Research Article
Military Courts: Independence and Impartiality in the Light of Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights
Efstratios Efstratiou*
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, September 2026
Pages:
40-45
Received:
24 February 2026
Accepted:
9 March 2026
Published:
27 July 2026
Abstract: Military courts constitute special judicial bodies established to try members of the armed forces and, in certain circumstances, civilians for offences related to military service or national security. While deeply rooted in many European legal systems, their operation raises concerns under Article 6 §1 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), which guarantees the right to a fair trial by an independent and impartial tribunal. This article examines the compatibility of military courts with Article 6 §1 ECHR, focusing on the concepts of independence and impartiality as developed in the case-law of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR). The study adopts a doctrinal and comparative approach. It first surveys the constitutional status of military courts across Council of Europe Member States. It then analyses ECtHR jurisprudence, concentrating on three recurring issues: (a) the status and service conditions of military judges, (b) the participation of active-duty military jurors, and (c) the extension of military jurisdiction to civilians. The ECtHR does not reject military courts per se but subjects them to strict scrutiny. Concerns arise where judges remain institutionally linked to the executive or military hierarchy, where active-duty officers participate in adjudication without sufficient safeguards, and especially where civilians are tried by military courts. In the latter context, the Court adopts an increasingly restrictive approach, allowing such jurisdiction only in exceptional circumstances. Finally, military courts are compatible with Article 6 ECHR only when their institutional framework guarantees genuine independence and impartiality comparable to that of ordinary criminal courts, ensuring full integration within the rule of law.
Abstract: Military courts constitute special judicial bodies established to try members of the armed forces and, in certain circumstances, civilians for offences related to military service or national security. While deeply rooted in many European legal systems, their operation raises concerns under Article 6 §1 of the European Convention on Human Rights (E...
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Research Article
Suicidal Ideation in Combat Veterans: A Literature Review
Tracy L. DuShane*
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, September 2026
Pages:
57-62
Received:
13 October 2025
Accepted:
14 November 2025
Published:
11 August 2026
Abstract: Suicide among combat veterans represents a complex and urgent public health concern, with rates of suicidal ideation and behavior significantly exceeding those observed in the general population. This elevated risk is closely associated with co-occurring mental health conditions, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder, substance use disorders, and moral injury. Additionally, cultural and systemic barriers—such as stigma, reduced help-seeking behaviors, and challenges in accessing care—further complicate prevention and intervention efforts within this population. This manuscript provides a focused review of peer-reviewed literature published between 2020 and 2025, examining the intersection of mental health symptomatology and suicide risk among combat veterans and first responders. Particular attention is given to identifying evidence-based crisis intervention strategies, including trauma-informed approaches and rapid response models tailored to high-risk populations. The review also explores the role of peer support interventions in engaging individuals who may be reluctant to access traditional mental health services, highlighting their effectiveness in fostering trust and promoting early intervention. In addition, the manuscript addresses the importance of integrating spiritual and cultural considerations into suicide prevention frameworks. Culturally responsive care, including attention to military identity, moral injury, and diverse belief systems, is emphasized as a critical component of effective intervention. Finally, gaps in the current literature are identified, and directions for future research are proposed, with an emphasis on improving accessibility, enhancing intervention efficacy, and developing integrative, multidisciplinary approaches to suicide prevention among combat veterans.
Abstract: Suicide among combat veterans represents a complex and urgent public health concern, with rates of suicidal ideation and behavior significantly exceeding those observed in the general population. This elevated risk is closely associated with co-occurring mental health conditions, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive diso...
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