The General Provisions of Title 11 (Crimes) of the Revised Criminal Code Act of the Federated States of Micronesia establish the scope, applicability, and foundational legal framework for criminal law at the national level. The chapter defines key legal concepts, including categories of offences (felonies and misdemeanours) and mental elements such as intent, knowledge and criminal negligence, as well as terms relating to liability. It clarifies the notion of “national crimes” and sets out jurisdictional bases, including offences committed within national territory, the exclusive economic zone, airspace, on FSM-flagged vessels, or against public officials. The Act further establishes procedural and interpretative mechanisms relevant to enforcement by courts. The chapter includes references to constitutional provisions and related legislation, as well as editorial notes and case annotations that illustrate judicial interpretation, particularly on jurisdiction, evidentiary standards, and statutory construction. The Act extends national criminal jurisdiction to offences committed on vessels and aircraft of the Federated States of Micronesia, including fishing and other watergoing vessels operating beyond national territory, which is particularly relevant for the regulation and enforcement of fisheries and maritime activities within and beyond the exclusive economic zone. It also applies to crimes committed on government-owned vessels engaged in public functions.
Micronesia (Federated States of) · 1981-01-01