A Conceptual Framework for Extradition andJurisdiction Over ExtraterritorialCrimes

International law is the language by which nations assert and attempt to resolve competing legal interests. As with any other language, if the definitions of essential concepts become muddled, it is difficult to communicate. The traditional bases of jurisdiction over extraterritorial crime are essential concepts in the language of international law. The decision to grant or deny extradition, for example, often depends on whether the interested nation recognizes the basis of jurisdiction asserted by another.

Confusion over the traditional bases of jurisdiction therefore risks disagreement over and denial of extradition.