LONDON, United Kingdom, February 13, 2024 – On the eve of a historic signing ceremony in The Hague, Fisseha Tekle, Law and Policy Advisor at Amnesty International, has called for broad international support for a landmark treaty on legal cooperation among states on crimes under international law, including genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.
“Ongoing conflicts in the Gaza Strip, Ukraine, Sudan, and other regions underscore the pressing need to fortify the framework of international law,” Tekle said. “This treaty, which offers new tools to ensure justice and better protect human rights, is a significant step in that direction.”
The treaty, set to be signed by an initial group of nations tomorrow, provides additional avenues to justice for victims of crimes under international law, including cases of torture and enforced disappearance. It also recognizes victims’ rights, including their right to protection and to seek and obtain reparation.
“By fostering legal cooperation among states, this convention bolsters national judicial systems, empowering states to fulfill their duty to hold accountable all individuals who have committed serious violations of international law,” Tekle explained. “The treaty helps ensure there are fewer ‘safe havens’ for those suspected of criminal responsibility and represents a crucial stride against impunity.”
Tekle concluded by urging all states to expedite the process of adopting the treaty without reservation. “This treaty presents an opportunity to effect a significant shift in the prosecution of these crimes and the ability to deliver justice, truth, and reparation to victims. Its benefits must be quickly and fully realized.”
