The Act Background Part 1 - Offences Section 8 – Mental element
17.This section provides, in line with article 30 of the ICC Statute, that unless otherwise provided, the necessary mental element of an offence is present if the material elements of ICC crime or an offence against the administration of justice are committed with “intent” and “knowledge”. “Intent” and “knowledge” are explained in subsection (3).
18.In accordance with article 30, subsection (2) provides that this general rule shall not apply where an alternative mental element is specified in certain provisions of the ICC Statute, certain provisions of the Act or in any of the relevant Elements of Crimes. An example is to be found in the finalised draft of the Elements of Crimes in respect of article 8(2)(b)(xxvi) (conscripting or enlisting children), where it is required that the perpetrator “knew or should have known” the age of the child concerned.