The Application of Universal Jurisdiction in Iranian Criminal Law

States have two kinds of sovereignty: Territorial and extraterritorial. In the area of criminal jurisdiction, territorial principle is the only principle which is exercised within the territory of States. Other principles including personality, protective and universal jurisdiction are applicable to actions and persons who commit a crime outside the territory of the State which exercises its jurisdiction. The principle of universal jurisdiction is of a great importance, because it has several international aspects and seeks to prevent impunity in respect of the offences which affect the public order and interests of the international community as a whole. In this article, the sources and challenges of universal jurisdiction will be discussed.