Exploring criminal law through art: NaUKMA project showcased at the University of Salamanca

Can the actions of literary characters or those in well-known films be examined from the perspective of criminal law? And what criminal liability might they face under Ukrainian law?

These questions were explored by students of the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy (NaUKMA), together with Oleksii Horokh, Associate Professor at the Department of Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure, as part of the research project Criminal Law in the World of Art. The project was presented on 20 October at the Faculty of Law of the University of Salamanca (Universidad de Salamanca).

The project brought together criminal law and art, offering a fresh perspective on works of Ukrainian and world culture. Its authors examined the actions of characters depicted in visual art, theatre, classical literature, cinema and animation, identifying which actions could constitute criminal offences and what criminal liability might arise under the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

This interdisciplinary approach provided an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge of criminal law to unconventional scenarios, develop legal analytical skills and explore the relationship between law and culture.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Prof. Dr. Lorenzo Bujosa Vadell, Full Professor of Procedural Law at the University of Salamanca, for supporting academic collaboration and providing the opportunity to present the project to the international academic community.