extraditio

Extraditio is a legal term referring to the formal surrender of a person by one state or authority to another state or authority, typically for the purpose of prosecution or punishment for alleged crimes. It is a cornerstone of international criminal cooperation, allowing states to work together to bring individuals accused of offenses to justice when they are located in a different jurisdiction.

The process of extradition is usually governed by bilateral treaties between countries, although multilateral conventions and customary international law can also play a role. These treaties outline the specific offenses for which extradition may be requested, the procedures that must be followed, and the grounds on which extradition can be refused. Common grounds for refusal include political offenses, where the requested person is a national of the surrendering state, or if there is a risk of torture or inhuman treatment in the requesting state.

To initiate an extradition, the requesting state must formally submit a request through diplomatic channels, which typically includes evidence of the alleged crime and the legal basis for the request. The requested state then reviews the request, often involving its own judicial authorities to determine if the legal requirements for extradition are met. If the judicial authorities approve the extradition, the executive branch of the government usually makes the final decision. The entire process can be complex and time-consuming, involving multiple legal and administrative steps.