted in connection with 11 offences connected to war crimes and crimes against humanity, including terrorism, murder, rape, sexual slavery and the use of child soldiers.• He was convicted in connection with 11 offences connected to war crimes and crimes against humanity, including terrorism, murder, rape, sexual slavery and the use of child soldiers.
• Contrary to Taylor's denials, the court found that he knew from August 1997 about the campaign of terror being waged against the civilian population in Sierra Leone.• Contrary to Taylor's denials, the court found that he knew from August 1997 about the campaign of terror being waged against the civilian population in Sierra Leone.
• Taylor was found to be not guilty of direct personal responsibility for the atrocities carried out by the RUF rebel group and others.• Taylor was found to be not guilty of direct personal responsibility for the atrocities carried out by the RUF rebel group and others.
• Taylor had no reaction during the reading of the verdict by Judge Richard Lussick, which took around two hours, except to ask to speak after it finished. This request was denied.• Taylor had no reaction during the reading of the verdict by Judge Richard Lussick, which took around two hours, except to ask to speak after it finished. This request was denied.
• Hundreds of people watched in a courthouse in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, as the verdict came in. In Liberia, many people said they believed in Taylor's innocence.• Hundreds of people watched in a courthouse in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, as the verdict came in. In Liberia, many people said they believed in Taylor's innocence.
12.36pm: Reaction is starting to come in to the verdict. This is from Elise Keppler of Human Rights Watch:12.36pm: Reaction is starting to come in to the verdict. This is from Elise Keppler of Human Rights Watch:
Taylor's conviction sends a powerful message that even those in the highest level positions can be held to account for grave crimes. Not since Nuremberg has an international or hybrid war crimes court issued a judgment against a current or former head of state. This is a victory for Sierra Leonean victims, and all those seeking justice when the worst abuses are committed.Taylor's conviction sends a powerful message that even those in the highest level positions can be held to account for grave crimes. Not since Nuremberg has an international or hybrid war crimes court issued a judgment against a current or former head of state. This is a victory for Sierra Leonean victims, and all those seeking justice when the worst abuses are committed.
And this from James A. Goldston of the US-based Open Society Justice
Initiative:		And this from James A. Goldston of the US-based Open Society Justice
Initiative:
We welcome a verdict that delivers a measure of justice for the many victims of Charles Taylor's war crimes in Sierra Leone. This judgment sends a clear message around the world: that political leaders who perpetrate atrocities to gain or to retain power can be held accountable.We welcome a verdict that delivers a measure of justice for the many victims of Charles Taylor's war crimes in Sierra Leone. This judgment sends a clear message around the world: that political leaders who perpetrate atrocities to gain or to retain power can be held accountable.
12.42pm: Here is a fuller version of Owen's story about today's verdict.12.42pm: Here is a fuller version of Owen's story about today's verdict.
12.45pm: The charity Save the Children has given its reaction. Angela Spaid, its Sierra Leone country director, said:12.45pm: The charity Save the Children has given its reaction. Angela Spaid, its Sierra Leone country director, said:
Today's events in The Hague bring sharply into focus the grim legacy left behind by the war. The crimes, especially those against children, will rank amongst the most horrendous committed in modern times.Today's events in The Hague bring sharply into focus the grim legacy left behind by the war. The crimes, especially those against children, will rank amongst the most horrendous committed in modern times.
The young victims of these conflicts are still very much visible on the streets. Child soldiers had their futures stolen after being forced into fighting, young girls were kidnapped and raped, thousands lost their families and were condemned to a life of hardship.The young victims of these conflicts are still very much visible on the streets. Child soldiers had their futures stolen after being forced into fighting, young girls were kidnapped and raped, thousands lost their families and were condemned to a life of hardship.
Save the Children believes that now the trial is over, it is vitally important that the world does not forget these children. The governments of Sierra Leone and Liberia need continued international support in rebuilding their public services from the ruins of war and in giving a lost generation of children hope for the future.Save the Children believes that now the trial is over, it is vitally important that the world does not forget these children. The governments of Sierra Leone and Liberia need continued international support in rebuilding their public services from the ruins of war and in giving a lost generation of children hope for the future.
12.58pm: I've been talking to Monica Mark in Freetown. She was watching reaction to the verdict at the headquarters of the Sierra Leone tribunal in the capital, where several hundred people were gathered. She said:12.58pm: I've been talking to Monica Mark in Freetown. She was watching reaction to the verdict at the headquarters of the Sierra Leone tribunal in the capital, where several hundred people were gathered. She said:
There's definitely a sense of relief that this trial ... has finally come to an end. But that's been tempered by disappointment that today the verdict convicted Taylor on less serious charges of aiding and abetting, rather than instigating the crimes.There's definitely a sense of relief that this trial ... has finally come to an end. But that's been tempered by disappointment that today the verdict convicted Taylor on less serious charges of aiding and abetting, rather than instigating the crimes.
1.02pm: More reaction, this time from Brima Abdulai Sheriff, the head of Amnesty International Sierra Leone:1.02pm: More reaction, this time from Brima Abdulai Sheriff, the head of Amnesty International Sierra Leone:
While today's conviction brings some measure of justice to the people of Sierra Leone, Taylor and the others sentenced by the Special Court are just the tip of the iceberg.While today's conviction brings some measure of justice to the people of Sierra Leone, Taylor and the others sentenced by the Special Court are just the tip of the iceberg.
Thousands of persons suspected of criminal responsibility for incidences of unlawful killings, rape and sexual violence, mutilations and the use of children in Sierra Leone's armed conflict have never been investigated, much less prosecuted.Thousands of persons suspected of criminal responsibility for incidences of unlawful killings, rape and sexual violence, mutilations and the use of children in Sierra Leone's armed conflict have never been investigated, much less prosecuted.
Sadly, only a limited number of Sierra Leone's thousands of victims who bear the terrible scars of the conflict have received reparations, despite the Lomé Peace Accord and the clear recommendations by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.Sadly, only a limited number of Sierra Leone's thousands of victims who bear the terrible scars of the conflict have received reparations, despite the Lomé Peace Accord and the clear recommendations by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
Reparations are integral to achieving justice for the victims and assisting them to rebuild their lives.Reparations are integral to achieving justice for the victims and assisting them to rebuild their lives.
This verdict can also be seen as a reminder for Taylor's home country Liberia that those responsible for the crimes committed during Liberia's conflict must be brought to justice.This verdict can also be seen as a reminder for Taylor's home country Liberia that those responsible for the crimes committed during Liberia's conflict must be brought to justice.
1.04pm: The Chatham House thinktank, meanwhile, has an analysis of the verdict from the head of its African programme, Alex Vines. Here's an extract:1.04pm: The Chatham House thinktank, meanwhile, has an analysis of the verdict from the head of its African programme, Alex Vines. Here's an extract:
The guilty verdict by the judges of the Special Court for Sierra Leone against Liberia's former president Charles Taylor is important for both Africa and the international community.The guilty verdict by the judges of the Special Court for Sierra Leone against Liberia's former president Charles Taylor is important for both Africa and the international community.
As UN sanctions inspector from 2001-03, I saw Charles Taylor regularly moving between Sierra Leone and Liberia as he orchestrated violence and criminality in both countries. At the time, mixing with child soldiers, gun runners and diamond smugglers, I would never have imagined the positive transformation Sierra Leone and Liberia have enjoyed over the last decade. Massive challenges remain but both countries are peaceful with fast growing economies.As UN sanctions inspector from 2001-03, I saw Charles Taylor regularly moving between Sierra Leone and Liberia as he orchestrated violence and criminality in both countries. At the time, mixing with child soldiers, gun runners and diamond smugglers, I would never have imagined the positive transformation Sierra Leone and Liberia have enjoyed over the last decade. Massive challenges remain but both countries are peaceful with fast growing economies.
A key reason for almost a decade of peace in both countries was the containment of Charles Taylor through UN sanctions, military action, and the indictment by the Special Court. This resulted in Taylor accepting the offer of a soft landing via exile in Calabar from then Nigerian President Obasanjo in late 2003. Eventually, in March 2006, Nigeria arrested Taylor and extradited him to Liberia which handed him to the Special Court in Freetown but he was transferred for security reasons to The Hague. Despite being elected Liberian President, Charles Taylor never graduated from being a warlord, seeking riches from his alliance with brutal Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels in Sierra Leone as part of his ambition for a 'greater Liberia'.A key reason for almost a decade of peace in both countries was the containment of Charles Taylor through UN sanctions, military action, and the indictment by the Special Court. This resulted in Taylor accepting the offer of a soft landing via exile in Calabar from then Nigerian President Obasanjo in late 2003. Eventually, in March 2006, Nigeria arrested Taylor and extradited him to Liberia which handed him to the Special Court in Freetown but he was transferred for security reasons to The Hague. Despite being elected Liberian President, Charles Taylor never graduated from being a warlord, seeking riches from his alliance with brutal Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels in Sierra Leone as part of his ambition for a 'greater Liberia'.
The case has not been without problems. I still believe that the March 2003 indictment by the Special Court on 17 initial counts against Taylor upset sensitive negotiations with him that were taking place in Ghana. The result was to have Taylor rush back to Monrovia and an unnecessary spike in conflict, claiming thousands of civilian lives. Prosecutors need to consider carefully the timing of indictments - at the end of the day the timing of issuing an indictment is a political one. The indictment timing by the International Criminal Court (ICC) of Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir of Sudan greatly complicated international mediation efforts in Sudan.The case has not been without problems. I still believe that the March 2003 indictment by the Special Court on 17 initial counts against Taylor upset sensitive negotiations with him that were taking place in Ghana. The result was to have Taylor rush back to Monrovia and an unnecessary spike in conflict, claiming thousands of civilian lives. Prosecutors need to consider carefully the timing of indictments - at the end of the day the timing of issuing an indictment is a political one. The indictment timing by the International Criminal Court (ICC) of Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir of Sudan greatly complicated international mediation efforts in Sudan.
1.22pm: I've been talking to Mark Ellis, director of the International Bar Association and an expert on the operation of these types of tribunal. He said:1.22pm: I've been talking to Mark Ellis, director of the International Bar Association and an expert on the operation of these types of tribunal. He said:
The significance (of today's verdict) is that we have, for the first time since the Nuremburg trials, a conviction of a former head of state. That is consistent with the direction iof international law, and particularly the focus of international tribunals that are saying: we need to focus on those with the most responsibility for crimes that were committed.The significance (of today's verdict) is that we have, for the first time since the Nuremburg trials, a conviction of a former head of state. That is consistent with the direction iof international law, and particularly the focus of international tribunals that are saying: we need to focus on those with the most responsibility for crimes that were committed.
1.32pm: My colleague, Afua Hirsch, our legal affairs correspondent-turned west Africa correspondent, has written an assessment of the success or otherwise of the Sierra Leone tribunal.1.32pm: My colleague, Afua Hirsch, our legal affairs correspondent-turned west Africa correspondent, has written an assessment of the success or otherwise of the Sierra Leone tribunal.
1.34pm: We're now ending this live coverage of the verdict. Many thanks for reading.1.34pm: We're now ending this live coverage of the verdict. Many thanks for reading.
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