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Innovation Center, University of Nis , Niš , Serbia
The authors examine the concept of environmental crime from both legal and philosophical perspectives, emphasizing that such a dual approach is necessary for its proper understanding. A purely normative definition, they argue, cannot fully capture the broader social and ethical dimensions of this complex phenomenon. By combining these perspectives, the paper aims to offer a more precise and comprehensive conceptualization of environmental crime.
The paper further provides an overview of the most relevant international legal instruments addressing environmental crime, including key conventions, directives, and policy frameworks. Special attention is paid to their scope, applicability, and practical significance, placing them within the wider context of contemporary environmental protection efforts.
In addition, the authors analyze the domestic legal framework governing environmental crime. This analysis includes a critical assessment of existing normative solutions, highlighting both their strengths and weaknesses. Particular focus is given to the clarity of legal definitions, the effectiveness of enforcement mechanisms, and the adequacy of sanctions. The authors identify areas where the legal system functions effectively, as well as those requiring further improvement.
Recognizing the diverse and complex nature of environmental crime, the paper also examines its various manifestations in detail, supported by examples from practice. This approach contributes to a clearer and more concrete understanding of how such crimes occur in real-world contexts.
By integrating theoretical analysis with practical insights, the paper seeks to bring this multifaceted issue closer to scholars and practitioners in the fields of environmental law and criminology.
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