The cannibalism trial that changed the history of international law: “It reminds us of the importance of recognizing the right to life”

On May 19, 1884, the recreational yacht Mignonette departed Southampton, England, bound for Australia. Nearly two months later, on July 5, a severe storm struck the crew while at sea, leading to a historic cannibalism trial that fundamentally changed international law.

The resulting legal proceedings serve as a reminder of the critical importance of recognizing and upholding the fundamental right to human life, marking a milestone in legal history regarding necessity and homicide.