It is therefore essential to communicate proceedings around the world. This is best achieved by using remote, discreet cameras in the courtroom. Although tried under Scottish law, the Lockerbie trial represents an important development in international justice, involving a multiplicity of nations. This is a global trial and television ensures a global audience. Cameras can also educate the public, facilitating greater understanding of the complex issues involved in this case.
Cameras can address the problem of geographical location of a trial.
Families of the victims are unlikely to be able to travel to the Netherlands to see a trial that is likely to last for many months if not years. Electronic broadcast coverage of proceedings addresses this dislocation by creating a worldwide public gallery. This is one of the principles on which the televising of the Bosnian and Rwandan war crimes trials is based. Opponents of televising trials argue contemporaneous coverage affects court participants. Not only has this never been proved in research on the issue, but at the Lockerbie trial there will be no jury.